It’s All About Physical Literacy. And Fun.

Following the recent success of Dina Asher-Smith at the World Athletics Championships, the CEO of Sport England said that children should be taught “physical literacy”, just like reading and writing. It is hard to argue with that. I personally feel very passionate about it and it is something we are very focused on at Try Time Kids’ Rugby.

But first, it is worth explaining what is “Physical Literacy”?

In a nutshell, physical literacy is the ability for individuals to move confidently and competently, doing a wide range of physical activities.

Much like anything, learning any type of skill early in life, gives a freedom and confidence that is much more difficult to acquire when older.

The benefits of physical literacy are felt throughout your entire life, not just in the ability to do a variety of physical endeavours but also, in helping to naturally ward off the growing problem of childhood obesity.

The Rugby Football Union have done research that proves teenagers are much more likely to give up sport altogether as they become more self-aware, if they haven’t developed Physical Literacy from a young age.

That’s all I need to hear to be honest!!!

What do we do about it?

Well, schools have to be aware of this but as parents, we need to get our kids playing sport from a very young age.

Try Time is just one such place!

We provide a fun, energetic and engaging environment that mixes structured and free play through a variety of games and skills. The games and skills that we teach, aim to help each child, no matter what development level they are, to gain confidence physically, building co-ordination and control.

So why rugby?

The beauty of rugby is the wide range of movements involved which makes it such a good basis for developing physical literacy. Kicking. Passing. Catching. Evasion. Teamwork. Communication.

There is nothing better than seeing all these things in action, with kids in pairs, running around an assault course, passing the ball to each, dealing with whatever obstacles we put in their way, be it ladders, hurdles, poles and the odd bosh pad!

Bad weather? What bad weather?

Part of developing physical literacy is building the resilience and understanding that weather is not an impediment to being active outdoors. We have all been guilty of putting off going for a run or a cycle because of the rain, but we really want our kids to not see the weather negatively. Rain can be fun. Mud can be fun. It makes the challenges different. It makes the games different. And it makes it possible to develop new skills. 

Honestly, our best sessions have been in the pouring rain and snow!

We are passionate about getting kids, whatever their ability, to become Physically Literate.   Yes, we would love to have a child that goes on to become the next sporting superstar, be it the next Dina Asher-Smith or Owen Farrell. But more importantly, and more satisfying, would be to know that each and every child that passes through a Try Time Kids Rugby club, would never stop themselves from taking on a physical challenge because they didn’t feel physically able to.

That would be job done!!