Active 5-11 year olds

31% of children aged 5-11 participate in organised sport or physical activity outside of school 3 times or more per week

When children reach school age, they are exposed to many participation opportunities. Some children are more likely to embrace these opportunities and develop strong physical literacy skills. Physical literacy is the knowledge, skills and behaviours that give us the confidence and motivation to lead active lives.

Characteristics

• More likely to have higher physical literacy levels
• See club sport as a big part of their life
• Tend to love everything about the sport and physical activity experience including the physical, social, competitive and mental aspects
• Often participate to socialise with peers, improve skills or to try a new sport
• Fun and enjoyment is the key driver for ongoing participation and activity
• Parents are often involved in the club and it is a joint decision to participate
• Parents are active themselves participating in sport or physical activity.

The challenge for sporting organisations is to keep these children in sport and ensure participation opportunities focus on fun, enjoyment and skill development.