Reprinted from the Health District's quarterly publication mailed to district residents (Fall 2009)

Not only is regular activity beneficial to children’s physical health, but it also allows for greater concentration and focus on their schoolwork. Research conducted by groups such as the University of Illinois Department of Kinesiology and Community Health shows a direct relationship between physical activity levels and academic achievement. Furthermore, physical activity plays a crucial role in the development of a child’s
self-esteem.

Several local organizations recognize the importance of physical activity in a child’s development and promote activity in their programs. The SuperGirls Empowerment Running program through the Sexual Assault Victim Advocate (SAVA) Center supports healthy living and increased self-confidence while training for a 5K race. The belief is that through self-awareness and discovery of the power of their own bodies, girls are less likely to be influenced by peer and societal pressures and are more likely to communicate boundaries, do well in school and maintain an active lifestyle into adulthood.

Physical activity also plays a vital role in the Partners Mentoring Youth program. Activities such as wall climbing and a ropes course are not only fun for the children but also promote decision-making skills and enhanced self-esteem.

Colorado State University’s Youth Sport Camps promote healthy lifestyles through sports-oriented camps. In particular, the CSU FunLIFE (Learning to Improve Fitness and Eating) camp educates kids on good food choices and activity through play to encourage healthy habits starting at a young age.

As children get older, activity declines. And because school physical education (P.E.) programs are also in decline, the responsibility of keeping kids active now falls on the community and the family. On average, area schools provide roughly just one-third of the recommended activity to students in the form of P.E.

In response, Poudre Valley Health System has created the Healthy Kids Club with the goal of promoting health, fitness and safety in schools and the community. The club has established partnerships with several Fort Collins elementary schools and has reached out to the community through programs such as the Healthy Kids Run Series, the Schools on the Move Challenge and various seasonal activities.

Which activities do children enjoy the most? “Kids are looking for ways to be active. As long as you make it fun for them, they enjoy just about anything,” says Laurie Zenner, Healthy Kids Club manager. Zenner suggests alternative activities that get the whole family involved, such as bowling and going to the pool, and frequenting the many bike paths and parks that Fort Collins offers.

Parents should consider ways to be active together that not only benefit the kids but also get everyone in the household moving. This fall, rake the leaves together, go apple picking or bike the Poudre Trail to see the leaves changing. Leading by example will instill healthy habits in your children and promote the health of the entire family.

For more ideas on getting kids active and a listing of local events, check out the Family Matters newsletter on the CSU Extension website at www.ext.colostate.edu, the Healthy Kids Club webpage and newsletter at www.pvhs.org and the City of Fort Collins recreation department activities at www.fcgov.com/recreation.