How much physical activity should I do?
Infants (birth to one year) — be physically active several times a day in a variety of ways and for those not yet mobile try to include at least 30 minutes of supervised tummy time per day.
Toddlers (1 to 2 years) — be physically active for at least 180 minutes per day in a variety of ways including energetic play (things like running around in the backyard chasing after bubbles or dancing to their favourite song).
Pre-Schoolers (3 to 5 years) — be physically active for at least 180 minutes per day in a variety of ways, including 60 minutes of energetic play.
Staying active videos
Wellbeing SA, supported by Exercise & Sports Science Australia, have developed some videos that focus on movement skills for pre-schoolers.
- Movement skills for pre-schoolers
- Fun and easy to follow dance routine for pre-schoolers
What about screen time and sitting?
We know, for good health and wellbeing, it is important to be mindful of how much time we spend sitting or engaged with screens. For young children, some things to remember
Try not to restrain young children (e.g., in a stroller, car seat or high chair) for more than 1 hour at a time.
Try not to sit for long periods at any one time.
For children under 2 years, no sedentary screen time is recommended.
For children aged 2-5 years, no more than one hour of sedentary screen time per day is recommended.
When sitting with your children focus on things like reading, singing songs and drawing pictures.