We’ve been taking a look at the UK Chief Medical Officers’ Physical Activity Guidelines for the lowdown on just how much physical play under-5’s should be getting on a daily basis…
Infants (less than 1 year)
Infants should be getting busy with physical play active several times every day in a variety of ways, including interactive floor-based activities such as crawling and rolling. For babies not yet mobile, activity should include at least 30 minutes of tummy time spread throughout the day while little one is awake. When it comes to tummy time start off gradually with just a minute or two, and extend the time as your baby becomes used to it. It goes without saying that babies should not be left unsupervised on their tums, and should always sleep on their backs.
Encourage babies to reach, grash, push and pull themselves independently and get them busy rolling too: the more activity the better as they’re building essential muscles and motor skills all the time.
Toddlers (1-2 years)
Toddlers should spend at least 180 minutes (3 hours) per day in a variety of physical play activities at any intensity, including active and outdoor play. Spread the fun throughout the day and keep those little minds buzzing and bodies busy as much as you can. Running, jumping, climbing, puddle jumping or even a brisk nature walk: it all counts!
Pre-schoolers (3-4 years)
Pre-schoolers should also, like toddlers, be spending at least 180 minutes (3 hours) per day in physical play activity both indoors and outdoors, and that 180 minutes should include at least 60 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous intensive physical activity. We’re not talking climbing mountains, but we are talking a run around the park, a good old fashioned playground session or, using government funding, a spot at a pre-school where physical activity is a key factor in its curriculum.
The Treehouse Club
Here at The Treehouse Club we know exactly what our children – from babies to pre-schoolers – need when it comes to the perfect balance of busyness and rest. Our holistic curriculum is tailor-made for specific age groups to incorporate lots of fun activities for little ones to hit those physical targets, and we always have new adventures up our sleeves to attain that goal. To find out more about our availability, our baby rooms, nursery spots and pre-school places, get in touch today for more info and to book a show around so you can see for yourself how wonderfully set up we are for keeping kids of all ages on the right path to physical – and mental – wellbeing.
