Physical activity and sedentary behaviour
Being physically active is vital for the well-being and development of pre-school children and is an important component in addressing unhealthy weight in children. Data from the UK in 2015 showed that only 9% of 2-4 year olds were sufficiently active1.
Practitioners working with pre-school children and their families are in a good position to educate and support parents to promote an active lifestyle in their families.
Module aim:
This module will provide an overview of physical activity and sedentary behaviour and its importance to pre-school children - and also highlight the various types of activity that can be recommended to pre-school children and their families.
Learning objectives:
By the end of this module, you will be able to:
- Explain the importance of physical activity for health (and building physical activity into everyday life)
- Explain the recommended physical activity levels for pre-school children
- Explain the term sedentary behaviour, and the risks associated with being sedentary.
- Work with families to identify ways of increasing physical activity and reducing sedentary behaviour.
This module consists of the following sections:
References
1ESSEHS Active (2015). "Early years evidence briefing ". Retrieved 11/07/17, from http://www.ssehsactive.org.uk/resources-and-publications-item/40/278/index.html