I hereby pledge to embrace the JOY of PLAY with every opportunity I can create. I will play Shadow-Tag when the sun is shining, and play ball when it is not (even if it is with a ball of socks)!. I will dance even when someone is watching (and especially when they are not!), I will move with vigor every day and learn to have FUN again. I accept the challenge to be silly, to let loose, to roll on the floor laughing while I crunch or push my way to better health.
I will share this JOY with others by inviting them to play too! I will do my best to promote and/or to provide opportunities for play in my community, in my neighborhood, and in my home. I understand that PLAY is essential for youth and adults alike, and that through PLAY I will enhance the quality, vitality, and enjoyment of my life and of those around me. I hereby give myself permission to laugh with enthusiasm, to move with vigor, and to PLAY with JOY!
OPPORTUNITIES to promote/provide PLAY in your home, neighborhood, and community:
At home: sign up for our Family’s at PLAY newsletter for bi-monthly family game and activity ideas and fitness challenges; subscribe to our Online Mag – PhatKidz.com – for really cool kidz of ALL ages! PHAT = Physical Health & Activity Trends for Kidz. Every week explore new games and fitness challenges while checking out current trends in everything active – from extreme sports to opportunities in your community!
In your neighborhood: Fluffilo Fridays, Wocky Sox Saturdays, Ultimate Sundays – organize PLAY days in your neighborhood. Get a bag of Fluffilos to take to the park or have everyone bring a couple pairs of socks with them (one long, one short) and play some Wocky-Sox activities. Grab a Frisbee and play Ultimate on Sundays… the options are limited only by your own imagination!
In your community: Volunteer to be a PLAY Leader at school or after school, promote a Wocky Sox campaign at your school or church, or take it a step further and become a CampPlay Leader! Take the message of Tandalay’s MILLION-DOLLAR Give-Away to your school or church and provide THOUSANDS of movement opportunities!!
cforms contact form by delicious:days
Who has taken the Pledge to Play?
Monica Lassiter - Tallahassee, Florida - I have four young boys and desire them to as they learn the importance of being physically active and living a healthy lifestyle to have FUN! I would like to implement lots of positive ideas/games for my children as well as my elementary students that I am privileged to teach.
Danny Britton – Roanoke, VA - I pledge to implement PLAY at the WEC for youth by keeping all the students active and enjoying exercise by playing many of the wonderful games and activities we have learned from Tandaylay all out play!
Steven Joyce - Covington, Georgia – I will implement PLAY with my PE classes at Fairview and Clements Theme Schools here in Covington, Georgia. Fun and unique activities will be planned in conjunction with our school PE curriculum. With Tandalay and PLAY, I believe our school can step up the play in PhysicaL ActivitY!!!
Donna Thompson – Covington, Georgia – I will continue to provide every opportunity at our school for the kids to learn to move and provide different types of activities so that everyone will find something they love to do. I will encourage all of the adults in our school to play with the kids and make movement a part of their daily lives.
Jackie Meyer - Portland, OR – In the after-school program that I direct. With my colleagues, sharing information and PLAY activities for them to implement.
Nancy Alken - Oregon – I am an elementary PE teacher who also is involved with before and after school programs, community sports, and a fitness buff myself. I also work with disabled adults and implement as much play activities as possible. I have and will continue to teach play and healthy lifestyle activities for all ages, and lives.
Renee Fusco - Porterville, California - As a classroom teacher of first graders, I will continue to allow children to be active everyday through organized games and fitness activities and with creative play. As a mother, I will continue to encourage play and fitness with my child as well, as with friends and neighbors, and to actively participate.
Nancy Berger-Locke - Cincinnati, Ohino - WE (my school) just started a new boom at our school by making a pledge to become better fit as a staff, with our children and our community. We want to help make our community much more aware and interactive in being fit and the importance of play in our lives. We have after school programs , before school programs, a lunchtime fit kid program with incentives and evening classes for our families and community members. We believe it is our responsibility to provide these opportunities for our people and support the many ways to get the most out of their lives.WE are ready to take on our responsibility through Tandalay.
Kim Cunningham – Florida – I will use old socks to make Fluffilos to play an array of games, like: Pirate Plunder, Sunshine & Snowflakes and so many more. I will organize the softball and volleyball teams I coach and play the above games. We will play these games and many more with the “yarn balls” we make either out of yarn or old socks.
Brandy Lynch - Fairfield, Texas – I will use the Tandalay curriculum in my PE classes!!!
Kristina Otinel – Kongiganak, AK. – I will teach the Tandalay curriculum with my 2nd grade class and encourage other teachers in my school to do so too. I will promote play in my family with my 2 children and absolutely sign up for your newsletter
Robert F. Barrett Jr. – Philadelphia, PA - I pledge to the most playful, ecstatic, and motivating teacher to my students each and every day. I will be the best to implement PLAY because of our gigantic soccer ball for crab soccer with grades first thru sixth.
