May 3, 2010 - This week, over 7,000 students from in and around Thunder Bay promise to turn off their televisions, computers and video games for the 7th Annual Turn Off the Screens & Get Active, a Pause to Play Challenge.
The Health Unit, in partnership with schools and businesses across the District, is encouraging youth to spend less time texting, blogging and tv-watching, and more time “moving” by getting involved in the free or low-cost activities being offered in their communities.
Research shows that the average Canadian child spends seven hours a day in front of a screen. This is six hours per day more than the amount recommended by the Canadian Pediatric Society for healthy child development. With so much screen time, many children aren’t getting the 90 minutes per day of physical activity recommended for optimal health.
“Not only do screens take up time that could be spent being active, but kids tend to snack on foods high in fat and sugar while sitting in front of a screen,” says Stasia Starr, Public Health Nurse.
“And, they are strongly influenced by commercials that promote high calorie, low nutrient beverages, snacks and candies.”
In addition to affecting physical activity levels and nutrition, moderate to heavy media users tend to experience attention problems, have poor grades, and are less contented in life (Kaiser Foundation). They can also experience language delays, and increased aggressive or violent behaviour (Canadian Pediatric Society).
“The link between screen time and children’s health is clear,” Starr adds. “We hope the Challenge helps children and families find a healthy balance between physical activity and technology.”
Schools participating in the Turn off the Screens Challenge have received all necessary materials, including tracking sheets, tips for staying on track, PA announcements, a calendar of free or low-cost events planned throughout the community for the week of the challenge, and more. The school with the highest participation rate will win a school dance party supported by Maverick Entertainment. Free or low-cost events are also being provided through partnerships with Gammondale Farms, the Ministry of Natural Resources, the Boys and Girls Club, the Canada Games Complex, Superior Bowladrome, and City pools.
The Turn off the Screens Challenge is organized by the Health Unit and is supported by the enthusiastic cooperation of community partners, schools, and families in the city and district. Details about the Challenge, including downloadable tracking sheets for individual families wishing to participate, can be found online at TBDHU.com.
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