I Move We Move - Good For Kids - NSW Government
I Move We Move - Good For Kids - NSW Government
I Move We Move - Good For Kids - NSW Government
Create successful ePaper yourself
Turn your PDF publications into a flip-book with our unique Google optimized e-Paper software.
Physical activity for young children in the<br />
early childhood education and care setting<br />
There is growing evidence about the importance of physical activity and the development of<br />
fundamental movement skills in young children. Learning about healthy and active lifestyles and<br />
the significance of physical, emotional, social and spiritual wellbeing is integral to developing<br />
children’s self confidence, and is therefore an essential part of early childhood programs.<br />
Even though physical activity and fundamental movement skills for children is not new for early<br />
childhood educators, for many reasons the time is right to take a fresh look at current practices<br />
and update resources, to extend and refresh ideas.<br />
Children's Services are a great place for children to develop long lasting physical activity habits,<br />
which are crucial for their healthy development. Habits developed in the preschool age are more<br />
likely to continue long term, contributing to ongoing health and well being. Also preschoolers are<br />
strongly influenced by role-models in the early education and care setting (peers, early childhood<br />
professionals, parents and carers), in relation to physical activity. Other important influences<br />
include adult guidance and time for development of fundamental movement skills, the physical<br />
environment of the service and provision of sufficient opportunities for children to be physically<br />
active. With many parents being time-poor, the time children are in care may be the best chance<br />
they have during the day to be supported to be physically active and practice fundamental<br />
movement skills.<br />
Early childhood settings are also an ideal place for families to access support, information, advice<br />
and ideas on child physical activity and recommendations for small screen recreation. Through<br />
regular interactions with families, services also have the opportunity to work in partnership with<br />
families to make physical activity a priority for children both inside and outside the home.<br />
<strong>For</strong> these reasons, early childhood settings are in an excellent position to promote the health, wellbeing<br />
and development of children in their care through the adoption of policies and programs that<br />
support children to be active.<br />
I <strong>Move</strong> <strong>We</strong> <strong>Move</strong>, The Guide Edition 1 August 2009<br />
AREA HEALTH SERVICE<br />
1.4