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Have you ever stopped to think about how crucial free movement is for the healthy growth and development of babies and young children? From the moment they come into this world, they are constantly exploring and learning through movement. However, in today's world filled with containers, rigid sleep guidelines, and structured school days it's essential to ensure that children have plenty of opportunities for free movement to support their overall well-being. In this post, we will delve into the benefits of free movement for little ones and explore simple ways to balance out the more stationary aspects of their daily lives.
The Downside of Immobility
In a society where safety concerns often lead to restrictions on movement, it's easy for babies and young children to spend extended periods in the same position. Whether buckled into a car seat during travel, held in the same way for extended periods, or sitting in a classroom for hours on end, these limitations on movement can have a significant impact.
For infants, spending excessive time in car seats or being held in one position can hinder the development of motor skills and muscle strength. As children grow older, prolonged sitting in school or at home can lead to postural problems, decreased flexibility, and reduced overall physical fitness. These constraints on movement can have long-term consequences if not addressed early on.
The Benefits of Free Movement
On the flip side, allowing babies and children ample opportunities for free movement can bring about a myriad of benefits. From improved coordination and balance to enhanced cognitive development, movement is at the core of how children learn about the world around them. When kids are free to crawl, climb, run, and jump, they are not only building physical strength but also honing their problem-solving skills and boosting their creativity.
Moreover, free movement plays a crucial role in regulating emotions and reducing stress in children. Physical activity releases endorphins, which are natural mood lifters, and helps kids channel their energy in a positive way. By encouraging children to move freely, we are supporting their emotional well-being along with their physical health.
Balancing Restraint with Movement
In a world where restrictions on movement are sometimes necessary, finding a balance between immobility and free movement is key. Simple adjustments in daily routines can make a world of difference in ensuring that children get the physical activity they need to thrive. Here are some practical tips for incorporating more movement into a child's day:
For your sweet babies:
Set Them Down: We are 100% about baby snuggles as much as possible. Hold them, smell them, kiss them, take it all in! They also need time when they're not wrapped in a swaddle, or cuddled in anyone's arms, and are free to wiggle, stretch and roll. Yes they should spend time on their tummy, but also on their back, and even their sides.
Support the Next Milestone: It is not a baby race. Let's throw out comparison and what your cousin's baby, or your first baby, or anyone else was doing at this age. And look at your baby today. Where are they? What milestone is next? Let's look for movements that encourage attaining that next developmental achievement.
Help Them Explore: This may look like rolling them back and forth between two adults on the bed so their body feels what is involved in rolling, or touching together their hand and foot on the opposite sides so their brain becomes familiar with that cross-crawl stimulation.
For your kiddos on the move:
Encourage Active Play: Provide opportunities for active play such as outdoor games, dancing, or sports activities.
Limit Sedentary Time: Set boundaries on sedentary activities like watching TV or playing video games, and encourage breaks for movement at regular intervals.
Create Safe Exploration Spaces: Designate a play area where children can move freely without restrictions, ensuring a safe yet stimulating environment.
Promote Regular Outdoor Time: Nature provides an ideal setting for children to engage in unstructured play and physical activity, so make outdoor time a consistent part of their routine.
Model Active Behavior: Children learn by example, so be an active role model by participating in physical activities together as a family.
By incorporating these simple strategies into everyday life, parents and caregivers can help children experience the benefits of free movement while still navigating the realities of modern-day constraints.
In conclusion, free movement is not just a nicety but a necessity for the healthy development of babies and children. By understanding the importance of movement in all aspects of a child's life, we can work towards creating environments that support and encourage physical activity. Let's prioritize free movement and give our little ones the space they need to grow, learn, and thrive.
So, go ahead and encourage those little ones to move, explore, and play - their future selves will thank you for it!
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