Developing Physical Literacy

Physical literacy is the ability to use a range of fundamental movement skills in a competent  manner, with the capacity to apply them with confidence in a range of settings that can lead to sustained involvement in sport and physical activity. Physically literate children will be able to perform a range of fundamental movement skills e.g. hop, climb or catch at levels of agility, balance and coordination appropriate to their capabilities. A child’s movement confidence will develop as they become more competent in performing these skills.

When a child has confidence in his or her ability to take part in recreational and sporting activities without fear of showing themselves up, the probability that they will join in is high; and if they enjoy the activity they will likely continue with it. A child’s movement confidence develops gradually as they grow and learn, and the child is constantly comparing their own level of ability with the ability of the children with whom they play. Physically literate children who move with skillful purpose know that they move well, and this confidence encourages them to try new and different activities without fear.

This document from Canadian Sports Centres is an interesting comparison to our programme in the UK.