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Physical activity guidelines for preschoolers: a call for research to inform public health policy
Author(s) -
Skouteris Helen,
DellˈAquila Daniela,
Baur Louise A,
Dwyer Genevieve M,
McCabe Marita P,
Ricciardelli Lina A,
FullerTyszkiewicz Matthew
Publication year - 2012
Publication title -
medical journal of australia
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.904
H-Index - 131
eISSN - 1326-5377
pISSN - 0025-729X
DOI - 10.5694/mja11.11015
Subject(s) - public health , physical activity , childhood obesity , medicine , environmental health , medline , gerontology , obesity , health policy , psychology , political science , nursing , overweight , physical therapy , law
There are many challenges in developing evidence‐based physical activity guidelines for preschoolers that can ensure health benefits for children. Guidelines for the preschool years have recently been developed in several countries, but there are notable inconsistencies in the amount of physical activity regarded as sufficient for this age group. Given the currently high prevalence of childhood obesity, there is an urgent need for evidence‐based studies to inform the development of community‐targeted programs to ensure healthy levels of physical activity in young children. Our article outlines the global recommendations for physical activity for children ≤ 5 years of age. We identify gaps in the literature and suggest recommendations for future research and public health policy.