Sedentarism in Children: How to Identify it and What Causes It

Prevent Sedentarism with the Best Preschool in Boynton Beach, FL

As insecurity grows and more at-home entertainment options emerge, children spend more time in sitting or reclining positions instead of running, jumping, and playing around. As parents, reversing this phenomenon can be hard. 

Sedentarism in children is a growing problem. In addition to signing them up for the best preschool in Boynton Beach, FL, here are some tips for healthier development for your children. 

Best Preschool in Boynton Beach, FL Explains Sedentarism

Sedentarism in Children: A Growing Concern 

The definition of sedentary behavior is any waking state—that is, not sleeping—where less than 1.5 metabolic energy equivalents are used. Watching television or using computers excessively are examples of sedentary behavior that harms kids’ health and well-being. 

Nonetheless, this behavior is common among younger generations, particularly with new technologies. Children worldwide watch TV for over two hours every day, and their use of phones and laptops is growing significantly each year. 

Children also participate in various other sedentary activities, such as sitting in class and doing their homework, in addition to screen time. According to US and European studies, kids are sedentary for about eight hours every day. 

This can be very damaging to their health long-term. It has been established that these kinds of actions are significant risk factors for the emergence of diseases like high cholesterol or cardiovascular disease.  

What Causes Sedentarism in Children? 

Understanding the underlying factors that correlate with children’s sedentary behavior is essential to help curb this growing trend. The causes are multifaceted and include environmental, sociocultural, and geographic elements. 

Increased Screen Time 

One of the most widely recognized causes of sedentarism (in both children and adults) is the rise of digital technology. Children are spending more and more time on screens, including TV, video games, and computers, which greatly reduces opportunities for physical activity. 

Social media has also contributed to the increased screen time. Children may be diverted from physical activities by online interactions, choosing to interact with peers virtually instead of playing sports or outdoor games. 

Lack of Outdoor Spaces 

Limited access to safe and engaging outdoor play areas can discourage children from being active. Urbanization and development often result in fewer parks and recreational facilities. 

Safety concerns add up to this. Children in insecure areas tend to spend much more screen time as parents may restrict outdoor play due to fear of traffic, crime, or environmental hazards.  

Structured Schedules 

Busy family schedules filled with academic, extracurricular, and social commitments can limit free time for physical activity. Overscheduling may leave little room for play and movement. Many schools also emphasize academic performance over physical education, reducing opportunities for active play. 

Overscheduling can also lead to stress and lack of motivation, reducing their physical activities as children may not feel interested. 

Peer Influence 

Social dynamics can play a significant role in children’s activity levels. If their friends prioritize sedentary activities, children may follow suit, leading to a cycle of inactivity. Similarly, children often model their behaviors after their parents, so children are more likely to adopt similar habits if caregivers lead a sedentary lifestyle. 

However, this also means that peer influence can successfully reverse sedentary habits. In fact, according to statistics, parental support and shared activities helped decrease children’s sedentary behavior. 

Health Issues 

Chronic health problems or disabilities can limit a child’s ability to engage in physical activities. Conditions such as obesity, asthma, or joint problems may discourage movement. 

Best Preschool in Boynton Beach, FL Explains Signs of Sedentarism

Signs of Sedentarism in Children 

As sedentary behaviors become more widespread, identifying the signs of sedentarism can be hard. Moreover, there isn’t a clear line between what’s a normal amount of sitting still for a kid and what begins to become a worrisome state. 

