Helping parents to get their kids to be more active

There’s often been a discussion around the need for kids to be active, especially outdoors, no matter what the weather. In previous newsletters, we discussed the benefits of physical activity - whether within a framework or not - of free play and of learning experiences beginning in early childhood. While there’s no shortage of tools available, what with curricular and extracurricular activities, not to mention active homework sheets and Wixx Zones, the fact remains that there are still obstacles to regular physical activity. Environments that promote physically active lifestyles are without a doubt the most effective at getting youth to become active on a regular basis.
That’s why we’re seeing the emergence of Healthy Lifestyles charters in municipalities, including in our own - that’s right, the Memphremagog Municipal Regional County has signed a Healthy Lifestyles Charter. And even though our elected officials are fully aware of this issue, parents have to play their part.
So, how do we reach parents?
In our capacity as organizations, it’s become important to ensure that our means of communication focus on this. We have to do a better job of promoting our Facebook, Pinterest, and Twitter pages, and of including more relevant content.
It’s not hard to find internet sites that are full of tips and tricks; some YouTube channels even offer a bunch of ideas for outdoor activities. However, there comes a time when we have to preach by example...So, I invite you to talk about your outdoor activities with others around you. I’m sure someone in your teams has a well guarded secret about the best spot for a leisurely trail walk, or knows of a good place to go snowshoeing on a Sunday afternoon, or is willing to share the name of a favourite ski resort.
I’m appealing to you to encourage discussions around the pleasures of outdoor activities by sharing your discoveries with others...
And by posting them on our Pinterest page!
See you outdoors!! 

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