When fun turns to stress: Why we pressed pause on competitive sports
Is your child feeling overcommitted to or overwhelmed by competitive sports? Here’s how you can help address it.
Physical development 101: A guide to gross and fine motor skills in infants, toddlers, and preschoolers
Learn about your young child’s physical development and try these creative activities to help them develop motor skills.
2024 Gift Guide: 25 active gifts for under $25
Need help coming up with Christmas or Hanukkah gift ideas that will keep your little ones active throughout the year? Check out this list!
20 fun things to do at home—for free
Your home has so many great bits and pieces that can be used for kids’ play. Try these activities that are fun for the whole family!
What is music and movement? 15+ activities to benefit child development
Music and movement combine rhythmic sounds, songs, and physical activities to engage young children in learning through motion.
15 hidden treasures on our website to spark your child’s love of active play
Whether you’re a parent, educator, coach, or someone who interacts with kids in any other of a multitude of ways, there’s so much here for you on Active for Life. Check out this collection of ways to get kids moving.
20 creative cardboard box games, crafts, and activities for kids
Cardboard boxes are one of the greatest and most versatile toys. Really! Before you take your boxes to the recycling bin, try these fun ideas.
Why every coach needs a solid coaching philosophy + free template
A coaching philosophy answers critical questions: What are your priorities as a coach? How will you foster a love for the game in your players? How will you balance competition with development?
Who is responsible for making sure my child is physically literate?
What is physical literacy, and who in my child’s life helps ensure that they gain these skills and love of movement? Learn more.
7 fun, playful family activities to add to your evening routine
Evenings are busy for families, but with these ideas, you can incorporate some fun and movement into your family’s evening routine!
Circadian rhythm and toddlers: Understanding their sleep cycle for better movement and development
Learn more about your toddler’s circadian rhythm and how to help them regulate it better so they get the sleep they need.
Academic success proven to be one of the big benefits of youth sports
An Australian study finds that kids who participate in sports are more likely to do better on tests, have better school attendance, and be accepted to university.
How to choose the best shoes for your toddler
How to find a pair of shoes that supports your little one’s feet, pace of growth, and level of activity? These tips will help guide you!
Why children need risk, fear, and excitement in play—and why adults’ fears put them at risk
Child-development expert Mariana Brussoni shares why adventurous, risky play is so important for kids—especially today.
Swing sets for the win: The benefits of swinging for all ages
Often associated with carefree childhood memories, the simple motion of swinging back and forth is more than just sitting around. It’s a heart-pumping and brain-boosting workout!
How getting active can help kids beat the summer slide
Inspired by summer reading challenges, here’s how to beat the summer slide, develop physical literacy, and get active this summer.
Tips from an Olympian: You’ll never regret trying something new
Olympian Kelsey Mitchell’s cycling career took off at a rapid pace. She shares some tips for parents who are raising sporty kids.
Why investing in active play in childcare is essential for children’s development
ActivePlay in childcare is a new, free program designed to support the ECEs tasked with educating our children.
Beach days with toddlers: How to play, what to pack, and staying safe
The beach is such a fun place for a toddler! Here’s some helpful advice to ensure beach days go smoothly for you and your little one.
7 ways for your kids to have an unscheduled summer
In the summer, kids have many weeks of freedom from school. Here’s how to help them nix boredom while encouraging unplanned, unscheduled fun!
How to make friends with other active families
Spending time with active families can help your family be more active! Here are some tips for how to start and cultivate friendships like these.
The 17-second rule & the importance of risky play
Learn why risky play is so important for kids and try this useful tip to keep yourself from jumping in to intervene (we know it’s hard!).
8 popular outdoor games from around the world
As parents and educators, we’re always looking for creative, new-to-us games to teach our children. These eight games from different countries are fun, active, and can help expose kids to different cultures.
Celebrating the first International Day of Play
In 2024, the first-ever International Day of Play will be observed and celebrated on June 11. For children, this is big news.