This may not surprise, but young people from British Columbia do not move and do not sleep enough.
Researchers from the University of British Columbia conducted a survey of more than 26,000 children from 6th to 8th year and found that only four percent responds to Canada’s recommendations for the daily movement.
According to Canada’s movements guidelines 24 hours a dayChildren should have at least an hour of physical activity, eight to 10 hours of sleep and not more than two hours of recreational screen per day.
The results, Published Tuesdaynoted that the “excessive recreational screen time” is by far the greatest challenge. Only 14% of children respected the recommendation of the time of the daily screen, although 26% respected the directives for physical activity and 73% for sleep.
The 24 -hour movement guidelines, adopted in 2016, were the first in the world to integrate directives for physical activity, sleep and limits in sedentary time. The World Health Organization then adopted the directives.
Although the guidelines are linked to better physical health, this new study revealed that children who have respected more directives of movement declared better mental health and well-being.
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“We see much better mental health for young people who all meet, or even some of the movement’s directives,” said the researcher. Eva OberleAssociate teacher at UBC Human early learning partnership Within the school of population and public health, said.
“Interestingly, sleep was the strongest factor associated with better mental well-being, which is in view of the importance for young people to sleep a good night. Of course, movement behavior is interconnected. If you are physically active, you sleep better and that long hours on the screens can interfere with sleep. »»
The study revealed that girls seem to have the greatest gains of mental well-being when they encounter sleeping, screen and movement time.
Parents, caregivers and educators are encouraged to help young people respond to one of the directives, even if it means adding a walk after dinner or ensuring access to physical education in schools all year round.
“As a parent myself, I know how difficult it can be to find a balance, and each family will have their own strategies that work for them,” said Oberle.
“But in general, it is much easier to promote positive activities than to restrict screen time. If children are engaged in activities – be it sport, music, crafts, outdoor games or even cycling at school – they naturally spend less time online. »»
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