What is SPARK?
SPARK is a research-based organization dedicated to creating, implementing, and evaluating programs that promote lifelong wellness.SPARK strives to improve the health of children and adolescents by disseminating evidence-based physical activity and nutrition programs that provide curriculum, staff development, follow-up support, and equipment to teachers of Pre-K through 12th grade students. SPARK strives to achieve outstanding customer satisfaction through timely delivery and exceptional service.
Spark Tips
14 Ways Parents Can Help Children Be More Physically Active
1. For optimal health, children should accumulate at least 30 minutes of moderate physical activity (e.g., brisk walking) every day and do vigorous sports or exercise 3 times a week.
2. Frequently ask your child what physical activities they like to do, then help them do it!
3. Be a role model. Show children physical activity is important by enthusiastically participating in it.
4. Participate with your child (e.g., play catch, chop firewood, go on walks together).
5. Encourage your child to participate on sports teams (e.g., Bobby Sox, Little League, basketball, etc.).
6. Plan family events, including weekend getaways and vacations, that include physical activity (e.g., hiking, water sports, skiing).
7. Enroll your child in out-of-school physical activity lessons (e.g., martial arts, dance, swimming, gymnastics).
8. Transport your child to places where she/he can move and play safely.
9. Monitor television viewing and video game play. Have your child "earn" time for these "low voltage" activities by accumulating minutes of physical activity.
10. Select gifts that promote physical activity (e.g., a ball, a jump rope, a pair of in-line skates).
11. Write and speak with school administrators showing your support for quality physical education programs.
12. Encourage school officials to provide opportunities for students to be physically active before school, during lunch breaks, and after school.
13. Encourage school officials to offer assemblies, field trips, and special events that promote physical activity.
14. Advocate the development of neighborhood parks, biking paths, walking trails in your community.
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