This guide will help you answer 1.3 Refer to the current guidance for early years and explain why it is important for babies and young children to be physically active.
In early childhood education, the well-being and holistic development of children are paramount. One of the cornerstones of promoting such development is ensuring that babies and young children engage in adequate physical activity. This guide refers to the current guidance within the UK for early years settings and explains why physical activity is vital for young children.
Current Guidance for Physical Activity
The UK Chief Medical Officers’ Physical Activity Guidelines provide comprehensive advice on the amount and type of physical activity children should undertake. For babies and young children:
- Babies (under one year): Should be encouraged to be physically active several times a day, especially through floor-based play, such as tummy time, and activities in safe environments with minimal restraint.
- Toddlers (1-2 years): Need at least 180 minutes (3 hours) of physical activity spread throughout the day. This can range from light activities such as standing up and moving about to more energetic activities like running and jumping.
- Preschoolers (3-4 years): Should also aim for at least 180 minutes of physical activity daily, incorporating both light and more vigorous activities.
Physical Health Benefits
Physical activity is crucial for the physical health of babies and young children. It helps to:
- Develop Motor Skills: Physical activities like crawling, walking, and playing develop both gross motor skills (involving large muscle groups) and fine motor skills (involving smaller movements).
- Build Strong Bones and Muscles: Activities such as jumping, running, and climbing enhance bone density and muscle strength, which are vital for growth.
- Improve Cardiovascular Health: Engaging in vigorous play helps improve heart health and circulation. Establishing these habits early can prevent issues such as obesity and cardiovascular diseases later in life.
- Maintain a Healthy Weight: With childhood obesity on the rise, physical activity helps regulate weight and reduce the risk of becoming overweight.
Cognitive Development
Physical activity also enhances cognitive development. It aids in:
- Brain Development: Motor activity is closely linked to brain development. Activities that require coordination and problem-solving engage and stimulate young brains, fostering neural connections that support cognitive functions.
- Attention and Learning: Regular physical activity has been shown to improve concentration and learning competence. Energetic playtime helps children focus better on tasks and follow instructions more effectively.
- Exploring & Curiosity: Through active play, children learn about their environment. They explore textures, spatial relationships and cause and effect, all of which build cognitive abilities.
Emotional and Social Benefits
Physical activity offers significant emotional and social benefits for babies and young children. These include:
- Confidence and Independence: As children master physical activities, they develop a sense of confidence and independence. Completing a challenging climb or running a race boosts their self-esteem.
- Emotional Regulation: Physical activity can help children manage their emotions and reduce stress. Active play allows children to express their joy, frustration, or excitement in a healthy manner.
- Social Skills: Many physical activities involve playing with peers, which teaches important social skills such as sharing, cooperation, and communication. These interactions are essential for building relationships and social competence.
Establishing Healthy Habits
Engaging babies and young children in physical activities sets them on a path to lifelong health. Early habits are incredibly powerful:
- Routine and Structure: Physical activities help establish a routine. Children enjoy knowing what to expect, and this structure can positively influence other areas of life, like eating and sleeping habits.
- Active Lifestyle: When children regularly engage in physical activity early on, they are more likely to remain active as they grow older. This reduces the risks of chronic diseases and promotes lifelong wellness.
Guidance for Implementation in Early Years Settings
Adhering to the guidelines and encouraging physical activity in early years settings can be achieved through several strategies:
- Varied Activities: Offer a variety of activities that include both structured and unstructured play. Games, sports, and dance are excellent for structured activities. Ensure there is sufficient time for free play where children can explore and use their creativity.
- Safe and Engaging Environments: Create safe, stimulating environments that encourage movement. This can include climbing equipment, open spaces for running, and safe areas for activities such as ball games.
- Role Modelling: Adults should model active behaviour. When children see adults participating in physical activities and enjoying them, they are more likely to join in and enjoy themselves.
- Incorporating Nature: Take advantage of outdoor spaces and nature. Activities like nature walks, garden play, and scavenger hunts provide physical activity along with other sensory and learning benefits.
- Engagement with Parents: Encourage parents to engage in physical activities with their children at home. Provide guidance and resources on activities that families can do together.
Conclusion
Physical activity is a critical component of the healthy development of babies and young children. Adhering to current guidelines ensures that children not only develop physical health but also cognitive, emotional, and social skills. Early years practitioners and caregivers play a significant role in embedding these habits, creating an environment that promotes movement, exploration, and playful learning. Establishing these habits early provides the foundation for a healthy, active, and fulfilling life for children.
By understanding and implementing these guidelines, early years practitioners can ensure they offer the best start for every child in their care.
