The campaign against youth inactivity continues apace, with Active IQ aiming to help physical activity professionals provide safe and stimulating sessions for children under the age of five through the launch of a new qualification.

The Level 2 Certificate in Delivering Behaviour Management and Physical Activities to Children Under 5 will address the common core set of skills and knowledge developed by the former Children’s Workforce Development Council and aims to give learners the tools needed to promote healthy living to families and children.

There has been a flurry of childhood activity initiatives in recent months, with Places for People Leisure announcing a tie-up with popular IP Peppa Pig and Fit For Sport joining forces with the Power Rangers brand to extoll the virtues of regular exercise and a healthy diet. Meanwhile, operator Freedom Leisure is training its staff through Active IQ’s Adapting Fitness Instruction for Adolescents course to ensure better fitness provisions for teenagers.

“The issue of physical inactivity in the younger generation is a growing concern and we believe education is key in tackling this,” said Active IQ commercial director Jenny Patrickson.

“By learning how to engage, deliver and manage activity and behaviours amongst young children and their families we can truly impact on the health and wellbeing of future generations.

“If we can educate young children and their relatives, together they can take this knowledge and experience into the rest of their lives.”

The new qualification is open to all, from fitness instructors or personal trainers looking to expand their skills base, or as an entry point for those wanting to specialise in this area. No previous experience or qualifications are required.