Pediatricians and pediatric health care providers play a critical role in supporting physical activity in all adolescents and children. 

We’ve assembled a collection of tools and resources to support pediatricians and families in helping children and adolescents attain healthy physical activity levels. 


Physical activity is NOT just one more thing that patients should do but rather is one thing that patients CAN do that has the potential to simultaneously impact multiple aspects of mental and physical health and well-being, AND can improve clinician efficacy in addressing some of the biggest challenges facing children and adolescents at all levels of ability and disability.   

The types, duration, frequency, and intensity of physical activity engaged in over time have profound effects on children’s health - on mental and behavioral health, musculoskeletal health, and cardiovascular health, as well as physical, cognitive, and social development.  Unfortunately, a majority of youth do not meet physical activity guidelines, and levels of physical activity in children and adolescents have been declining over time.   

AAP Recommendations

The following clinical reports have been developed by the Council on Sports Medicine and Fitness related to physical activity.

Physical Literacy

What is physical literacy? Here you can learn about how to screen for physical literacy gaps in your office and how to help kids improve their physical literacy skills which can help kids be more active.

Physical Activity Counseling

Brief, practical overviews containing strategies and “talking points” for efficient office-based physical activity counseling.

Types of Physical Activity

What is vigorous versus moderate activity? What activities strengthen bones or strengthen muscle?

Exercise Prescription & Counseling

Examples and ideas of how to talk with patients and families about becoming more active.

Physical Activity Vital Sign (PAVS)

Taking a physical activity vital sign can be very helpful during clinic visits. Here you will find options of how to include this in your practice. 

Download

Move Your Way®

The Move Your Way® videos offer tips to help you be more active, provided by the US Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion.

Resources for Families

HealthyChildren.org: Fitness

Visit HealthyChildren.org for articles that promote exercise and fitness to help establish lifelong healthy habits.

HealthyChildren.org: Sports

Visit HealthyChildren.org for articles that promote your child’s participation in sports.

Physical Activity for Children and Teens with Disabilities

Visit healthychildren.org to learn about the AAP’s policy on physical activity for children and teens with disabilities, including guidance on inclusive, developmentally appropriate movement.

HealthyChildren.org: Keep Kids Active Video

Here are some tips for parents to encourage their kids to engage in daily physical activity by building on activities they already enjoy, while keeping the emphasis on fun rather than competition.

Additional Resources

The National Youth Sports Strategy

The National Youth Sports Strategy (NYSS) serves as a vital resource for policymakers and decision-makers involved in youth sports. Its goal is to create a unified vision for youth sports across the United States: ensuring that one day, all young people will have the opportunity, motivation, and access to participate in sports.

Move Your Way® Campaign

Use these campaign materials to help parents and caregivers understand the types and amounts of physical activity that adults and children need to stay healthy.

The Move Your Way® Community Playbook

This playbook serves as a guide for implementing physical activity efforts within your organization, encompassing programs, activities and events.

Active for Life Activities for kids

Activities that help children develop fundamental movement skills, providing an early foundation for physical literacy.

Last Updated

07/22/2026

Source

American Academy of Pediatrics