How Much Outdoor Playtime Should Toddlers Get Each Day?
Outdoor playtime is vital for toddlers’ development. The Australian government and health organisations worldwide emphasise the importance of outdoor physical activity. Experts recommend a minimum of three hours of daily physical activity, with outdoor play being the preferred form.
Why active play is essential
The recommendation for three hours of activity is based on the understanding that active play helps in the development of motor skills, improves cardiovascular health and supports the formation of healthy habits early in life. Outdoor play, in particular, offers unique benefits such as exposure to sunlight for vitamin D, more space for running and jumping and opportunities for imaginative play, which indoor environments may not fully provide.
The role of early learning centres
Early learning centres have outdoor play areas designed for toddlers’ developmental needs, encouraging exploration and physical activity. Educators facilitate safe and challenging outdoor play that promotes children’s overall development.
In addition to structured physical activities, early learning centres also recognise the importance of unstructured play. This type of play allows children the freedom to explore their environment, interact with peers in a natural setting and engage in creative play without strict rules or guidelines. It is during these moments of unstructured play that children often develop crucial social skills, learn to negotiate, share and resolve conflicts, further highlighting the importance of outdoor playtime.
Helping children have a healthy and active future
The Australian government’s recommendation is aligned with the broader understanding that early childhood is a critical period for establishing a foundation for healthy growth and development. By advocating for at least three hours of physical activity per day, with a strong emphasis on outdoor play, the government and early learning centres are working together to ensure that children have the best start in life, setting the stage for a healthy and active future.
Moreover, early learning centers often collaborate with parents and caregivers to encourage outdoor play at home and in the community, reinforcing the benefits of physical activity across different environments. By providing guidelines and suggestions for outdoor activities, these centres support families in making physical activity a regular and enjoyable part of their children’s daily routine.
The recommendation for toddlers to have at least three hours of outdoor playtime each day underscores the critical role of physical activity in early childhood development. Early learning centres, supported by governmental guidelines, are instrumental in facilitating this vital component of a child’s day, ensuring they reap the full benefits of outdoor play for their physical and developmental health.