QORF endorses Physical Literacy Position Statement

The QORF Management Committee has voted to formally endorse the Sport Australia Position Statement on Physical Literacy.

Sport Australia is committed to improving the lives of all Australians through sport and physical activity, and wants more Australians moving more often because of the enormous benefits to their health and wellbeing – physically, socially, psychologically and cognitively.

At QORF, we believe that physical literacy is important for all Australians. Everybody, and most especially young people, deserve the benefits that follow on from increased physical activity – fitness, healthier lifestyles, time spent outdoors, improved social skills and much more.

Physical literacy is about developing knowledge and behaviours that give children the motivation and confidence to enjoy active lifestyles. Establishing active habits in children sets them on the path to happier and healthier lives, paves the way for a more productive Australia.

At Nature Play QLD, we actively promote physical activity outdoors, and is founded on the understanding that unstructured play outdoors – nature play – is fundamental to a full and healthy childhood. Nature play promotes health benefits, including physical, cognitive, social and emotional development, and it builds resilience and creativity as well. Experiences in nature as a child also leads to environmental awareness and stewardship later in life.

Movement skills, like numeracy, reading and writing, can be learned. Research shows that children who engage in regular physical activity and improve their physical literacy, reap the numerous health benefits and also learn better academically. Sport Australia wants all young Australians to benefit from these opportunities.

QORF is the first State peak body for the outdoors to endorse the Sport Australia Position Statement on Physical Literacy, and we encourage other outdoor organisations throughout Queensland to also consider endorsement of the framework.

For more information on The Australian Physical Literacy Framework and to access the Sport Australia Position Statement on Physical Literacy visit www.sportaus.gov.au/physical_literacy

See also:

• Children losing physical literacy
• Physical Activity