Attention News Editor:

News Release                              For Immediate Release

                                                                                                                         April 4, 2012

Pause to PLAY by Turning Off The Screens

It’s time once again for children and their families to participate in the Turn Off The Screens challenge. This year’s 10^th annual event runs a full seven days from April 23 – April 29. During the week students do their best to get off the couch and get active by turning off the television, video game and computer.

Canada’s Physical Activity Report Card for 2011 indicated that only 7% of children and youth are getting enough daily physical activity. Decreases in physical activity and increases in screen time are also associated with increased anxiety, depression, low self-esteem and the early development of chronic disease such as diabetes and heart disease. Many kids spend 4-6 hours in front of a screen each weekday (2011 Report Card). 

To decrease screen time, parents are encouraged to try the following strategies:

• Limit television or video game time to 1-2 hours a day
• Remove televisions from children’s bedrooms
• Eat meals together with the television turned off
• Be a good role model by being active with your child

Students who decrease their screen time and return their completed log sheet will help their school be eligible to win prizes. The top three participating schools, by percentage of overall students participating, will receive a mounted plaque for display.

Take this opportunity to get outside and “PLAY your way, every day!”

For more information, please check out www.publichealthgreybruce.on.ca.

For more information:

Jason Weppler,

Health Promoter, Grey Bruce Health Unit    

519-376-9420 or 1-800-263-3456 ext. 1408

j.weppler@publichealthgreybruce.on.ca