Help the kids you care about start off on the right foot. What we do with our children in the first six years of their life is critical to their development.  An active start is an important foundation for a healthy life.  Physical activity is essential for healthy child development, especially during the first three years when brain growth is extremely rapid and learning creates more brain cell connections than in later years

1. Play together!  From ages 0-6 years, children need to be introduced to relatively unstructured play that incorporates a variety of body movements. An early active start enhances development of brain function, co-ordination, social skills, gross motor skills, emotions, leadership and imagination. It also helps children build confidence, develop posture and balance, build strong bones and muscles, promote healthy weight, reduce stress, improve sleep, learn to move skilfully and learn to enjoy being active.                             

   Find out more at www.canadiansportforlife.ca.
                                                                                                                         

2. Keep it fun! At this age, physical activity should always be fun. Make it part your child’s daily life, not something they’re required to do. Active play in a safe and challenging environment is the best way to keep children physically active. 
3. Help them develop skills. Play catching games. Use a wide range of soft objects and balls of different sizes. Start with catching a large ball with two hands, progressing toward smaller balls and eventually one-handed catching. Bean bags and balls that don’t bounce a lot are great for learning.

   Check out the learning and play resources at 2010 Legacies Now.

4. Create space for play. Ensure your kids have enough outdoor space to run safely and play vigorously. Leave room for kicking and throwing balls. Provide equipment where kids to climb, hang by their arms, hang upside-down and explore.  
5. When you can’t go outside. Make sure your kids have the space and toys they need to run and play inside. 
6. Get outside.  Playing outside is a critical part of a child’s healthy development.  Climbing trees, rocks and hills is good for the entire family!

   Connect with a network of others who care about children spending more time in nature.

   Get ideas to connect children with nature.

7. Choose the right programs.  Identify quality activities and programs that suit your child’s interests. Consider whether the activity is suitable for lifelong activity or promotes skills that are transferable to other activities.  Research what programs are available in your community.  Ensure that coaches are trained and certified.

   Find out more at Canadian Sport for Life.

8. Be a role model. From 6 months to 6 years, children need to learn basic skills that will provide a foundation for sport, dance and exercise later in life. If you’re active, your kids are more likely to be active too.