Chapter 8: Optimizing The Physical and Mental Health of Young Children With and Without Exceptionalities

Physical activity and wellness has become an integral part of the lifelong healthy lifestyle of many people all over the world. Our current living and working conditions has exacerbated sedentary living created by the rapid advancement in technology and advancing economies. Consequently, changes in lifestyle and the demands and nature of our jobs have brought about tremendous stress and pressure on individuals and families. In a related fashion, the physical, social, mental, and educational needs of today’s young children living under these technologically advanced conditions, brings with it many unintended consequences. These consequences include the lack of physical activity, affordable healthcare access, poverty, financial constraints, and many other health related diseases that all contribute to increasing mental health issues among young children with and without exceptionalities. Health and wellness, therefore, have become major concerns especially with the current obesity crisis among young and older Americans.