Thursday, May 01, 2014
Pause to PLAY by Turning Off The Screens
It’s time again for the Turn Off The Screens challenge. This year, the 12th annual challenge, runs from May 5 to May 11. During this week, students get active by turning off the television, video games and computer. The top three schools, by percentage of students participating, will receive a mounted plaque for display.
Canada’s Physical Activity Report Card for 2013 shows that only 7% of 5-11 year olds are getting enough physical activity while 81% of youth are getting more than the recommended two hours of leisure screen time each day. Many children spend 4-6 hours a day in front of a screen. Not enough physical activity and too much screen time are associated with increased anxiety, depression, low self-esteem and the early development of chronic disease such as diabetes and heart disease.
To decrease screen time, parents are encouraged to:
- Limit television or video game time to 1-2 hours a day
- Remove televisions from children’s bedrooms
- Eat meals together with the television turned off
- Be a good role model by being active with your children
Take this opportunity to get outside and “PLAY your way, every day!”
For more information, please check out: http://www.publichealthgreybruce.on.ca/Physical/ActiveSchools/TurnOffScreens/Index.htm.
Media Contacts:
Jason Weppler
Health Promoter
Grey Bruce Health Unit
519-376-9420 ext 1408
j.weppler@publichealthgreybruce.on.ca
Mat MacLeod
Health Promoter
Grey Bruce Health Unit
519-376-9420 ext 1404
M.Macleod@publichealthgreybruce.on.ca
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