Why an Active Lifestyle Matters for Young Children

At Mouse Club, we believe that learning doesn’t just happen at a table or in front of a book; it happens everywhere, especially through play and movement. Whether your child is jumping around, dancing in the kitchen, or running across the playground, they are not only building strong bodies, but also active, curious minds.

Why movement matters

We all want our children to grow up happy, healthy, and full of energy. But with so many distractions, screens, busy schedules, and unpredictable weather, it can be tricky to make sure children are moving enough each day.

The truth is, being active isn’t just about keeping fit. It’s about helping little bodies and brains grow, develop, and thrive.

According to NHS England, 1 in 10 children start school obese, and by the time they leave primary school, that number rises to 1 in 5. Children today are, worryingly, the first generation predicted to live shorter lives than their parents because of a poor diet and lack of activity. But the good news is, we can change that, one playful movement at a time.

How activity supports learning

When children move, their brains are busy too.

• Movement strengthens learning – Running, climbing, and jumping help develop coordination, balance, and spatial awareness, all of which are linked to reading, writing, and maths skills later on.
• Active play builds language – As children move, they talk, describe, imagine, and problem-solve, expanding their vocabulary and communication.
• It builds focus and confidence – Physical activity improves concentration, mood, and resilience, helping children to listen, learn, and persevere with new challenges.

Regular activity doesn’t just make children fitter; it makes them better learners. When children move every day, their brains are more alert, their emotions more balanced, and their confidence higher, all vital ingredients for learning success.

What counts as being active?

It doesn’t have to mean expensive after-school classes or running laps around the park. For young children, any activity that gets their heart beating faster, makes them feel warm, or leaves them out of breath counts!

That could be:

• Dancing to a favourite song
• Scooting, walking, or skipping to nursery
• Playing “Follow the Leader” or “Musical Statues”
• Sweeping leaves, building dens, or tidying toys together
• A family obstacle course or garden treasure hunt

Even 10-minute bursts of activity throughout the day add up to big benefits.

The small things make the biggest difference.

The goal isn’t perfection, it’s participation. Try to weave movement into everyday moments. Walk to the shops instead of driving, pop on a favourite tune while making tea, or have a race to tidy the toys.

Little by little, these small choices help children grow stronger, happier, and more ready to learn, and they’ll remember the fun they had with you for years to come.

Remember: your child doesn’t need you to be an athlete; they need you joining in, laughing, and showing them that being active is simply part of everyday life.