NHS guidelines suggest aiming for an average of at least 60 minutes of moderate or vigorous intensity physical activity a day across the week. Take part in a variety of types and intensities of physical activity across the week to develop movement skills, muscles and bones. Reduce the time spent sitting or lying down and break up long periods of not moving with some activity. Aim to spread activity throughout the day.

Getting outdoors and going on walks or to the park is a great way to help your child keep active. Encourage them to get outside, in the garden or with friends. Or consider taking them to the local swimming pool.

  • Get active every day - find an activity they enjoy, such as sports or walking to school
  • Aim to give them a healthy, balanced diet that includes fruit and vegetables, starchy foods, protein and dairy or dairy alternatives
  • Encourage a healthy attitude to eating - you can be a good role model by staying active and eating healthily yourself

Useful links:

Click on each button to find advice and age-appropriate exercise recommendations for your child:

  • Lancashire County Council - See ‘what’s on’ for a range of local events that might help to keep your child more active and support you in doing so
  • Little Kickers - Football sessions for children age 18 months to 8 years
  • Clitheroe Wolves FC - Football sessions in Clitheroe for boys and girls age 5 and above
  • Rugby Tots - Group rugby sessions for children under 7 years old
  • Inspire - Multi-sports sessions in Chorley for children in years 3 to 6
  • Re:Fresh - A variety of activities across Blackburn with Darwen for people of all ages
  • Accrington Stanley - Accrington Stanley FC football or multi-sports holiday camps for children age 4-12
  • Blackburn Rovers - Blackburn Rovers holiday camps and football development evening sessions for boys and girls
  • Nile Wilson Gymnastics - Recreational or squad level gymnastics classes in Burnley for children over 4​
  • Gymfinity - Gymnastics classes with a focus on gymnastics/ninja in Blackburn - free taster session
  • Burnley FC in the Community - A range of football sessions for children of all ages
  • BFC in the Community multi-sport sessions - Multi-sport sessions including climbing, football, netball and darts for children age 8-18 at Leisure box, Burnley
  • Funda - Affordable, Ofsted-registered holiday camps across East Lancs for children age 4-11
  • Funda/HAF programme - HAF programme for FUNDA holiday camps across East Lancs for children age 4-11

Please note

It is important to remember that this resource contains general advice for an active, healthy lifestyle. Please consider the individual needs of your child, including their personal preferences and adapt accordingly.

Your physiotherapist may have recommended some specific exercises for you to do. It is important that you do these alongside following these recommendations for an active, healthy lifestyle.

Back to advice for an active, healthy lifestyle