Building lifelong physical activity through physical literacy in early learning and school settings
Led by: Western Australian Health Promotion Foundation (Healthway)
Partner: University of Western Australia, Goodstart Early Learning WA, WA Government agencies, school associations
Theme: Physical Activity
📌 Overview
KIDDO is an evidence-based, largely online program that builds physical literacy among children aged 0–12 years through early childhood education and primary school settings. It helps children develop fundamental movement skills—such as running, jumping, and catching—that are vital for lifelong participation in physical activity.
In Western Australia, where 68% of children do not get enough physical activity and 1 in 5 are developmentally at risk when they start school, KIDDO supports educators, parents, and schools to make movement an everyday part of learning.
📈 Impacts
- Since its launch in 2014, KIDDO has reached 1,921 schools, 875 early childhood education and care (ECEC) services, 24,000 parents, and over 60,000 children.
- By 2025, the program will expand to reach 34,550 children, 21,500 parents, and 1,600 educators.
- Research shows measurable improvements in children’s movement skills, educator confidence, and parent engagement.
- Strengthened educator capacity through professional development, workshops, webinars, and biennial conferences.
💡 Why It Works
- Evidence-based design: Grounded in research and guided by the WHO Health Promoting Schools Framework.
- Co-designed with educators: Practical, user-friendly tools tailored for real classroom use.
- Partnership-driven: Collaboration between Healthway, UWA, and community partners ensures broad reach and expertise.
- Sustainable model: Combines public funding with commercialization strategies for long-term program viability.
- Comprehensive approach: Integrates school, educator, and family engagement to support children’s lifelong movement and confidence.
Together, these approaches demonstrate how investing in physical literacy from early childhood can lay the foundation for lifelong participation in physical activity through education systems.
🔗 For More Information:
KIDDO Website: https://kiddo.edu.au/
📘 Want the full story?
The complete case study — including implementation insights, partnership contributions, and lessons learned — is featured in the INHPF Physical Activity Report Card 2025.
Related Success Cases
Explore more physical activity initiatives from INHPF members:
- Tonga Health Promotion Foundation – Fun Shake Zumba Program 2022
- Preventive Health SA – Community Activation Grants
Image credit: KIDDO fundamental movement skills program at East Kimberley College.
Image by Timbee Photography, courtesy Healthway.
Source: Content adapted from Healthway
