When it comes to physical activity, is it more important for boys or girls to learn basic movement skills?

Both groups need basic movement skills. Research has shown that having these skills makes kids more likely to do organized physical activities in their teenage years. This can lead to a lifetime of healthy habits.

There are some gender differences, though. It seems that, when it comes to physical activity during adolescence, it's more important for girls to have basic movement skills than for boys. Improving girls' skills just a little may encourage them to do another hour of physical activity per week. Researchers think that boys are more encouraged to do sports generally, so skills are less important for them.

It's never too early to teach kids basic movement skills. Examples include running, jumping, catching, throwing, and kicking. Researchers think the best "window of opportunity" may be during the preschool and early elementary years.