July 26, 2024
As the world gathers to celebrate the extraordinary achievements of athletes in the Olympics, it’s a great time to reflect on the importance of active play in our children's lives. Encouraging active play not only sets the foundation for physical health but also nurtures mental well-being and social skills. Here's how you can encourage your little ones to be active, laying the groundwork for their future success.
Active play is so important for your child's development. It builds strength, coordination, and fitness, which are essential for their physical health. Mentally, active play improves mood, reduces anxiety, and enhances cognitive development. Socially, it fosters teamwork, communication, and leadership abilities, skills that are invaluable throughout life.
Experts agree that children who engage in regular physical activity are more likely to maintain a healthy lifestyle into adulthood. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, active play is essential for developing motor skills and cognitive abilities.
- Benefits of Babywearing: Babywearing keeps your hands free while allowing your baby to explore the world from a safe and secure vantage point. If they aren’t walking yet, it’s perfect for nature walks, hikes, and daily errands so you can still instill a routine and habit of being outside. If they ARE walking, it’s a great back up for when they get tired or if you have a little sibling.
Strollers:
- Active Exploration: Strollers, like the Metro+, are compact, easy to maneuver, and perfect for both city strolls and outdoor adventures. The adjustable handlebar and padded seat ensure comfort for both parent and child. The stroller can help you get your little one to new adventure spots and maybe even nap on the way back.
Bouncers:
- Indoor Play: The Ergobaby Evolve 3-in-1 Bouncer grows with your child. It’s perfect for those moments when you need a safe place for your baby while you do a quick workout or yoga session. The natural rocking motion soothes your baby without the need for plugs or batteries.
Infants and Toddlers:
- Tummy Time: Encourage tummy time to build neck and shoulder muscles. Use a play gym for added fun and try bringing it outside in the shade to switch it up. You can even use a nursing pillow to help prop baby up for some supported tummy time.
- Using Baby Carriers: Take your baby for a walk in the park or around the neighborhood. It’s a great way to bond and get some exercise.
- Natural Rocking Baby Bouncer: A baby bouncer that rocks naturally with baby’s movement is a great way for little ones to get out their energy in a safe spot. Add on an age appropriate toy attachment, and your little one will be having the time of their life!
Preschoolers:
- Structured Play: Introduce simple sports like soccer or dance. These activities help develop coordination and social skills.
- Unstructured Play: Allow your child to engage in imaginative play. Set up a safe outdoor area with toys and let them explore. One summer I went to the thrift store to purchase pots and pans and utensils and set them up outside for the kids to play in the dirt. It was a hit!
Active play is essential for your child's development, and Ergobaby is here to support you every step of the way. By integrating active play into your daily routine and using products designed for comfort and safety, you can help lay the foundation for a healthy, active lifestyle for your child.
Additional Resources
- Shop Ergobaby Carriers
- Shop Ergobaby Strollers
- Shop Ergobaby Bouncers
The Importance of Active Play
Active play is so important for your child's development. It builds strength, coordination, and fitness, which are essential for their physical health. Mentally, active play improves mood, reduces anxiety, and enhances cognitive development. Socially, it fosters teamwork, communication, and leadership abilities, skills that are invaluable throughout life.
Experts agree that children who engage in regular physical activity are more likely to maintain a healthy lifestyle into adulthood. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, active play is essential for developing motor skills and cognitive abilities.
Creating an Environment for Active Play
In order to encourage active play, you’ll have to do a few things around your home to help foster the proper environment. Start by baby-proofing your home to ensure safe spaces for movement. Outdoor play is equally important as it provides fresh air and the opportunity to explore nature. For the first 5 years of my child’s life, we didn’t have a yard. We only had a small patio. So we had to be very intentional about getting outside and relied on helpful baby gear to get us through!Home Setup
- Safe Spaces: Ensure your home has areas where your child can move freely without hazards. - Outdoor Play: Encourage outdoor activities like gardening, nature walks, and playing in the park. If you’re kids are interested in sports, great! If not, that’s ok! Just running and exploring and being a kid is amazing.Role of Parents:
- Children imitate what they see. Show them the importance of staying active by being active yourself. - Encouraging Exploration: Allow your children to explore and take risks within safe limits. This helps them build confidence and resilience..Ergobaby Products Supporting Active Play
Ergobaby products are designed with active families in mind. Here’s how they can support your child’s active play: Baby Carriers:
- Benefits of Babywearing: Babywearing keeps your hands free while allowing your baby to explore the world from a safe and secure vantage point. If they aren’t walking yet, it’s perfect for nature walks, hikes, and daily errands so you can still instill a routine and habit of being outside. If they ARE walking, it’s a great back up for when they get tired or if you have a little sibling.
Strollers:
- Active Exploration: Strollers, like the Metro+, are compact, easy to maneuver, and perfect for both city strolls and outdoor adventures. The adjustable handlebar and padded seat ensure comfort for both parent and child. The stroller can help you get your little one to new adventure spots and maybe even nap on the way back.
Bouncers:
- Indoor Play: The Ergobaby Evolve 3-in-1 Bouncer grows with your child. It’s perfect for those moments when you need a safe place for your baby while you do a quick workout or yoga session. The natural rocking motion soothes your baby without the need for plugs or batteries.
Activities to Encourage Active Play
Infants and Toddlers:
- Tummy Time: Encourage tummy time to build neck and shoulder muscles. Use a play gym for added fun and try bringing it outside in the shade to switch it up. You can even use a nursing pillow to help prop baby up for some supported tummy time.
- Using Baby Carriers: Take your baby for a walk in the park or around the neighborhood. It’s a great way to bond and get some exercise.
- Natural Rocking Baby Bouncer: A baby bouncer that rocks naturally with baby’s movement is a great way for little ones to get out their energy in a safe spot. Add on an age appropriate toy attachment, and your little one will be having the time of their life!
Preschoolers:
- Structured Play: Introduce simple sports like soccer or dance. These activities help develop coordination and social skills.
- Unstructured Play: Allow your child to engage in imaginative play. Set up a safe outdoor area with toys and let them explore. One summer I went to the thrift store to purchase pots and pans and utensils and set them up outside for the kids to play in the dirt. It was a hit!
Active play is essential for your child's development, and Ergobaby is here to support you every step of the way. By integrating active play into your daily routine and using products designed for comfort and safety, you can help lay the foundation for a healthy, active lifestyle for your child.
Additional Resources
- Shop Ergobaby Carriers
- Shop Ergobaby Strollers
- Shop Ergobaby Bouncers