Definition: 

Fundamental Movement Skills are the building blocks of physical activity, including running, jumping, throwing, and catching. These skills allow children to participate confidently in play and sport and are essential for health and wellbeing (Barnett et al., 2013).

Why it matters:

If kids do not get the chance to really practice these skills, they are less likely to stay active as they get older, which can affect their health (Hands, 2012). The great thing is that adding movement into everyday play and family routines supports every part of their development — not just their bodies, but also their minds and social skills (SCSA, 2017).

How you can help:

Adults support FMS by providing safe spaces, encouragement, and playful opportunities. The Fundamental Movement Skills Resource Booklets (Department of Education WA, 2013) emphasise that repetition and fun are key. Children develop most effectively when skills are practised in varied, game-like contexts.

Examples:

  • Throw and Catch Games: Playing with beanbags, balls, or scarves makes catching and coordination less intimidating and more fun.
  • Obstacle Courses: Using pillows, hoops, and cones indoors or outdoors encourages hopping, jumping, crawling, and balance.

Strategies for Parents & Communities:

 

  • Play movement games outdoors daily (tag, skipping, hopping).

  • Use natural environments (parks, beaches) to encourage running, climbing, and balancing.

  • Encourage short bursts of structured practice (throwing, catching, hopping) through games rather than drills.

  • Model an active lifestyle – children are more likely to join in when adults participate.

  • Praise effort and persistence rather than performance to build confidence.

 

Resources:

 

  • Fundamental Movement Skills Resource Booklets (Department of Education WA, 2013).

  • Barnett et al. (2013) – research on Australian children’s movement skills.

  • Hands (2012) – the importance of FMS for lifelong health.

  • SCSA (2017) – Health and Physical Education curriculum.

 

References:

Barnett, L. M., Hardy, L. L., Lubans, D. R., Cliff, D. P., Okely, A. D., Hills, A. P., & Morgan, P. J. (2013). Australian children lack the basic movement skills to be active and healthy. Health Promotion Journal of Australia.

 

Department of Education WA. (2013). Fundamental movement skills resource booklets.


Hands, B. (2012). How fundamental are fundamental movement skills? The ACHPER active & healthy magazine.


School Curriculum and Standards Authority (SCSA). (2017). Health and physical education curriculum.

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