• Kids’ Movement Belongs in Everyday Life

    Play and movement 

    Published 2025-06-18

    Kids don’t need gyms or workout plans. A pillow on the floor, a friend to chase, or a great slide is all it takes. Movement comes naturally to children – and when it’s mixed with play, something magical happens. Bodies and brains get exactly what they need.

    Movement is just as important as sleep and nutrition. It strengthens the body, develops motor skills, supports learning, and helps kids manage emotions. And the best part? They often don’t even realize they’re moving – because it just feels like play. When feet are flying and giggles echo, you know something good is happening.

    Movement Matters More Than Ever

    Leo’s Playland’s play and movement report* reveals an alarming trend: only two in ten children reach the recommended amount of daily physical activity. What’s more, 40% of parents say their kids play less than they did at the same age.

    Less play is also affecting kids’ motor skills. A full 27% of parents say their children struggle with basic movements like balancing or doing somersaults – skills that earlier generations picked up naturally through play.

    And the lack of movement doesn’t only impact the body – it affects focus, emotional regulation, and overall joy. That’s why daily movement is so essential. The good news? It doesn’t have to be structured or serious. Everyday play – running, jumping, climbing, spinning – is more than enough.

    Why It’s Especially Important for Young Children

    Early childhood is a golden time for developing motor skills, balance, and body awareness. When children get the chance to move freely and often, important abilities develop almost automatically.

    Through movement, children learn to:

    • control their bodies and understand their limits
    • solve problems and take safe risks
    • cooperate and play with others
    • calm down and manage emotions

    When movement is playful, development follows naturally – and joyfully.

    6 Simple Ways to Add Movement to Your Child’s Day

    You don’t need a schedule or equipment to get kids moving. Here are six easy ways to build active habits into everyday life – no pressure, just fun.

    Boy and mom cycling outdoors – physical activity for kids in nature
    Girl playing hopscotch – fun and active movement for children through play

    1. Head Outside – Whatever the Weather

    Go on a “listening walk” and notice sounds around you. Hop over puddles, race to the next tree, or balance on curbs. Even the walk to preschool can be a mini adventure.

    2. Move Before Screen Time

    Make a deal: 15 minutes of movement before screens. Create a living room obstacle course or play a quick round of “copy me,” where one person shows a move (like frog jumps) and the others copy.

    3. Kitchen Dance Party

    Turn on your kid’s favorite song and start dancing! Take turns being the DJ and calling out moves: spin like a tornado, hop like a bunny, march like a superhero. The mop makes a great microphone.

    4. Balance and Climb Indoors

    Stack pillows and blankets to build a safe climbing zone. Mark a line on the floor with tape and see who can balance the farthest without stepping off. Turn it into a daily challenge!

    Girl balancing on stones – kids’ movement that improves balance and coordination
    Mom and daughter dancing in the kitchen – joyful everyday movement for kids

    5. Explore New Playgrounds – Or Visit Leo’s

    Changing locations boosts motivation. Set mini movement challenges: three slides, five seconds of hanging, one balancing lap. In Leo’s Playland, there’s even more room to run, jump, and climb with joy.

    6. Join In the Fun

    When adults move too, kids follow. Jump rope together, race bikes, roll around on the carpet, or invent your own “family movement club.” You’ll all laugh – and move – more than you think.
    Need more inspiration? Check out our article on physical activities for kids.

    Leo’s Is All About Active Play

    At Leo’s, movement isn’t an afterthought – it’s at the heart of everything. Our playlands are designed to get kids moving from the moment they step inside. Ball pits, trampolines, slides, climbing walls, and giant labyrinths offer endless ways to run, jump, and explore.

    And because regular movement matters, we also offer activity clubs – a fun way to start a first hobby. Kids get to try different sports through play in a relaxed, joyful setting. It’s the perfect way to discover what excites them.

    During school holidays, our camps make life easier for parents and amazing for kids. While adults work, children enjoy screen-free days full of games, movement, and new friendships – guided by experienced activity leaders.

    Welcome to the Jungle – Let’s Move Together!

    Movement isn’t just a hobby for kids. It’s confidence, growth, joy, and giggles all in one. At Leo’s, we believe every child has the right to move freely and play boldly. That’s why we create a world where every jump, slide, and climb leads to a new adventure. Come on in – the fun is waiting!

    * Leo’s wanted to understand how children really move and play. That’s why 2,000 Swedish parents were surveyed about their 2–10-year-olds’ activity and play habits. You can read the full report here.