Even very young children should be as active as
possible, because it helps their bodies and brains
develop. Children who are active are also more likely
to grow into adults who are active. Exercise also
gives babies extra stimulation through sound, touch
and sight, and being part of a group also helps their
development of social skills.

Parents should take advantage of their children’s desires to
play actively and look for opportunities to introduce their
little ones to active lifestyles, right from the beginning.
Enrolling in Parent and Toddler classes offers families the
chance to play, as well as to form social connections.

Years ago, most children got plenty of exercise, but
this generation of youngsters has too many idle
options. With computer games and DVDs etc, it is easy
for children to forget about active fun. Unfortunately,
this trend toward lack of activity is costly and today’s
kids are increasingly overweight, with many showing
signs of diseases normally not seen in youngsters.

High blood pressure, heart disease, and type 2
diabetes are all on the rise in children, with medical
experts attributing the increase to poor dietary
choices and a lack of exercise. Childhood obesity is
becoming very common in our generation, but with
simple lifestyle changes, today’s kids can return to a
fitter and healthier lifestyle.

Enrolling your children in Parent and Toddler classes
gives them their first introduction to ‘organised’
sports, although most of the play in these of classes
is rather free and individual. Learning to associate
laughter, fun, and socialise with physical activity helps
kids to establish lifelong exercise habits, which can
start them on a path to long term health.