What Activities Are Considered Sedentary?
Sedentary behavior is not a lack of a positive health behavior but rather it is itself a negative health behavior
Sedentary activities most often understood are screen time activities such as watching TV, playing video games or sitting at a computer or smart phone. But it can also include other activities like reading, playing cards, driving in a car or bus or sitting at a desk during school or work time. Sedentary activities are those that “do not significantly use arms or legs or provide significant exercise, including, without limitation, sitting, standing, reading, playing a board game, riding in a wagon or drawing.” So while it is important for a child to do a puzzle, sit and build blocks or read a book, these are still sedentary activities and should be broken up with a physical activity at least every 60 minutes.
Excess screen time has a unique set of conditions all of its own beyond obesity, such as decreased creativity, eye problems, anxiety, depression and negative associations with learning and other cognitive processes.
![child watching TV](https://naes.agnt.unr.edu/images/Publications/2020_e23ec3df-619b-469a-8724-8187423bed05.jpg)
What You Can Do
Children become more sedentary as they get older, so early intervention is crucial to establish and maintain a healthy lifestyle in the early years (4)
Requires involvement from both parents and teachers!
- If weather permits, provide daily periods of outdoor play
- Provide parent or teacher-led physical activity sessions at home or in preschools- not just free play
- Teach children movement skills, don’t just expect them to “figure it out”
- Provide enough materials and working equipment to avoid excessive competition and long waiting periods for sharing
- Find fun games and activities suitable for all children regardless of weight status, ability, or skill level
- Avoid elimination games and ensure children are active and inclusive
- Create opportunities for physical activity during lesson plans or times of transition or waiting
- Look for indoor activities such as dancing or doing a treasure hunt
- Allow children who cannot sleep to play quietly during nap time