New online course for early childhood educators integrates physical activity in early learning

KEENE, N.H. - March 21, 2016 - PRLog -- Early Sprouts Institute, developer of the award winning Early Sprouts gardening and nutrition curriculum for early learning, today announced the launch of a new online course, "Active Play Every Day." The 6.5 hour self-study training for early childcare providers is available at an introductory discount of $19.50 (40% off) to the first 100 to enroll through http://www.earlysprouts.org.

"Despite all we know about the tremendous benefits of physical activity for young children, it hasn't yet become a deliberate and standard practice in all early learning environments," said Karrie Kalich, Ph.D., program developer and assistant dean and professor of professional and graduate studies at Keene State College. "Active Play Every Day prepares early childhood educators to play a key role in helping children establish healthy habits that last a lifetime."

Physical activity is widely recognized as being as important as food and sleep when it comes to young children's health and development.

The Active Play Every Day online course is approved for 6.5 professional development hours in Illinois, Missouri, New Hampshire, Vermont and Washington and can be used to meet licensing training or in-service requirements in Florida, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan and Nebraska. The training provides preschool teachers with the information and skills needed to take a deliberate approach to integrating physical activity throughout the preschool day. Enrollment is open at http://www.earlysprouts.org.

Proceeds from training fees cover direct costs and fund new research and development on children's nutrition and play for early childhood educators.

About Early Sprouts Institute
Early Sprouts Institute www.earlysprouts.org develops research-based programs that help early childhood educators foster enthusiasm for healthy foods and active play in young children. A collaboration between Health Science and Early Childhood Education departments of Keene State College, it is best known for the award winning Early Sprouts "seed to table" gardening and nutrition curriculum and training. Growing Healthy Eaters and Active Play Every Day online training courses are its newest programs.