Tips for teachers

Canada’s Physical Activity Guide for Children (Health Canada, 2007) is a useful tool to promote daily physical activity. The guide’s call to action recommends that children:

1. Increase the time currently spent on physical activity starting with 30 minutes more per day.

2. Reduce “non-active” time spent on TV, video, computer games and surfing the Internet, starting with 30 minutes less per day.

Regular physical activity helps young people increase their self-esteem and appreciation for their bodies. Healthy eating and regular physical activity play important roles in growth and development and are important components of a healthy lifestyle. Helping kids build physical activity into their daily routine can help create a pattern that may stay with them for the rest of their lives.

The following are important concepts for children to learn:

1. Physical activity is fun! Every child, no matter his or her age, height, weight, natural abilities or skills, needs to learn that physical activity is fun and does not have to be competitive. While participation in sports is encouraged, children need to know that sports are not the only way to stay active. Not all children enjoy competition. For these children, physical activity alternatives such as walking to school, household chores,biking and other activities are essential.

2. Everyone needs physical activity to be healthy and strong!

3. Take a first step! Try something new!

4. Get moving! Children also need vigorous activity for healthy growth and development. This means activity that makes their hearts beat faster, makes them breathe deeper and causes their bodies to perspire.

Source: http://www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/pau-uap/paguide/