Ill be honest, PE has always been my weak spot as a homeschool mom. I love books, art, nature walks, and cozy afternoons at the kitchen table, but ask me to run laps or organize a soccer drill and I freeze. I wasn’t athletic growing up, and I’ve always felt a little unsure about how to teach something that never came naturally to me.

But a few months ago, I noticed my kids needed to move more, especially during long homeschool mornings. Their energy levels were high, focus was dipping, and our daily “recess” time had somehow become fifteen minutes of swinging while I checked emails. I wanted to do better, not because I think we need to train for the Olympics, but because movement is so clearly tied to mood, focus, and joy.

So I decided to rethink what PE could look like for us.

What PE Looks Like for Us Now

We try to do this a few mornings a week. It takes about 25–30 minutes total, and it’s flexible enough for my 9, 6, and 3-year-old to all join in. (Plus the dog)

Each class has a rhythm:

1. A Quick Warm-Up

We start with easy stretches and marching in place. Sometimes we add arm circles or toe touches, or I’ll turn on a song and we’ll do a one-minute “dance party warm-up.” The goal isn’t perfection, it’s just to loosen up and start moving.

2. A Skill to Practice

Next, we focus on one basic skill. It might be:

• Throwing a ball into buckets
• Balancing on one foot
• Jumping over small objects
• Rolling a ball back and forth with the toddler

It’s simple, short, and builds coordination, and it’s fun to see them improve over time.

3. Cardio

This is our no-fuss energy burner. We literally run back and forth across the yard! Sometimes I’ll time them (“Run to the fence and back in 10 seconds!”), or we’ll race each other for fun. It’s quick, easy, and gets everyone’s hearts pumping.

4. A Game or Obstacle Course

We finish with something that makes everyone laugh : our favorite part!
I’ll set up a mini obstacle course using whatever’s nearby:

• Jump over two pillows
• Crawl under a chair
• Walk the “balance line” (a jump rope on the ground)
• Toss a ball into a bucket
• Sprint back to start

Other days we play “Simon Says Fitness” or “Follow the Leader,” mixing in funny moves like crab walks or frog hops.

The kids love it because it feels like play. I love it because it’s manageable. And secretly, I’m getting a little exercise too.

If you’ve been avoiding homeschool PE because it feels intimidating, I promise: it doesn’t have to be complicated. Grab a ball, step outside, and just move together.