Kids Activities

Active Kids - Healthy habits start earlier than you think

The 2010 Report Card by Active Healthy Kids Canada marks the 6th annual overview of the many factors impacting the poor
state of physical activity in Canada.

To overcome a societal problem of this magnitude, all levels of government, non-governmental organizations, researchers,
corporations and foundations need to be engaged in a collaborative effort to improve the physical activity profile of our
country.  Parents and child care providers must also be aware of the growing problem and take steps to encourage physical activity.

In their new study, Active Healthy Kids Canada takes a closer look at an age group that has typically not received a great deal of attention when discussing physical activity and health. Sadly, overweight and obesity are becoming more and more common among preschool-age children in Canada.

Obesity Rates in Young Children

Two independent reports from separate regions in Canada indicate that the prevalence of obesity in children aged 2 to 5 years is between 8 and 11%.

National surveillance data of Canadian children 2- to 5-year-old shows that are 15.2% overweight, and 6.3% are obese.

The burgeoning obesity epidemic, coupled with the known challenges of treating obesity, has led to increased interest and efforts on the prevention of obesity. In addition, the early years have been identified as a critical period for growth and acquisition of motor skills that are needed to be physically active throughout life.  Encouraging young children to participate in physical activities can instil a love for sports or games that could stay with them as they grow.

The Canadian  Report Card starts off by highlighting the importance of physical activity among our nation's youngest population. It
examines the outcomes associated with physical activity (noting psychosocial outcomes in particular this year) and explores
current data on the declining fitness of the nation. The Report Card then transitions into an evaluation of 17
indicators across 5 broad areas of influence: physical activity levels, school, family and peers, community and the built
environment, and policy and funding.

Kids Activities

It is important to add daily physical activities into child care programs, especially ones that teach kids that fitness can be fun.  Parents should also consider after school or weekend activities that encourage physical activity, including sports, dance, or even a family walk.