BACK TO SKILL
Study finds kids struggling to master catching a ball & other basic functions
SCHOOL kids are struggling to learn basic skills such as catching a ball or skipping, researchers have claimed.
A study by Dublin City University found just 11% of teenagers had mastered the ability to hop, throw or run before the age of eight. Fundamental Movement Skills are the functions which support children’s co-ordination and movement. DCU spokesman Dr Johann Issartel warned: “It’s a potential catastrophe for public health because the inability to perform FMS leads to an aversion to sports and exercise later in life.” The study was carried out in 2014 but its findings are only published today. Now the GAA has teamed up with the Insight Centre for Data Analytics to find solutions to the issue. GAA spokesman Pat Daly said: “There is a problem and this project aims to tackle it in the most child-centred, activity-based, learnerled, achievement-oriented, fun-filled and value-laden manner possible.” Moving Well – Being Well is being launched in Croke Park, Dublin, today. Data Professor Noel O’connor added: “The project will allow us to better understand the situation regarding the physical literacy of Irish children and we will then use the unique insights this generates to develop novel approaches to address what is a key challenge for Irish society.” Meanwhile, Fianna Fail sport spokesman Kevin O’keefe said a co-ordinated national concussion strategy is required to limit the number of young sports people suffering injuries while playing popular contact sports such as rugby, soccer, Gaelic football and hurling. He added: “Many consultant doctors have raised concerns about the seriousness and frequency of such incidents in hospitals as a result of sporting activities. “Parents are very worried about letting their children get involved in contact sports. “Their concerns need to be addressed, but we need to ensure that the level of participation in sport, physical activity and recreation increases. “As the intensity of sport increases, and not just at a professional or semi-professional level, we must protect our sports people and ensure all steps are taken to safeguard their health.”