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Executive function is a set of mental skills that work like the air traffic control tower at a busy airport. It’s a key part of development in the early years.

Check out our guide to fundamental movements, from grasping to walking

New parents have lots to think about, and long-term physical development is critical

As a parent, you have the power to change things

In a year that brought thousands of lessons, I’m using his first birthday to reflect on the most important ones.

Editor’s note: This article was updated on May 9, 2025. In the talk around getting kids active, all of us have probably heard people say, “Kids should just go outside and play.” Nice idea, but we know it doesn’t work, and we’ve discussed here on Active for Life a few reasons why. But there’s another … Continued

Children need an age-appropriate space to feel comfortable and have fun

Distance running, in particular, requires skills that aren’t instinctive

The right sort of exposure depends on the age of your child

My kids have been playing soccer for as long as I can remember. Lately, I’ve been thinking more about the sport and realizing that soccer has lots of valuable lessons that apply to life off the field.

Stay in the moment and trust your children to take a chance

Interactions with caring adults are considered to be “serve and return” relationships; they’re not one-directional, but imply mutual response and activity.

Try to find time to let your kids enjoy unstructured activities

Most kids love running, biking, and swimming, which might explain the growing popularity of mini-triathlons for kids. The best ones keep distances age-appropriate and focus on completion over competition.

It’s easy to create and a great way to kick off summer

When passion and imagination become the mother of invention

Breaking up activity into chunks still counts towards the recommended daily amount

Embrace weekly themes, add your own twists, or let the kids decide

There’s no benefit to your child for ‘toughing it out’

You might think of it as a physical literacy wonder drug

Increased blood flow to the brain can reportedly have an energizing and calming effect

Imagination, creativity and a sense of adventure are all you need

Swinging on the monkey bars requires a lot of arm strength and a strong hand grip. Here’s why some kids might struggle with them.

From wrestling to skeeball, you can stay active indoors