Physical activities are beneficial in the lives of young children as they produce a good foundation of movement and activity that can be taken with them through the rest of their lives. An essential part of a child’s development is through physical activities which help create an active and healthy life. The greatest benefit of physical activity at a young age is brain development.
Our day-to-day activities often tend to be seated. For the young child, this could include time in a car seat or stroller, sitting in the grocery cart, or waiting with a parent for older siblings at appointments or events. For toddlers, the meaning of physical activity is any activity that gives them the opportunity to play and move with other children. It is important to be aware of the balance of seated time and physical activity to ensure that young children are experiencing movement throughout their day.
Why Do Young Children Need to Be Active?
Children are more likely to try new activities during their early childhood. All types of physical activities help promote healthy development and growth in toddlers. Movement helps them improve cardiovascular fitness, stronger muscles and bones, and an overall positive mental state. The development of fine motor skills, concentration, and the ability to problem solve are all positive outcomes of physical activity in children.
Creating a foundation of movement and activity into the lives of a toddler can be done through physical activities. Children that have high levels of physical activity at a young age are more likely to carry out an active routine as they grow and will choose to incorporate physical activity daily into their teen and adult lives.
Children who participate in sports, such as dance, yoga, or other team sports, become stronger and more independent. They will learn how to work as a team member, function in a structured environment, and develop confidence. It is important for parents to encourage and support their children in finding ways that they love to be physically active.
Lack of Physical Activity
Health problems such as weight gain, high blood pressure, bone health problems, and high cholesterol are a few of the problems that can occur from a lack of physical activity. The benefits surely outweigh the negative! Children who are active will tend to have fewer health problems and are less prone to becoming ill.
Top Benefits of Physical Activity
Physical Health
When children participate in regular physical activity it helps develop their fundamental movement skills. Physical activity not only helps maintain a healthy body weight in children, but it can also help build healthy muscles, bones, heart, and lungs.
Brain Function
An important role of physical activity is to develop the brain and support essential mental functions.
When children engage in physical activity it will improve motor skills, the ability to problem solve and increase their attention span. As children grow, these skills will benefit school performance as well. It has been noted that when children play outside with friends, their attention in the classroom and their performance on tests and assignments are improved.
Emotional and Mental Health
There are days when children may show signs of depression or anxiety or even just have an “off” day and they will not want to think about physical activity. However, encouraging movement can help maintain their mental well-being. The endorphins in the brain are released during physical activity and can help improve a child’s mood, sleep cycle, and energy levels. These positive effects will help improve self-confidence, strength, and resilience.
Seeing your child thrive socially, mentally, and emotionally along with their physical development will allow you to see the benefits of incorporating physical activity at a young age. Physical activity will help your child gain confidence, self-esteem, and the development of healthy social and emotional skills.
Are you looking for a place for your child to play, move, create and grow? If you have a little one on the move, we have the perfect place for them to learn and explore at Soul Connexion in our Fine Arts Program. We are Calgary’s most inspiring studio that combines dance, yoga, fitness, and the fine arts for a unique approach to you and your child’s health and happiness.
Recent Comments