Nursery World - Into action

Physical activity for children is high on the official agenda, as Joyce Reid reports, while our cut-out-photovopy guide will help you explain the reasons why to parents Many children today, it is widely recognised, do not get as mnuch physical excercise as they need.

Many children today, it is widely recognised, do not get as mnuch physical excercise as they need.

There are many reasons - fewer children now walk to school or nursery; parents are reluctant to let children play ouside on their own and do not always have time to accompany them to the park;television and computer games provide ready entertainment in the home, while parents themselves lead a more sedentary lifestyle. If the parents are not physically active, their children are not likely to be either.

Researchers believe that the decreased levels of physical exercise are an important factor in the rising levels of obesity seen in young children. A recent study showed that around 14 per cent of girls and 10 per cent of boys aged four to 11 are now overweight.

Register now to continue reading

Thank you for visiting Nursery World and making use of our archive of more than 35,000 expert features, subject guides, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:

What's included