Our perspective
Recent years have seen a startling trend towards inactivity among Canadian children. Experts warn that this could have serious far-reaching consequences for their health and wellbeing. By promoting active play in early years education and childcare, we can turn the trend around.
Share
Why is active play so important in early childhood? And why should we worry about getting kids active in early years centres? There are important reasons to get kids moving.Â
Carpenters need to balance on beams and swing hammers
Firefighters need to climb ladders and pull hoses
Nurses need to lift and move patients
Everyone needs to carry groceries
Walking on icy sidewalks takes balance
The value given to children’s active play is reflected in the rich history of active games traditionally played by Indigenous peoples across Canada. Indigenous children were taught games to develop skills for survival, and their play also taught them their relationship with the land and their community.Â
When children play outdoors, there are countless potential benefits for their health and mental well-being. Early years centres provide special opportunities to get children outdoors, and the benefits serve everyone.
More vigorous play
Better social skills
Enhanced cooperation
Improved problem solving
Fewer emotional difficulties
Better behaviour
Improved self-regulation
Increased happiness
We live in a digital age and screens are everywhere. Meanwhile, research tells us that excessive screen time is hurting children. What can we do to help parents manage their children’s time with digital devices?Â
The opinions and interpretations in this publication are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of the Government of Canada.
