Cypop 4 - 1.1 - to Explain Why Physical Activity Is Important for Children’s Short and Long Term Health and Well-Being.

It is important that children get a good amount of physical activity each day because it is essential for children’s growth and development. Current guidelines state that children should be spending a minimum of one hour a day in physical activity. Getting children into the habit of physical activity early on is important as it will hopefully encourage them to continue as they get older and sets the basis for a healthy and active life.

Physical activity is important because it burns lots of energy helping children to maintain a healthy weight. When children are enjoying a particular activity they are using their brain to focus and this helps their concentration skills. Some activities will show them how to balance and this will improve their coordination and gross motor skills. Moving to music develops their spatial awareness and enjoying music by making sound such tapping and clapping, carrying bags and pouring will improve their fine motor skills. These skills will improve as they grow and develop. If they are doing activities by themselves this will develop their independence skills. If they are doing group activities then it teaches them how to work as a team and also improves their communication and how they interact with one another.

Physical activity is important for short term health as it can help them boost their energy and helps ease stress and anxiety. This helps with their moods and emotions and reduces depression. In addition children who get more exercise are more likely to fall asleep easily and to sleep for longer. When children are outside they are less likely to develop infections such as colds and flu because their immune system is becoming stronger by having regular exercise and appropriate sleep.  

For long term health, physical activity for young children also helps control weight. When children become overweight or obese they are more likely to suffer from health problems including diabetes, stroke, heart disease and cancer. By...