WHO Guideline: Physical Activity, Sedentary Behavior and Sleep for Children under 5 Years of Age

Abstract

Early childhood is a time during which a child's habits are formed and family lifestyle habits are open to changes and adaptations. This guideline provides recommendations on the amount of time during the 24 hours of a day that young children, under 5 years of age, should spend being physically active or sleeping for their health and wellbeing. The guideline was developed by the World Health Organization (WHO) in accordance with WHO standards. The summary was translated into German by employees of the WHO Collaborating Center at Danube University Krems (Austria). A day consists of sleep time, sedentary time and physical activity of light, moderate or vigorous intensity. Young children should have opportunities to participate in a range of developmentally appropriate, safe, enjoyable play-based physical activities.