Just like reading, writing and arithmetic, the development of physical literacy should be a fundamental skill for all children. The 150 Days of Play program aims to provide 150 opportunities for disadvantaged children to engage in physical activity in a supportive and safe environment.
The program, administered by the Pacific Institute for Sport Excellence, includes fun one-hour physical literacy sessions to get children active and moving.
“The goal is to encourage active development and ultimately, active for life,” said Chris Wright, physical literacy co-ordinator at the sports institute. “We try to get kids outside. Once there, they react to the environment and naturally run around and play. Our programs just guide some of that energy.”
The institute offers children’s programs that range from 18 months to 14 years old.
In the 150 Days of Play program, the institute will offer one-hour programs daily for 150 days, in honour of Canada’s 150th birthday. To reflect Canada’s diversity, the classes will have a special focus on working with children from aboriginal communities, children and youth with disabilities, and children and youth from at-risk families.
The program will run five times a week for 30 weeks.
The object of the initiative is to instil a special sense of belonging and an opportunity to develop lifelong physical and emotional skills for health and wellness.
The Victoria Foundation has been supporting physical literacy programs in the region since 2012. It established the Smart and Caring Community Fund. Responding to findings from the Victoria’s Vital Signs report, the foundation chose physical literacy as a way to support children in the community.
Thanks to programs at the Cridge Centre for the Family and Craigflower Elementary School, more than 3,500 children have participated in PISE’s physical-literacy programs over the past five years.
The 150 Days of Play program was funded by a contribution from the Victoria office of CIBC Wood Gundy and a matching contribution from the Community Fund for Canada’s 150th. The Victoria office of CIBC Wood Gundy raised more than $360,000 locally for CIBC Miracle Day 2016 and more than $1.7 million since 2003.
For more information, go to piseworld.com.
