Kids across Grey Bruce are being encouraged to turn off their TVs and computers.
Turn Off The Screens Week kicked off yesterday and is on until next Monday.
Jason Webbler, a Health Promoter with the Grey Bruce Public Health Unit, says this is the seventh year they’ve partnered with local schools for the program.
Webbler says schools did not have to pre-register this year, so he doesn’t yet know how many are taking part.
He expects the numbers to be similar to or better than last year, when 80 per cent of local schools and 10-thousand students participated.
Webbler says there are many activities planned throughout Grey Bruce to help the participating kids get active.
There is a scavenger hunt and road hockey tournament in Dundalk, a family hike in Chesley, and free swimming in Kincardine and Hanover.
You’ll also find activities going on every night at the Owen Sound Family Y, Grey Roots Museum, Meaford Community School, and parks in Saugeen Shores.
Webbler has some advice for parents this week – he says act as an example by reducing your own time in front of the TV or computer screen.
Participating kids are being asked to keep track of their hours of physical activity to show how much they’ve reduced their screen time by the end of the week.
Prizes are available for individuals and also the top participating schools.
For a full list of activities being offered as part of Turn Off The Screens Week, visit the Grey Bruce Public Health Unit’s website. (www.publichealthgreybruce.on.ca)