With spring hopefully around the corner, it’s a great time to dust off those running shoes and get active, especially kids! If you’re a little unsure about where to begin, the latest article from the Winnipeg Free Press on “10 ways to get kids more active” may have a few answers for you. These guidelines are not only easy to follow but they target everyday activities while providing acceptable alternatives.
It is unfortunate that the activity levels of our youth have dropped significantly, but that doesn’t mean the effects aren’t reversible. By limiting video games, computer time and TV shows, and exchanging that for more family and sport time, both the parents and kids win in the situation. How? Well, the parents pay less in TV/internet bills and gain healthier children and the kids get to participate in a sport they enjoy and feel better. The parents and grandparents of today’s generation were privileged in the fact that physical activity was generally a large part of their lives while today’s generation enjoys advanced technology but at the cost of physical activity. These guidelines aim to reverse this pattern and get youth active and up off the couch, actively traveling and playing outside.
Interestingly, the article also listed not driving kids to school if you live close by and start up activities like hiking or biking. These more active transportation modes have slowly been decreasing over time. Older generations remember walking to school in all weather while children today get driven in all weather and perhaps some changes should be made. Green Action Centre’s Active and Safe Routes to School program promotes active transportation for students, teachers and parents. Not only does it make school zones safer but also kids are happier and healthier. Therefore, it seems these article tips may be useful for more than just physical activity, so why not try them today! To read more of the list, click here.
For more information about the Active and Safe Routes to School Program, click here.
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