P.A.L.S. resources are currently being revised to enhance content related to equity and inclusion, accessibility, mental health promotion, and infection prevention. Updated resources will be posted as they become available.

P.A.L.S. is a peer leadership initiative to reduce bullying through physical activity. It is a student-led program in which children are trained to plan and lead fun and safe activities on the playground during lunch or at recess.

The objectives of the program are to:

  • Provide a leadership opportunity for students
  • Decrease conflict and reduce incidents of playground bullying
  • Increase physical activity

P.A.L.S is adapted and reproduced with permission from the Region of Peel’s public health unit.

Schools can contact their School Liaison Public Health Nurse for more information.

How to Start P.A.L.S. At Your School

The school’s Liaison Public Health Nurse can consult with the principal and/or school staff to provide an overview along with resources for program implementation. It is highly recommended that two to three school staff are designated to oversee the program as P.A.L.S. supervisors.

Leader Selection

P.A.L.S. leaders are selected from students in grades 4 to 6 by the school. A P.A.L.S. application form and parental permission form will be provided.

Leader Training

P.A.L.S. leaders will receive training from the P.A.L.S. supervisors and/or co-facilitated by the school’s Liaison Public Health Nurse.

The leader training sessions covers:

  • Safety on the playground
  • Qualities of a leader and leadership styles
  • Communication skills
  • Games training
  • Conflict resolution

Program Launch

The P.A.L.S. program and the leaders can be introduced at an assembly and over morning announcements to allow students to become familiar with the program.

Equipment

The school is responsible for supplying equipment needed to lead and play the games.

Games

P.A.L.S. leaders are taught hopscotch games, skipping, tag and ball games. The leaders often choose to lead games that the students make up or know themselves. More information on games is available online.