At School Sport Foundation (SSF), we recognize the critical role of physical literacy and motor skills in a child’s development. These skills are not only essential for success in sports but are also fundamental to everyday life. The foundation of physical literacy enables children to participate confidently and competently in various activities, setting them up for a lifetime of health, fitness, and success in their personal and athletic pursuits.
What is Physical Literacy?
Physical literacy is more than just the ability to run, jump, or catch. It involves the confidence, competence, and motivation to engage in a variety of physical activities, whether through formal sports or informal play. By developing physical literacy, children learn how to move their bodies effectively, building the foundation for a healthy lifestyle.
It includes the development of gross motor skills, such as running, jumping, and balancing, and fine motor skills, like throwing, catching, and tying shoes. Physical literacy is the result of practicing these movements across a wide range of activities, which gives children the ability to move their bodies confidently in any environment, from playground games to competitive sports.
The Importance of Motor Skills Development
Motor skills are crucial to the development of physical literacy. Gross motor skills help children engage in movements that involve large muscle groups, while fine motor skills enable them to handle smaller, more precise movements. Both are critical in helping children navigate the physical demands of sports and day-to-day life.
While formal sports focus on mastering specific skills, informal play—such as playground games—encourages children to engage in a variety of physical activities. This not only helps develop motor skills but also nurtures coordination, balance, and strength in a fun and supportive environment. Through free play, children are better equipped to handle the challenges of more structured sports later on.
SSF’s Commitment to Supporting Families
At SSF, we believe every child deserves the opportunity to develop their physical literacy and motor skills, regardless of their background or ability. To support families in fostering these essential skills, we are excited to announce that soon, we will be releasing the SSF Digital Toolkit.
This free toolkit will provide families with resources designed to encourage physical activity and enhance motor skill development at home. The Digital Toolkit will specifically help children build their physical literacy and motor skills by offering fun, engaging exercises and activities that develop both gross and fine motor skills. Whether it’s through games, fitness routines, or simple activities you can do together as a family, the toolkit will help children improve their physical coordination, balance, strength, and overall confidence in movement.
Why It Matters?
Developing physical literacy and motor skills is more than just preparing kids for sports. It’s about setting them up for success in all areas of life. By improving coordination, balance, and strength, children can navigate the world with greater ease and confidence. Physical literacy also encourages lifelong participation in physical activities, which supports long-term health and well-being.
By offering this Digital Toolkit, SSF is empowering families to create an environment where children can grow stronger, more coordinated, and confident in their abilities—whether they’re playing outside, trying new sports, or simply engaging in everyday activities.
Stay Tuned!
The SSF Digital Toolkit will be available for free download on our website soon. We’re excited to offer these resources to help families support their children’s physical development and ensure they have the tools they need to succeed in sports and life.
Check back soon to get your hands on this invaluable resource and start supporting your child’s journey toward becoming a confident, physically literate individual!