Kim Martinez - Milwaukee, WI - I will play with my students with enthusiasm and motivating them to be life-long players. I will also share ideas and games with the families and community.
Rosie Zupan - Albany, Oregon – I’m currently teaching at four elementary school, and I will use your program and equipment at all four schools. I’ve already purchased Cds and cards and will add more equipment next year. I will also use your grading system to track students at Waverly school. I hope to increase my game use and look forward to using your equipment.
Tami Phillips – Clovis, California - Every day is PLAYday at my house! I will continue to laugh, dance, be joyful and silly with my kids – and to take it to school and the gym while I teach fitness classes and promote healthy and active lifestyles! Yay Tandalay! 
Kelsey Van Dyk - Visalia, California – I choose to encourage my husband to be more active and join him in everyday PLAY! Frisbee, tennis, and jogging with our two dogs. Together, we can stay healthy!
Angela Cox - Fresno, California - Encourage my friends and family to be more active. And set a good example by living an active lifestyle myself.
Elizabeth Lopez – Fresno, California – I will implement PLAY by staying physically active on a daily basis.
Marilyn Hernandez - Clovis, California – Play coed softball, play fetch with dogs, boot camps.
Aubrey Sintora – Fresno, California – I just joined a gym, but other than that, I pledge to play tennis and softball with friends and even walk the dog more often.
Danielle Bird – Fresno, California – Have fun and get active! I will get moving and play with others to incorporate a more active lifestyle.
Julie Rennecker - Fort Wayne, Indiana – I will sign up for the Families at PLAY and the on line magazine PhatKidz.com. I want to share the information with my students and their families! It would hopefully encourage more parents to play and spend time with their children.:)
Megan McNaughton – Fresno, California – I will play with my son outdoors when the weather is nice doing things like: hop scotch, hula hoops, bike rides, and badminton!
Ashley Watkins – Clovis, California – I pledge to play by taking my dog for daily walks, and riding my horse more often. I am also taking a new dance class.
Jenna Johnson - Fresno, California – I play softball twice per week and run with my dog the other days
Akenya Colbert - Fresno, California – I will DANCE, DANCE, DANCE!!! I pledge to move more whenever, wherever =)
Andrea Gutierrez – Madera, California – Dance in the morning when I get ready for school or work
Marina Aguilera – Fresno, California – I will walk, run and dance each time I get the chance.
Gabrielle DuRivage – Fresno, California – I will go jog with the dogs more than once a week, and swim as much as I can.
Marilyn Santos – Fresno, California – I will stay active everyday.
Ana Arias – Clovis, California - I will take my dogs on a walk everyday and take my little brother with me.
Rose Yang – Fresno, California - I will take walks daily, organize an exercise plan and be active.
Randi Allen - Fresno, California – I pledge to play as often as I can in as many different activities that I can.
Toni Stanford -Clovis, California – I already have Play as a part of my day… My pledge is to continue playing to stay on track for a healthy future also to encourage those around me to Play for their health
Theresa Lowe – O’Neals, California - I will use the stairs instead of the elevator whenever possible. I will attempt to be active for 30 minutes each day and I will incorporate various kinds of physical activity into my weekly regimen to ensure that boredom does not come between me and my health.
Alicia Alvarado – Fresno, California – I will try to bring more laughter and happiness in my life. I will also be more motivated to exercise!
Mai Moua – Fresno, California – I have a two year old daughter who loves to play at a park near by. I will implement PLAY at the park with her on regular basis and also enroll in a dance class.
Kristen Freberg - Fresno, California – I will do something active and good for my body every day, whether it’s going for a run, doing yoga, or something else. I will learn something new, like riding a bike (something I’ve never done before!). And most importantly, I will find a reason every day to laugh and smile.
Amanda Rold - Visalia, California - I pledge to worry less and laugh more. Do Pilates every morning to relieve stress
Yee Vang – Fresno, California – I’ve recently started jogging on a daily basis and it will be something that I will continue doing. I pledge to stay active whether it be playing ultimate frisbee or biking.
Liz Smith - Fresno, California – Start jump roping!
Chris Wickel – Cortlandt Manor, New York - Everyday in my gymnasium we have the opportunity to impact chilren in a postivie way. “JUST PLAY” is my daily motto
Lee Laughary - West Plains, Missouri - in my physical education classes, at home , and possibly with youth at church
Steve Hawley – Leesburg, Virginia – In the classroom and at after school running club
Katie Rusten – Gridley, California – I teach physical education to grades K-8. We PLAY everyday of the week with various skills we use in games such as tennis, football, and soccer. We jog and stretch for our fitness and participate in Yoga for relaxation. We are currently learning how to bowl and play disc golf. We will implement PLAY by taking on the fitness challenges and getting groups together to PLAY during after school hours.
Kathy Tucker – Port Angeles, Washington - I teach first grade at a small school. I teach Physical education to the first graders. I would also share this with the other teachers and playground supervisors.
