Physical activity isn’t just a way for little ones to burn off energy — it’s also an important part of child development. With television, video games, and the internet providing sedentary entertainment indoors, parents must find ways to get their kids outside, whether it’s installing a swing set in the yard or signing them up for a team sport. Here are five reasons to keep your child active.

5 Benefits of Physical Activity for Children

1. Proper Development

Young children are developing physically and mentally, and play contributes to both. Exercise builds strong muscles and bones and enhances cardiovascular fitness. Many activities like hopscotch, swinging, and bike riding improve coordination, flexibility, posture, and motor skills. Physical play also boosts problem-solving abilities. 

2. Improves Moods

Lack of sun can negatively impact mood, which can in turn negatively affect daily life at school and home. Getting rid of excess energy is best accomplished with physical activity. Outdoor play allows children to unwind and have fun, resulting in happier, more focused minds.

3. Promotes Social Interactions

Social isolation has damaging long-term effects on young children. Your child must practice sharing, cooperation, and proper communication to become an empathetic and well-balanced adult. Outdoor activities like team sports, swing sets, and water games bring friends and neighbors alike together for valuable social interactions.

4. Prevents Health Problems

Children who are regularly active have a reduced risk of developing certain health conditions later in life. According to the CDC, kids can lower their chances of getting Type 2 diabetes, heart disease, obesity, osteoporosis, high blood pressure, and cancer with one hour of active play per day. Lack of physical activity, on the other hand, can lead to posture problems, weight gain, and circulation issues over time. 

5. Encourages a Long-Term Healthy Lifestyle

The values you teach your children will stick with them for the rest of their lives. When you encourage and follow a healthy lifestyle, exercise becomes a habit. Your child will recognize the importance of physical activity from a young age, so they’re more likely to carry these routines with them into adulthood.

Active play builds happy, healthy children, so give your child an extra incentive to get outside by designing your own unique swing set at Cricket on the Hearth. Serving Monroe County, NY, and surrounding areas, this custom fireplace and playground set retailer carries a broad selection of the industry’s most trusted brands. From picking your material and style to providing quality installation, their dedicated staff will assist you every step of the way. Visit them online to browse their Swing Kingdom® swing sets. To learn more about their services, call (585) 385-2420.