Table 4 Recommendations for the development of messages from stakeholder consultations
From: Canada’s Physical Literacy Consensus Statement: process and outcome
Factor to be considered | Examples from the discussions |
|---|---|
Target populations | Definition / message should correspond with the audience Messages for a variety of audiences would be helpful Language background, age, sector, gender, region, parents, children, funders, culture, social inequities, health equity should all be considered One definition for within the sector, one for the general public Have a set definition with interpretations for various populations |
Language | Plain language Literacy is a tough word for some people to understand The term literacy helps to bridge the construct across sectors |
Sector-specific messaging / consistency across sectors | The “idea” needs to be consistent Consistency in branding of physical literacy, but message may change based on sector Success may look different in different sectors Each sector needs to have a key message Make the link to benefits / outcomes for specific sectors |
General and specific messaging | A common definition for a global campaign with tools to talk to specific groups of people |
Evidence-based | Whatever it is, it needs to be evidence-based |
“Feel” of messages | Create urgency The message needs to be powerful Clearly share “this is what physical literacy is and how you get there” Use a strength-based approach with message Use physical literacy as a buzz term |
Address embedded beliefs | Address the notion that “just get outside” is physical literacy |
Format for messages | Images would be helpful Short bullet list of 5–6 key messages that can be picked from with a few key, foundational ones Develop “elevator talk” messages Short, sweet bits of information at a time |
Process for developing messages | Messages should be developed from the top down |
Message delivery | Would be great to have professional athletes involved in delivering messages |
Message ideas | Physical literacy is about competence and confidence Physical literacy enhances health Physical literacy builds community Active start / active for life Physical literacy is lifelong / there is no endpoint Skills you can see / can you move properly? Physical literacy is more than just physical activity / fitness Physical literacy is accessible to all – there are lots of options beyond organized sport or that don’t cost money Unstructured and structured Physical literacy is the new social currency – leads to a willingness to try new things Reaching full potential / being able to participate fully in life |