Nursery World - Health & wellbeing: Enjoying physical play

June O’Sullivan, CEO of London Early Years Foundation, considers why physical activity is important for children's wellbeing

Sometimes, physical development is not taken as seriously as other subjects, but children who participate in physical activities have higher self-esteem, have less stress and anxiety and better social skills. That is a very positive start for learning. Children that thrive on physical activity will look for opportunities which stimulate their curiosity and extend their physical powers. They also get a great kick out of showing their friends their physical prowess.

For children to enjoy physical play, they need an environment that is varied, stimulating and fun, supported by staff who are modelling the joy of physical activities. Physical activities help development, including:

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