Early Years

Physical Activity and Basic Movement Development in Early Childhood

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Young children’s physical activity and basic movement are topics of political, professional and academic interest. With anxieties about inactivity, sedentary lifestyles and obesity, national and local initiatives have been introduced to help all young children develop the positive habits and basic movement foundation needed for a lifelong involvement in physical activity.

The aim of this literature review is to inform all those involved in young children’s physical activity and basic movement development about our current understanding of the issues in this area. It presents recommendations for the future of young children's physical activity and basic movement development.

This review by Mike Jess, Edinburgh University, was commissioned by the Early Education and Childcare Division of the Scottish Executive. It was published in 2006 by Learning and Teaching Scotland.

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Updated on: 10 October 2008 The LTS Online Service is funded by the Scottish Government.