Joy Blake – West Point, Virginia – Ride my bike daily
Donna Jones – Austinville, Virginia – As a physical educator, I recoginize and daily promote the importance of PLAY. I will continue to implement PLAY activities at home and in my community and will be a PLAY leader in my school. THANK YOU for this wonderful opportunity.
Jo Zimmel - West St. Paul, MN – I will use PLAY in my physical education teaching. I will use PLAY in our after school program.
Martha Chase McCarthy – Blackstone, Virginia – I will model PLAY for my students. I will be seen at school giving all my energy in the classroom. I will be seen in the community I teach in being active and eating healthy.
Jen Denzel – Gridley, California – I will implement the P.E warm-ups and lessons in my fourth grade class next year.
Lisa Salo - Hadley, MA – I will look at physical education through the eyes of my students and ensure that my classes are active and fun.
Lisandra Reyna – Traver, California – I plan to set a good example for kids everywhere I tutor as well as teach others to become more healthy and live an active lifestyle by doing things such as jogging, walking dogs, or going to the park to play ultimate frisbee!!
Patty Furlong - Manchester, MO – I will explore PhatKidz.com and implement as many new things as I can.
Sue Bak – Downers Grove, IL - I pledge to implement PLAY at St. John of the Cross Parish School during students Physical Education classes and during my after school social dance classes.
Kaylee Wilson – Sanger, California – I have a little brother and sister and I will help them to be physically active and i will play with them so they get to be active and have fun while doing it instead of them watching tv inside all day.
Kearston Howard – Wytheville, Virginia – I will work with Steve Galligher on Healthy Weights for Healthy Kids Curriculum.
Susan Chroeter – Unity, NH – I will be an active member to implement activity to PLAY at school, home and our community. I will have a program/challenge going home to all students and in our newsletter for all over the summer.
Sharon Joy - Triangle, Virginia - PE classes, after school activities, day care activities, new sports teams
Kym Anderson – Franksville, WI – I will continue to promote lifelong physical fitness through fun games & activities in my physical education classes.
Rebecca Good - Blountville, TN - I will implement PLAY in our community by organizing seasonally appropriate games and activities for our families that require minimal equipment due to our low socio-economic level.
Lisa Ives – Tolar, Texas – By incorporating game ideas and strategies for even more activity in my Physical Education classes for Kinder-5th grade students at Tolar Elementary School.
Michael Curtis – Greene, New York - I plan on implementing PLAY into our physical education curriculum here at Greene Central School. Making each day that students come into physical education enjoybale, fun, and rewarding all at the same time.
Gail Johnson Fieber - Menomonie, WI - As a physical education teacher I will encourage lifetime fitness activities. My PE classes include biking, roller blading, kick boxing, Pilates, yoga, STEP aerobics, water aerobics, weight training, tennis, and circuit training classes. Hopefully my students learn something new to help increase their fitness level.
Alyssa Fabry - Lebanon, CT - As a Physcial Education and Health teacher I feel as though play is extrememly important. Our school is cutting back on PE time( from 3 times a week to 1) as well as cutting middle school sports all together. I would like to impliment a school wide health and fitness across the curriculum. So all students in all classes will be able to get up and move as well as learn.
Kim Hollar - West Liberty, Ohio – I will play with my three children and their friends and neighbors. We love to play soccer in the yard, shoot hoops, and ride bikes. We will sign-up for the newsletter and visit websites to get new ideas.
Jennifer Heim – Canandaigua, NY – I will teach my students how to have fun and enjoy being active. I will be energetic and learn new and exciting activities to teach my students.
Yolanda Alexander – Oklahoma City, Oklahoma – I am a Physical Education Teacher as well as the Parent and Community Outreach Coordinator at Crutcho Elementary School. I will implement PLAY during the school day in the physical education classes, in after school programs, and also with our parenting and outreach progams that teach the community and families the improtance of physical activities not only health wise but also in relationship building. We encourage our famlies to get out and play with their children and this resource will be very helpful in furthering our efforts.
Shirley Lee – Lynden, WA – In my physical education classes everyday
Linda Hinkle – High Point, NC – Will be using it in my PE classes and sharing the program with my teachers at my school.
Sue Ann Lapp – High Point, NC - Playing with my first graders
Amy Dabbs – High Point, NC – I will implement PLAY not only with my fourth graders but with my two personal children at home!
Elizabeth Smith – High Point, NC - I will use it for character education. We will learn about team building and sportsmanship. It will help individuals with small and large motor skills. We will become more physically fit.
Lisa Martin – High Point, NC – As part of our everyday learning, movement, wonder, enjoyment, and discover, we pledge to play! Lessons will be used to emphasize our character education program–determination, self-discipline, fair play, perseverance, respect, responsibility among others! Movement has its place in our classroom–not only through organized sports, but through math, science, reading, and writing! We will implement PLAY to foster a healthy body, mind, and heart!
Jennifer Zeltwanger – Frederick, MD – I will provide as much active movement time for my students as possible during class by limiting wait time and instruction time. I will make the games simple and fun!
