Keeping young people from Birkdale/Beachhaven engaged in sport and physical activity and sport throughout their schooling lives is the focus of Project interACTIVE. Research shows there is a drop off in participation at key transition points (primary/intermediate and intermediate/secondary), with large numbers dropping out between 13-17 years.
Having talked to many students in the community we know that having fun and being friends are the two most important motivators in retaining them in sport and physical activity. Winning is important BUT not more important than fun and friends. Raising awareness of these issues at school, at home and out in the community (ie. with sports coaches) is important if we want to keep young people motivated and engaged. Offering a wide range of activities including non-traditional sports/games and social options is also important if we are to remove the pressure to win that many students feel.
Students between the ages of 5-12 years old have each received a set of physical activity cards with ideas for games and other activities on them. The purpose of the cards is to help children develop important movement skills that will assist them to be more physically confident. They also focus on having fun, playing games with friends and family, and making the most of the local community.
For a list of parks and reserves in the Birkdale/Beach Haven area please click here.
