The 2015 ParticipACTION Report Card on Physical Activity for Children and Youth has assigned a D- grade for overall physical activity of Canadian children.
Saskatchewan In Motion, a provincial movement to ensure children get the daily physical activity they need, are not surprised by the poor results.
General Manager of Saskatchewan in motion Cathie Kryzanowski says less than 15% of Saskatchewan kids get more than 60 minutes of daily physical activity they need.
The reasoning behind this, Kryzanowski says, is based on multiple factors including the fact that children now have six to seven hours of screen time a day, they are sitting longer in classrooms and family time has become more seditary.
Kryzanowski adds that this year's report also took a new focus.
"There was a lot of new data that showed the amount of time that kids are spending indoors. And we know that when kids are outdoors they tend to be more active. They tend to move around a little bit more. This report card would talk a little bit about the need to get kids outside,interacting with nature and self directed play."
In order to promote an increase in physical activity, Saskatchewan In Motion is launching a Summer program as Kryzanowski explains.
"So we are releasing later this month a summer bucket-list of great ideas for kids to get moving and families to get moving over the summer, including tips and ideas for summer vacations, whether you stay in your backyard or move beyond, to integrate some physical activity."
Tips and information on how to increase physical activity in children can be found on the Saskatchewan In Motion website www.saskatchewaninmotion.ca
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