During this time, you may be looking for opportunities to get your kids some physical activity, while they are out of school indefinitely. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that infants, children, teens, and children with special needs have time for physical activity each day.
Here’s how much they need:
- Infants need at least 30 minutes of “tummy time” and other interactive play, spread throughout each day.
- Kids aged 3-5 need at least 3 hours of physical activity per day, or about 15 minutes every hour they are awake.
- Kids 6 years and older need 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity on most days of the week.
It’s so important to make time for moderate to vigorous activity on most days, especially right now. Getting outside for multiple breaks throughout the day has so many benefits.
- Helps prevent obesity, heart disease, and diabetes
- Helps students focus in school
- For teens, helps avoid risk-taking behaviors like smoking, drinking, and using drugs
- Improves sleep
- Burns calories
- Strengthens the cardiovascular system
- Builds strong bones and muscles
- Increases flexibility
- Diffuses stress
- Teaches teamwork and sportsmanship
- Boosts self-esteem
- Improves an overall sense of well-being