However, identifying potential sedentary habits early can help parents and caregivers encourage more active lifestyles. Some indicators to look out for include: 

  • Excessive Screen Time: Kids using computers, tablets, or smartphones for several hours daily are likelier to be sedentary. It is advised to limit recreational screen time to no more than two hours per day. 
  • Physical Inactivity: Sedentarism may be indicated by a conspicuous lack of involvement in school sports or physical education programs. Children who are not involved in any form of regular physical activity may be at risk. 
  • Weight Gain: A sedentary lifestyle may cause sudden or gradual weight gain. Children who are not active burn fewer calories, which can raise their body weight. 
  • Coordination Issues: Children who spend much time sitting still may have trouble balancing and coordinating their movements. Limited movement can hinder motor skills development, making activities requiring coordination more challenging. 
  • Fatigue and Low Energy: Feelings of fatigue can result from a lack of physical activity. Sedentary children may complain of fatigue more frequently because inactivity can lower stamina and energy levels. 
  • Social Withdrawal: Sedentary kids can also exhibit social withdrawal symptoms. They might rather play video games alone than participate in team sports or outdoor activities with friends. 
  • Bad Posture: Sitting for extended periods, particularly in front of screens, can cause bad posture. Children who are overly sedentary may exhibit slouching or other postural problems, which parents may observe. 
  • Academic Performance Decline: A sedentary lifestyle can also impact cognitive function. Given that physical activity is associated with better brain health, children may show a decline in focus and general academic performance. 

By being aware of these indicators, parents and other adults can proactively encourage physical activity and help kids lead more balanced lives. 

Dangers of Sedentarism According to a Best Preschool in Boynton Beach, FL

Foster a Healthier Life for Your Child with the Best Preschool in Boynton Beach, FL 

Sedentarism, or a lifestyle characterized by prolonged periods of inactivity, can significantly impact children’s physical and mental health. While it’s common for children to spend a lot of time sitting, like when they’re in class, for example, it’s important for parents to look for ways to foster more active lifestyles outside class. 

Here at Neighborhood Kids, we strive to teach children positive habits since they are young. If you’d like to learn more about our classes and extracurricular activities to prevent sedentarism, reach out! 

Making the Most of their Infancy: Understanding How Toddlers Learn

Ensure the Best Toddler Education in Royal Palm Beach FL

While mandatory schooling begins around age 6 in the United States, there’s no age for learning. From the moment they’re born, babies start looking at the new world that surrounds them with curious eyes, and if you’re a parent dedicated to their education, there are several things you can do to foster their knowledge—like finding them a preschool with the best toddler education in Royal Palm Beach, FL. 

However, to start fostering your baby’s growth and take action to help them discover the world around them, understanding how toddlers learn is key. After all, a 5-year-old brain is different than a 2-year-old, and so on. This guide explores how toddlers learn to help you understand your baby and their little heads better. 

What Is the Best Toddler Education in Royal Palm Beach FL

Their First Steps into a New World

As babies begin to move from crawling to walking, they enter what’s known as the toddler stage. This important milestone marks the beginning of a new period of their lives, filled with new funny experiences, interesting discoveries, and painful bumps. 

Being able to toddle around the home on their own opens the door for babies to start learning more and more about their environment each day. Toddlers are very curious, and they will be very keen to explore their surroundings to learn key skills and information—much to their parents’ dismay, sometimes. During these times, remembering to leave the outside door closed is key. 

Each child’s growth and development will occur at its own pace, but in some cases, the desire to try and learn new things can manifest as anger. After all, this age is often referred to as ‘the “terrible two’” for a reason. 

As children reach the age of two, they’ll attempt to become more independent, which may translate into more frequent mood swings and impatience when things don’t go as they expect. It’s important for parents to understand a toddler’s need to try and do things on their own and support them. 

So, How Do Toddlers Learn?

Toddlers learn constantly and in many ways.  

They gain a better understanding of their surroundings by watching and observing what is going on around them, both at home and when out and about. They also learn to understand and speak language by listening to conversations between family members. 

Moreover, by asking lots of questions about things they don’t understand or want to learn more about, they satiate their curiosity while building a bond of trust with their caregivers (that’s you!). 

Learning Through Play

All children love playing, and it is very enjoyable. It has the bonus of helping children learn, too. According to UNICEF, play is an important part of your child’s learning and growth, as it allows them to explore their environment, practice developing skills, and bond with others. 