Carol J. Williams - Tulsa, Oklahoma - I will use it in my P.E. classes and the after-care program.
Jayne Ashendorf - Staten Island, New York - Durng Phys. Ed. class and provide motivation for students to create their own games. Help facilitate play during lunch recess and guide classroom teachers to take quck movement breaks throughout the day.
Laurie Brady – Manassas, Virginia – By getting my teachers at school onboard with PLAY and helping to create an environment that’s fun and inviting for all.
Carol J. Williams – Tulsa, Oklahoma – I will use it in my classroom and in after-care.
Ann Dempsey – Gridley, CA – Play is the name of the game in my Kindergarten class. Active bodies…active learnings.
Doris Walker – Virginia – At work and at home, setting aside a time each day to be active
Stephen Mirabello – Quincy, MA – I presently teach at ST. PIUSV SCHOOL in Lynn MA. I teach k-8 grade physical education.I promote Faith;Fun and Fitness throughout my curriculum.
Jessica Bennett – Capac, MI – I will implement PLAY with my students by showing enthusiasm for all physical activity and by emphasizing the importance of being active. I will do the same with myown children at home by swimming, running, jumping rope, and playing catch.
Linda Watson – Decatur, IL - I will share this Site with my students in the Health and Physical Education Methods for classroom teachers (ES 305) in June 2010.I will continue to promote Health and Physical Education in the university method courses for Health and Physical Education. We need to do a better job of showing our classroom teachers how to incorporate Health and Physical Education in their class activities. As a university professor, I work closely with a local elementary school and provide JRFH, HFH, health fairs, and afterschool CATCH programs. Elementary Physical Education Teachers must “turn the corner” and begin promoting a quality Health and Physical Education Program in their schools. I do have a concern that we are not addressing the obesity problem correctly. First, we must conduct the BMI measurements at the elementary level in all schools. We need to challenge schools at the local level to address the issues of inactivity and improper nutritional habits. I measure the BMI at one local elementary school during the health fair and this year, I found for the first time a substantial number of students to be at the underweight level. We may want to think about how we are using this overweight/obesity and inactivity issue to promote quality health and physical education programs. We may want to look at ways we can change behaviors by teaching concepts and skills that will show children the benefits of being active and eating foods that are healthy.
Ted Scheck – Speedway, IN – I’m waiting on a 2nd interview at a new school. At my new school I get to start completely over. At 47, I’m 22 again, my first school, my first set of students. I will implement play every second of every day that I’m there, and set up a fun interactive website to get them moving even when they’re not there.
Tracie - Greensboro, NC – To energize learning in the classroom.
Kevin Mahoney – Corte Madera, California – As a physical education teacher I am looking forward implementing the PLAY curriculum to ensure my students learn to their fullest potential.
Patrick Donlan – Novato, California – I will implement play at both home, with my children, but at school with my elementary Physical Education students.
Stan Pelmear - Novato, California – I will implement this program in the elementary physical education program.
Laura Learned – Paso Robles, California – With my third grade classroom and throughout our K-8 grade campus.
Kimberly Steffen – Hayward, California – As a physical education teacher, I will implement PLAY in my program at my school and teach as well encourage my students to use PLAY at home with the neighborhood children. I will also train my afterschool program in PLAY so they can then in turn implement it in their program.
Evan Godsiff - Federal Way, Washington – As the school P.E teacher I will provide more opportunities for movement before, during and after school
I will try to get the community moving by organizing a fun run, and playing pick-up ultimate games (one of my favorite sports!)
Julie Cantu – Richmond, Texas – I will Implement PLAY into my daily life. I am also an elementary physical education teacher. I have two children that are involved in sports and play afterschool.
Jill E. Heilmann – Paso Robles, California – I will use it during the school day, to re-charge my students. “Extra” P.E. is also one of the prizes offered for good behavior in my class.
Eileen Rogers – San Miguel, California – The Healthy Hornet Club (7th and 8th graders in our K-8 school) will be teamed up to teach, role model and play with the children in our new Recess Before Lunch program beginning late August. The HH members piloted a program with third grade this spring and convinced the district to go school wide at both campuses in 2010-11. HH students love to play and encourage active participation for all with a variety every day. More “lessons” will help our club to grow the variety and increase the participation for active lifestyles.
Nancy Aiken - Albany, Oregon – During staff development days, I will inservice classroom teachers and instructional assistants on the requirements of this program and how to navigate through the website to ensure all staff are on the same page when implementing this program. Continued inservices and instruction to staff will be provided through out the year.
Kelley Woodworth – Clarkston, MI – I will use the ideas and concepts in my physical education classes and with my family at home!
Chris Weatherford – Edmond, OK – During my PE classes for grades K-5th. 600 students will learn new skills, play and find out that physical fitness can be fun and a lifelong activity.
Stan Pelmear – Novato, California – I will implement this program in the elementary physical education program.
