The importance of a solid foundation in physical development in early years
A solid foundation in physical development in early years, combined with a healthy, balanced diet, is crucial for children’s overall growth and development.
Maintaining a healthy diet plays a significant role in a child’s well-being. A limited diet can lead to low energy levels, poor sleep, and dental health problems. Like adults, children are encouraged to consume at least five portions of fruits and vegetables daily, along with a variety of other foods, to ensure they get the vitamins and minerals necessary for their growth and vitality.
Poor nutrition can result in numerous oral health issues. Inadequate oral hygiene paired with a diet high in sugary foods often leads to dental decay. In fact, in the UK, the most common reason children aged 5-9 years are admitted to hospital is for the removal of decayed teeth (Dental Health Foundation, 2024).
Physical development plays a vital role in many aspects of a child’s life, from being able to feed themselves to enjoying playtime with friends. Unfortunately, only about 10% of children currently meet the Chief Medical Officer’s guidelines for physical activity. Children who can walk unaided should be engaging in at least 180 minutes of physical activity daily, yet this is not the reality for most.
Encouraging children to make healthy food swaps and develop good eating habits early on can establish lifelong patterns of healthy eating. Regular tooth brushing and dental visits contribute to better oral health, while physical activity from a young age helps build core strength, leading to improved balance and coordination as they grow.
How can you make a difference?
With this in mind, the National Day Nurseries Association (NDNA) advocates for every setting to have a Physical Activity and Nutrition Coordinator (PANCo) who is dedicated to promoting the health and well-being of children, staff, and families. As a PANCo, you’ll gain a deep understanding of the physical activity and nutrition guidelines for children. This knowledge can be shared with children, families, and staff, emphasising the importance of staying active, eating well, and developing good oral health habits. You’ll play a key role in embedding health and well-being into the curriculum.
Additionally, by having a PANCo, the setting can earn the Start Life Well Gold Award, a testament to the commitment to improving the health and well-being of the nursery community. The Start Life Well framework helps identify strengths and areas for growth, enabling settings to implement immediate interventions that enhance well-being for all.
Educating children about the benefits of physical activity and a healthy diet from an early age can profoundly influence their attitudes and behaviours towards being active and eating healthily. For example, involving children in planting, growing, harvesting, cooking, and eating food is an excellent way to teach them about food origins. When children are part of the process, they are more likely to try new foods and expand their palate. Consider exploring the NDNA’s annual Healthy Body Happy Me campaign for more activities and ideas.
Ella, an NDNA PANCo Pioneer, shared, “I’m proud to have completed this course for both my setting and my personal development. My goal is to provide the best early years care possible and to help every child thrive. The course has deepened my understanding of the impact of physical activity and nutrition, and how to make improvements.”
By cultivating these habits early on, we can help children build a strong foundation for a healthy, active, and fulfilling life.
Want to learn more?
Sign up for our FREE Get Up To Speed with PANCo course to explore the materials and see the positive impact a PANCo can have in your setting.
Find out more about becoming an NDNA PANCo Pioneer.
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