Key skills such as problem-solving, physical skills, reading, number skills, and social skills can be learned through activities as simple as playing house, mimicking adults, or making up new worlds with other children. 

Playtime will change as your baby gets older, depending on their developing skills. However, it is beneficial to promote play from an early age; different forms of play are ideal. Some games to encourage toddlers to learn are: 

Provide the Best Toddler Education in Royal Palm Beach FL

Household Helper

Ask your toddler to assist with age-appropriate housework, such as serving lunch or organizing clothes. Try making it into a game and letting them know how helpful they are! 

  • How your child benefits: By demonstrating to your child that they are an important family member, you may help them develop independence and self-worth. 

Budding Artist

Create simple art projects with your toddler, such as drawings, finger paintings, or arranging items found outside, such as shells or pebbles. When they are finished, place them where your child can see them. 

  • How your child benefits: Allowing your child’s imagination to run wild through art encourages creativity and independence. 

Tower Tumbler

Build a tower with blocks or other safely stackable objects, then let your toddler knock it down. 

  • How your child benefits: Your child will enjoy watching their creation fall down, and they will also be working on their fine motor skills by using both hands together. 

Talk, Talk, and Talk!

Experts recommend that you narrate your day to your child. Talk about what you are doing while you are doing it; this is an excellent way to expose your toddler to various new words throughout the day. 

  • How your child benefits: Between 18 months and two years, most children learn one new word per week and can say 50 to 100 words by the age of two. The more you communicate with your toddler, the more words they will learn. 

A Game of Opposites

Show your toddler a series of basic pictures, one at a time. Let’s say the first one depicts the sun. When you show it to your child, ask them to say ‘night’ rather than ‘day.’ 

  • How your child benefits: This particular type of play emphasizes self-regulation and impulse control. The goal is to teach your toddler to stop, think for a moment, and override the response that comes first. 

Share the Bible

If you’re Christian, you’ll probably want to share your beliefs with your toddler. While there’s no set age to introduce a child to religion, sharing the Bible can be a great way to show them the world and improve their language skills.  

  • How your child benefits: Bible readings—using age-appropriate Bibles, of course—can give your child an opportunity to learn about God, practice reading, improve their language skills, and even share a special moment with you! 

Best Toddler Education in Royal Palm Beach FL

Give Your Baby the Best Toddler Education in Royal Palm Beach, FL

Once a toddler learns to walk, there is no turning back. They will want to continue moving and honing this newfound ability. As they gain control of their bodies and learn about their own skills, your child will be running, jumping, and climbing in no time. 

This development is natural, but we can always do things to foster it and ensure it takes place in a safe environment. By fostering a love for learning, curiosity, and resilience from a young age, you’ll give your children valuable tools and prepare them for what’s to come. 

Once your child is old enough, Neighborhood Kids is here to help you ensure your child receives the best education. If you want to learn more about our curriculum or are interested in our extracurricular activities, reach out! 

The Importance of Facial Expressions in Your Child’s Education

Christian Preschool in Delray Beach Explains How Kids Learn Facial Expressions

Taking your child to a Christian preschool in Delray Beach is more than an opportunity. Preschools are places where kids interact with other children their age, have fun with unique games, and watch their faces.

Face-to-face contact may seem conspicuous, but expressions are crucial for your child’s growth and future relationships. Seeing other people’s faces teaches kids the importance of eye contact, how to recognize voices, read facial expressions, and even speak by watching their mouths move.

Kid Smiling at a Christian Preschool in Delray Beach

The Importance of Eye Contact

While different babies develop at different rates, your child will usually begin making eye contact around six weeks of age. Face-to-face time is crucial from that point on and throughout their early years.

Your face is a constant source of learning for kids, who frequently mimic your facial expressions and mouth movements. By observing how your mouth moves in relation to the sounds they can hear, such as words and sentences, your child can learn.

