Photo Submitted: by Susan Hengen

David Zhang enjoys the Children’s Summer Program, with Friday afternoon activities held weekly at the Kipling & District Swimming Pool.

Submitted by Susan Hengen, Recreation Programmer

Canada’s Report Card on Physical Activity for Children and Youth, the fourth annual overview of key indicators in relation to the physical activity levels of Canada’s young people is entitled “Its Time To Unplug Our Kids”, and rightly so.  In the 2007 Report Card, it was noted that reducing screen time needed to be a clear and ever present message in media campaigns.  While we know that excessive screen time is a problem in school-aged children and youth, new data this year indicates that this is a problem in preschool-aged children, as well.  This finding should be alarming as it shows how early our children are being programmed into a lifestyle of dependence on electronic devices that are associated with sedentary behavior.

Physical activity has numerous benefits to overall health and well-being.  However, as a society, we have somehow managed to consistently link physical activity with weight loss.  Instead of instilling an appreciation for healthy, lifelong physical activity behaviors, it seems we may have created a sense of anxiety and pressure in that physical activity has to be viewed as a “workout”.  We need to allow and promote children to enjoy physical activity, exercise, sport and free play just because they are fun!  And what grade did Canada achieve on 2008’s Report Card on Physical Activity for Children and Youth?  A disappointing D!  Clearly, It’s Time To Unplug Our Children!

With only one week remaining in the Children’s Summer Program, there has been no shortage of energy and excitement!  During August 18-22, mornings will feature Kipling Park & Recreation summer staff assisting with Vacation Bible School, held at the Youth Centre and Bell Park.  Afternoons will remain as regular programming for the Park & Recreation summer staff, meeting at Bell Park each day.  Monday afternoon (August 18th) will feature Broderick Mauro - Canada’s Funniest Magician at the Kipling Rec Centre!  The magic show will begin at 1:30 p.m.  Wednesday afternoon, the gang will hike over to the Kipling Museum and join Mrs. Klein in activities from the past, and Thursday afternoon’s activities will be held at the Kipling Library.  Friday, August 22 is the final day of the Children’s Summer Program with many exciting activities planned for the afternoon!  Be sure not to miss our final week!

Kipling Parks and Recreation is hosting Summer Slam on August 19-21 at the Kipling School Gymnasium.  Summer Slam is a 3-day volleyball skills camp for males and females ages 12 and up.  Athletes will be grouped as follows: 12-14 years; ages 15 years and up.  Fee for the camp is a very affordable $50.00 and includes 6 sessions of instruction; a camp t-shirt and nutrition break snacks.  Summer Slam is a perfect opportunity for all male and female players to kick off the school season!  There are a few spots left in the 12-14 age group, with the 15+ years group filled.  For more information and/or a registration form, call Susan at the Rec Office 736-8440.  Summer Slam is sponsored in part by SaskTel.

Kipling & District Swimming Pool will be hosting a Scuba Diving Clinic on Sunday, August 24th from 4:00 - 6:00 p.m.  The cost of the clinic is set at $20.00/participant.  Instructor Brad Johnson of Planet Scuba will be supplying all participants with equipment for diving.  The clinic is limited to 16 participants, so register with Jordan at the Pool right away to avoid disappointment 736-2707!  The Scuba Diving Clinic is sponsored in part by Southeast Connection Sport, Culture and Recreation District and Sask Lotteries.  Be sure not to miss the Rider Pool Party on Thursday, August 21!  The guards have planned tons of activities - call the Pool for more information 736-2707!

If your dog is fat, you’re not getting enough exercise.  ~Author Unknown