Five reasons why children should be doing the right amount of physical activity

With obesity and diabetes-related illnesses on the rise in children and adults, it has never been more important to encourage children to take part in physical activities. Here are five great ways to get you started.

1. Early learning. Physical activities aren’t just good for developing basic movement skills; they also help to form positive and long term physical activity habits, such as physical play and walking, early in life.
2. Water babies. Whether you’re splashing around in the pool or taking a specialist course, swimming is a rewarding and fun exercise for young children.
3. Create space. Official guidelines (NASPE, 2002) suggest that children aged 3–5 should build up 60 minutes of structured physical activity every day, with regular access to indoor and outdoor areas where they have enough space to perform large muscle activities. Whilst the same obviously cannot be expected of babies or toddlers, it is never too soon to start the physical activity ball rolling – and your child will love it!  Simple activities like running, playing ball, visiting your local park or scooting are a great way to begin.
4. Win, win. We all know that regular exercise improves balance, increases coordination, builds strength, and improves overall health for children and adults alike. But did you now that exercise also helps to relieve stress, decrease anxiety, and helps to ward off depression.
5. Ask at the nursery. Staff at any good nursery will be well aware of the importance of physical activity and facilitate your child’s movement skills based on their age and ability.

Department of Health Guidance

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