Sedentary activities (e.g., watching television) often become part of a child’s daily routine early in life and increase through to the preschool years. To help children be more active:
Parents can:
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Be active role models.
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Provide lots of opportunity to be active (e.g., go for short walks instead of stroller rides, limit screen time).
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Provide safe environments where children can run, jump, climb, dance, etc.
ECD educators can:
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Build physical activity into children’s daily routine (both indoors and outdoors)
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Give children access to an outdoor space and an unconstrained environment to play in.
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Become trained in how to engage children in physical activity.
Physical activity makes a difference in children’s physical health and overall development. Encouraging children to develop an active lifestyle should be a priority shared by all.
