Playing and being physically active is an essential part of life for all children and should remain a high priority for families, as early habits can lead to healthy behaviours that will last for life. Between the ages of one to five years, it’s recommended that children be active for at least three hours a day. Different activity levels can be spread through the day such as:
Light: Building blocks, floor play, painting
Moderate: Riding, skipping, dancing and swimming
Vigorous: Running and jumping games.
Children are naturally active- jumping and running around. This is important as it helps:
*Achieve and maintain a healthy body weight
*Improve muscle, bone and heart health
*Support brain development
*Develop new movement skills and imagination, and learn about their bodies
*Build self confidence and cope with stressful situations
*Improve communication skills, including how to solve problems and make descisions
*Learn how to interact, share, take turns and care about others