Transcript

JULIA

I think it's very important that babies and young children are not rushed or forced into developing their physical skills. Lots of sitting devices and containers really don't help child development at all. Families in early year settings should provide wide and varied movement opportunities for babies out of containers such as seats unless they are travelling.

Research has shown that babies should not be in car seats for longer than two hours without being given the chance to expand their lungs fully and stretch and move. They need to have a wide range of movement experiences every day in a calm and safe environment with adults who understand the importance of play. By exploring their environment, they gradually develop more skills to manage any new situations and challenges.

The Health Visiting Service offers every child a development review at 1 year and at 2 to 2 and a half years, and their physical development can be discussed then. It is important to make sure the Health Visiting teams have your correct address for this appointment.

Although there's always a wide range of ability, it's important to pick up any areas of development that may need additional support and advise the family how best to address these. It also means we can highlight the importance of being physically active and talk about maintaining a healthy lifestyle for the whole family.The aim is to ensure every child has the physical and social skills to start school with confidence.