Whether it’s playing ball tag or running an obstacle race, kids in the preschool class at the Calgary Jewish Community Centre can’t get enough of the outdoor fun with their friends.
“Because you get lots of energy and exercise,” four-year-old William said.
And the woman in charge of the group gets them outside and involved in organized activities as often as she can.
“If they’re active, that’s going to give them success in connecting with somebody,” preschool teacher Dianne Struthers said.
But getting children interested in those activities isn’t always easy.
“All my friends just play video games,” five-year-old Zachary said.
That’s a situation one of the preschool parents is all too familiar with.
The Jewish Community Centre will be promoting efforts to cut down on screen time at its annual Sports Dinner on Thursday, June 13.
Featuring a Q & A with Calgary Flames legend Jarome Iginla, the event raises money to help keep seniors active and to provide programs to promote “unplugged kids,” an effort to cut down on excessive screen time.
Many parents think it’s worth the effort to reduce screen time, so their kids don’t miss out on other things.
And a lot of the children in the centre’s preschool class are eager to spread the word on the joys of staying active.
“Because you can exercise,” five-year-old Noah said. “And have fun!”