Physical Activity | Children and Youth

Physical activity is any movement that increases your heart rate and breathing. It is important for overall physical, emotional, and mental well-being.

Being active together as a family can be a fun way to connect, build healthy routines, and support children’s development.  

Regular physical activity:

  • Supports overall health, growth and development
  • Supports emotional regulation and well-being
  • Promotes healthy self-esteem.

Being active also helps children to:

  • Arrive at school ready to be engaged learners
  • Develop positive social skills
  • Build meaningful social connections to increase a sense of belonging.

According to the Canadian 24-Hour Movement Guidelines for Children and Youth:

  • Children 3-4 years old need at least 180 minutes spent in a variety of physical activities spread throughout the day, of which at least 60 minutes is energetic play—more is better.
  • Children 5-18 years old need at least 60 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity and up to several hours of light activity each day. 

What counts as physical activity?

  • Light activities will not make your child sweaty or out of breath, but they will still be moving. Walking slowly and chores like sweeping are examples. 
  • Moderate activities will make your child sweat a little and breathe a little harder. Bike riding and playground activities are examples.
  • Vigorous activities will make your child sweat and be out of breath. Running and swimming are examples.

  • Walk, bike, rollerblade or skateboard to school (go to the Physical Activity page to learn more about active transportation)
  • Play active games together (for example, tag, grounders, catch, soccer, football, etc.)
  • Visit a park or playground 
  • Have fun moving and dancing to music
  • Dress for the weather and go outside in all seasons
  • Encourage them to join in and play with peers and provide opportunities to be with peers
  • Look for opportunities to discover new activities (for example, borrow a yoga, pickleball or birding kit from your public library)

Physical Activity | Huron Perth Public Health

Contact Us

Huron Perth Public Health

Huron Office
77722B London Road, RR #5, Clinton, ON
N0M 1L0

Perth Office
653 West Gore St., Stratford ON N5A 1L4
Toll-free 1-888-221-2133
askhpph@hpph.ca