This post was one a I could really relate to. Physical literacy is certainly an integral stepping stone and crucial component to laying the foundation for giving one the confidence and confidence to partake in physical activity for life. I read an interesting by Sports for Life that discussed the importance of developing physical literacy in a wide range of environments. They emphasized how in exposing kids to a variety of activities in different spaces and playing fields as opposed to just the typical PE gym, this helps to support kids to get involved in diverse sports but also helps develop their skills to navigate other potential risks throuhout their lives. I completely agree with this statement as growing up my parents made sure to encourage me to participate in a variety of sports such as swimming, gymnastics, soccer, field hockey, basketball, skating, and track and field. Although I find myself specializing in soccer now, I believe that each of these activities taught me fundamental life skills that have certainly made me the player and athlete I am today. For example, track and field taught me proper running technique and developed my sprinting speed that directly transfers to my position as a striker. I completely align with what you said about how in specializing with a sport and playing at a high level, it gives you confidence that can be applied to other dimensions of your life too. For me, soccer is a big part of my life and makes up a significant portion of my identity and I find that I definitely lean on my sport and past accomplishments when other things in my life seem to be going wrong. It certainly gives me peace of mind to know that my ability as a soccer player can never be stripped away from me and like you said if something happens, at least I know that I am good at something. I would be interested to see what people feel is the biggest proponent to developing ones physical literacy. I think physical and health education programs are certainly major components in kickstarting ones physical literacy, and look forward to the influence I will be able to have on kids’ development pertaining to this topic as a future teacher myself!
Brianne McLeish