SPORT ACTIVITIES

Importance of exercise for kids under 5

We all know that physical activity is important for young children. Being active is what children are born to do!

Even from birth, movement is essential for brain development. Babies make sense of their world through sensory exploration, play and learning to move.

Tummy time, rolling and crawling are really important for them, even at such an early stage in their life.

For toddlers and preschoolers, play helps contribute to their cognitive, physical, social and emotional wellbeing.

As children learn to control their bodies and become more active, then climbing, running, jumping, catching and throwing become a significant part of their lives, as does taking part in dance classes, swimming lessons and other organised sports.

Energetic activities are important to their whole development, building their confidence, strength and improving balance.

Some of the many benefits of sport participation for children include:

• reduced risk of obesity

• increased cardiovascular fitness

• healthy growth of bones, muscles, ligaments and tendons

• improved coordination and balance

• a greater ability to physically relax and, therefore, avoid the complications of chronic muscular tension (such as headache or back ache)

• improved sleep

• mental health benefits, such as greater confidence

• improved social skills

• improved personal skills, including cooperation and leadership.