“Ensure that your little one engages in physical activity every day. Besides being important for their health, physical activity can also have an impact on the child’s future.”
In Indonesia, 8% of children aged 0-59 months experience obesity. One of the causes is a lack of physical activity. Based on this fact, as parents, it is crucial for you to be vigilant about your child’s physical condition.
A child who appears overweight is not necessarily healthy, especially if they are not active. In addition to having a high risk of obesity, inactive children may also experience delays in their growth and development. This is why it is important to instill physical activity habits from an early age.
What are the benefits of physical activity for children, along with some examples? Let’s take a closer look.
The Importance of Light Physical Activity for Children
Physical activity consists of a series of activities that use muscles and expend energy. Encouraging children to engage in physical activity daily is excellent for their growth and development—physically, cognitively, and emotionally.
Light physical activity can help develop both motor and sensory skills in children. The development of these skills is vital for a child’s overall growth. Movements involved in physical activities stimulate the child’s nerves, allowing them to grow optimally.
Moreover, encouraging physical activity from an early age means instilling good habits that they can carry into adulthood. Children who are used to being active from a young age are less likely to become sedentary. This can have a positive impact on their future health.
Therefore, as a parent, you should provide opportunities for your child to engage in physical activities. Join them in fun activities every day.
Benefits of Light Physical Activity for Children
Engaging in regular physical activity brings several benefits for children, including maintaining their health. Here are some benefits of physical activity for children that you should know:
1. Strengthens the Heart
The physical movements that children perform can strengthen their muscles, including the heart muscle. With adequate physical activity, your child’s heart health can be preserved.
2. Maintains Blood Sugar Levels
Activities performed by children burn calories and sugar in their bodies. This can help prevent them from developing diabetes.
3. Stabilizes Emotions
Children who frequently engage in physical activity are better at controlling their emotions. This can prevent them from becoming easily tantrum-prone or angry.
Examples of Light Physical Activities for Children at Home
Physical activity should be encouraged starting at the age of 1 or when the child becomes active. Children do not need to go outside to engage in physical activity; you can involve them in activities at home.
The most important aspect of physical activity is that the child moves or performs actions that expend energy. Here are some examples of light physical activities that can be done at home:
- Dancing together
- Playing with LEGO
- Drawing and coloring
- Playing catch
- Singing
- Playing guessing games
Physical activities for children do not need to be intense or exhausting. Simple movements at home also count as being active. Just keep an eye on the duration of the activity.
Recommended Duration of Physical Activity for Children
The WHO has made recommendations regarding the duration of physical activity for children and the types of activities they can engage in. Here’s a table of the recommended duration of physical activity for children:
| Age | Duration of Physical Activity | Recommended Activities |
| Under 1 year | 30 minutes | Encourage tummy time, reaching, grasping, dancing, and pushing their hands or feet. |
| 1-2 years | 180 minutes (3 hours) | Rolling, jumping, and playing outside. |
| 3-4 years | 180 minutes, with 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous activit | Biking, playing tag, and other outdoor activities. |
According to NHS recommendations, children should not be allowed to spend excessive time staring at screens. They should only be allowed to watch TV or use gadgets after the age of 2, and even then, for a maximum of 1 hour.
While engaging in physical activity, ensure that your little one feels comfortable by choosing clothes that are comfortable, flexible, and good at wicking sweat, such as Kikuko Loungewear Seigaiha.
Kikuko Loungewear Seigaiha is a set of clothing for children aged 2-3 years. Made from soft and elastic fabric, it allows children to move freely. The fabric also effectively absorbs sweat and is antibacterial, helping to maintain skin moisture and overall health. Even during intense physical activities that make children sweat a lot, they will remain comfortable and protected from various bacteria that can cause illness.
Now you know the importance of physical activity for children. Let’s start implementing fun and light physical activities for your little one. Don’t forget to also use Kikuko Loungewear Seigaiha to support their activities.