Physical activity is beneficial (also) for babies. Thus, according to a recent study conducted by the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (in the United States), children aged 2 who move throughout the day would obtain better results in executive tests.
The American researchers worked with 352 children aged 24 months: their parents first answered a questionnaire concerning their physical activity, their diet and their exposure to screens. The toddlers were then subjected to tests designed to assess their executive functions. Verdict: those who practiced daily physical activity had better short-term memory, better management of emotions and better control of their impulsivity.
Babies also need to move every day!
What does it mean, “daily physical activity” in a baby? The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) has issued very clear recommendations on this subject: between 0 and 1 year old, babies should spend at least 30 minutes a day on the ground, on their stomach, in a play context. 1 and 3 years old, young children should move at least 180 minutes (3 hours) a day: walks in the neighborhood, games in the garden, activities at the playground… And between 3 and 5 years old, the 180 daily minutes must include (at least) 60 minutes of “intense” physical activity: running, swimming, cycling…
In France, the National Health Nutrition Program recommends limiting the sitting position as much as possible for babies from the second year of life: it is therefore preferable to put the deckchair away in the closet as soon as possible!
Source : The Journal of Pediatrics
