"Physical activity in young children has broad health benefits such as instilling active behaviour, improved bone development, reduced risk of obesity, and enhanced cognitive and psychosocial development,'' she said. The research is likely to influence policy and practice relating to the physical activity of children attending child care, Dr Christian added. Researchers are looking to boost physical activity among children after a pilot study found 82% attending child care in Western Australia are not meeting national guidelines. Data already collected from more than 40 child care centres and 800 families in Perth shows on average children are achieving two hours of physical activity instead of the recommended three. She said the study would not ignore the role families had in how active children were.

Source: Otago Daily Times August 09, 2016 04:07 UTC