Current thinking suggest children aged under 5 should be active for a minimum of 3 hours per day to have a better chance of living a healthy lifestyle, sleeping better at night and being ready to learn.
Studies however have found that 1 in 10 children are not meeting the required amount of time. This can have a detrimental effect on the health and well being of children and impact on their attention and listening.
‘Every movement counts’ is the motto of a new Department of Health campaign that aims to get children moving and promote physical activity for at least 180 minutes every day.
Suggested activities to keep children active include dancing, tummy time, climbing and messy play, with the three hours being spread out across the day.
(source Early Years Careers)