​Your lively toddler probably has you constantly running around all over the house making sure he stays safe. That's great news! As a parent, you want your child to be active and healthy.

It is important for your child to spend at least three hours doing a variety of physical activities in a day, of which 1 hour/60 minutes should be moderate- to vigorous-intensity activity. You may spread these out throughout the day, and also make sure to include at least 2 hours of outdoor play, as studies have shown that time spent outside can help prevent or delay myopia1.

Are You Ready? Let's Get Moving!

Here are some activity ideas to get you and your little one moving at home.

Help Mummy and Daddy with Chores

Your child should not only be able to put away his own toys, he can also help out with a few simple chores around the house.

Here are some other chores that are appropriate for children ages two to three:

  • Put clothes in the laundry hamper
  • Wipe up spills with a cloth
  • Dust with a feather duster
  • Pile books and magazines

Get your kid to copy what you do when cleaning up the house, whether you're wiping the coffee table or dusting the shelves. For example, pass your child a toy broom while you sweep the house. He'll be doing the same thing you do in no time.

Related: Let's Go, Mummy


It's Not Just Storytelling, It's Story showing

Reading to your child is a wonderful activity, and your child probably has a favourite story that he remembers by heart. Instead of just telling how the story goes, why not act it out?

Walking, hopping, dancing or marching—whenever someone in the story does something, encourage your child to perform the action. You could do the same for songs as well. Don't just sing "row, row, row your boat…", get those arms moving!

Related: Books for Your Growing Child (Toddler and Pre-schooler)

Have a Ball of a Time

Who knew a simple sphere could bring so much joy and unending fun? Whether it's kicking it, throwing it, catching it or bouncing it, the sky truly is the limit when it comes to having a ball with this trusty classic. Here's a fun idea: line up a few empty plastic bottles and see if your kid will be able to bowl you over with a few strikes!

It's a Beautiful Day. Let's Spend It Outside!

Take a walk in the early morning or evening when the sun isn't too strong. You could bring your child to a park nearby and enjoy the soft breeze and fresh morning air.

Remember mimosa leaves? Some of you might know it as touch-me-not, does it ring a bell? Try to keep a lookout for these when you and your child are outside. It's bound to make your curious little one laugh in delight!

Stop by the playground on your way back and see if there are any age-appropriate equipment for your kid to play with. It's also a good time to encourage the little one to start socialising and playing with other kids around his age.

The Fun Doesn't End on the Weekend

Weekends are a great time for family bonding. Here are some ideas on where to go for a fun-filled and physically active weekend. Don't forget to pack the sunblock and water bottle!


Explore the Garden City

Did you know that there are more than 300 parks sprawled across our tiny little island? If you visit one park every weekend, it'll take you around five years to cover them all!

Help your child cultivate an interest in our green spaces from an early age. Bring a magnifying glass along and take a good look at the bugs and insects that inhabit the same space we do!

Related: Hit the Trails for Fitness and Culture

Time to Hit the Beach!

There are so many things to do at the beach: build a sandcastle, play catch, fly a kite, or even blow some soap bubbles and have your child try to catch them! Remember to keep a watchful eye on your child at all times: he should never go near the sea unsupervised.

Related: Step Your Way to Health and Heritage at Sentosa

Keep Cool at the Mall

There are days when it just feels too hot to be outside. Why not keep cool by popping into one of your neighbourhood shopping centres instead? Even a walk around some of our giant supermarkets can give your child quite the workout. You could use the opportunity to teach your kid about healthier food choices too!

Just Keep Swimming

Swimming is a wonderful activity that's perfect for our sunny island. Why not bring your child to a wading pool for some cool fun under the sun? But be sure to keep a watchful eye and never let your child out of your sight, not even for a moment.

And remember, children see, children do. If you want your child to be physically active, both mummy and daddy should get moving too!

References:
1 Marcus Ang & Tien Y. Wong. Updates on Myopia, A Clinical Perspective. Springer Open, 2020. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-981-13-8491-2

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References:

  1. Annie Stuart. (2012, December 12). Divide and Conquer Household Chores. Retrieved November 2018 from https://www.webmd.com/parenting/features/chores-for-children#3