1. Physical Activity for Children 0-5yrs

2. History A child’s brain is still developing from age 0-3yrs
Behaviours/attitudes etc are ‘learnt’ when a child is 0-3yrs
Movement is the basis of who we are today because it develops and strengthens the body and brain thru childhood as we grow

3. Quality early education is the most important factor in determining a child’s life chances
The Childcare Bill (2005) requires local authorities to improve the outcomes of all children under 5yrs – places a statutory duty on top tier local authorities
The Children Act (2004) gives legal force to the five outcomes for children

4. Knowing the whole child, their strengths and interests
Learning and practising fundamental movement skills
Contribution to brain, sensory development and learning
Positive motivation towards long-term health and well-being
Appreciating the child as both an intellectual and social being

5. Engaging children in quality physical movement experiences which develop and enhance emotional, social, physical and mental growth of the child

6. What is Active Play
Crawling, Jumping, Throwing, Gripping, Swinging, Kicking, Balancing, Climbing – developing/improving a child’s basic skills through play
Running, Kicking, Climbing, Skipping, Throwing, Hopping, Tunnelling – developing/ improving parents, carers, teachers basic skills so they can play

7. Health Benefits Maintains a healthy weight CHD prevention
Diabetes prevention & control
Primary prevention of some cancers
Injury prevention and control
Positive mental health

8. Also … Improves balance & movement skills Improves sense of vision
Improves sense of touch

9. How Can We Achieve these Health Benefits?
By improving/developing fundamental movement skills for all children 0-5yrs:
Locomotor
moving body from 1 place to another
Manipulation
imparting or receiving direct force from an object
Stability
moving or standing still with 1 body part still attached to the ground or equipment
Movement & Body Awareness
having knowledge of own body and movement capabilities