Table 2 Acceptability of ECEC policy physical activity and sedentary behaviour key statements and recommendationsa
| Â | % agree acceptableb |
|---|---|
Key statements | |
* Encourage physical activity in young children Our service will provide infants, toddlers, and pre-schoolers with opportunities to be physically active throughout the day. | 92% |
* Limit sedentary behaviours in young children Our service is committed to using strategies to break up prolonged sitting and limiting the total amount of time young children spend sitting. This includes limiting the use of equipment that restricts movement. | 77% |
Key recommendations - Toddlers & Pre-schoolers (1–5 years) | |
* At least 120–150 min (2–2 ½ hours) spent in a variety of physical activities, including energetic play, spread throughout the day*. More is better. (*Based on a standard 6–8 h day in care) Children who spend 180 min in a variety of physical activities, including energetic play, spread throughout the day will meet the Australian 24-Hour Movement Guidelines for the Early Years. | 76% |
ALTERNATIVE WORDING: | |
* At least a third of the day should be spent in a variety of physical activities, including energetic play, spread throughout the day. More is better. Children who spend 180 min in a variety of physical activities, including energetic play, spread throughout the day will meet the Australian 24-Hour Movement Guidelines for the Early Years. | 84% |
* Toddlers and pre-schoolers should not be confined for more than 60 min at a time (e.g., in a stroller or highchair). Children should not sit for extended periods (except when engaged with a caregiver e.g., reading and storytelling). Less is better. Sedentary screen time for purposes other than learning should not be allowed. | 88% |
Key recommendations – Infants (under 1 year) | |
* Infants and babies to be physically active in a variety of ways, particularly through supervised interactive floor-based play, including crawling and games. More is better. For infants not yet mobile, provide at least 30 min of tummy time spread throughout the day which includes reaching and grasping, pushing and pulling. | 96% |
* Ensure cots, car seats, and high chairs are used for their primary purpose only (cots for sleeping, car seats for vehicle travel, and high chairs for eating). Limit the use of equipment such as strollers, swings, and bouncer seats/chairs for holding infants while they are awake. Screen time for infants is NOT recommended. | 87% |