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Healthy Kids Day

NEWS RELEASE YMCA ************************* Parents more likely to cite outside influences as excellent role models for their child On May 28, 2015, the YMCA released the 2015 YMCA Healthy Kids Report which unveiled that parents are finding it diffic

NEWS RELEASE

YMCA

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Parents more likely to cite outside influences as excellent role models for their child

On May 28, 2015, the YMCA released the 2015 YMCA Healthy Kids Report which unveiled that parents are finding it difficult to set a healthy example for their children with 85 percent stating that it takes effort to be a healthy role model.

Nationally, 35 percent of parents do not think their 6-12 year old is getting enough physical activity per week.

To encourage families to get out and be active, the Sault Ste. Marie YMCA will join YMCAs across Canada in celebrating YMCA Healthy Kids Day on June 7 – a national day dedicated to improving the health and well-being of kids across the country.

“Children between the ages of 6-12 are at an important stage of their development and this is a key time for instilling healthy behaviour and habits,” said Kim Caruso, Chief Executive Officer at the Sault Ste. Marie YMCA. “While parents may find it difficult to find time in their schedules, our YMCA offers a wealth of family-friendly programs and activities that can make getting active together just a little bit easier.” 

The study revealed that parents feel that they are the most important influence on their young children; however only a few identify themselves as healthy role models: 

  • 71% of parents who said they were a role model to their child state that they have a lot of influence on their child
  • Only 28% of parents who said they were a role model to their child identify themselves as ‘excellent’ role models for their children, ranking outside influences as higher including athletes (56%), coaches (51%) and teachers (38%)
  • Parents said that they find it difficult to lead healthy and active lives, with only half of those surveyed stating that they get more than the recommended 2.5 hours of exercise per week 
  • Only four in ten parents across Canada (42%) say their child gets the recommended 7 hours of physical activity per week 
  • 46% of parents cite lack of time as the biggest barrier to participating in activities with their children  
  • In discussing peak activity levels for their child, 30% of parents  said their child was most active at school or after school, 23% said during the summer and only 17% said weekends

The theme of this report focused on children aged 6-12 and the importance of role models in promoting their healthy development and activity levels.

Additional findings from the report found that while parents know where to find programs and services that promote active and healthy living, 54 percent do not have the time or money to access them.

“The YMCA gives children, no matter what their financial situation, the support and opportunity they need throughout the year to learn, play and grow in a safe and supportive environment,” said Lyndsey Pilkington, Supervisor of Child, Youth and Family Programs at the Sault Ste. Marie YMCA. “We hope to welcome even more children and their parents on June 7 when we celebrate YMCA Healthy Kids Day by opening our doors for free for the community." 

The Sault Ste. Marie YMCA will be hosting YMCA Healthy Kids Day on Sunday, June 7, 2015 at 235 McNabb Street from 11 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Check our website for event details at ssmymca.ca.

Highlights include: The Sault Ste. Marie Fire Services – Firefighters Challenge, a 3 on 3 Basketball Tournament, a Healthy youth Extravaganza, Summer Day Camp activities, a swim, gymnastics, a drawing for a 1 year family membership and a bbq.

About Sault Ste. Marie YMCA

Since December 17, 1900, our YMCA has provided safe and caring environments, positive role models, creative activities and opportunities to serve the needs of others.

These are the essential building blocks to build a healthy communities.

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