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Hastings and Prince Edward Public Health
toddler boy playing in tubes

Physical Activity in Child Care Settings

Physical activity is essential for healthy childhood growth and development. Children who are active when they are young grow up to be healthier adults with less risk of developing chronic diseases like diabetes or heart disease.

As a child care provider, you can give the children in your care a healthy start by providing the opportunity to be active. Plenty of active play helps children develop physical literacy. Physical literacy is about developing the fundamental movement skills that all children need such as running, throwing and hopping. The development of these movement skills give children the confidence and competence to participate in activity. 

Physical Activity Learning Modules for Child Care Providers

Training Module: A Balanced Day: Tips and Guidelines for Child Care Providers

This 15-minute, online module reviews why a balanced day is important for children (Move, Sit, Sleep), the role you have as a child care provider in encouraging kids to be active, the 24-Hour Movement Guidelines for Children aged 0-4, and important health messages to send home with parents and guardians.

Have a Ball Together – Online Learning Modules

Two “Have a Ball Together” online learning modules were developed by the Best Start Resource Centre to help support continuing education regarding physical literacy and physical activity for those caring for children aged 0-6 years. 

Physical Activity Legislative Requirements

According to the Child Care and Early Years Act (2014), all licensed and unlicensed child care providers, including centres and home care environments, must meet requirements related to the following:

  • Indoor and outdoor play opportunities
  • Rest, sleep and quiet time
  • Indoor and outdoor play spaces and equipment (e.g. playgrounds)

Additional Resources

The following online resources can help you integrate activity in your child care setting:

News, Research and Reports RELATED TO: Child Care Providers

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COVID-19 vaccines in HPE

Eligible individuals can receive their vaccination at many participating local pharmacies by contacting the pharmacy directly. Please visit covid-19.ontario.ca/vaccine-locations for location and registration information.

Vaccine ordering for health care providers

Vaccine orders for routine immunizations and STI medications continue to be available through HPEPH by using our vaccine order forms; however, please note that our vaccine delivery/pickup procedure has changed. For the most up to date pick up schedule please visit hpePublicHealth.ca/vaccine-orders-info-healthcare-providers/.