As classrooms across Virginia turn to the digital sphere this fall, students will experience many changes. Instead of seeing their teachers and classmates in person, they’ll see them over a computer screen. Instruction will take place in cyberspace, not a physical space.

However, students need to remember their physical education in addition to their English, math and other academic studies. Coping with the pandemic can be stressful for both children and adults, and nothing offers relief like exercise.

The benefits are many, according to the American College of Sports Medicine: “Physical activity boosts the immune system, promotes health and relieves stress. Being active can decrease behavior problems in children and help them concentrate better on their schoolwork.”

Children ages 6 to 12 need 60 minutes of physical activity every day, including activity for their hearts, muscles and bones, the association recommends, with “vigorous” exercise on three days of the week. Preschoolers ages 3 to 5 should be active for a total of three hours each day, at different intensities of light, moderate and vigorous.