Children's perceptions of physical literacy: exploring meaning, value, and capabilities for lifelong physical activity

Bingham, Daniel D. and Morris, Jade L. and Lewis, Kiara and Foweather, Lawrence and Goss, Hannah and O’Brien, Wesley and Essiet, Inimfon and Roberts, William M. and Hurter, Liezel and Shearer, Cara and Barnett, Lisa M. and Duncan, Michael J. and Daly-Smith, Andrew (2025) Children's perceptions of physical literacy: exploring meaning, value, and capabilities for lifelong physical activity. Frontiers in Sports and Active Living, 7. ISSN 2624-9367

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Abstract

Introduction

The concept of physical literacy has been defined differently across the world. To create a consensus statement and definition of physical literacy for England, it was felt important to incorporate the views and opinions of children and young people who are often the focus of interventions to increase physical activity and physical literacy. The aim of this qualitative study was to understand what physical literacy means to children by exploring their perceptions of meaningful physical activity and what they think will be needed to continue to be active for life.

Methods

Through a series of directed tasks and thematic analysis, several important considerations are discussed. These included the pertinence of social relationships-whether it was to share experiences, support and encourage friends, or learn from your family.

Results and Discussion

Children discussed how physical activity positively affects their emotions and the importance of enjoyment in continuing to engage in movement for the rest of their lives. In addition, there was an awareness of the benefits for mental and physical health, which indicated the prominence of knowing these benefits in engaging. The findings offer some important contributions from children to better understand what physical literacy means in England.

Item Type:	Article
Identification Number:	10.3389/fspor.2025.1548546
Dates:	Date Event 17 April 2025 Accepted 14 May 2025 Published Online
Uncontrolled Keywords:	physical activity, physical literacy, children, young people, qualitative
Subjects:	CAH03 - biological and sport sciences > CAH03-02 - sport and exercise sciences > CAH03-02-01 - sport and exercise sciences
Divisions:	Faculty of Health, Education and Life Sciences > College of Life Sciences
Depositing User:	Gemma Tonks
Date Deposited:	04 Jul 2025 12:31
Last Modified:	04 Jul 2025 12:31
URI:	https://www.open-access.bcu.ac.uk/id/eprint/16469

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