Physical education includes instructional school based programs intended to help children and youth develop their capacity to move with competence and confidence in a wide variety of physical activities in multiple environments that benefit the healthy development of the whole person. Presentations in this sub-theme address the development, implementation and evaluation of quality physical education, physical literacy programs, health education, and school/community programs.

This sub-theme includes papers on teacher education and professional development for health and physical education teachers, and professional preparation for physical activity leaders and sport coaches, as well as administrators and policy makers who can develop and deliver programs in a variety of settings and for various populations, e.g., early childhood, childhood, early and later adolescents, special populations, low-income and minority students, families, and communities, and other special groups.

Public health aims to address health problems of communities as a whole and to influence policies that affect the health of individuals and communities. Presentations in this theme address initiatives that aim to deliver physical activity to improve health and well being of youth and families, health literacy, advocacy to engage and educate key decision makers about the need for and health impact of physical activity, and policy work to ensure equal access to resources for quality programs.  This theme also includes professional preparation that focuses on leadership for providing opportunities that inspire health enhancing physical activity in all levels of society, and to prevent or ameliorate chronic and lifestyle diseases.

Physical activity, play and sport can contribute to the development of emotional, social, moral and ethical competencies. Presentations in this sub-theme examine the relationships and connections of play, sport and physical activity experiences to social-emotional learning and development, attitude, motivation and socio-cognitive variables, prevention and intervention on contemporary issues such as suicide, bullying, trauma and conflict, and interventions involving youth and adults in physical activities that intentionally foster developmental assets (e.g., values, commitment to learning, social competencies, positive identity) and surround participants with protective factors (e.g., support, relationships, experiences, resources, opportunities) that have been shown to be important facilitators of personal development. Also included in this theme are professional preparation approaches to address these goals.

Sport and physical activity can contribute to active pro-social participation, inclusion, citizenship and peace building. Sport can bring individuals and communities together highlighting commonalities and bridging cultural and ethnic divides. Sport can provide a forum to learn and practice skills such as self-discipline, confidence, caring and leadership and core principles of tolerance, cooperation and respect. As a vehicle for developing civic responsibility, service to others, and community connection, sport and physical activity can support stronger communities.  Presentations in this sub-theme focus on the use of physical activity and sport for youth and community development, and professional preparation that addresses these aims.

Presentations in this sub-theme address initiatives, strategies, or approaches for improving and enhancing individual sport or activity performance and team performance in sports, adventure, fitness, dance, as well as conditioning and rehabilitation for children and adults, including those with disabilities, high performance or elite athletes, sport teams, and other special populations.