Health Crisis
The Ever Active Schools program, in partnership with Alberta school communities, contributes to the development of children and youth by fostering social and physical environments that support healthy active lifestyles. This membership-based program is supported by the Health and Physical Education Council of the Alberta Teachers' Association. Ever Active Schools recognizes and rewards schools that focus on physical activity and well-being in their school communities. Ever Active Schools also provides resources to critically reflect and measure current practices, policies and environments.
We have a health crisis in our children and youth
- Canadian children are becoming progessively overweight and obese
(Tremblay & Willms, 2000)
- 57% of children and youth are not active enough for healthy growth and development.
- Active students are less susceptible to stress, exhibit positive attitudes about school and themselves, are less aggressive, and play better with fellow students
(Canadian Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance, 1992)
- Only one in ten children in small communities (>1000) reportedly commute actively to school, compared to 28% of children living in larger communities.
- 43% of parents report playing active games and sports with their children. Only 20% of parents play actively with their 13 - 17 year olds.
- Active parents are more likely then less active parents to report that their children prefer to engage in physical activities of a more vigorous nature
(2000 Physical Activity Monitor, CFLRI)
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