Active Essex offers affordable solutions to keep kids active during Cost of Living crisis
They've launched an online system giving parents cheap and free ideas
As families grapple with the ongoing cost of living crisis, Active Essex has come forward with practical strategies to ensure children stay active during the summer break. Lee, the Relationship Manager at Active Essex, emphasizes the significance of physical activity for children's overall health and well-being, both mentally and physically.
"There's a wealth of evidence now to say that being physically active is incredibly important for both children's physical and mental health. But not only that, actually socially as well. There's such an array of benefits from moving more, and that's both in structured and kind of play situations as well."
In the context of rising costs, many families are finding it challenging to engage in paid activities, particularly during school holidays. Lee highlights the importance of school-related activities, such as after-school clubs, active commuting, and sports, in maintaining children's physical activity levels. However, the summer holiday period poses a challenge for families to keep children engaged and active.
Lee underscores the negative consequences of reduced physical activity during the holidays. He explains that this can lead to adverse effects on children's mental and physical health, and even impact their readiness to return to school.
"And we know that many people and families in particular, with the cost of living right now, I've really struggling to find them activities that are paid for that are that do come with a cost."
To address these challenges, Active Essex advocates for cost-effective ways of staying active. Lee dispels the notion that physical activity requires a hefty budget. Instead, he encourages families to explore free or low-cost activities, such as walking, biking, and utilizing local parks or green spaces.
Active Essex's flagship campaign, "Find Your Active," aims to celebrate diverse forms of physical activity suitable for individuals of all ages. The campaign focuses on the idea that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to being active and that it doesn't have to be expensive.
Useful Hints for Affordable Family Activities:
- Explore local parks and woodland areas
- Take family bike rides or walks
- Use green spaces for outdoor games
- Utilize online resources for at-home family activities
- Consider joining local outdoor fitness classes
- Participate in community events or walks
- Engage in gardening or nature-related activities
Active Essex's online resources provide families with an array of affordable activity options. The organization's website features an "Activity Finder," categorizing opportunities by cost, and an online YouTube channel with pre-recorded activities suitable for families to enjoy together.
Amidst economic challenges, Active Essex's efforts aim to empower families to prioritize their children's physical and mental well-being by staying active, regardless of financial constraints. For more information and activity ideas, visit activeessex.org.