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Keep Your Kids ACTIVE
Children need at least an hour of physical activity every day to stay healthy, but which types of play are right for your child?
Click on the buttons below to learn the average ages when children reach milestones in physical development, and the physical activities and games that are best at each stage.
3-5 years old
At 3-5, children aren't ready for competition or organized sports. They have a limited understanding of teamwork, strategy or rules. Individualized activities are more appropriate.
- Encourage your 3-5-year-old to climb, hang, walk, run, jump, hop, skip, gallop, slide, leap, pull, push, pedal, bat, kick, throw, strike (with paddles/rackets), and swing.
- Use games like 'Hokey-Pokey' and 'Simon Says' to teach left and right.
- Play 'Follow the Leader' to foster balance and coordination.
ACT ON IT!
Now that you know the kinds of activities your children are ready for, try to make time in your life to get out there and be active with them.
Or use community resources like schools, clubs, and city recreation departments to find out where you can get your kids started.
Reviewed by Brunilda Nazario, MD on October 17, 2008
This tool does not provide medical advice. See additional information: 
© 2004 WebMD, Inc. All rights reserved.
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