(HealthDay News) -- Regular exercise has plenty of benefits for kids, too, the American Heart Association says.

Here's the AHA's list of how physical activity specifically helps children:

  • It helps improve a child's sleep patterns.
  • It helps boost your child's mood and energy.
  • It helps the child unwind from the stresses of the day.
  • It helps improve concentration while doing homework.
  • Playing with peers is a great way to forge friendships.