ESPYou don’t have to turn your child into an athlete to help them become more active. Running around the backyard, riding a bike, dancing, swimming, playing at the park and participating in sports all count.
Regular physical activity during childhood helps build strong bones and muscles, supports a healthy weight and gives children an opportunity to develop healthy habits they can carry into adulthood. Here are some basic guidelines:
• Toddlers: For children ages 1–3, activity happens in short bursts throughout the day. Give them plenty of opportunities to walk, run, climb and play.
• Preschoolers: Children ages 3–5 should be active throughout the day, including energetic play that gets them running, jumping and moving.
• School-age kids: Children and teens ages 6–17 should get at least 60 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity each day, including activities that strengthen muscles and bones.
• At any age: The best exercise for your child may simply be the one they enjoy enough to keep doing.
