Some tips for healthy living this summer

Carol Gregson
Health Promotion Specialist
Department of Health and Social Services, GN

Numerous health reports indicate that many Canadians are not as active as we should be. When we combine lack of physical activity with unhealthy eating habits, eventually this type of lifestyle may lead to illnesses such as diabetes, cancer and heart disease.

Parents play an important role in influencing healthy habits in children. Here are some suggestions on how you can be active with your family and friends.

Check out these summer fun ideas:

* Nature Walk: Go on a nature walk, identify the flowers and find out which ones are edible. Berry season is coming soon… yum.
* Go on a Hike: Play a game of I-spy as you walk and explore. Invite an elder to help you learn about the land and about the history of your community.
* Campfire: There’s nothing like relaxing in front of a camp fire and having a sing along. Invite someone with a musical instrument.
* Community Help: Select a day to work with other community neighbours to improve spaces for fun activities. Get together afterward for a barbecue.
* Baseball: Gather your friends and play a game of baseball.
* Play a Weekly Game: Ask for suggestions such as hide and seek, dodgeball, tag, badminton, frisbee.
* Go on a Picnic: Create your own memorable family traditions. Bring a camera along to take pictures so you can share the special times.
* Scavenger Hunt: Gather a few friends and have each group make a list of common things found in your community. This could also be a part of a community clean-up and recycling project.
* Water Fight: Use balloons or empty dish detergent bottles.
* Beach Volleyball: You need a ball and net (a rope or fishing net will do.)
* Outdoor Games Day: Choose a variety of activities for toddlers and other children from catch the ball to capture the flag.
* Fishing: Hold a mini fishing derby for the smallest fish, best snag. If you don’t catch any, play fish with a deck of cards.
* Mystery Walk: Take turns with a blind fold while your family leads you on a mystery hike. What do you notice, hear and smell and feel.
* Skipping: Instead of walking pick up a rope and skip. Skipping is a favorite way for athletes to stay healthy and strong.
* Go fly a kite.
* Play in the park: Go with your children.
* Sketching; Pack a snack, paper, pencils, crayons, water paint or charcoal and discover the beauty of your surroundings.
* Safety First: Have a safe summer and remember to talk about safety with the family. Don’t forget when necessary use sun screen, provide hats and sunglasses, insect repellant, encourage the use of bike helmets and lifejackets. Have a first aid kit on hand for family outings and let people know where you are going!

There is more information on the Pan Canadian Healthy Living Strategy at www.healthyliving-viesaine.ca.