🏃‍♂️ How Much Movement Does a Child Really Need Each Day?

(Hint: Probably More Than You Think!)

At Emily’s Playland, we believe movement isn’t just something kids do—it’s how they learn, grow, and feel good. But how much movement is healthy, and when does “high energy” cross into “too much”? Let’s break it down.

⚖️ The Short Answer: A LOT.

According to child development experts and pediatric health organizations:

• Toddlers (1–3 years) need at least 3 hours of physical activity per day.

• Preschoolers (3–5 years) should aim for 3+ hours, including 60+ minutes of energetic play.

• Kids (6–12 years) need at least 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity daily—but more is better!

The key isn’t just exercise—it’s movement throughout the day: crawling under furniture, running laps in the backyard, jumping off the couch (sorry), and dancing during snack time all count.

🎯 What Counts as “Healthy Movement”?

It’s not just sports or playground time! Movement can be:

• Energetic Play: Running, climbing, bouncing, or twirling

• Creative Movement: Dancing, acting out stories, or chasing imaginary dragons

• Fine Motor Play: Building blocks, play dough, finger painting

• Heavy Work: Pushing, pulling, lifting cushions, climbing stairs

The more variety, the better. A child’s body and brain grow through different types of play—fast, slow, big, small, wild, and focused.

🤔 What If They Never Stop Moving?

Some kids are just built with more bounce! Constant motion isn’t necessarily bad—it might be how your child processes energy, emotions, or even information.

You only need to worry if:

• They struggle to settle even at bedtime

• Their movement feels disruptive or dangerous (to themselves or others)

• They seem frustrated or anxious without stimulation

• A teacher or pediatrician flags unusual behavior

In most cases, more movement outlets—not fewer—can help improve focus, mood, and even sleep.

💡 Easy Ways to Build in Movement

Here are a few fun ways to sneak in extra activity throughout the day:

• Do a 5-minute stretch or wiggle session before starting an activity

• 10-minute “wiggle breaks” between quiet play or learning

• Use toys like ribbon streamers, hop mats, or obstacle kits indoors

• Story-based play (like following pirate maps or jungle journeys!)

• Turn chores into movement games: “Can you race to put away your socks?”

👉 Check out our Toys That Move With Them collection for energy-boosting fun!

🌟 Bottom Line:

Kids aren’t built to sit still—they’re built to move, explore, and play.
When we support their natural need to move, we also support:

• Better attention and focus

• Stronger bones and muscles

• Healthier emotional regulation

• Deeper sleep

• Joyful, confident learning

So next time your little one is bouncing off the walls… take a deep breath and let them bounce a bit longer. It’s not just noise. It’s growth in motion. 💛

Want more ideas for active play?

📸 @emilydocean

🛒 emilysplayland.com