Opportunities for Active Play
By now, you have probably heard about the importance of regular physical activity. You are likely aware that establishing strong physical activity habits at a young age increases the chance of maintaining healthy activity levels into adulthood. The list of benefits of physical activity is long and includes:
- Improved heart health
- Weight management
- Better bone health
- Decreased risk of chronic diseases such as diabetes and cancer
- Improved sleep
- Reduced anxiety and depression
- Better cognitive functioning
- Improved quality of life
Experts have established recommendations for physical activity that state:
- Preschool children should have opportunities for physical activity throughout each day.
- School-age children should engage in moderate-to-vigorous activity for at least 1 hour each day.
- Adults should accumulate 150 minutes a week of moderate activity, such as brisk walking.
In this month’s newsletter, we will explore ways that early learning programs can help children and adults meet these recommendations and take advantage of the benefits that physical activity provides.
For the article Types of Active Play, CLICK HERE
For the article Active Play Ideas for Toddlers and Preschoolers, CLICK HERE
For the article Active Play Ideas for School-Age Children, CLICK HERE
For the article Active Play with Staff Members, CLICK HERE
