from AAI website Little Athletics is a program designed to address the specific physical requirements of children in the 5 – 10 year old age bracket. It focuses on introducing the fundamentals of athletic movement to children in a fun, exciting and non-competitive environment. Please click here for a full list of Clubs with a Little Athletics Programme
This age group has been identified as the FUNdamental stage in the long term physical development of the child, and the development of fundamental skills such as agility, co-ordination and balance will contribute greatly to future sporting achievements.
Little Athletics centres on the use of games to provide fun while developing fitness. Props such as hurdles, obstacles, medicine balls, foam javelins and hula-hoops will be used to encourage tumbling, running, throwing, hopping and jumping.
Athletics Ireland is encouraging clubs to establish a Little Athletics program within their clubs. This consists of a one hour slot in a sports hall environment where children in the 5 – 10 yr old age bracket can develop athletic fundamentals – agility, balance and co-ordination – in a fun and non competitive atmosphere.
The Little Athletics programme will be delivered by Athletics Leaders – adults trained by Athletics Ireland through the Athletic Leader coaching qualification. The Athletic Leader qualification is the first step on Athletic Irelands new Coach Education Program and is designed for people who hope to work with children at this stage of development. No previous athletic or coaching experience is required and this qualification presents an ideal opportunity for parents and young adults to become more actively involved in their club.
For further information on Little Athletics or the Athletic Leader qualification please contact your local Athletics Ireland Development Officer.
