Multi skills are used to give all children the opportunity to get a sound base in Physical movement literacy.

This is in line with the Long term athletic development model (LTAD) that states activities at this age should be:

• fun,
• non sport specific and
• should be aimed at improving children’s basic motor and fundamental skills in an environment that is safe, fun and challenging.

The opportunity to improve and develop basic skills is important in the early years of a child’s life. Peak development of the neurological system (nerve connections between the brain and muscles) occur between 0-6 so the importance of working on the ABCs (agility, balance and coordination) during this period cannot be underestimated. This will allow them to learn movements and skills that form the building blocks and the cornerstone of all future athletic development.

The essential aspect is that FUNdamental movements should be practiced and mastered before sport-specific skills are introduced. The development of these basic motor skills will contribute significantly to future athletic performance and achievements.

If children are capable and confident at completing skills research shows that they are more likely to continue participating in them. This means that it can contribute significantly to lifelong participation and allow these children to form positive attitudes towards sport and physical activity and continue to do them throughout their life gaining the all the health benefits (mental, social, physical and emotional) along the way.

By improving a child’s overall movement vocabulary the aim of Multi skills is to improve their physical literacy before they choose to specialise in a specific sport. If they have a wider base of skills they have more options to choose from and are therefore more likely to find a sport/ activity they enjoy and continue participating in.

Physical skills that are practiced throughout the programme include:

Agility (forwards, backwards, lateral)

Balance (static and dynamic)

Coordination

Locomotor Skills- running, jumping, skipping, hopping, leaping.

Stability skills- stretching, bending, pulling, pushing, twisting, turning.

Manipulative Skills- catching, dribbling, bouncing, throwing, kicking. 

“Development of these core skills is not only important for future athletic participation and performance but will also play a key role in developing a child’s gross motor skills that are required to carry out many activities and functions of daily life. The FUNdamental and multi skills  included in this programme will give children the necessary skills and knowledge to continue to participate and enjoy physical activity; thus live a healthier lifestyle and decrease the risk of future health issues”

L Jones (BSc Hons Physiotherapy) Paediatric Physiotherapist

For more information about Multi Skills Contact

Neil Smothers:  This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.