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Parents told to get their kids outdoors
The Times Colonist (Victoria) (Thu 05 Jul 2007 Byline: Irene Siebeling) writes that health and fitness experts are trying to get the message across for kids and their parents to get moving as Canadian families begin their summer vacations. Don't let your kids get into the habit of spending the morning in front of the TV and the afternoon playing video games. Spend as much time as possible being active outdoors with your kids, encourages Dr. Mark Tremblay, chair of Active Healthy Kids Canada, an organization established to advocate the importance of physical activity for children and youth where they live, learn and play. To stay healthy, physical activity is crucial for all of us, young and old alike, he emphasizes. But Canadian families are not making the grade. According to the 2007 Report Card on Physical Activity for Children and Youth released by Active Healthy Kids Canada, Canadian youth were given a dismal 'D' for the third straight year. Adults have earned a similar grade, says Tremblay. Tremblay encourages parents to plan a way to fit physical activity into the day, both for their children and themselves. Taking action this summer will help prevent childhood obesity and help set children on a path toward a healthy lifestyle. Families can take advantage of free swims at city pools, as well as using outdoor track facilities, skate parks, and multi-use outdoor pathways. And don't forget spontaneous games, such as skipping and hopscotch.
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