WHO lifestyle guidelines for infants and toddlers
Sufficient sleep and less sedentary screen time urged
Attention mom and dad: more physical activity, less sedentary screen time and sufficient sleep are the recommendations of new World Health Organisation guidelines for healthy infants and toddlers. The UN-backed agency’s guidance to caregivers covers infants (less than 1 year); children 1–2 years; and children 3–4 years. Prior WHO recommendations covered ages 5-17, 18-64 and over 65 years. Guidelines Infants (less than 1 year) should:
Spend at least 30 minutes in prone position (tummy time) spread throughout the day while awake; Not be restrained for more than an hour at a time (in eg prams, strollers or high chairs, or strapped on a caregiver’s back); Not look at screens; Have 14–17 hours (0–3 months of age) or 12–16 hours (4–11 months of age) of good-quality sleep, including naps...
Would you like to comment on this article?
Sign up (it's quick and free) or sign in now.
Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.
Subscribe now to unlock this article.
Support BusinessLIVE’s award-winning journalism for R129 per month (digital access only).
There’s never been a more important time to support independent journalism in SA. Our subscription packages now offer an ad-free experience for readers.
Cancel anytime.
Questions? Email helpdesk@businesslive.co.za or call 0860 52 52 00. Got a subscription voucher? Redeem it now.