Field experiences are an integral part of the teacher education preparation program. Field experiences are designed to give future educators guided and controlled experiences with professionals in the field. They are also designed to expand and challenge personal and professional attitudes while providing personal and 
professional growth opportunities for prospective teachers. Observation and first-hand experience within school settings provide prospective teachers with information and tools that complement classroom study and assist in the development of pedagogical skills, knowledge and dispositions necessary for effective teaching.
During my field experience for Health education, I had the opportunity to observe fourth grade general education teachers implement a health curriculum set forth by the district of Albany City School District. In ACSD the teachers utilize a book Know Your Body by Kendall and Hunt. Know Your Body is a skills based health education curriculum with multiple editions to target K-6 grade students. The main focus is to instill in children a belief that they are responsible for their own thoughts, feelings, and actions to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Five skills were the key focus of my observations, self esteem building, decision making, effective communication, goal setting, and stress management. To build self esteem, students participated in both classroom and community activities that help them recognize their unique characteristics, feel good about themselves, and help others feel good about themselves. Decision making activities provided students with an opportunity to consider alternatives and their consequences, and allowed them to make decisions that will enhance their life. Effective communication activities helped students to learn and practice what to say and how to express their thoughts and feelings in a clear, direct manner. Goal setting activities taught students to plan for and work toward achieving goals. Stress management activities helped students identify stress and stressful situations, and how to practice mindfulness to stay calm and overcome these feelings.
COACH LAPPE 