MAY

 

May is here, and the school year is coming to an end.  Summer break is right around the corner.  This means kids will have much more times on their hands.  What will they be filling their time with?  Will it be television, video games or the computer?  No!  We must encourage our kids to stay physically active during the summer months.  The younger these habits are taught, the better! 

 

Research indicates that activity levels decline at a steady rate as children move into their adolescent years.  According to the Surgeon General’s report on physical education and fitness, nearly half of American youths aged 12 to 21 are not vigorously active on a regular basis and 14% report no recent physical activity at all.

 

So what is there to do during the summer?  Encourage your kids to enjoy the beautiful weather and spend time outside.  They can ride their bike, run, skateboard, rollerblade or simply play at a park.  The summer is an excellent time to enjoy the pool or the beautiful beaches in the area. 

 

There are many community activities available for kids during the summer as well:

YMCA programs and summer camps

Sarasota County Library Youth Programs

Many public parks in all areas of Sarasota County

Public water parks in downtown Venice and Marina Jack’s in Sarasota

Boys and Girls Club summer programs

G. Whiz summer programs

Sarasota Jungle Gardens

Parks and Recreation summer beach runs

Fur Fun Clubs with the Sarasota County Humane Society

Keep cool indoors at the Stardust or Florida Wheels skating center

Try the new Legacy Trail

 

Please remember, if your child spends time outside in the Florida summer heat, make sure they are staying hydrated with water and wearing sunscreen.  It is recommended to apply sunscreens with a minimum SPF of 15 to children's skin about 30 minutes before they go outdoors. Reapply sunscreens after they swim, towel off or play hard.

 

Keep plenty of water available for your kids, provide fresh fruit like watermelon or prepare fun treats together like frozen grapes, frozen 100% juice popsicles or low-fat frozen yogurt popsicles. 

 Have a safe and active summer!!!!

                                                                                                 

_________________________________