Kevin Mahoney – Corte Madera, California – I plan to utilize PLAY to enrich my physical education curriculum. I want to make sure my students are being active and healthy as a result of PLAYS.
Follow Us
Pledge to PLAY
I will share this JOY with others by inviting them to play too! I will do my best to promote and/or to provide opportunities for play in my community, in my neighborhood, and in my home. I understand that PLAY is essential for youth and adults alike, and that through PLAY I will enhance the quality, vitality, and enjoyment of my life and of those around me. I hereby give myself permission to laugh with enthusiasm, to move with vigor, and to PLAY with JOY!
OPPORTUNITIES to promote/provide PLAY in your home, neighborhood, and community:
At home: sign up for our Family’s at PLAY newsletter for bi-monthly family game and activity ideas and fitness challenges; subscribe to our Online Mag – PhatKidz.com – for really cool kidz of ALL ages! PHAT = Physical Health & Activity Trends for Kidz. Every week explore new games and fitness challenges while checking out current trends in everything active – from extreme sports to opportunities in your community!
In your neighborhood: Fluffilo Fridays, Wocky Sox Saturdays, Ultimate Sundays – organize PLAY days in your neighborhood. Get a bag of Fluffilos to take to the park or have everyone bring a couple pairs of socks with them (one long, one short) and play some Wocky-Sox activities. Grab a Frisbee and play Ultimate on Sundays… the options are limited only by your own imagination!
In your community: Volunteer to be a PLAY Leader at school or after school, promote a Wocky Sox campaign at your school or church, or take it a step further and become a CampPlay Leader! Take the message of Tandalay’s MILLION-DOLLAR Give-Away to your school or church and provide THOUSANDS of movement opportunities!!
cforms contact form by delicious:days
Who has taken the Pledge to Play?
Monica Lassiter - Tallahassee, Florida - I have four young boys and desire them to as they learn the importance of being physically active and living a healthy lifestyle to have FUN! I would like to implement lots of positive ideas/games for my children as well as my elementary students that I am privileged to teach.
Danny Britton – Roanoke, VA - I pledge to implement PLAY at the WEC for youth by keeping all the students active and enjoying exercise by playing many of the wonderful games and activities we have learned from Tandaylay all out play!
Steven Joyce - Covington, Georgia – I will implement PLAY with my PE classes at Fairview and Clements Theme Schools here in Covington, Georgia. Fun and unique activities will be planned in conjunction with our school PE curriculum. With Tandalay and PLAY, I believe our school can step up the play in PhysicaL ActivitY!!!
Donna Thompson – Covington, Georgia – I will continue to provide every opportunity at our school for the kids to learn to move and provide different types of activities so that everyone will find something they love to do. I will encourage all of the adults in our school to play with the kids and make movement a part of their daily lives.
Jackie Meyer - Portland, OR – In the after-school program that I direct. With my colleagues, sharing information and PLAY activities for them to implement.
Nancy Alken - Oregon – I am an elementary PE teacher who also is involved with before and after school programs, community sports, and a fitness buff myself. I also work with disabled adults and implement as much play activities as possible. I have and will continue to teach play and healthy lifestyle activities for all ages, and lives.
Renee Fusco - Porterville, California - As a classroom teacher of first graders, I will continue to allow children to be active everyday through organized games and fitness activities and with creative play. As a mother, I will continue to encourage play and fitness with my child as well, as with friends and neighbors, and to actively participate.
Nancy Berger-Locke - Cincinnati, Ohino - WE (my school) just started a new boom at our school by making a pledge to become better fit as a staff, with our children and our community. We want to help make our community much more aware and interactive in being fit and the importance of play in our lives. We have after school programs , before school programs, a lunchtime fit kid program with incentives and evening classes for our families and community members. We believe it is our responsibility to provide these opportunities for our people and support the many ways to get the most out of their lives.WE are ready to take on our responsibility through Tandalay.
Kim Cunningham – Florida – I will use old socks to make Fluffilos to play an array of games, like: Pirate Plunder, Sunshine & Snowflakes and so many more. I will organize the softball and volleyball teams I coach and play the above games. We will play these games and many more with the “yarn balls” we make either out of yarn or old socks.
Brandy Lynch - Fairfield, Texas – I will use the Tandalay curriculum in my PE classes!!!
Kristina Otinel – Kongiganak, AK. – I will teach the Tandalay curriculum with my 2nd grade class and encourage other teachers in my school to do so too. I will promote play in my family with my 2 children and absolutely sign up for your newsletter
Robert F. Barrett Jr. – Philadelphia, PA - I pledge to the most playful, ecstatic, and motivating teacher to my students each and every day. I will be the best to implement PLAY because of our gigantic soccer ball for crab soccer with grades first thru sixth.
Kim Martinez - Milwaukee, WI - I will play with my students with enthusiasm and motivating them to be life-long players. I will also share ideas and games with the families and community.
