The Secret Power of Play

Time – Siobhan O’Connor

Nothing is as natural as a child at play. After a month of little more than eating and sleeping, infants begin to engage in play with their parents and the world around them. Left alone, young children will launch into imaginary play, inventing characters and stories. Put together with peers, children will almost instinctually organize games and activities. Play is so basic to childhood that it is seen even among children in the most dire conditions, in prisons and concentration camps. It is so important to the well-being of children that the United Nations recognizes it as a fundamental human right, on par with the rights to shelter and education. And until recently, American children—finally free from working in the fields or in a factory, as children long had— were allowed to play on their own. In his book Children at Play: An American History, writer Howard Chudacoff describes the first half of the 20th century as a “golden age” of children’s playtime. (more)

How Active Are Kids At School?

The Huffington Post – Helen Schoeb

Do you have kids just starting school, moving to a different key stage or heading off to secondary school for the first time? If so, do you know how much exercise they will get during their school day? This is just one of the questions amongst many others you will have regarding your child’s time at school, but is a very important one to consider. (more)

Don’t Let The Kids Stop You Being Active – Ways To Exercise As A Family!

The Huffington Post – Andy Pilides

With the delightful news which recently broke of the Duchess of Cambridge expecting her third child and the number of questions I get asked relating to fitness with the family, I thought it would be a great idea to get down on paper some excellent ways in which you can stay fit and healthy without the excuse of ‘I have to look after the little ones!’ Below are some ways in which you could incorporate some exercise whilst including the kids: (more)

Build healthy habits in children

The Times of Oman – Staff Writer

Bells are ringing across the country as children settle into classrooms after the long vacation for a term full of fun, friendship, and plenty of learning. While it is exciting, adjusting to school schedules is a hectic time. Healthy habits are often forgotten as the focus shifts to studies, assignments, and extracurriculars. (more)

Your Back-to-School Sleep Guide

The San Angelo Standard Times – Staff Writer

With the new school year, hectic school mornings, homework, and activities replace the lazy, relaxed days of summer. Most likely, your kids were staying up late and sleeping in during the summer break, so getting them back to a healthy sleep routine may be challenging, but it is essential for health and well-being. (more)