Adults caring for preschoolers are encouraged to offer fun, varied opportunities for movement throughout the day in short bursts. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services recommends aiming for at least 3 hours of physical activity daily, including light, moderate, or vigorous intensity. Use this activity to support daily movement habits by joining in when you can and modeling an active lifestyle. Review the information below, then answer the reflection questions and share your responses with your trainer, coach, or administrator.

Why Moving Matters for Children

Physical activity helps preschoolers:

• Supporting healthy growth and development (strong bones, muscles, motor skills, brain development)
• Promoting a healthy weight by balancing calories consumed and used
• Improving cardiovascular health (strengthening heart and lungs)
• Enhancing mental health and mood (reducing anxiety and depression, boosting self-esteem)
• Developing social skills through interactive play (cooperation, sharing, communication)
• Improving sleep quality (helping children fall asleep faster and sleep better)
• Establishing lifelong healthy habits

Ways to Play

Incorporate movement throughout the day with simple, enjoyable activities during key moments in your routine. Here are some ideas to get started:

• Morning Meeting: Add a movement song, stretching routine, or freeze dance
• Transitions: Hop like a bunny to line up, march to the bathroom, or tiptoe to centers
• Circle Time: Act out stories or songs using whole-body movement
• Outside Play: Encourage running, jumping, climbing, ball play, or riding toys
• End of Day: Try yoga, stretching, or calming movements to wind down

Reflection Questions

1. Think about the amount and type of movement children currently get during their time in your care. When do they move the most? Are there times that could include more movement?

    

2. What physical activities do you typically join in or lead for children? How do they respond when you participate?

    

3. What are 2-3 new movement routines, games, or songs could you try this week to boost daily activity in your classroom?

    

Sources

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2024, April 3). Children - Physical activity basics. https://www.cdc.gov/physical-activity-basics/health-benefits/children.html

Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion. (n.d.). Physical activity guidelines for Americans. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. https://odphp.health.gov/our-work/nutrition-physical-activity/physical-activity-guidelines/current-guidelines