Less screens, more play: How everyday movement keeps kids active for life

With the school holidays in full swing and many kids swapping movement for screen time, it is important to keep them active.

Personal trainer Vincent de Jager recommends making movement part of daily life rather than treating it as a separate activity.

By incorporating physical activity into their daily routines, parents can encourage their children to develop healthy habits that will last a lifetime.

“Turn chores into movement, dancing music, games like hide and seek… play is movement without purpose. Our kids are playing still and still developing,” he said.

“Our movement structures as adults stem very much from how we moved as children.”

There is also great value in play-based learning, activities where kids can learn through movement and physical activity.

It not only keeps them active but also stimulates their cognitive development.

De Jager noted that kids often mimic their parents’ behaviour, making it important for adults to model healthy habits and make physical activity a priority.

To listen to De Jager in conversation with 702 and CapeTalk’s Africa Melane, click the audio player below: