Aims & Objectives

AIMS

The ActivKids fitness development programme is a foundation programme designed to encourage children between the ages of 4 and 11 years to lead an active lifestyle. The emphasis is on fitness and exercise, mixing together play, games and recognised exercises to achieve the programme objectives. The programme is designed so that whatever a child's level of ability, they will be able to successfully progress step-by-step, experiencing a variety of fitness and exercise skills and character building situations.

The programme is designed to encourage and give confidence to those children who do not participate in sport, and to reinforce values and good exercise practise to those children who already play for sports teams or lead an active lifestyle.

For those children who generally shy away from physical activities, the primary objective is to develop confidence and self esteem. This is achieved through giving the child a certain amount of free choice, constant praise, rewards and allowing them to work individually and with friends. The programme does not put any child in a position where they have to 'perform' in front of peers, or 'team choosing' so one child is left until last. This way, all children will feel comfortable with the situation and the tasks they are set.

For those children who already are involved in sports or generally lead an active lifestyle, the programme introduces new fitness exercises that will improve their existing physical condition, aid in P.S.H.E. development and educate by offering suggestions on a healthy lifestyle.

There is of course a cross over of the skills learnt for both sets of children.

No matter what level a child is at, either physically, socially or emotionally, the programme has many benefits. It is designed not as a replacement for any existing sporting commitments, but as a supplement or introduction, depending on the child.

And of course it's Fun!

OBJECTIVES

Maintain the key principles of childhood; 'fun, play and learning'.

Increase the number of children between the ages of 4 and 11 years who are exposed to the vast variety of fun and exciting games and exercises that lead to a more active lifestyle and rounded personality, and to encourage children away from the couch potato / video game lifestyle.

Provide children with the opportunity to learn through play, games and sport, and experience the physical, social and psychological benefits of these activities.

Increase levels of confidence and self esteem in all children through physical activity, especially inactive children.

Provide a 'level playing field' that allows inactive children to feel comfortable in physically active situations, and to feel equal to their more physically active peers.

Provide activities and games for all children to participate.

Remove any constraints that may hold back a child from expressing themselves, e.g. peer pressure, lack of confidence and self esteem.

Allow children to make their own decisions, with coaches being present to guide, advise and lead at the appropriate times.

Provision of fully trained staff who strongly believe in the ethos and policies, and will increase a child's chances of success rather than being detrimental (not to 'bully' a child into doing what is 'required' by shouting and punishment).

Allow the programme to be used in addition to any other sport and schooling, and aid in these areas as well.

Flexible programming to cater for the needs of the children, parents and schools, e.g. timing and finance.