Rosie Zupan - Albany, Oregon – I’m currently teaching at four elementary school, and I will use your program and equipment at all four schools. I’ve already purchased Cds and cards and will add more equipment next year. I will also use your grading system to track students at Waverly school. I hope to increase my game use and look forward to using your equipment.
Tami Phillips – Clovis, California - Every day is PLAYday at my house! I will continue to laugh, dance, be joyful and silly with my kids – and to take it to school and the gym while I teach fitness classes and promote healthy and active lifestyles! Yay Tandalay!
Kelsey Van Dyk - Visalia, California – I choose to encourage my husband to be more active and join him in everyday PLAY! Frisbee, tennis, and jogging with our two dogs. Together, we can stay healthy!
Angela Cox - Fresno, California - Encourage my friends and family to be more active. And set a good example by living an active lifestyle myself.
Elizabeth Lopez – Fresno, California – I will implement PLAY by staying physically active on a daily basis.
Marilyn Hernandez - Clovis, California – Play coed softball, play fetch with dogs, boot camps.
Aubrey Sintora – Fresno, California – I just joined a gym, but other than that, I pledge to play tennis and softball with friends and even walk the dog more often.
Danielle Bird – Fresno, California – Have fun and get active! I will get moving and play with others to incorporate a more active lifestyle.
Julie Rennecker - Fort Wayne, Indiana – I will sign up for the Families at PLAY and the on line magazine PhatKidz.com. I want to share the information with my students and their families! It would hopefully encourage more parents to play and spend time with their children.:)
Megan McNaughton – Fresno, California – I will play with my son outdoors when the weather is nice doing things like: hop scotch, hula hoops, bike rides, and badminton!
Ashley Watkins – Clovis, California – I pledge to play by taking my dog for daily walks, and riding my horse more often. I am also taking a new dance class.
Jenna Johnson - Fresno, California – I play softball twice per week and run with my dog the other days
Akenya Colbert - Fresno, California – I will DANCE, DANCE, DANCE!!! I pledge to move more whenever, wherever =)
Andrea Gutierrez – Madera, California – Dance in the morning when I get ready for school or work
Marina Aguilera – Fresno, California – I will walk, run and dance each time I get the chance.
Gabrielle DuRivage – Fresno, California – I will go jog with the dogs more than once a week, and swim as much as I can.
Marilyn Santos – Fresno, California – I will stay active everyday.
Ana Arias – Clovis, California - I will take my dogs on a walk everyday and take my little brother with me.
Rose Yang – Fresno, California - I will take walks daily, organize an exercise plan and be active.
Randi Allen - Fresno, California – I pledge to play as often as I can in as many different activities that I can.
Toni Stanford -Clovis, California – I already have Play as a part of my day… My pledge is to continue playing to stay on track for a healthy future also to encourage those around me to Play for their health
Theresa Lowe – O’Neals, California - I will use the stairs instead of the elevator whenever possible. I will attempt to be active for 30 minutes each day and I will incorporate various kinds of physical activity into my weekly regimen to ensure that boredom does not come between me and my health.
Alicia Alvarado – Fresno, California – I will try to bring more laughter and happiness in my life. I will also be more motivated to exercise!
Mai Moua – Fresno, California – I have a two year old daughter who loves to play at a park near by. I will implement PLAY at the park with her on regular basis and also enroll in a dance class.
Kristen Freberg - Fresno, California – I will do something active and good for my body every day, whether it’s going for a run, doing yoga, or something else. I will learn something new, like riding a bike (something I’ve never done before!). And most importantly, I will find a reason every day to laugh and smile.
Amanda Rold - Visalia, California - I pledge to worry less and laugh more. Do Pilates every morning to relieve stress
Yee Vang – Fresno, California – I’ve recently started jogging on a daily basis and it will be something that I will continue doing. I pledge to stay active whether it be playing ultimate frisbee or biking.
Liz Smith - Fresno, California – Start jump roping!
Chris Wickel – Cortlandt Manor, New York - Everyday in my gymnasium we have the opportunity to impact chilren in a postivie way. “JUST PLAY” is my daily motto
Lee Laughary - West Plains, Missouri - in my physical education classes, at home , and possibly with youth at church
Steve Hawley – Leesburg, Virginia – In the classroom and at after school running club
Katie Rusten – Gridley, California – I teach physical education to grades K-8. We PLAY everyday of the week with various skills we use in games such as tennis, football, and soccer. We jog and stretch for our fitness and participate in Yoga for relaxation. We are currently learning how to bowl and play disc golf. We will implement PLAY by taking on the fitness challenges and getting groups together to PLAY during after school hours.
Kathy Tucker – Port Angeles, Washington - I teach first grade at a small school. I teach Physical education to the first graders. I would also share this with the other teachers and playground supervisors.
Joy Blake – West Point, Virginia – Ride my bike daily
Donna Jones – Austinville, Virginia – As a physical educator, I recoginize and daily promote the importance of PLAY. I will continue to implement PLAY activities at home and in my community and will be a PLAY leader in my school. THANK YOU for this wonderful opportunity.
