FAQs

Before you can even commit to a healthy lifestyle, you need the knowledge to make smart choices. Read through the questions and answers below to find out what it takes to raise active and healthy kids. Some of the answers may surprise you.

Did you know?

"My child says that they take 20 minutes out of class time every day for a physical activity break. I want my child to be active, but shouldn't they do more at recess and lunch so they can focus on math, reading and other core subjects at school?"

Response:

This is a question and a challenge many parents wrestle with as they want the best education for their kids. Analysis of both Canadian and international research over the past decade indicates that physical activity can be added to the school curriculum... Read More.

"February is Heart Month! Is it really important for me to be concerned about my child's heart health or is this just an adult health issue?"

Response:

In order to prevent heart disease in adulthood, it is vital to begin encouraging a healthy lifestyle among children from a young age. Active Healthy Kids Canada has worked in partnership with the Heart and Stroke Foundation for many years to promote physical activity as a means to heart health... Read More.

"With the holiday season fast-approaching, how can I plan to keep my kids active while they're home from school for the holidays?"

Response:

Parents often struggle to find ways to keep their kids physically active when they're out of school for extended periods of time. This can be perceived as an even greater challenge when you factor in cold weather and snow. But ensuring your kids stay active over the holidays is particularly important... Read More.

"We love Halloween, but it always comes with the worry of how to manage all the candy involved! How can I frame Halloween as part of an active, healthy lifestyle?"

Response:

Halloween is no doubt a favorite time of year for kids and families. Costumes, decorations, parties, treats... who can argue with that combination! One way to approach it is to frame it within your overall healthy lifestyle approach as a family. Read More.

"These days it seems like my kids want to spend more and more time playing video games, watching TV and sitting in front of the computer. How can I make sure they are getting time for active play?"

Response:

TV, video games, internet and electronic social networking are all realities of our modern lifestyles but they are unfortunately interfering with kids' active play. Read More.

"My 12-year old daughter participates in a number of sports and would like to begin a strength training program. Are strength training activities safe for children?"

Response:

Dr. Shauna Burke, assistant professor in the Bachelor of Health Sciences Program at The University of Western Ontario, says:... Read More.

"My husband and I are moving from a small apartment in the city to a new home in the suburbs. What are some things we should look for in the community and surrounding neighbourhood that will help promote an active lifestyle for our children?"

Dr. Tish Doyle-Baker responds:

View your house as being surrounded by an amusement park designed to foster physical activity, imaginative plan and independence. Ensure the streets surrounding your home are connected, so as to provide a safe environment for outdoor activities... Read More.

"How can I tell if my child's school is offering a quality health and physical education program?"

Richard Ward, health and physical education expert, says:

Every aspect of your child's education is important. This includes ensuring your child's school implements a quality health and physical education program as part of its established curriculum... Read More.

"I have been hearing a lot about the use of pedometers to measure steps and physical activity. Are these effective to use with kids?"

The Canadian Fitness and Lifestyle Research Institute says:

Pedometers are relatively inexpensive devices that can be used to monitor the physical activity of children and youth. They provide valuable feedback... Read More.

Go Back to Active Healthy Kids Canada