Report reveals play sessions are more effective than PE lessons
A study published today in March 2012 has found that parents should not rely on PE classes alone for their children to reach minimum government guidelines for physical activity. The “Active Play Report”, undertaken by The British Toy & Hobby Association and the Institute of Youth Sport at Loughborough University, has proved that primary school children are more active when given time to play than at any other time in their school day. Playing with toys for 30 minutes can provide twice as much physical activity as PE lessons.
Celebrity mum, Kym Marsh, is encouraging parents to get their children engaged in active play for an hour a day, as further research has revealed one in five dads and nearly one in six mums want to improve how they encourage their children to play. And to support the campaign, Kym has released a fantastic two-minute ‘Top Tips’ online video.
Kym’s top tips include:
· Use toys that increase heart rate
· Don’t direct your child’s play- let them take the lead
· Indoor activity can teach valuable lessons
· Rotate your child’s toys.
The British Toy & Hobby Association believe most parents understand that play is important for their children’s emotional development, but research shows that time spent with props and toys is easier and a more enjoyable way for children to be physically active.
With the summer fast approaching, girls and boys will spend more time engaging in physical activity outdoors. But for those parents who can’t provide an outdoor space, they can still get their children to take part in indoor activities such as races or competitions. Kym’s video includes ideas using space hoppers, hula hoops and dance mats – in both indoor and outdoor scenarios.
For further help and advice, parents can download the free app, ‘Make Time to Play’ and share ideas with fellow mum’s and dads.
Happy playing!
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