The Physical Activity Alliance's First Official Position Paper
PHYSICAL ACTIVITY FOR PRESCHOOLERS DURING THE COVID PANDEMIC
Physical Activity for Preschoolers During the COVID Pandemic
THE PHYSICAL ACTIVITY ALLIANCE RELEASES ITS FIRST POSITION PAPER
Actions to support physical activity in U.S. preschoolers were needed before the COVID-19 pandemic, and such actions are needed even more as the pandemic continues to challenge families and many other elements of society. While formal surveys in the U.S. are lacking, it appears likely that the pandemic has produced changes in homes, schools, and communities that have restricted young children’s access to the settings and programs where they normally engage in physical activity.
The Physical Activity Alliance is proud to release its first position paper on Physical Activity for Preschoolers during the COVID Pandemic. This document is intended to provide guidance for parents and a wide range of professionals whose actions can influence young children’s physical activity behavior.
The recommendations in this document follow the model of the National Physical Activity Plan (NPAP). The NPAP is a comprehensive set of strategies and tactics aimed at increasing physical activity in all segments of the U.S. population. The Plan is organized around nine societal sectors, and many of the Plan’s strategies and tactics are targeted at increasing physical activity in children, including preschoolers. While some of the recommendations are drawn directly from the NPAP, others complement the content of the NPAP.
Recommendations are presented with regard to the unique demands that prevail during the COVID pandemic. However, most of the recommendations are important steps that our society should take at all times.
