Better health and ageing for all Australians

Physical Activity

National Physical Activity Recommendations for Children 0-5 Years: Tips and Ideas

In this section:

Active play ideas

  • Children will love running and playing with streamers made from colourful ribbons or scarves, hoops and balloons;
  • Catching and hitting games using a variety of objects and balls – you may like to try bubbles, bean bags and a range of balls of differing sizes.
  • Create an obstacle course using items from around the house – try boxes, sheets, chairs and tables – kids will love exploring under, over, through and around the course that you create.
  • Encourage jumping games – make an imaginary river using a rope, or an imaginary log using a pillow for children to jump over.
  • Digging and building in the sand, either at the beach or in a sand pit.
  • Children can help in the garden, maybe even create a small garden (in pots is fine if you have limited space) for children to tend and care for – digging holes for plants and carrying water cans are great ways to be active.
  • Playgrounds offer a wide variety of experiences for children to be active – climbing, swings and slides are great opportunities for active play.
  • Playing with pets is fun way to get kids moving.

Television viewing

These tips may help to develop positive TV viewing habits with your 2-5 year old:
  • Set viewing time and content limitations for children – encourage your child to have an active role in selecting what TV programs they wish to view within these limitations.
  • Avoid TV during times of the day when kids could be outside engaging in active play and exploration – if necessary record programs so they can be viewed at a more suitable time.
  • Try to have TV-free mealtimes – allowing time for family conversation and interaction.
  • Make your children’s bedrooms screen free zones.
  • Try to supervise your child during their TV watching and other electronic media use – parental involvement has been shown to have a positive impact on the educational value of these activities.
  • Turn the TV off when the scheduled program is finished – having the TV on in the background can distract children while they are playing or interacting with others.
  • Be prepared with active play alternatives when the kids want to turn on the TV.

© Commonwealth of Australia, Department of Health and Ageing (2010)