Thursday, May 01, 2014
Grey Bruce Health Unit
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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