The positive health domain of wellbeing not only includes the absence of illness, but also  a person’s perception of their health, feeling physically healthy, having a subjective sense of physical vitality, and having sufficient strength and energy for their daily activities” (Seligman, 2011; Kern, 2022, p.10). According to Piko and Bak(2006), children recognize these different aspects of health, that it is not only the absence of illness, but involves exercise, eating healthy, cleanliness, and a feeling of strength. In the same study, children also recognized the impact of physical health on their mental, emotional, and social wellbeing. A few children shared that being healthy brings them happiness and joy, while others shared that being healthy allows them to spend time with friends (Piko & Bak, 2006). One child shared that “Health is the most important thing to maintain your life” (Piko & Bak, 2006, p. 647). Though children and adolescents may recognize the importance of health, it is still important to help them develop skills and habits that will contribute to a healthy lifestyle. The interventions in this section are intended to guide teachers and school leaders in promoting student health and vitality.

References:

Kern, M. L. (2022). PERMAH: A useful model for focusing on wellbeing in schools. In K. A. Allen, M. Furlong, S. Suldo & D. Vella-Brodrick. (Eds.), The handbook of positive psychology in schools 3rd edition. Taylor and Francis. https://doi.org/10.4324/9781003013778 

Piko, B.F. & Bak, J. (2006) Children's perceptions of health and illness: images and lay concepts in preadolescence, Health Education Research, 21(5), 643–653. https://doi.org/10.1093/her/cyl034

Seligman, M. (2011). Flourish: A Visionary New Understanding of Happiness and Well-being. New York: Simon & Schuster.