news release
Brock University
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With the 2024 Paris Olympics approaching, experts from Brock University’s School of Education are considering how the global event can be leveraged to create meaningful learning opportunities for young audiences.
Engaging children in Olympic-themed activities and discussions will promote the development of four areas of youth literacy: physical, psychological, cognitive and social literacy, says Associate Professor Jayme Barratt.
“For example, young children can learn teamwork, cooperation, fair play and respect for others – skills needed for Olympic sports like relay and hockey,” she says.
The Olympics can also stimulate discussion about the important role that dedication, hard work and perseverance play in helping young people achieve their goals, she added, which is especially important for children who are learning how to regulate their emotions and develop self-awareness.
For carers and parents looking to incorporate the Olympics into their daily activities, Barratt suggests organising a “mini Olympics day”.
“Recreating the Olympic format by inviting parents and families to play and participate in activities with their children gives everyone an opportunity to not only celebrate the Olympic spirit, but also the cultural diversity and talent of those in attendance,” she says.
Professor David Hutchison says the Summer Olympics provide an opportunity for both athletes and spectators to reflect on the Olympic Games’ underlying values of excellence, respect and friendship.
He said parents and guardians can plan activities to help their children get involved in the Olympics, including:
Re-enact a 100-meter sprint in your local park, measuring the distance from start to finish (or 100 strides if you don’t have a measuring tool), and compare your results to Olympic and world records. Review the list of Olympic sports with your children and ask which one they’re most interested in training for and competing in. Choose a Canadian athlete who will be competing in the Olympics and write a one-paragraph biography about their life and achievements in that sport. As a family, research how France has prepared for the Olympics, including what new Olympic venues were built, how many athletes and attendees were expected throughout the Olympics, and how much it cost to host the Olympics.
Professor Chunlei Lu says learning about the countries taking part in the games can be a fascinating way to enjoy the diversity of the Olympics.
Lu suggests that family and friends choose a country to follow and track their overall rankings every day in a “mini-competition,” all while learning more about the background of each country.
“Find an event that inspires and motivates you,” Lu says. “Every Olympian has a story about when they started their Olympic journey at a young age.”
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