Long Beach’s Lindell Elementary School continued its Annual February Wellness/Fun, Fruit, Fitness Day tradition with adjustments in light of the pandemic. On Feb. 12, students and staff members celebrated the theme “Lindell Chooses Love, Health and Happiness” with a day of virtual sessions focused on physical activity, mindfulness, nutrition and safety.

This year, rather than rotating across different areas in the building as was done in the past, students enjoyed a full schedule of workshops from their own classrooms. Many presenters were live streamed while others previously recorded activities and lessons for participants. As in years past, members of the community and staff contributed their expertise in a variety of wellness areas. Among them were nutritionists, yoga and dance instructors, physical therapists, doctors and fitness professionals.

To kick off the day, the whole school learned a dance choreographed by physical education teachers Mary Miller and Rachel Ray, along with teaching assistant and former Lindell student Tiffany Canner. A series of 25-minute sessions about health and wellness followed. Special thanks to teachers Kelly Mooney and Lindsay Smith, the custodial staff and all the other faculty and staff members who volunteered their time and helped this event run smoothly.

Students learned techniques to ensure proper hydration, nutrition, dental hygiene, bus and community safety, heart health and breathing. They practiced yoga moves and Irish Dance, engaged in a Drums Alive activity, competed in a jump-a-thon, took on a scavenger hunt challenge and much more. Social Emotional Learning was also incorporated into the theme with a kindness lesson, which was read aloud, and mindfulness strategies.

In addition, the PTA generously donated individually wrapped apples and the supplies for each student to create their own calming jars. The Wellness Fair concluded with a school wide virtual dance party.