Canada's youngest generation is off to a healthy start, but screen time is a challenge
Canada's youngest generation is off to a good start for being physically active, but there's also room to grow, according to a first-ever national assessment focused on children under age 5, led by a University of Alberta researcher.
Canada's youngest generation is demonstrating a healthy start in physical activity and sleep habits, according to a new national assessment. However, screen time usage poses a challenge, with only 25% of children meeting all three key recommendations. The ParticipACTION 2026 Report Card on Physical Activity for the Early Years found that 67% of children met the activity recommendation, 80% met the sleep recommendation, while 48% met screen time limits.
Experts stress the importance of early childhood development, as it lays the foundation for optimal growth and healthy habits throughout life. However, barriers such as unequal access to play spaces and structured activities, as well as gaps in educator training, highlight the need for targeted action to support healthy movement habits among young children.
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