Set a routine
Having a bedtime routine and a set bedtime can help your child to understand what to expect and how they should behave. A routine can begin 30 minutes to two hours before bedtime and can include activities to help wind down, such as a warm bath/shower or reading a story.
Sticking to a set pattern each night will help your child to settle before bed and give them the time to calm down before sleeping. Going to the toilet as the last task before getting into bed can also help prevent your child from needing to get up in the night time.
Exercise for Children aged 3 to 4yrs
Children should spend at least 180 minutes (3 hours) a day doing a variety of physical activities spread throughout the day, including active and outdoor play. The more the better.
The 180 minutes should include at least 60 minutes (1 hour) of moderate-to-vigorous intensity physical activity.
Children under 5 should not be inactive for long periods, except when they're asleep. Watching TV, travelling by car, bus or train, or being strapped into a buggy for long periods are not good for a child's health and development.
All children under 5 who are overweight can improve their health by meeting the activity guidelines, even if their weight does not change. To achieve and maintain a healthy weight, they may need to do additional activity and make dietary changes.
Physical activity ideas for under 5s
All movement counts. The more the better.
- tummy time
- playing with blocks and other objects
- messy play
- jumping
- walking
- dancing
- swimming
- playground activities
- climbing
- skipping
- active play, like hide and seek
- throwing and catching
- scooting
- riding a bike
- outdoor activities