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| Walk safely to school day: an important life lesson |
EASTERN Shore mum and 2007 Tasmanian of the year, English Channel swimmer, charity raiser, and teacher, Anne Steele, says national walk safely to school day on 2 May will provide the opportunity for parents to promote exercise with their children.
The day is organised by the Pedestrian Council of Australia annually to ensure that active kids are healthy kids. The launch of walk safely to school day for 2008. Anne said physical activity before school stimulated the mind and prepared them for the day ahead. “Children who walk to school are better able to think, work and function throughout the day,” Anne said. “Walking to school provides a regular exercise source and also provides a form of social interaction, whether it be with a family or friend. “If concerned about your child walking to school, make sure that they go with a friend. Explain to them the road safety rules and the importance of not talking to strangers along the way. “Providing a plan is also a good way to ensure your child is safe is something unforeseen should happen.” Ella Ashley, state manager of cardiovascular health at the Heart Foundation, said children needed physical activity to grow and develop. “With childhood obesity on the rise and children as young as 12 years of age diagnosed with high blood pressure and high cholesterol, it is more important than ever to be active at every opportunity,” Ella said. “Being active by walking is great fun and has many health benefits including building strong bones and muscles, improving fitness, and helping to maintain a healthy weight. “Walking to school is an easy and inexpensive way for children to find some of the 60 minutes or more of physical activity that they need every day for good health. “Twenty years ago one in three children were taken to school by car as most walked, cycled or caught public transport. “Today more than two thirds are driven to and from school, which means a loss of approximately 20 minutes or more of daily activity. “Even if you live too far from school for your child to walk the whole way, you can still help children be active by walking at least part of the way. “Encourage your children to walk to the bus stop, or park your car one kilometre away from school and walk the rest of the distance.” Ella reminds parents and carers of two main points to ensure that kids stay healthy and active. • Children need at least 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity every day. • Children should not spend more than two hours a day using electronic media for entertainment, particularly during daylight hours when they could be outside. Schools wishing to register for Walk Safely to School Day, or the Woolworths and Safeway fruit offer should visit www.walk.com.au for further information.
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