What do we know about physical activity in infants and toddlers: A review of the literature and future research directions

Objectives.-To search the literature for studies evaluating physical activity levels and sedentary behaviours in infants and toddlers, thus in children under the age of three. News.-Only two studies could be located, evaluating physical activity levels in this young age group and only four studies could be identified looking into sedentary behaviours in infants and toddlers. The limited evidence shows that TV viewing is already common and that the time spent in moderate to vigorous physical activity is limited in infants and toddlers. Prospects and projects.-To gain a comprehensive understanding of physical activity and sedentary behaviour during the toddler and infant years, more research is needed. Due to the short intermittent bursts of activities of young children, only direct observation or objective measures, like accelerometers, should be used to define activity levels in infants and toddlers. However, studies on the validity and feasibility of accelerometers in toddlers and infants are lacking. Conclusion.-More research is needed to improve understanding of basic aspects and valid measurement of physical activity and sedentary behaviours in infants and toddlers. Efforts to promote physical activity and to minimize sedentary behaviour (e.g., media use) in infants and toddlers are advocated. (C) 2011 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.