What do the experts say about this? Renata Martins commands the class with energy, marching on the spot as she calls out, “Stand up tall, abdominals strong!” Twelve pairs of knees rise and fall, some struggling to keep pace with the music. Coordination isn’t easy in this group—after all, the oldest participant is only four!
Stretch-n-Grow is a dynamic exercise programme designed specifically for preschoolers, making movement, coordination, and healthy habits an exciting adventure. Renata, who leads energetic classes at Regent’s Park Nursery for children aged 18 months to four years, shares, “They absolutely love their exercise! This generation will grow up seeing fitness not just as beneficial, but as fun.” At this stage, children absorb habits that shape their future.
Adri Hartveld, a physiotherapist with over 25 years of experience in children’s health, emphasizes the wide-ranging benefits of the program. “It’s fantastic in so many ways,” he says. “Beyond improving coordination and movement development, it boosts confidence and self-esteem, fostering a lifelong positive relationship with exercise. The lasting effects on mental and physical well-being are invaluable.”
This approach ensures children grow up embracing movement as a joyful part of life!
Childhood obesity dominates headlines, making the lessons of Stretch-n-Grow more crucial than ever. Just as parents instinctively teach toddlers manners, they should instill healthy habits around food and exercise early on.
Hartveld emphasizes the importance of addressing these concerns now, stating, “If we take action today, we’ll prevent many of the problems we currently face. Stretch-n-Grow is a fantastic initiative—it teaches through experience, not just words.”
Frances Poulastides, manager at Regent’s Park Nursery, sees firsthand how much children love the program. “They look forward to it,” she says. “They know the stories, the routines. The toddlers love the songs and movement, and it helps them sleep better and focus more.”
Back in the classroom, after ten minutes of marching and jumping, Renata holds up a picture. “What’s this?” she asks. A chorus of voices responds, “Riding a bicycle!”
“Well done! What’s the big muscle you use to ride your bike?” she asks, slapping the back of her thigh. After a brief pause, a hand shoots up. “Hamstring!” The children gleefully point to their own muscles.
Stretch-n-Grow goes beyond fitness—it introduces children to everything from astronomy to sports science, shaping their learning through movement.
More on What the Experts Say
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