Matthew Lewis Labarre of Dover, New Hampshire, encourages families to build daily movement habits for children ages 3–5 through simple, play-based activities.
DOVER, NH, March 25, 2026 /24-7PressRelease/ -- Youth sports leader and coach Matthew Lewis Labarre is encouraging families to adopt a simple personal standard that can improve children's long-term health, confidence, and social development: a daily "Play First" approach to movement for young children.
The idea is straightforward. Before structured lessons, screens, or performance pressure, young children should experience movement as fun. Labarre believes this early experience helps shape habits that influence physical activity, self-confidence, and learning for years.
"At this age, it's not about competition," Labarre says. "It's about creating a joyful first experience with movement."
Labarre, co-founder of Never Too Young FC in Dover, New Hampshire, has spent years working directly with preschool-age children and families. His programs introduce soccer and simple nutrition concepts to children ages 3 to 5 through playful activities designed to build confidence and coordination.
He says the biggest mistake adults make is overcomplicating early activity.
"Kids don't need perfect technique," he explains. "They need space to move, explore, and succeed at small things."
Why the Basics Matter More Than Ever
Research consistently shows that early childhood movement habits influence health outcomes later in life. Yet many families struggle to create consistent daily activity routines.
When the basics are ignored, the consequences appear quickly.
Four key statistics highlight the problem:
• The CDC recommends that preschool-age children be physically active throughout the day, yet many young children spend significant time sedentary.
• Studies estimate more than 40% of children ages 3–5 do not meet recommended activity levels.
• Children who develop positive movement habits early are far more likely to remain physically active into adolescence and adulthood.
• Early childhood inactivity is linked to lower motor skill development, reduced confidence in group play, and increased long-term health risks.
Labarre says these numbers reinforce something he sees regularly in youth programs.
"I've watched kids who were afraid to step on the field during their first session," he says. "A few weeks later they're leading the warm-ups and asking to go first."
That transformation happens when movement is framed as play rather than performance.
"If a child leaves smiling, the session worked," he says. "That's the real outcome at this age."
The "Play First" Standard
The Play First standard is simple:
Before worrying about performance, create daily opportunities for joyful movement.
This includes running, jumping, kicking a ball, obstacle courses, or simple outdoor games. The focus is exploration and participation.
Young children learn through repetition and positive feedback.
"Small wins matter," Labarre says. "When kids feel successful early, they want to keep trying."
The goal is not to produce elite athletes. The goal is to help children build a lasting positive relationship with movement.
30-Day Implementation Plan
Families can adopt the Play First standard using a simple four-week structure.
Week 1: Establish a Daily Movement Routine
Focus on consistency rather than intensity.
• Set aside 10–15 minutes each day for playful movement
• Use simple activities like chasing, jumping, or kicking a ball
• Keep the tone encouraging and relaxed
The objective is to create a predictable routine where movement becomes part of the day.
Week 2: Add Variety
Introduce different movement patterns to build coordination.
• Run simple obstacle courses
• Practice balancing or hopping games
• Play follow-the-leader movement challenges
Variety helps children stay engaged and builds confidence in their movement.
Week 3: Encourage Social Play
Movement becomes more engaging when children interact with others.
• Invite another family to the park
• Organize short group games
• Encourage cheering and teamwork
"Kids are learning how to exist in a group," Labarre says. "That skill is just as important as kicking a ball."
Week 4: Connect Movement and Energy
Introduce simple conversations about food, water, and activity.
• Talk about snacks as energy for play
• Encourage water breaks during activity
• Let children describe how movement makes them feel
"We're not teaching diets," Labarre says. "We're teaching awareness. Kids learn that food helps them play and feel good."
Why This Standard Works
Labarre believes the success of early activity programs comes down to the environment.
Children thrive when they feel supported and capable.
"Kids are naturally curious," he says. "If you give them a place where trying feels safe, they keep coming back."
When families create that environment early, movement becomes a normal part of daily life.
Call to Action
Families, caregivers, and community leaders are encouraged to adopt the Play First standard for the next 30 days. Start with short, daily movement sessions and focus on keeping activity playful and pressure-free.
Share the idea with another family and encourage them to try the plan as well. Small habits today can build confidence, health, and lifelong movement.
About Matthew Lewis Labarre
Matthew Lewis Labarre is a youth sports leader and co-founder of Never Too Young FC, a Dover, New Hampshire–based soccer program focused on children ages three to five. A former High School All-American soccer player and Dartmouth College men's soccer captain, he holds coaching licenses through USA Youth Soccer and Grassroots Soccer. He works closely with young children and families to create play-based sports experiences that build confidence, healthy movement habits, and strong community connections.
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