One of my first memories is of my mother putting on the soundtrack to Cats the musical. My siblings and I would crawl and climb around the house, pretending to be cats. It was a simple, silly activity, but it got us moving and using our imaginations. It also tired us out just in time for a nap. Physical health is vital to optimal early childhood development. Sometimes, it just takes a little imagination and a safe environment to support healthy physical activity. Early childhood physical development also benefits from daily active playtime, healthy food choices, and regular check-ups at the doctor.
This month’s Research to Policy discusses the research behind physical wellness in early childhood, offers helpful tips and resources for parents to improve the wellness of their young children, and touches on local resources that help to support and encourage early childhood physical fitness and development.