A recent report has highlighted the adverse effects of climate change on outdoor physical activity for children and youth, giving Canadian kids a D+ for overall physical activity. The report, released on May 7, 2024, points to heat waves and smoke from wildfires as significant barriers that not only curtail outdoor sports and activities but also contribute to increased screen time among the younger population.
While 39 percent of Canadian children between ages five and 17 achieve the recommended 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous exercise daily, the gap is notably wider among girls, with only 31 percent meeting these guidelines compared to 57 percent of boys. The report underscores the challenge of promoting outdoor physical activity in an era where digital devices dominate leisure time and the natural environment increasingly discourages outdoor play.
According to the report, the ongoing climate crisis has led to more frequent cancellations of outdoor sports and activities, particularly affecting children with respiratory issues like asthma. The economic burden of indoor activities, which often serve as alternatives, is another concern, with costs proving prohibitive for many families.
The Ridley and Pringle family from Delta, B.C., exemplifies the struggle many Canadian families face. They emphasize physical activity for their children, who engage in sports like baseball and rugby, but the costs and availability of indoor facilities present substantial challenges. The family suggests extending free access to community resources to younger children to encourage physical activity regardless of outdoor conditions.
Dr. Melissa Lem of the Canadian Association of Physicians for the Environment also advocates for the benefits of outdoor activity, emphasizing that nature not only enhances physical health but also mental well-being. Lem supports a nature prescription program, which encourages spending time outdoors to combat the effects of excessive screen time and improve social connections among children.
The report ultimately calls for a reevaluation of both public health and urban planning policies to better accommodate and promote physical activity amidst the changing climate and technological landscape, ensuring children can enjoy the benefits of active play and nature.