Years ago, when physical education was first introduced, girls and boys were always separated into different groups. Today, most sports and activities are co-ed, up to a certain grade. One factor that influenced this change was a federal law called Title IX. Passed in 1972, Title IX sought to end sex discrimination in American schools. However, its focus was more that equal opportunities be provided for boys and girls, not that they must always be on teams together. There is still much discussion, regarding when or if boys and girls should split into separate groups for certain activities. Policies will vary by school district. In the primary grades, both boys and girls usually participate in gymnastics, tumbling, kickball, and other individual sports. They often play softball together, too. By the intermediate grades, four through six, team sports are emphasized; at this point, girls and boys may be split into different classes. Unfortunately, these programs may not be the same. Other schools separate boys and girls only for contact sports, like basketball, football and wrestling. To find out more about co-ed sports at child's school, talk to the gym teacher, physical education teacher, or a faculty member.
