Why Physical Activity Starts Earlier Than You Think
“For today’s children, physical activity has become a health necessity.”
THE REALITY FACING TODAY’S CHILDREN
For most of human history, children got enough exercise simply by living their lives — running, climbing, playing, exploring.
That era is over.
We are the first generation of parents raising children who cannot get adequate physical activity through unstructured play alone. The consequences are measurable: more than 1 in 5 American children now have obesity — a record high, and a number that continues to climb. (CDC, 2021–2023)
Screens are a major driver. Children spend more time indoors and on devices than ever before. Sedentary play has replaced active play. Junk food being specifically advertised to children also contributes. The result is that organized physical activity is no longer optional.
For today’s children, it has become a health necessity.
WHEN SHOULD YOU START PROMOTING EXERCISE?
I get this question from parents constantly. Most expect me to say age 5. Maybe age 8.
The real answer: around 2 weeks old.
Once a newborn is feeding well and gaining weight, we introduce tummy time — the first exercise of a child’s life. Lying children on their belly for just a few minutes at a time helps build core strength, neck control, and really begins the foundation for every physical milestone that follows, such as crawling and walking.
EARLY MOVEMENT GOALS
- Build coordination
- Develop balance
- Grow baseline strength and endurance
- And most importantly — have FUN
I’m not focused on skill development at young ages. I’m focused on children falling in love with movement.
WHAT ACTIVITIES WORK BEST?
For young children, I love anything that keeps the whole body moving — soccer, gymnastics, swimming, martial arts, ice skating. Whatever is accessible and engaging in your community.
The specific sport matters far less than whether your child is moving, laughing, having fun and wanting to come back next week.
The goal at this age isn’t to develop athletes.
It’s to build a habit of physical activity and a love of play. The physical and neurological foundation that makes everything else possible down the road.
THE KID-CENTRIC VIEW OF EXERCISE
Find what your child gravitates toward. Build an environment where being active feels natural and engaging.
In the process, they will build good coordination and balance. They will maintain flexibility as they build whole-body muscle strength. And they will have fun doing it.
This is known as the kid-centric view of exercise.
Exercise for fun and engagement.
FINAL THOUGHT
The sport-specific skills will come as they get older.
Before that, give them a reason to love the games they play.
MOVE EARLY. MOVE OFTEN. MAKE MOVEMENT FUN.
Clinical Director of Pediatrics
Jefferson City Medical Group