First 2000 Days: Play and Physical Activity for Children

Why is it important?
• Play and physical activity is important for your child’s health and wellbeing, now and in the future.
• Play builds strong bones and muscles, which improve balance, coordination, and strength.
• When children play, it boosts their confidence, learning and communication skills.

What to do?
• Babies need tummy time while they are awake and being supervised. This helps to build their muscles.
      – Play with baby – make facial expressions, talk, and touch to help babies learn.
      – Take turns to respond to their sounds and expressions.
• Children aged 1 – 5 years should be active for at least 3 hours a day.
• Encourage play and physical activity early and often.
• Try new activities and games to develop new skills.
• Provide praise to support them to thrive and learn.
• Visit playgrounds, parks, playgroups, early education centres, family, and friends.