Qualification: NCFE CACHE Level 3 Diploma for the Early Years Educator
Unit: Unit 1.2: Support healthy lifestyles for children through exercise
Learning outcome: Understand children’s need for exercise
Assessment criteria: Identify the requirements of current frameworks for: outdoor access, regular exercise for children
There are several key requirements for outdoor access and regular exercise for children outlined in current frameworks.
For example, the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework states that physical development is one of the three prime areas for learning. Providers must have access to an outdoor play area or ensure outdoor activities are planned daily. Additionally, children should understand the importance of exercise for good health.
The UK Chief Medical Officer’s Physical Activity Guidelines provide further information for under-5s (page 21). These guidelines recommend that outdoor play be an integral part of a child’s daily routine and that all children participate in physical activities for at least 180 minutes daily.
Thus, current frameworks clearly outline the importance of outdoor access and regular exercise for children. By ensuring that these requirements are met, we can help ensure that children are healthy and active.