Benefits and necessity
Sufficient physical activity is essential for the healthy development of babies, toddlers and preschoolers into adulthood. Physical activity has a positive influence on children’s social, cognitive and motor development. The foundation for good motor development is laid during the first six months. The Health Council of the Netherlands (2017) therefore emphasises that, for young children, the main aim is for them to move in varied ways and learn motor skills.
About the pilot
The pilot locations are testing various materials to make it easier to discuss physical activity. The locations chose for themselves which materials they would use. They could choose from:
- Small materials, such as picture cards and a games book, which are used during the consultation.
- An overview of physical activity opportunities for children aged 0–4 in the local area, compiled by community sports coaches. The locations will also collaborate in their neighbourhoods with, among others, childcare centres and physiotherapists.
- A special changing table with climbing and crawling features, a movement mirror and stimulating stickers on the floor.
The pilot is accompanied by a study to determine which materials work best and how conversations that promote physical activity can be incorporated into the working methods of youth healthcare (JGZ) professionals.
Collaboration
The pilot is an adaptation of the successful pilot on activity-promoting environments at youth healthcare locations elsewhere in the country, conducted by the Netherlands Centre for Youth Health (NCJ) and the Knowledge Centre for Sport & Physical Activity. GGD Fryslân and Sport Fryslân are collaborating on this pilot in Friesland. Funding for this pilot has been made possible in part by the national ‘Physical Activity in the Neighbourhood’ grant from JOGG, a national platform working to create a healthy environment for young people.