(NC)-Winter is finally over and the sound of kids playing in the neighbourhood is starting to fill the air. Bike rides, shooting ‘hoops’, or playground fun are just some of the ways kids can become active in the spring and summer. It’s a good thing too, because recent reports show that Canadian kids just aren’t getting enough exercise. Kids should get at least 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous exercise a day, according to the Canadian Society of Exercise Physiology.
“Healthy, physically active kids more likely to be academically motivated, alert, and successful,” said Howie Dayton, chair of the Ontario Task Group on Access to Recreation for Low Income Families. “Whatever their fitness personality, all kids can be physically fit. A parent’s positive attitude will steer them in the right direction.”
Consider enrolling your child in an organized sport or recreational activity, like soccer, baseball, swimming or ball hockey. The benefits of participating in organized play are often lifelong:
• Increased self-esteem and self-confidence;
• Discovery of leadership skills;
• Improved school performance;
• Development of healthy lifestyle habits; and
• Learning that physical activity can be fun. If costs are a barrier to organized sport or recreation, there are various kinds of charitable programs that can help, like the Canadian Tire Jumpstart program. It is a national charitable program that covers registration, equipment and/or transportation costs to help financially disadvantaged kids participate in organized sport and recreation and has helped over 315,000 kids since 2005. Learn more about the program online at www.canadiantire.ca/jumpstart.
