Being active together as a family helps children grow up healthy, happy, and ready for school. It also strengthens family bonds and supports your child’s development in many ways.
Why physical activity matters
Getting active as a family can:
- Build confidence and social skills
- Support healthy weight and overall wellbeing
- Boost brain development and learning
- Improve sleep
- Strengthen muscles and bones
- Encourage movement and coordination
How much activity is recommended?
- Children aged 1–5 years: Aim for at least 180 minutes of physical activity spread throughout the day.
- Children under 1 year: Aim for at least 30 minutes of activity across the day.
Ideas to get started
Here are some useful resources to help your family get moving:
- Time4Wellbeing - Free, fun health and wellbeing support service for families with children aged 2-17, whose weight is above the ideal for their age and height.
- NHS - Physical activity guidelines for children under 5 years.
- Change4Life – Ideas to get your family moving with an ‘A to Z’ of sports, activities, indoor activities and 10 minute shake up games.
- Exercise Pregnancy Baby Moves Activities Toddler - Information on exercise and physical activity.
- BBC Tiny Happy People - Is your baby a smooth mover? Have a look at Let’s Dance.
- Kids Workouts To Do At Home - Joe Wicks children’s work-outs.
- Cosmic Kids Yoga - Variety of fun yoga-based videos for children.
- NCT Top Tips for Tummy Time - Top tips for tummy time success.
- NHS Fitness Advice for Wheelchair users - Activities for wheelchair users.
- Better Health Accessible activities - Accessible activities for disabled children.
Contact us
For more information or support, contact:
Kerry Heath
Senior Early Years Coordinator
07794 175467
Kerry.heath@staffordshire.gov.uk