Why is physical activity important for kids during summer?

Physical activity during summer supports children's growth, brain development, emotional well-being, and helps reduce screen time and summer learning loss.

What are the benefits of summer fitness for children?

Benefits include stronger bones and muscles, better cognitive function, improved mood, enhanced immune response, better sleep, and the development of lifelong healthy habits.

How can I keep my child active during summer break?

Enroll them in fun, structured programs like Ninja Parkour, Boxing, or Strength & Agility classes at Fit First, or encourage daily movement through play, sports, and outdoor activities.

Does summer activity help with school readiness?

Yes. Active children return to school with better cognitive readiness, less learning loss, improved focus, and emotional regulation — all of which enhance academic performance.

Where can I find kids’ fitness programs in Irvine during summer?

Fit First offers engaging and age-appropriate summer fitness classes across Irvine and nearby Orange County cities, helping kids stay active, confident, and school-ready.

10 Benefits of Keeping Kids Physically Active During Summer Break

fitfirstmanager
Jul 8
3 min read

When summer break arrives, it’s easy for routines to relax — and for physical activity to take a back seat. With no P.E. classes or recess built into the day, many children spend more time indoors and on screens. But keeping kids physically active during the summer is more than just a way to burn off energy — it’s critical for their physical, mental, and emotional development.

Two children playing in the sand on a sunny beach, wearing colorful clothes and hats, building with buckets and toys. Ocean in the background.

Here are 10 research-backed reasons why staying active during summer matters more than ever.

1. Supports Healthy Growth and Development

Regular movement helps children develop strong bones, muscles, joints, and cardiovascular health. Physical activity is also essential during key growth periods, like summer, when kids may experience growth spurts.

A young boy excitedly raises an index finger, holding a pencil, in front of a chalkboard with a lightbulb and "IDEA" drawn on it.

2. Boosts Cognitive Function

Exercise increases blood flow to the brain and improves memory, focus, and problem-solving. A physically active child is more likely to return to school with better cognitive readiness and less learning loss.

3. Helps Regulate Mood and Emotions

Active play helps release mood-regulating chemicals like serotonin and dopamine. Children who stay physically active often show reduced symptoms of anxiety and depression, especially during long breaks from school.

4. Reduces Screen Time

With no structured school hours, screen time can creep in fast. Scheduling daily fitness activities helps reduce reliance on tablets, phones, and video games — and gets kids moving in real-life environments.

5. Builds Social Skills and Teamwork

Whether it’s a fitness class, a sports league, or a parkour session, physical activities provide opportunities for kids to collaborate, communicate, and develop social confidence with peers.

6. Improves Sleep Quality

Physical exertion during the day promotes better sleep at night. Children who move more fall asleep faster and experience more restful sleep — essential for summer recovery and growth.

Family in a bright kitchen preparing food. A girl playfully feeds her father a vegetable while the mother laughs. Fresh produce on the table.

7. Encourages Healthy Habits That Last

Routines built in childhood shape lifelong behaviors. Introducing fun, consistent summer activity routines can help children build a positive relationship with fitness and health as they grow.

8. Strengthens Immune Function

Exercise is linked to improved immune system response. With higher outdoor exposure and travel during summer, staying physically active may help kids better resist seasonal illnesses.

9. Combats Summer Weight Gain

Without regular activity, some kids are at risk of unhealthy weight gain during the summer months. Fitness routines, combined with healthy meals and hydration, support balanced body composition.

10. Provides a Structured, Productive Routine

Unstructured time can lead to boredom or lack of motivation. Scheduled fitness classes or activities give kids a sense of purpose, build confidence, and help them stay on track even when school is out.

Fit First: Your Partner in Summer Wellness

At Fit First, we offer fun, challenging fitness programs that help kids build strength, agility, focus, and confidence during the summer break. Whether your child is drawn to Ninja Parkour, Boxing Basics, or Strength & Agility training, we have a class that fits every energy level and interest.

Serving Irvine and surrounding Orange County cities, we help kids stay active, engaged, and ready for the school year ahead.

Sources:

Donnelly, J. E., et al. (2016). Physical Activity, Fitness, Cognitive Function, and Academic Achievement in Children: A Systematic Review. Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise.
Biddle, S. J., & Asare, M. (2011). Physical activity and mental health in children and adolescents: a review of reviews. British Journal of Sports Medicine.
Pate, R. R., et al. (2006). Promoting physical activity in children and youth: A leadership role for schools. Circulation - American Heart Association.
OpenAI. (2024). ChatGPT: AI language model assistance for content development. chat.openai.com