In today’s world of screens, schoolwork, and busy family schedules, helping children stay active can be a challenge. But movement isn’t just about burning off energy—it’s essential for physical development, emotional regulation, and overall well-being. So, how much movement should children really get each day?
According to the World Health Organization and the CDC, children aged 3 to 5 should be physically active throughout the day, while children aged 6 to 17 should aim for at least 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity every day. This can include:
Movement is more than just exercise—it’s how children grow stronger, improve coordination, and support brain development. Regular physical activity helps with:
You don’t need a gym membership or structured sports to keep your child active. Here are some fun, everyday ideas to build in more movement:
While some screen time is inevitable, it’s important to balance it with movement. For every 30 minutes of screen time, try to encourage 10 minutes of active play. Making physical activity a normal part of the day helps create healthy habits for life.
Movement doesn’t have to be perfect or planned—it just needs to happen. Every child is different, but all kids benefit from moving their bodies daily. As parents, we can lead by example and make active play a regular and joyful part of family life.
Want to encourage more movement? Try a weekly movement challenge chart, family activity jar, or join your kids in a game of tag. The goal is simple: keep it fun, keep it consistent, and keep them moving.