Jo Zimmel - West St. Paul, MN – I will use PLAY in my physical education teaching. I will use PLAY in our after school program.
Martha Chase McCarthy – Blackstone, Virginia – I will model PLAY for my students. I will be seen at school giving all my energy in the classroom. I will be seen in the community I teach in being active and eating healthy.
Jen Denzel – Gridley, California – I will implement the P.E warm-ups and lessons in my fourth grade class next year.
Lisa Salo - Hadley, MA – I will look at physical education through the eyes of my students and ensure that my classes are active and fun.
Lisandra Reyna – Traver, California – I plan to set a good example for kids everywhere I tutor as well as teach others to become more healthy and live an active lifestyle by doing things such as jogging, walking dogs, or going to the park to play ultimate frisbee!!
Patty Furlong - Manchester, MO – I will explore PhatKidz.com and implement as many new things as I can.
Sue Bak – Downers Grove, IL - I pledge to implement PLAY at St. John of the Cross Parish School during students Physical Education classes and during my after school social dance classes.
Kaylee Wilson – Sanger, California – I have a little brother and sister and I will help them to be physically active and i will play with them so they get to be active and have fun while doing it instead of them watching tv inside all day.
Kearston Howard – Wytheville, Virginia – I will work with Steve Galligher on Healthy Weights for Healthy Kids Curriculum.
Susan Chroeter – Unity, NH – I will be an active member to implement activity to PLAY at school, home and our community. I will have a program/challenge going home to all students and in our newsletter for all over the summer.
Sharon Joy - Triangle, Virginia - PE classes, after school activities, day care activities, new sports teams
Kym Anderson – Franksville, WI – I will continue to promote lifelong physical fitness through fun games & activities in my physical education classes.
Rebecca Good - Blountville, TN - I will implement PLAY in our community by organizing seasonally appropriate games and activities for our families that require minimal equipment due to our low socio-economic level.
Lisa Ives – Tolar, Texas – By incorporating game ideas and strategies for even more activity in my Physical Education classes for Kinder-5th grade students at Tolar Elementary School.
Michael Curtis – Greene, New York - I plan on implementing PLAY into our physical education curriculum here at Greene Central School. Making each day that students come into physical education enjoybale, fun, and rewarding all at the same time.
Gail Johnson Fieber - Menomonie, WI - As a physical education teacher I will encourage lifetime fitness activities. My PE classes include biking, roller blading, kick boxing, Pilates, yoga, STEP aerobics, water aerobics, weight training, tennis, and circuit training classes. Hopefully my students learn something new to help increase their fitness level.
Alyssa Fabry - Lebanon, CT - As a Physcial Education and Health teacher I feel as though play is extrememly important. Our school is cutting back on PE time( from 3 times a week to 1) as well as cutting middle school sports all together. I would like to impliment a school wide health and fitness across the curriculum. So all students in all classes will be able to get up and move as well as learn.
Kim Hollar - West Liberty, Ohio – I will play with my three children and their friends and neighbors. We love to play soccer in the yard, shoot hoops, and ride bikes. We will sign-up for the newsletter and visit websites to get new ideas.
Jennifer Heim – Canandaigua, NY – I will teach my students how to have fun and enjoy being active. I will be energetic and learn new and exciting activities to teach my students.
Yolanda Alexander – Oklahoma City, Oklahoma – I am a Physical Education Teacher as well as the Parent and Community Outreach Coordinator at Crutcho Elementary School. I will implement PLAY during the school day in the physical education classes, in after school programs, and also with our parenting and outreach progams that teach the community and families the improtance of physical activities not only health wise but also in relationship building. We encourage our famlies to get out and play with their children and this resource will be very helpful in furthering our efforts.
Shirley Lee – Lynden, WA – In my physical education classes everyday
Linda Hinkle – High Point, NC – Will be using it in my PE classes and sharing the program with my teachers at my school.
Sue Ann Lapp – High Point, NC - Playing with my first graders
Amy Dabbs – High Point, NC – I will implement PLAY not only with my fourth graders but with my two personal children at home!
Elizabeth Smith – High Point, NC - I will use it for character education. We will learn about team building and sportsmanship. It will help individuals with small and large motor skills. We will become more physically fit.
Lisa Martin – High Point, NC – As part of our everyday learning, movement, wonder, enjoyment, and discover, we pledge to play! Lessons will be used to emphasize our character education program–determination, self-discipline, fair play, perseverance, respect, responsibility among others! Movement has its place in our classroom–not only through organized sports, but through math, science, reading, and writing! We will implement PLAY to foster a healthy body, mind, and heart!
Jennifer Zeltwanger – Frederick, MD – I will provide as much active movement time for my students as possible during class by limiting wait time and instruction time. I will make the games simple and fun!
Carol J. Williams - Tulsa, Oklahoma - I will use it in my P.E. classes and the after-care program.
