Give Kids a Sporting Chance:

learning child

(NC)—According to a 2010 report from Statistics Canada, the number of overweight children has become a "pandemic” and prevalence rates continue to rise.

Organized sport and recreational activities are needed now more than ever to get kids active. However, some kids aren't able to access these opportunities because of limited family resources and, in some communities, the programs just don't exist. That's where the Canadian Tire Jumpstart program comes in. Canadian Tire Jumpstart is a national charitable program that helps financially disadvantaged kids 'get in the game' by covering registration, equipment and/or transportation costs.

But what if more common activities like hockey, soccer or baseball don't tickle their fancy? Perhaps it's time to introduce your child to something a bit different:

• Martial Arts: exercise and discipline all in one.
• Dance: A great way for kids to get cardio exercise, learn coordination and have lots of fun. It's a chance to make new friends and be part of a group.
• Swimming: Swimming lessons are important for children not only for exercise, but for safety.
• Gymnastics: A fun way to incorporate rhythm and movement while gaining flexibility and self–confidence.

“We all need to send our kids 'out to play',” said Andrew Pipe, University of Ottawa Chief, at the University of Ottawa Heart Institute. “It's time we helped them rediscover the joy of physically active play –– roaring around on bicycles or roller blades, playing pick–up soccer in the park, shooting hoops in the driveway –– every day should be a play day! Their health depends upon it."

Help kids get active in your community by supporting Jumpstart Day on Saturday, May 28, 2011. For every $1 you donate, Canadian Tire will match it with $2, making the total contribution $3.

National in scope, but local in its focus, Canadian Tire Jumpstart delivers support to kids through a Canada–wide network of 300 local chapters. One hundred percent of the funds raised will go directly to help financially disadvantaged kids through the Canadian Tire Jumpstart program. You can learn more at www.canadiantire.ca/jumpstart.