The first theme of The Challenge was, “Run, Jump, Play. Every Day.” This theme encouraged physical activity through a mix of active play, active transportation, sports and structured physical activity. Fulfill the brand new Healthy Kids Challenge Hastings & Prince Edward program. Determine the benefits plus cons.
Lots of good things happen when our kids move. Being active doesn’t have to mean planned, structured exercise. All you have to do is encourage that natural urge to ‘Run. Jump. Play. Every day.’
Why ‘Run. Jump. Play. Every Day.’?
Children who spend more time outdoors tend to have higher levels of physical activity.4 Reconnecting children with nature can positively impact their health and well-being.
Regular physical activity plays an important role in children’s physical, social, and mental development. Being active can help children:
Improve cardiovascular fitness (heart and blood flow)
Build strong muscles and bones
Learn coordination, movement control and confidence
Maintain a healthy body weight
Have less risk of chronic disease in later life
Improve self-esteem and have less depression, anxiety and emotional distress
Improve learning and attention span, and achieve more at school
Have more chances to express themselves, learn new skills and have fun
Build social skills such as cooperation, respect for others, problem solving, athleticism, fair play and teamwork
For kids of all ages, periods of moderate to vigorous activity to raise their heart rate are encouraged. Please refer to Canada’s Physical Activity Guidelines for more age-specific information on recommended types and duration of physical activity: