Community Corner

Replacing Recess When Schools Cut Back

Parents can play a role in helping children maintain healthy lifestyles as physical education programs are cut.

As more and more schools cut back and eliminate recess as they turn their focus to standardized testing, parents must find a way to decrease the risk of obesity and the resulting health and emotional problems in their children.

Sheila Horne, who opened Great Play in Johns Creek this spring, says that classes at the children's gym can help instill confidence in kids by teaching them the basics of many physical activities.

But she also says that parents can take steps at home to encourage active lifestyles.

Find out what's happening in Johns Creekwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

"I suggest that parents help their children find a physical activity that they like and enjoy," Horne advises. She adds that while time spent with electronics such as video games and computers should be limited, it shouldn't be eliminated.

"My advice is not to take away the computer, but to place time limits on it," she said. "Use it as a reward – they have to get their homework done and their grades up first."

Find out what's happening in Johns Creekwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

More tips from Horne and the Great Play franchise include:

Turn your basement into an interactive arena: Clear out a safe space in your home, set up speakers and make the kids feel like professional athletes as they play floor hockey or basketball, complete aerobic activities, or work up a sweat dancing around.

Sign up for a sports league or gym class: Numerous studies show that kids can benefit immensely from participating in organized sports. Make sure you choose a team or league that encourages active participation and your child is not just watching other kids and waiting for his or her turn.   

Turn off the TV: Set limits on screen time. It’s tempting to sit the kids in front of the tube to keep them occupied, but if they know television is not an option until later in the evening, they are more likely to engage in healthier activities.   

Use positive peer pressure: Kids tend to be more active when with peers or friends, so give your child the opportunity to get together with other children. Invite a friend over or organize a neighborhood game.

Stay fit as a family: Turn your regular workout into quality time with your kids. Set aside time to hike, bicycle or even walk the dog together. Kids will copy what you do, so help them develop healthy habits by setting an example.

Great Play's fall schedule begins Aug. 15. Free trial classes will be available Aug. 10-13. 

Call 770-777-2077 or email info@johnscreek.greatplay.com for more information.


Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.

We’ve removed the ability to reply as we work to make improvements. Learn more here

More from Johns Creek