Jayne Ashendorf - Staten Island, New York - Durng Phys. Ed. class and provide motivation for students to create their own games. Help facilitate play during lunch recess and guide classroom teachers to take quck movement breaks throughout the day.
Laurie Brady – Manassas, Virginia – By getting my teachers at school onboard with PLAY and helping to create an environment that’s fun and inviting for all.
Carol J. Williams – Tulsa, Oklahoma – I will use it in my classroom and in after-care.
Ann Dempsey – Gridley, CA – Play is the name of the game in my Kindergarten class. Active bodies…active learnings.
Doris Walker – Virginia – At work and at home, setting aside a time each day to be active
Stephen Mirabello – Quincy, MA – I presently teach at ST. PIUSV SCHOOL in Lynn MA. I teach k-8 grade physical education.I promote Faith;Fun and Fitness throughout my curriculum.
Jessica Bennett – Capac, MI – I will implement PLAY with my students by showing enthusiasm for all physical activity and by emphasizing the importance of being active. I will do the same with myown children at home by swimming, running, jumping rope, and playing catch.
Linda Watson – Decatur, IL - I will share this Site with my students in the Health and Physical Education Methods for classroom teachers (ES 305) in June 2010.I will continue to promote Health and Physical Education in the university method courses for Health and Physical Education. We need to do a better job of showing our classroom teachers how to incorporate Health and Physical Education in their class activities. As a university professor, I work closely with a local elementary school and provide JRFH, HFH, health fairs, and afterschool CATCH programs. Elementary Physical Education Teachers must “turn the corner” and begin promoting a quality Health and Physical Education Program in their schools. I do have a concern that we are not addressing the obesity problem correctly. First, we must conduct the BMI measurements at the elementary level in all schools. We need to challenge schools at the local level to address the issues of inactivity and improper nutritional habits. I measure the BMI at one local elementary school during the health fair and this year, I found for the first time a substantial number of students to be at the underweight level. We may want to think about how we are using this overweight/obesity and inactivity issue to promote quality health and physical education programs. We may want to look at ways we can change behaviors by teaching concepts and skills that will show children the benefits of being active and eating foods that are healthy.
Ted Scheck – Speedway, IN – I’m waiting on a 2nd interview at a new school. At my new school I get to start completely over. At 47, I’m 22 again, my first school, my first set of students. I will implement play every second of every day that I’m there, and set up a fun interactive website to get them moving even when they’re not there.
Tracie - Greensboro, NC – To energize learning in the classroom.
Kevin Mahoney – Corte Madera, California – As a physical education teacher I am looking forward implementing the PLAY curriculum to ensure my students learn to their fullest potential.
Patrick Donlan – Novato, California – I will implement play at both home, with my children, but at school with my elementary Physical Education students.
Stan Pelmear - Novato, California – I will implement this program in the elementary physical education program.
Laura Learned – Paso Robles, California – With my third grade classroom and throughout our K-8 grade campus.
Kimberly Steffen – Hayward, California – As a physical education teacher, I will implement PLAY in my program at my school and teach as well encourage my students to use PLAY at home with the neighborhood children. I will also train my afterschool program in PLAY so they can then in turn implement it in their program.
Evan Godsiff - Federal Way, Washington – As the school P.E teacher I will provide more opportunities for movement before, during and after school
I will try to get the community moving by organizing a fun run, and playing pick-up ultimate games (one of my favorite sports!)
Julie Cantu – Richmond, Texas – I will Implement PLAY into my daily life. I am also an elementary physical education teacher. I have two children that are involved in sports and play afterschool.
Jill E. Heilmann – Paso Robles, California – I will use it during the school day, to re-charge my students. “Extra” P.E. is also one of the prizes offered for good behavior in my class.
Eileen Rogers – San Miguel, California – The Healthy Hornet Club (7th and 8th graders in our K-8 school) will be teamed up to teach, role model and play with the children in our new Recess Before Lunch program beginning late August. The HH members piloted a program with third grade this spring and convinced the district to go school wide at both campuses in 2010-11. HH students love to play and encourage active participation for all with a variety every day. More “lessons” will help our club to grow the variety and increase the participation for active lifestyles.
Nancy Aiken - Albany, Oregon – During staff development days, I will inservice classroom teachers and instructional assistants on the requirements of this program and how to navigate through the website to ensure all staff are on the same page when implementing this program. Continued inservices and instruction to staff will be provided through out the year.
Kelley Woodworth – Clarkston, MI – I will use the ideas and concepts in my physical education classes and with my family at home!
Chris Weatherford – Edmond, OK – During my PE classes for grades K-5th. 600 students will learn new skills, play and find out that physical fitness can be fun and a lifelong activity.
Stan Pelmear – Novato, California – I will implement this program in the elementary physical education program.
Kevin Mahoney – Corte Madera, California – I plan to utilize PLAY to enrich my physical education curriculum. I want to make sure my students are being active and healthy as a result of PLAYS.