Right to Play McGill, Nesbitt work to make phys. ed. more inclusive

For the past three years, Nesbitt Elementary School (English Montreal School Board) in Rosemont-La-Petite-Patrie has partnered with McGill University’s student club Right to Play, an affiliate of the international non-profit whose goal is to support children through play. 

 “Right to Play McGill focuses on encouraging inclusive, impactful play within local schools,” said Dabin Lee, the club’s vice president of outreach. In addition to visiting schools, it raises funds to support its mission and provides equipment for physical education programs. 

 Nesbitt has been among the beneficiaries. Physical education teacher Alex Rio explained the club first held a two-day session when they started at the school in 2023. All students participated in team-building games. The club also raised $1,000 to purchase much-needed equipment, he said. 

 Last year, however, the focus shifted. Instead of a short-term program, Right to Play McGill began working weekly with students in WINGS (Working on Individual Needs to Grow and Succeed), a classroom for autistic children. Volunteers spent 30 to 60 minutes each week leading activities. 
“They were able to interact with, get to know and earn the trust of the students,” said Rio. It was here that he says he saw the true benefit of the program.  

 Lee agrees, noting the emphasis on social-emotional learning. There was “less of a focus on going through planned games,” she said, and more on teaching skills like “teamwork, patience, learning how to ask for help, sharing [and] supporting each other.” Right to Play McGill will be returning to Nesbitt this year, further continuing their mission.  

 Info: https://righttoplay.ca.