Child Development

Recent research shows that our brains don’t finish developing until around age 25.¹ Children’s emotional, physical, mental, and social skills develop tremendously as they get older. Many developmental skills can be improved through physical activity. Find your child’s age below and try the corresponding activities with your child. These activities can help your child grow … Read More


Screen Time Breaks

Today’s technology has made it easier than ever to learn and gather new information. It also helps connect us with our out-of-town friends and family. Many children today are introduced to screen time (watching TV, playing video games, using a computer, etc.) at a young age, but it’s important to be mindful of the potential … Read More


Snow Day Safety

Snow days are the eagerly anticipated breaks from school children get in the winter to sled, build snowmen, and drink hot chocolate. Despite the chilly weather, children can work up a sweat as they play in the snow, making it a great opportunity for fun physical activity. While many children love snow days, it’s important … Read More


Have a Family Parade

You don’t have to ride a float to have your own parade–it doesn’t even have to be a special occasion! Having your own parade can add fun and a physical boost to your walk. And if it’s raining outside, you can even have your parade inside–just make sure the floor is free of objects and … Read More


Take a Walk with Parents and Grandparents

Spending time with your children and having your children be with their grandparents is special and valuable. While physical distance may make it difficult for your children to spend time with their grandparents, it’s great to take every chance for them to be together. Your children can learn a lot from their grandparents, and your … Read More


Red Light, Green Light

Red Light, Green Light is a great way to get young children running! Simply jogging on a track can be boring for children, but Red Light, Green Light turns running into a fun game. It can also help children understand the meaning of the different colors on traffic lights. You’ll need at least 3 players, … Read More


Movin’ and Groovin’

Children of all ages should get at least 60 minutes of physical activity. This can come in many forms, from swimming to a game of “Duck, Duck, Goose.” It may seem like toddlers and younger children don’t need as much exercise, but toddlers should get 30 minutes of structured and 60 minutes of unstructured activity daily. … Read More


Family Bike Riding

Riding bikes is fun exercise, especially as a family. No matter what age, children can enjoy riding a bike. Toddlers and preschoolers can ride tricycles, and children who haven’t learned how to ride a two-wheel bike can ride a bike with training wheels. You can also ride bikes in all kinds of settings–the driveway, bike … Read More


Jump Rope

Jumping rope is a great way to exercise and make your heart work hard. People in countries all over the world jump rope as a way to stay fit and healthy. There’s even an event at the Olympics for jump rope! It’s also a great activity for both children and adults, making it a fun … Read More


Simon Says

Simon Says is a great game for kids of all ages because you can include easier or more difficult movements as appropriate. Also, there’s no minimum or maximum number of participants, so no matter how big your family is, everyone can play! You can even play inside or outside–whichever your children prefer. Choose one person … Read More


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Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program (EFNEP)

North Carolina State University
Agricultural and Human Sciences Department

Cooperative Extension at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University
College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences (CAES)