Did you know that children between the ages of 1 to 6 years old require at least 180 minutes of physical activity each day? These could be as simple as dancing and walking and not necessarily high-impact exercises that would be inappropriate for their age. Encouraging regular physical activity in young children not only promotes better overall health and well-being, but it also plays a crucial role in fostering the development of coordination, essential motor skills, social skills, and cognitive functions, laying a foundation for a lifetime of active and healthy habits.
To ensure that your preschooler meets their prescribed physical activities, choose a preschool with a curriculum that incorporates physical activity and fitness. Kinderland preschool in Singapore for one, provides a holistic wellness programme based on principles developed by physical education specialists. Know more about what makes Kinderland different from other preschools and why your child should enrol at Kinderland.
Aside from enrolling your child in a preschool that prioritises physical activities, you can support their physical fitness and development through outdoor activities that will keep your child active and engaged. Here are just some ideas for activities that can be fun to do outside of your home.
Family Bike Ride
Embark on a two-wheeled adventure with your little one through any one of Singapore’s family-friendly bike routes. Cycling is not just a physical activity but also a fantastic way to bond as a family. Take in the sights, enjoy the breeze, and discover the joy of exploration together.
Consider going for a bike ride at the East Coast Park, a popular destination with dedicated cycling paths along the scenic coastline. Alternatively, explore Sentosa Island, where you can enjoy a leisurely bike ride amidst lush greenery and visit various family-friendly attractions along the way.
Family Nature Hike
Singapore is not just about urban landscapes; it boasts stunning natural trails perfect for family hikes. Venture into lush greenery, breathe in fresh air, and let your preschoolers marvel at the wonders of nature. Also consider incorporating a bit of education along the way. You can teach them about the flora and fauna that make Singapore unique, for example.
You can take your preschooler hiking at the MacRitchie Reservoir Park. It offers family-friendly trails surrounded by lush nature. Another option is the Southern Ridges, which features elevated walkways and easy trails. These places provide a scenic and educational hiking experience for young explorers.
Scavenger Hunt
Ignite the spirit of adventure in your little one with a thrilling scavenger hunt. Singapore’s parks provide the perfect backdrop for this exciting activity. You can design clues that lead to hidden treasures, and you can be as creative as you want. If your child will be playing with friends or siblings, this game is a great choice because it encourages teamwork and sharpens problem-solving skills. Best of all, it’s not just about finding items—it’s about the joy of discovery and the bond formed during the hunt.
Scavenger egg hunts are usually done during Easter Sundays, but you can also facilitate pirate-themed scavenger hunts during birthdays and other special occasions. You can check out the Botanic Gardens and Bishan-Ang Mo Kio Park for your venues.
Swimming Lessons
Water safety is essential, and what better way to instil this skill than through swimming lessons? Many Singapore facilities offer reputable swimming classes for preschoolers. Enrol your child in classes that prioritise safety while making learning a fun experience.
You can enrol your child in swimming lessons at provided by theSingapore Sports Hub’s OCBC Aquatic Centre and the Swim School at SAFRA. These facilities offer professionally conducted swimming classes to ensure a safe and enjoyable learning experience for kids.
Play Hide and Seek
Take the classic game of hide and seek outdoors for an extra dash of excitement. Singapore’s parks and gardens are the perfect playground for this timeless activity. The laughter of discovery and the thrill of hiding makes this game a perennial favourite among generations. It’s simple, yet it contributes significantly to the motor skill development and cognitive growth of your child.
For a fun day outside, take your kids to the Jacob Ballas Children’s Garden within Singapore’s Botanical Garden. There, they can easily find playmates who can join their game for a more exciting time at the park.
Play Hopscotch
Rediscover the joy of hopscotch, a timeless game that not only brings back memories but also enhances a child’s physical skills. Create vibrant hopscotch courts in outdoor spaces, and watch as your preschoolers hop, skip, and jump their way to fun and fitness.
Singapore’s open areas become the canvas for this delightful game. Just make sure that you draw the hopscotch court somewhere where it’s not in the way of pedestrians.
Conquer Obstacle Courses
Turn playtime into a mini adventure by exploring obstacle courses in any one of Singapore’s parks or playgrounds. These courses are designed to challenge and excite young minds, fostering confidence and resilience. Watch as your preschoolers conquer each obstacle, gaining not only physical strength but also a sense of accomplishment.
Children can enjoy obstacle courses in Singapore at locations like West Coast Park, which has a dedicated Adventure Playground with challenging elements. Additionally, Admiralty Park features a unique nature-themed playground with obstacle courses suitable for children. These unique places offer an exciting and adventurous play experience.
Gardening
Connect your preschoolers with nature through the therapeutic and educational activity of gardening. Fortunately, Singapore’s climate allows for year-round gardening adventures. So, engage your little one in planting, watering, and caring for plants. Not only does this instil a sense of responsibility, but it also provides the joy of watching seeds sprout and grow.
The Jacob Ballas Children’s Garden and the HortPark also provide opportunities for children to participate in gardening workshops and activities. These workshops can help foster connection with nature in family-friendly environments.
Singapore’s countless parks and gardens present opportunities for kids to be active outside and play in nature. As a parent, you have the responsibility to keep them actively engaged in physical activities. Try these fun ideas to get your preschooler moving, which may also develop their life-long interest in physical fitness.
