Start Well

We want children to have the very best start in life so that they can enjoy healthy active lifestyles throughout their lives. We believe in children enjoying games and active play. We know the positive benefits it can have for them and their families.

We are also optimistic about what young people can achieve given the inspiration and encouragement. We believe that being active is one of the ingredients in a happy, healthy, and fulfilling life.

Moving more and playing games can help children to;

Sleep better
Grow strong bones and muscles
Maintain healthy weight
Build relationships & social skills
Develop their brain & learning skills
Relieve stress and maintain mental and emotional wellbeing
Be happier & feel better about themselves.

About 13% of children are obese by the time they reach reception year. About a third of all children in the UK are overweight or obese. Children are becoming obese at an earlier age and staying obese for longer.

Children who are obese are more likely to suffer from mental health and behavioural problems. Childhood obesity can have long-term health consequences, it is associated with various health conditions, including asthma, early onset type 2 diabetes, and increased risk of cardiovascular disease in adulthood.

Experts recommend that children aged 5 and above are active for at least an average of 60 minutes every day across the week. Children should do a wide variety of things that get them active. It doesn’t have to be organised sport, it could be playing games, riding a bike or dancing.

Pre-school children should be on the move even more each day. The government recommends 180 minutes of movement each day to develop muscles, bones and brain.

Parents have a key role to support their children to be active and to develop their skills. Family life is busy and time is precious. All too often time for play is squeezed by the pressures of life.

We can help parents to limit screen time and use their imagination to have fun with their children.