10 April 2019
New national physical activity and sleep guidelines for 5-17 year olds
The Federal Department of Health has released updated national guidelines to promote healthier and more active children.
The Australian 24-Hour Movement Guidelines for Children and Young People (5-17 years) provide recommendations on the right balance of physical activity, inactivity and sleep.
A healthy 24 hours includes:
Sleep
- 9–11 hours of uninterrupted sleep per night for younger children (5–13 years)
- 8–10 hours of uninterrupted sleep per night for teens (14–17 years)
- Consistent bed and wake-up times.
Physical activity
- Aim for 60 minutes or more per day of moderate to vigorous physical activity. The more huff and puff the better
- Several hours of a variety of light physical activities
- Activities that are vigorous, as well as those that strengthen muscle and bone should be incorporated at least three days per week.
Inactivity
- Move more and sit less in your spare time
- Limit sedentary recreational screen time to no more than two hours a day
- Break up long periods of sitting as often as possible.
Other guidelines provide recommendations for other age groups.
See the Federal Department of Health (external site) for more information.