What is Physical Literacy and why is it important?

In order to be physically active, you must be physically literate. Physical literacy is the motivation, confidence, physical competence, knowledge and understanding to value and take responsibility for being physically active. It is the foundation for an active lifestyle and is a life-long journey.

If we want young children to grow up to be active for life, we all have a part to play in developing their physical literacy skills. Parents, caregivers, and educators can provide children with the opportunities to explore their fundamental movement skills like running, jumping, and throwing through physical activity in a variety of settings including in water, on land, and in the air.

Having physical literacy skills results in more opportunities for people to be physically active. Like literacy and numeracy, building a foundation of movement skills early is easier and lasts into adulthood.

Learn more about physical literacy.