Physical Activity for Children (0-4)
Young children need to move, sleep and sit the right amounts each day to be healthy, grow and develop.
The Canadian 24-Hour Movement Guidelines for the Early Years is a resource for parents, caregivers and educators to understand the recommended daily amount of each.
Infants (less than 1 year):
Move: Babies need interactive, floor-based play, multiple times every day.
Babies who are not mobile need at least 30 minutes of tummy time, spread throughout the day while they are awake.
Sleep: Babies 0-3 months old need 14-17 hours of sleep, including naps.
Babies 4-11 months old need 12-16 hours of sleep, including naps.
Sit: Babies under one year should not be restrained (stroller or high chair) for more than 1 hour at a time. Screen time is not recommended for children under one.
Toddlers (1 to 2 years):
Move: Toddlers need at least three hours (180 minutes) of physical activity at any intensity, spread throughout the day.
Sleep: Toddlers need 11-14 hours of sleep, including naps. They also need regular bedtimes.
Sit: Toddlers should not be restrained (stroller or high chair) for more than one hour at a time or sitting for long periods of time. Screen time is not recommended for this age group.
Preschoolers (3 to 4 years):
Move: Preschoolers need at least three hours (180 minutes) of physical activity spread throughout the day, with at least one hour of energetic play.
Sleep: Preschoolers need 10 to 13 hours of sleep, and some may need naps. They also need a consistent bedtime.
Sit: Preschoolers should not be restrained (stroller or car seat) for more than one hour at a time or sitting for long periods of time. Screen time should be no more than one hour.
Please visit CSEP for more detailed information.
Services related to this information:
811 HealthLine (Newfoundland & Labrador) – Call 811 or 1-888-709-2929 / TTY 1-888-709-3555
