Resource to Share with Parents: Helping Your Child Develop Physical Literacy

Abstract

Research has shown that children's levels of physical activity are set at an all-time low, which can lead to health problems such as obesity and diabetes. So, what can parents do to ensure that their child gets enough physical activity each day? This booklet answers that question and explains why the key to helping a child be more physically active is to help him or her develop physical literacy. It provides suggestions for helping children develop fine motor skills, movement concepts, locomotor skills, nonlocomotory skills, and manipulative skills. Parents will also find the answers to frequently asked questions very useful, as they take on a more active role in the development of their child's physical literacy.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Jeffrey S. Gehris

Jeffrey S. Gehris ([email protected]) is an associate professor in the Department of Kinesiology at Temple University in Philadelphia, PA. Amelia Chloe Simpson is a graduate student, Megan MacDonald is an associate professor of kinesiology, and Sam Logan is an assistant professor, in the College of Public Health and Human Sciences at Oregon State University in Corvallis, OR. Helena Baert is an associate professor in the Department of Physical Education at the State University of New York, Cortland College, in Cortland, NY. Leah E. Robinson is an associate professor in the School of Kinesiology, and a research associate professor in the Center for Human Growth and Development, at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, MI. Rhonda Clements is a professor, MAT in Physical Education and Sport Pedagogy, at Manhattanville College in Purchase, NY. Sharon Schneider is an adjunct assistant professor in the School of Education's Department of Teaching, Learning, and Technology at Hofstra University in Hempstead, NY.