Child walking on White Center Park Reflexology Path

According to the CDC, only 36% of young people in grades 9-12 meet these physical activity recommendations, 67% do not attend P.E. classes daily and 37% watch more than three hours television in an average school day. Many schools are even removing recess from daily schedules.

Inactivity contributes to the growing numbers of children and adolescents who are overweight, but the potential benefits of physical activity for children are much greater than just overweight prevention.

Physical activity:

• Improves school performance
• Improves self-image and independence
• Contributes to healthy social and emotional development
• Increases the likelihood that children will grow into adults who lead more active lifestyles, improving their chances for better health.

www.pedbikeimages.org/ Dan Burden

There are many opportunities to be active in King County for children and adolescents of all ages, interests and abilities. Below are just a few that are low cost or offer scholarships to eligible families. Talk to staff at your local community or recreation center for more ideas.

• Parks and Recreation Centers in King County
• Austin Foundation, Youth and Fitness
• Girls on the Run
• Cascade Bicycle Club
• Seattle YMCA (locations throughout King County)
• Physical activity for King County child/daycare facilities
• School of Acrobatics and New Circus Arts
• Boys and Girls Club of King County
• CDC health and physical activity websites for children
• CDC physical activity recommendations for Children and youth
• CDC physical activity recommendations for adolescents and Young Adults
• Pro Parks Learn to Swim Program, offers free swim lessons to 3rd and 4th graders in the Seattle School District