MI (my) Wheelhouse: A Movement Integration Progression Framework for Elementary Classroom Teachers

Abstract

Movement integration (MI), which involves providing movement opportunities for students during regularly scheduled classroom time, is a widely recommended approach to supporting the goals of a comprehensive school physical activity program (CSPAP). This article focuses on PA opportunities during regularly scheduled classroom time in the elementary school setting and how these opportunities can be shaped to serve multiple goals that align with the intentions of a CSPAP. We introduce an MI progression framework called MI (pronounced “my”) Wheelhouse, designed as an implementation model to give classroom teachers a menu of options for using MI. Various MI strategies are organized into four levels, with each level increasing in difficulty based on the amount of teacher knowledge, time investment, and support from others required for successful implementation. In the article, we review the conceptual basis for MI, describe MI Wheelhouse along with its levels and strategies, and discuss key considerations for applying the model in practice.