Move More, Rest Better

Move More Rest Better

Building daily routines that provide plenty of opportunities for physical activity helps children rest better during naptime.

Young children are bundles of energy who need daily opportunities to move their bodies. Running, climbing, dancing and playing aren’t just fun, they help children build strong muscles, develop coordination and release the wiggles that make sitting still so challenging.

Experts recommend at least 120 minutes of physical activity each day for preschoolers and 90 minutes for toddlers. When children have plenty of active play, they are better prepared for naptime. Their bodies naturally crave rest, and their minds are calmer. Physical activity sets the stage for more restful sleep, which in turn supports better moods, attention and overall growth.

As educators and caregivers, we can help children thrive by building daily routines that balance active play with quiet rest. A well-planned day of movement followed by a cozy nap time is one of the simplest ways to support healthy development.

Need support increasing physical activity in your program? Go NAPSACC (Nutrition and Physical Activity Self-Assessment for Child Care) offers practical tools, strategies, and resources to help programs keep children moving, engaged and thriving year-round. Click here to learn more.

If you have questions, please contact Lauri Choate, Director of Training, at lauri@mochildcareaware.org or 314-754-1603.

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