Exercise for kids primary school age and younger

In this age group (12yo and younger), exercise or physical activity should be about having fun, getting away from screens and developing healthy skills for later in life. It provides a great way for kids to learn to mix with other kids, be part of a team and learn how to lose (AKA build resilience!).

Key exercise tips for primary school age kids

Encourage physical activity – this starts with us as parents leading by example and living an active lifestyle ourselves!

Make active activities part of family life – tackle Mt Lofty together, go skateboarding or enjoy a beach walk.

Emphasize participation in sport for the fun of it rather than being focused on who wins/loses

Encourage a variety of activities rather than ‘specialising’

Don’t get too serious (plenty of time for that later in life) –  just have fun being active!

-Kristin Lewis