Research shows that exercising from an early age can be beneficial to young children.  About 13 per cent of Singapore schoolchildren were obese in 2017, according to the Ministry of Health (MOH)’s National Population Health Survey when data on childhood obesity was last captured.  Almost 70% of obese children will also grow up to be obese adults which takes a impact on their quality of life.

By encourage young children to start exercising at an early age, we can prevent health issues and chronic disease and even psychological problems that can come related. They will grow into the habit of exercising and carry on with it even when they get older. 

Exercise helps improve people’s moods by releasing endorphins which leave you feeling more relaxed and happier.  Children might not be as stressed as adults but most of them might be battling depression and unhappiness. The best way to help improve their emotional and mental state is by simply encouraging them to exercise more.  And not forgetting playing together with a group of friends can prmote social interaction which is important for them to develop their sense of self, and also start to learn what others expect from them.

Strategies that you can use to keep physical activity fun for your child:

• Use large soft balls to practice object manipulation like catching, hitting, bouncing and kicking.  The use of rolled-up socks is also an alternative.
• Make up games that involve different forms of locomotion.  Run, walk, jump, hop and whatever it takes to reach a destination
• Play different types of music and sounds to encourage a sense of rhythm and dancing
• Leave the car at home and go for a walk in the park and benches to look at natures

Or even better, sign them up for the KinderGym Programme which emphasizes on Fundamental Movement Skills to get the child engaged in a fun but yet challenging physical activities suitable for all preschoolers.

As a club, to know more about KinderGym programme, do click here to find out.

If you are a parent, click here for ActiveSG Gymnastics Academy KinderGym Programme which a collaboration between SportSG and Singapore Gymnastics.