November 15, 2011
It's that time of year when shoppers are looking for toys for the kids on their holiday gift list. Saskatchewan in motion can help with this year's Active Toy Guide that features a variety of toys that encourage kids to play in a physically active way. Some toys in the Active Toy Guide (see attached) are electronic and some are suited for indoor or outdoor play. All of the toys are available through in-store or on-line retailers.
In April 2011, the Active Healthy Kids Canada Report Card on Physical Activity for Children and Youth gave Canadian children a failing grade. In Saskatchewan, less than 15% of our children and youth are active enough for optimum growth and development. Saskatchewan in motion believes in a shared responsibility with parents, teachers, and community leaders by encouraging 30 minutes of physical activity at home, 30 minutes at school, and 30 minutes in the community which easily gives kids the 60 to 90 minutes of physical activity that they need every day.
In Canada, children and youth are accumulating six to seven hours of screen time per day and more on weekends. Saskatchewan in motion is not okay with this and encourages all parents, caregivers, and family members to replace screen time with physical activity by choosing toys that promote physical activity for our children and youth. Cathie Kryzanowski, General Manager with Saskatchewan in motion, admits that Saskatchewan winters are challenging for outdoor activities. However, Kryzanowski invites parents and caregivers to keep our kids moving, especially in the winter when they are half as active as they are in summer. "The holiday season gives us the perfect opportunity to recommend toys and activities to increase the physical activity of the kids we care about," said Kryzanowski.
There are many outdoor physical activities to enjoy especially during the holidays including sledding, skating, snowboarding, skiing, hiking, tobogganing, walking and snowshoeing. There also are many games for kids of all ages to enjoy including Duck Duck Goose, Frozen Tag, Angels in the Snow, and Quinzhee building.
Copies of the Saskatchewan in motion Active Toy Guide and Active Vacation Guide (Backyard and Beyond) are both available at www.saskatchewaninmotion.ca
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For further information, contact:
Christine Niemczyk
Saskatchewan in motion
Phone: (306) 780-9472