Importance of Physical Activity for Kids

Developing healthy habits early in life sets up children for success! Ensuring your child is getting enough physical activity can be a challenge. Here are some tips and recommendations to help your little one stay active and healthy:

Recommendations based on age:

Toddlers (12-36 months)
30+ minutes of structured physical activity daily
60+ minutes of unstructured physical activity daily
Preschoolers (3-5 years)
60+ minutes of structured physical activity daily
60+ minutes of unstructured physical activity daily
Should not be sedentary for more than 60 minutes at a time while awake
Structured physical activities include things like games, moving to music, sports, etc.
Unstructured physical activities include things like running, climbing, jumping, etc.
Make sure your child is spending time EVERY day being physically active. Some great ideas are:
Going on family walks (without a stroller if your little one can walk!)
Visiting your local park, swimming pool, or beach
Enrolling in gymnastics, dance, karate, swim, and other age-appropriate classes
Remember! Children imitate adults- so lead by example and make physical activity a daily goal for everyone in the family!
As always, if you have questions about physical activity for kids, consult your pediatrician.

For more information, visit these American Academy of Pediatrics and Health Dept. links:

https://www.healthychildren.org/English/healthy-living/fitness/Pages/Energy-Out-Daily-Physical-Activity-Recommendations.aspx

https://www.healthychildren.org/English/healthy-living/growing-healthy/Pages/preschool-activity.aspx

https://www.healthychildren.org/English/ages-stages/gradeschool/fitness/Pages/default.aspx

http://www.health.state.mn.us/divs/hpcd/chp/cdrr/earlychildhood/infofamilies-infofamiliesneedknowphysicalactivity.html