Young children can distinguish between, for example, a joyful smile and an angry frown. While this does not imply that they know that a scowl denotes anger and a smile denotes happiness, it does imply that babies start learning about facial expressions.

Additionally, there is evidence that toddlers react sympathetically to distressed people. As long as the facial expressions are fairly intense, 3-year-olds can accurately match happy and angry facial expressions to their corresponding emotional states about 80% of the time.

Many children can accurately distinguish between “happy” and “angry” faces by the time they are 5 or 6 years old. However, this research has also shown that it can take years to recognize faces that are stereotypically sad accurately and that children as young as 10 years old struggle with it.

Furthermore, although children typically become competent in all three emotions (happiness, anger, and sadness) by the age of eleven, this may only be the case for extremely dramatic or intense facial expressions. Children are significantly less accurate when people express their emotions in more subdued ways.

Why Does Understanding Facial Expressions Make a Difference?

Some studies suggest that children who are better at reading faces might be more well-liked at school and might do better academically. Furthermore, those more adept at recognizing signs of fear are more giving and compassionate.

On the other hand, children who struggle to recognize facial emotions are more likely to experience learning challenges and peer issues. Poor face-reading abilities for their age put preschoolers at risk for externalizing behavioral issues and an increased likelihood of overt aggression.

This is common in shy children.

According to research, shy kids may find adjusting more difficult if they have trouble identifying emotions. According to one study, shy preschoolers who struggled with face-reading had higher anxiety and feelings of rejection from their peers.

Smiling Children at a Christian Preschool in Delray Beach

The Challenge of Learning How to Read Facial Expressions

There are many reasons why some kids struggle with reading expressions.

Children who are overly impulsive or distracted often struggle to pay attention to the appropriate cues. Some children find it difficult to communicate in person, particularly when it involves making eye contact. Neurologically speaking, their brains might react differently to incoming information about emotional cues.

Furthermore, children may have biases that affect their capacity to recognize emotions. They might fail to identify a genuine emotion that is being displayed, or they might think an emotion that is not there is present. For example, anxious children might be more likely to perceive neutral or ambiguous faces as hostile or frightening.

Learning to read facial expressions is intrinsically challenging. In addition to being ambiguous, facial expressions can vary greatly, making even adults struggle to interpret emotion sometimes.

There is a lot of overlap and ambiguity in addition to identifying patterns and paying attention to cues. We frequently need more information and background knowledge than just a person’s facial expressions to accurately identify emotions.

But as the saying goes, practice makes perfect. While there’s no perfect when it comes to expression reading, practicing with your child can help them feel calm when they encounter other people’s unique expressions!

Face-to-Face Games to Play with Under-Fives

If you want to foster your child’s future social skills, several face-learning games can be incorporated into playtime as a form of practice. Some games to try with kids under five years old include:

  • What’s in the bag?: Stuff a pillowcase with commonplace objects. Then, pull out each item in front of your face, acting surprised or intrigued with each one. Your child will be astonished when you pull out something and name it for them!
  • Copycat: You can make them feel heard by simply mimicking their sounds or movements without copying their words!
  • Name game: When out and about, stop, put yourself in their shoes, and spend some time naming the objects you see.
  • Explore: Let them examine the facial features, which you can identify with single words like “nose” or “eyebrows,” and then find out how different emotions affect your face. Make a face, then ask them to imitate it.

The key is to get close because newborns can only focus on objects that are 20 to 30 centimeters away.

Christian Preschool in Delray Beach Explains How Children Imitate Expressions

Broaden Your Child’s Education at our Christian Preschool in Delray Beach

Facial expressions are an important part of human communication. The ability to interpret these social signals requires many years of life. However, even as your child is just two months old, they will start to learn.

From being able to understand others better and be more emphatic to feeling more confident expressing their own needs, learning from expressions can have several benefits for your child’s behavior. Here at Kids Neighborhood, we value the importance of social interactions to foster your child’s growth. Contact us if you’d like to learn more about our classes and how we care for your child!