The NESI Podcast

Active from the Start: Building Movement into Early Childhood with Dr. Dr. Charla Santiago-Saamong


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How can we create early childhood environments that truly support physical activity and active play?

In this episode, Stephen chats with Dr Charla Rochella Santiago from the University of the Philippines Diliman, about her research on physical activity in early years settings — and why movement in these foundational years matters for lifelong health and development.

Dr Santiago shares insights from her work in childcare and preschool settings, highlighting how educators, environments, and policy intersect to shape young children’s movement behaviours.

You’ll hear about:

  • Why early childhood is a critical time for developing movement habits
  • The cultural and structural challenges to promoting active play
  • Opportunities to support educators as movement champions


Whether you're in research, education, or policy, this episode offers a compelling look at the power of movement in the early years.


🔗 Learn more about Dr Santiago’s work:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/charla-rochella-santiago-saamong/


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📢 Got research to share? Reach out to us at [email protected] with a short bio and the research you want to share on the podcast— we’d love to feature your work.

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The NESI PodcastBy NESI Podcast Team