YMCA Victoria - Healthy Bodies program
| Program Details | |
|---|---|
| Overview |
Game based program with two sessions each week: 1. Clever Bodies - to develop throwing and catching skills 2. Fast Bodies - to develop movement skills such as running, skipping and jumping. |
| Deliverers | YMCA Victoria OSHC staff |
| Training and Resources | Session plans were provided to staff. Staff attended two training sessions prior before the program started. |
| Duration |
Two x 50 minute sessions x 10 weeks 1 x Clever bodies/week 1 x Fast Bodies/week |
| Participant Details | |
| Age | 5 – 12 years |
| Description | Primary school students who attended OSHC centres in the after-school timeslot |
“Are we doing Healthy Bodies today?” (Student)
“I feel tired, but I feel good, I liked the games.” (Student)
Physical literacy outcomes
Healthy Bodies helped children develop across all four domains of physical literacy – physical, psychological, social and cognitive.
Key findings
1
Students were highly engaged by the games based approach and the variety of activities.
2
Students built their confidence over the course of the program and showed improvements across all four domains of physical literacy.
3
The program successfully used the captive setting of out of school hours care to reach a target cohort (young children) and develop their physical literacy.
4
Relationships within the group were visibly strengthened when the deliverer joined in games and activities.
5
The setting provided a valuable communication channel to reach and inform parents about how their child was developing a positive relationship with physical activity.
6
The extent of development was dependent on the quality and experience of the deliverer. This shows how a skilled workforce positively impacts physical literacy development.
7
Students developed a good sense of self as they were provided with opportunities to talk about how they were feeling before and after the Healthy Bodies sessions.
“I am excited because I can’t wait for the games.” (Student)
SOCIAL