Being active keeps young children fit and is central to their ability to develop their social, language and cognitive skills naturally. The first five years of a child's life are when they learn the skills and attitudes that they need for lifelong participation in physical activity that will keep them fit and healthy.
Leading an active life brings huge benefits to a person's physical, emotional, psychological and social well-being. The Health Education Authority (1997) has summarised these health benefits: Short-term effects of activity
* Improved coronary heart disease profile
* Lower levels of obesity
* Improved quality of life Long-term effects of activity
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