Coming into the warmer months, we naturally spend more time outdoors in the beautiful sunshine! But how long should our kiddo’s be active for?
The following is suggested by the WHO regarding physical activity recommendations for each age group:
Infants
- Be physically active several times a day in a variety of ways, particularly through interactive floor-based play; more is better. For those not yet mobile, this includes at least 30 minutes in prone position (tummy time) spread throughout the day while awake
- Not be restrained for more than 1 hour at a time (e.g., prams/strollers, high chairs, or strapped on a caregiver’s back);
- Screen time is not recommended.
- When sedentary, engaging in reading and storytelling with a caregiver is encouraged
1-2 year olds
- Spend at least 180 minutes in a variety of types of physical activities at any intensity, including moderate- to vigorous-intensity physical activity, spread throughout the day; more is better;
- Not be restrained for more than 1 hour at a time (e.g., prams/strollers, high chairs, or strapped on a caregiver’s back) or sit for extended periods of time.
- For 1 year olds, sedentary screen time (such as watching TV or videos, playing computer games) is not recommended.
- For those aged 2 years, sedentary screen time should be no more than 1 hour; less is better.
- When sedentary, engaging in reading and storytelling with a caregiver is encouraged.
3-4 year olds
- Spend at least 180 minutes in a variety of types of physical activities at any intensity, of which at least 60 minutes is moderate- to vigorous-intensity physical activity, spread throughout the day, more is better.
- Not be restrained for more than 1 hour at a time (e.g., prams/strollers) or sit for extended periods of time.
- Sedentary screen time should be no more than 1 hour, less is better.
- When sedentary, engaging in reading and storytelling with a caregiver is encouraged.
- Have 10-13h of good quality sleep, which may include a nap, with regular sleep and wake-up times.
Aged 5-17 years
- Should do at least an average of 60 minutes per day of moderate-to-vigorous intensity, mostly aerobic, physical activity, across the week.
- Should incorporate vigorous-intensity aerobic activities, as well as those that strengthen muscle and bone, at least 3 days a week.
- Should limit the amount of time spent being sedentary, particularly the amount of recreational screen time.
