Get your Kids Moving at MyY Innisfil!

The following was written by By Dr. Andra Campitelli, MD

We all know the value of exercise when it comes to overall health but there is even more value when it comes to the health of our children and their ability to focus and concentrate on a daily basis.

Kids need one hour of exercise four days a week – at least!

Exercise will actually “turn on” the parts of the brain that control sequencing, memory, prioritizing, inhibiting and maintaining attention. It has also been found to be extremely effective in children with ADHD, in helping them become more focused and less impulsive. It has often been used in place of, or in conjunction with, stimulant medications.

The benefits of exercise for your children

Exercise stimulates the release of endorphins, which work the same way in children as they do in adults, regulating their mood, pleasure and pain senses and increasing key focus chemicals in the brain: dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin, which are often in short supply in children suffering from ADHD. These allow children to have improved focus, with attention that is more regular and consistent.

So, get your kids off the couch, away from their video games or favorite TV shows and get them active and moving!

As your partner in health, we encourage you to enjoy all of our fun programs designed for children; swimming lessons, floor hockey, basketball, Y-Kids or Parent and Tot Fittness to name a few! We’re certain your kids will find many programs they’ll love at the Innisfil YMCA Health and Fitness Centre!