Early Years Wales launches 'Movement Champion' campaign

In the 21st century, we have seen significant upward trend in the amount of time children spend being sedentary in Wales. There are several explanations which account for this rise, one of the main factors being a rise in use of digital devices amongst young children. Recent OFCOM research has highlighted that a quarter of three- and four-year-olds in the UK own a smartphone, with a rising rate of online usage for the same age group. No matter the motive, longstanding research states that increased amounts of sedentary time can lead to long term physical and mental health issues which have can have a negative impact in later life.

Therefore, movement is an important way we can begin to overcome the life limiting impacts of physical inactivity. Instilling the importance of an active lifestyle, especially in young children will help develop healthy habits that are likely to be carried on through the developmental journey into adulthood. The purpose of our 'Movement Champion' campaign is to shine a light on negative impacts of increased sedentary time on young children, asking all of us to ensure children have the ability to move in every part of their life.  

We are encouraging everybody involved in a child's upbringing to sign up. Whether you are a parent or carer, a member of staff in an early years setting, or political representative making decisions which impact our young generations ability to move, our campaign requires you to put movement at the front and centre of your thoughts.

Be a part of the change. Sign up to our campaign for free below.