Over the past few years, the concept of physical literacy has grown in popularity around the world. If you’ve never heard of it, don’t feel bad – but before you ask, it’s nothing to do with running and reading books at the same time!
According to the International Physical Literacy Association, “Physical literacy is the motivation, confidence, physical competence, knowledge, and understanding of value and taking responsibility for engagement in physical activities for life.”
To put it into plain English, the concept simply means viewing all aspects of our health holistically, rather than as separate ideas.
The philosophy is gaining ground in Canada. This year, the BC Ministry of Health provided funding of $50,000 for 17 community ventures across B.C. to learn and be mentored about physical literacy and how it positively impacts our health and well-being.
But the reality is, even though experts now know that incorporating movement, nutrition and mindfulness together means children thrive, it isn’t always easy – or possible – for most mainstream and public schools to implement such ideas.
However, a progressive and modern school like Pear Tree Elementary, a private school in Kitsilano, has physical literacy at the heart of its learning approach.