Toddlers are naturally active, but you need to make sure your young child is getting enough exercise. Children between two and three years old can run, jump, climb, kick and ride a tricycle. Toddlers are mastering these basic skills and building the foundation for their healthy lifestyle. They need plenty of opportunities to move around.
Guidelines
The National Association for Sport and Physical Education has put together guidelines for the physical activity requirements for children. For toddlers, the NASPE suggests caregivers help to engage in structured activity for a minimum of 30 minutes each day plus at least 60 minutes of unstructured activity. A maximum for sedentary activity is set at no more than 60 minutes at a time, other than when your child is sleeping. It is important to the growth and development of children that they receive ample opportunity for active play for motor skills and to build a foundation for healthy future lifestyles.
Indoors
For building leg muscles and brain development, turn on some music and let your toddler dance, then have your toddler "freeze" when you turn the music off. For variety, have him run when the music is on, then pick an object for him to freeze like when the music stops. For instance, have him freeze like a tree with his hands up like branches and one foot up off the floor to practice balance. Freezing options are virtually unlimited; consider animals, movie characters, shapes, statues and funny faces. Another indoor activity toddlers love is to build an obstacle course. Let your child help you lay out pillows, chairs and tables for their course, then set him loose.
Outdoors
Water games get children on the move in a big hurry. Fill balloons with water for a family water balloon toss or just to chase each other with on a hot day. Water guns are another fun way to cool down summer activities. Use caution when playing with water and watch slick surfaces. Another simple outdoor activity that keeps little ones busy is hopscotch. Grab your chalk and be creative with your squares, then start hopping. Also, consider a game of hide-and-seek outside, but make sure not to hide too well, as children this age might be afraid if they are unable to find you.
Classes
Structured classes are not necessary to provide your toddler with all the exercise opportunities they need, but may help you with additional ideas and motivation. Mommy and Me classes offer children this age with opportunities to learn tumbling, dance, movement and more. Many programs allow you to try your first class for free and may give you enough ideas to take home and continue on without the structure of a classroom setting. Also consider swimming lessons or local parks programs.
Tips
Children have limited skills at this developmental stage, practice patience and flexibility when planning activities. If you try a game that your toddler is not ready for, do not become frustrated, but adapt the activity to her abilities. Let her interests guide your choices and allow her plenty of time to play without structure. Keep her safety in mind and enjoy each other's company. And have fun.
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