3 Cheers for the Early Years

Health Promotion

Active Living

Information for Professionals | Health Promotion | Initiatives | Evaluation

The role of Active Living in healthy child development:

Active living is a way of life in which physical activity is valued and integrated into daily living and leisure pursuits. Being active is about participating in physical activities that are enjoyable, require some effort, and promote health and happiness. Development of basic movement skills in the early years has a life-long impact on active living and health.

Healthy growth in children is dependent on three important things:

Enjoying healthy eating
Having fun being physically active
Feeling good about yourself.

How can you support Active Living in your work?

If you work with children:

Make it fun and part of the children's day.
Active play is one way young children can be physically active.
Build on movement skills - help develop basic movement skills such as jumping, running, twisting, kicking, throwing and catching.
Consider the individual child what are his abilities and interest.
Girls and boys may prefer different types of play – how can you build in activity?
Build on seasonal interests – dress for the weather and get outside when you can.
Play along – self esteem and skills improve when adults are involved.
Take a break for rest and water.
Post pictures of the children being active.
Take advantage of community resources.

If you work with parents:

Help parents understand why active living is important to healthy growth. When children learn to equate having fun and being active, it is more likely to become a life-long habit.
Provide activity suggestions, links and resources.
If you facilitate parenting programs, use active living as a context for parenting exercises either in session or for ‘at home’ work.
Encourage parents to participate with their children – children are more likely to enjoy activity when their parents are involved.
Help parents reflect on their children’s interests – what kinds of activities are important to their children? What kinds of activities are important to the parents? (e.g.: If they regularly go to a lake, it may be very important for them to have their children learn how to swim.
What community resources are available? In the local neighbourhood? In the larger community?

How can 3 Cheers and Calgary Health Region support you?

Resources:

Programs for Families:

Professional Services and Community Action:

Calgary Health Region's Nutrition and Active Living Department is involved in:

Professional development for Calgary Health Region staff
Provide content support to 3 Cheers initiatives
Conference presentations
Provincial and national initiatives that support healthy eating and active living in children 0-6 years
GO2 Preschool Action Group
Community Prevention of Childhood Obesity project