Are you looking for fresh, engaging ways to tackle some of the most important — and often most avoided — topics in health education? This interactive session will explore innovative, evidence-informed teaching strategies designed to help educators confidently facilitate conversations around family life education, healthy relationships, and consent. Participants will experience hands-on activities, discussion frameworks, and classroom-ready tools that break down barriers, reduce stigma, and create safe learning environments where students feel empowered to ask questions and engage authentically. Whether you're a seasoned health educator or just beginning to navigate these topics, you'll leave with practical techniques and renewed confidence to bring meaningful, age-appropriate instruction back to your students.
Big impact can come from small gestures. Learn how a plastic duck inspired a collaborative text thread, with educators across the globe contributing and creating numerous “duck activities” together, demonstrating how simple concepts can lead to powerful innovation and shared learning.
Discover how this simple “toy” can foster a sense of community through teamwork, communication, collaboration, and being kind to one another. Experience how a duck can spark movement, laughter, and connection while bringing joy and aligning with meaningful learning objectives.
Best of all, these ideas are flexible and adaptable for any setting, whether in the classroom or the gym, and can be used across all grade levels from K 12.
Think line dancing is only for “dance people”? Think again.
This high-energy, beginner-friendly session is designed specifically for physical educators who want simple, engaging, school-appropriate dances that instantly boost participation, confidence, community, and FUN across K–12 settings. No dance background required!
Participants will learn easy-to-teach line dances, breakdown strategies, classroom management tips, music suggestions, and confidence-building cues that help even reluctant movers experience success. Experience practical ways to teach dance without intimidation while creating an environment where students feel safe, energized, and connected!
As an added bonus, many of the dances taught during this session will appear later that evening at the SHAPE PA All-Conference Social — giving attendees a fun head start before hitting the dance floor together that night!
Come ready to move, laugh, sweat a little, and leave with activities you can use immediately in your PE program!
Students need meaningful connections now more than ever, and physical education is a powerful setting to build them. This interactive session explores practical strategies for fostering a culture of belonging through intentional routines and engaging activities. Discover ways to strengthen relationships, support social and emotional learning, and create an environment where every student feels seen, valued, and excited to participate. Leave with ready-to-use ideas to weave connection into every lesson.
