Physical Activity in the Early Years: Building Strong Foundations

Physical activity plays a vital role in children’s health, development and wellbeing — especially in the early years. During this time, children develop essential movement skills, confidence and a love for being active that can last a lifetime.

At Tillys Play & Development Centres, we recognise that supporting physical activity from infancy through to preschool and within our OOSH rooms, is key to helping children grow strong, capable and confident in their bodies.

Why Physical Activity Is So Important in the Early Years

Regular physical activity supports children’s:

• Gross and fine motor development
• Bone and muscle strength
• Balance, coordination and body awareness
• Brain development and concentration
• Emotional wellbeing and self-confidence

Movement helps children explore their environment, understand their bodies and develop the physical skills needed for everyday life.

Physical Activity from Birth to Five

Children’s physical development changes rapidly in the early years, with important milestones reached at each stage.

Infants (Birth–12 months)
Even from birth, movement is important. Infants develop strength and coordination through:

• Tummy time
• Rolling, reaching and grasping
• Sitting, crawling and pulling up

These early movements support muscle development, coordination and brain growth.

Toddlers (1–3 years)
As toddlers become more mobile, physical activity helps them build confidence and independence. Some key skills include:

• Walking, running and climbing
• Pushing, pulling and carrying objects
• Developing balance and coordination

Toddlers learn best through active exploration and repetition.

Preschoolers (3–5 years)
Preschool-aged children refine and build on their movement skills through more complex activities, such as:

• Jumping, hopping and balancing
• Throwing, catching and kicking
• Climbing and navigating obstacles

These experiences support school readiness, self-confidence and teamwork.

How Tillys Educators Support Physical Activity

At Tillys, physical activity is embedded into everyday learning. Our educators:

• Provide daily opportunities for active play indoors and outdoors
• Create safe, engaging environments that encourage movement
• Support children at their own developmental level
• Plan play-based experiences that promote strength, coordination and confidence
• Role model active lifestyles and positive movement habits

Educators carefully observe children and tailor experiences to support individual abilities and developmental milestones.

How Families Can Support Physical Activity at Home

Families play an important role in encouraging movement and healthy habits. At home, you can support physical activity by:

• Providing time and space for active play each day
• Encouraging outdoor play, walks and park visits
• Playing active games together as a family
• Allowing children to practise new physical skills at their own pace
• Celebrating effort, confidence and progress

Limiting Screen Time

While technology has a place in modern life, excessive screen time can reduce opportunities for physical movement and active play. Limiting screen time helps ensure children have plenty of time to:

• Move their bodies
• Explore their environment
• Develop coordination and strength
• Engage in social interactions and imaginative play

Encouraging active alternatives to screens supports both physical and overall development.

Supporting Active Children, Together

At Tillys, we believe that physical activity is essential for healthy growth and development in the early years. By working in partnership with families, we support children to build strong bodies, confidence and a positive relationship with movement.

Through active play, encouragement and consistent support, we help children develop the physical skills and healthy habits they need to thrive — now and into the future. 🏃‍♀️🌱