Physical Activity
Healthier Youth: Teaching to Live Actively By Jodi Penttila, child and youth recreation supervisor, YMCA of Northern BC
In their 2014 report, Active Healthy Kids Canada revealed some alarming stats: • 84% of kids aged 3-4 meet the Canadian Physical Activity Guidelines • 7% of kids aged 5-11 meet the guidelines • 4% of kids aged 12-17 meet these guidelines Such a staggering drop in physical activity has been cited as a result of several factors including the rise in sedentary living and screen time, the decline of active transportation, and our growing culture of convenience. The report also states that 75% of 5-19 year olds participate in an organized activity or sport, indicating that we rely heavily on organized activities and infrastructure to provide enough physical activity for our children. Making activity a priority Communities across Canada have increased their commitment to focus on physical activity as a priority to manage overall health. In Prince George, the YMCA of Northern BC provides programs for youth that emphasize participation and active living. From organized sports, such as Basketball Kids and Toddler T-ball, to innovative activities, such as Zumba Kids and Aikido, the overall focus of programs is to get kids moving and having fun. Learn a little, too There is also room for a little learning here, too! The YMCA strives to incorporate strategies for physical literacy that allow children to grow and continue to stay active. Teaching kids age-appropriate fundamental movement skills gives them the confidence and competence to continue participating in physical activities throughout their lives. Engaging youth in physical activity not only benefits overall health, but can also contribute to increased academic performance and provide
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opportunities for community involvement. The value of unstructured activity It doesn’t end here either. The Active Healthy Kids Canada report identified the value of both unstructured physical activity and organized pursuits in having a positive effect on children’s health. The report recognizes that in addition to organized activities, children also need time for free play. At the YMCA in Prince George, the Recreation Room boasts two large play structures and a rock climbing wall, in addition to the full-sized gymnasium, all of which offers the space needed to let children explore, get creative, and stay active. It will take a balanced approach and a collective effort to get our youth living actively!