What is the NS Active Smarter Kids Project?

The NS ASK Project is a unique, partnership-based project working with schools to support the implementation of physically active learning (PAL) in schools across Nova Scotia.

We are a collaborative of professionals from the fields of education, health-promotion, and recreation who believe in the power of movement-based learning.

International research continues to demonstrate the many benefits of physically active learning, and those same benefits are being seen in Nova Scotian schools.

Nova Scotian teachers who employ NS ASK physically active learning methods report seeing increased pupil engagement with curriculum, increased levels of physical activity, and increased cooperation and compassion amongst students.

Supporting the wide-spread implementation of physically active learning in Nova Scotian schools is our contribution to collective efforts to establish Nova Scotian schools as inclusive, engaging, active and happy learning environments for all students.

The NS ASK Project is supported by the NS Department of Education and Early Childhood Development (DEECD), the NS Department of Communities, Culture, Tourism and Heritage (CCTH), the NS Health Authority, and the Municipality of the District of Lunenburg.

What is physically active learning (PAL)?

Physically Active Learning (PAL) consists of fun and active lessons that combine physical activity with the review of academic content as part of instructional time. Physically active learning lessons are delivered by classroom teachers and happen primarily outdoors in the schoolyard.

No, you don’t need to be an expert in Physical Education to teach physically active learning lessons! Nor do you need specialized equipment!

Physically active learning is cost-effective, simple, and provides students and teachers with an opportunity to review curriculum outcomes in a team-based, engaging and joyful way.

If you’d like to read more, explore the research page.