Being strong and going fast really matter to young children. Overall body strength can extend opportunities for play. Being speedy furthers the possibilities for risk, challenge and adventure. Both traits are linked to stamina, gaining physical skills, injury prevention and daily safety.
But in a climate where it is becoming increasingly common for settings to outsource their physical development practice to sports and activity providers, what should we be aware of?
‘Strength and stamina is important but we should ensure it is developmentally appropriate and suggest physically active play rather than exercise,’ says Helen Batteley, physical development consultant. ‘Children’s skeletal structure isn’t designed for high intensity or repetitive exercise.’
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