Three hours of daily exercise advised for youngsters five and under

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Announced July 10, UK officials for the first time set exercise guidelines for the under-five set in an effort to combat obesity.

Government health officials issued a report advising that babies and toddlers spend less time strapped to strollers and car seats and more time moving around, at least three hours a day. The new guidance reflects the growing issue of obesity in the country, and the link between inactivity in children to not only weight problems but brain development issues.

Suggested activities include less television and more running, playing chase, swimming, skipping, and bike riding. For babies, opt for playing on activity mats and swimming.

Government officials in Canada are devising guidelines of their own for children based on new research indicating that most Canadian children are not exercising enough.

US experts advise as least one hour a day of exercise for young children.

Exercise ideas for your young child? http://www.livestrong.com/article/435951-free-exercise-ideas-for-my-five-year-old/

More tips on helping your tot stay healthy and fit: http://www.nhs.uk/livewell/childhealth1-5/pages/overweight2to5.aspx