In this final segment of my education series I am considering an obvious, but often overlooked, element of a child’s learning: the wellness of the body. There seems to be a disconnect in popular education between the body and the mind. Youngsters are told to eat their veggies but fast food is sold in cafeterias; they are told to move but recess and p.e. have nearly disappeared from many schools; they are told to rest but TVs and cell phones are put in their bedrooms for around-the-clock entertainment.

I believe that a healthy body is critical to a thriving mind. Body maintenance is comprised of three elements: adequate rest, a balanced diet, and regular exercise. Because learning is a lifestyle that must be cultivated with intentionality, so most healthy living. I can’t expect the children to sit for any length of time with focused attention if they only had 8 hours of sleep (they need 10-12), weren’t outside at all and ate sugar cereal for breakfast. Our routine is designed with time spent outdoors, scheduled opportunities for rest and breaks for low sugar food.

Most of all, however, we want our children to have a healthy view of themselves and their bodies. They are wonderful creations, image-bearers of the Almighty God. This means that it is honored work to care for their bodies and it is a privileged duty to treat themselves and each other with respect. This fourth posture, that of the body, begins with us, their parents. Are we willing to commit the time required to be intentional stewards of these five little bodies in our care? And are we modeling that stewardship with our own bodies and minds?

As I conclude my philosophy of education I am reminded that whole education should reflect the whole person: body, mind and spirit. And in the process of teaching I myself will never stop learning.