Physical activity is essential for healthy growth and development in school-age children.
It helps improve body composition, muscle strength, heart health, motor skills, concentration and thinking skills. The amount of physical activity children need varies by age.
According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), children ages 3 to 5 should be physically active throughout the day, and children and adolescents ages 6 to 17 should get at least 60 minutes of physical activity per day. It's important to keep in mind that exercise and physical activity are still important, even if your school-age child has a disability.
Before beginning any physical activity or exercise, we recommend that you consult with a medical professional or your child's doctor to determine the amount and type of physical activity that is appropriate for your child's abilities.
Physical Activities for 3-5 Year Olds
Games like running and chasing. Simple games like tag and red light, green light can help improve speed and agility.
Play in the park. Playground equipment such as slides, swings and climbing structures help improve physical strength and coordination.
Playing with a ball. Kicking, throwing and catching a ball improves hand-eye coordination and develops gross motor skills.
Dance. This activity improves rhythm, balance and coordination.
Building blocks. Stacking and arranging blocks helps develop fine motor skills and creativity.
Interactive games. Games like Simon says and Follow the Leader encourage active listening and physical movement.
Physical Activity for 6-17 Year Olds
Regular exercise can help children maintain a healthy weight, reduce anxiety and depression, and lower their risk of developing chronic diseases in adulthood, such as heart disease, obesity, and type 2 diabetes. Giving children the opportunity and encouragement to participate in fun, age-appropriate activities is important. Providing a variety of physical activity is also essential.