Policy & Comms. News Helping kids move well, play well and stay well this festive season and beyond
Helping kids move well, play well and stay well this festive season and beyond |
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Australian Physiotherapy Association (APA) National President Melissa Locke urges family and friends of young children to carefully consider gift ideas this Christmas, as their choices can help develop lifelong habits for optimum physical and mental wellbeing. 'In an era of socialising via technology and sedentary indoor lifestyles, opt for movement-oriented toys and games that increase levels of physical activity and inspire children's' interest in being active. This can assist in protecting your loved ones against chronic disease and illness later in life,' advised Ms Locke. According to current statistics, one in four school-age children are overweight or obese — a significant public health concern that is associated with numerous physical and psychosocial problems such as decreased bone mineral density, flat feet, diabetes, low self-esteem, depression and reduced life expectancy. 'A Wii is an excellent gift alternative to a traditional console as it gets youngsters up and out of chairs. Sitting for long periods often leads to bad posture and back problems which creates a barrier to regular or intense activity. So if and when children are gaming in front of the television, standing is always preferable. 'Encouraging outdoor activities and a sensible balance of sun exposure and protection is even better. Participating in activities during 'safe' daylight hours can help to prevent rickets, where youngsters are not getting sufficient vitamin D, calcium, or phosphate leading to a softening and weakening of the bones. Insufficient exposure to melatonin can enhance anxiety in teenagers and furthermore facilitate disturbed sleep patterns,' continued Ms Locke. 'Select activities that engage and inspire a child's interest in outdoor hobbies or sports such as boogie boarding, a cricket set, tennis racquet, gardening kit, or Frisbee. In fact, variety, introducing goal-setting and simply doing things together as a family or group can motivate and maintain a child's interest in being active, fit and well. 'And don't be afraid to let your kids learn about risk. Heightened safety and public liability concerns today mean that children have less opportunity for unstructured play and a relatively sanitised concept of fun, which may hinder the development of good judgment. These skills are a vital necessity and assist when learning tasks such as crossing the road or learning to drive. 'If unsure about whether a team sport or recreational activity is right for a child's age and experience, physiotherapists can assess physical and motor development and suggest appropriate options. At Christmas, though, just try and strike a balance — childhood is the time to instill good behaviours,' said Ms Locke. Ms Melissa LockeMelissa runs her own private practice with a special interest in children, was earlier this month appointed to the National Lead Clinicians Group to provide senior clinical input into the federal governments' Health Reform', and in 2008 she became the first clinical Paediatric Fellow of the Australian College of Physiotherapists. About the APA and its membersThe Australian Physiotherapy Association (APA) is the peak body representing the interests of over 12 000 physiotherapists and their patients. APA members are registered with the Physiotherapy Board of Australia, must act in accordance with the APA Code of Conduct, are expected to use the latest research in practice and often have further and/or specialist qualifications. As first contact practitioners, a doctor's referral is not necessary to see a physiotherapist. Physiotherapists work with, educate and customise exercise programs for people affected by a wide range of conditions and symptoms. For more information Click here to download this media release |
| Last Updated ( Wednesday, 28 December 2011 20:29 ) |
