The Amount of Physical Activity in Finnish Day Care

The purpose of this study has been to examine the amount of physical activity of children in Finnish day care. An observation with systematic sampling was conducted in 62 day care centers and with childminders. Children were highly active physically (with at least some physical exertion) in average 24 minutes between 8:00-12:00 hours. The physical activity was the lowest among children with the most problems with motoric development. The physical activities children need are dependent on children's personal choices and their design of activities during free play outdoors.