"Our kids live in a society in which calorie-dense and often nutritionally-poor foods are too readily available to them and, compared to past generations it is not as easy to be active. If we leave activity during the summer to chance, chances are there will be a lot of sedentary kids. It's not fun or healthy," says Dr. Di Buono.

The time to act is now

In 2006, the HSFO identified childhood obesity as a critical issue for the future heart health of Ontario. With 28% of Ontario's children overweight and obese, today's children are at risk of developing long-term health effects such as heart disease, high blood pressure and type 2 diabetes at a much too early age - through no fault of their own.

As a result, the Foundation created a ground-breaking, province-wide initiative called Spark Together for Health Kids(TM). The mandate of this program is to advocate for children's improved access to physical activity and healthy food and the need to work collaboratively with partners from all sectors to create sustainable solutions.

Heart and Stroke Foundation of Ontario Recommendations:

- Make it easier for parents to make healthy choices for their families - Ensure access to nutritious, safe and culturally appropriate foods and affordable and accessible physical activity opportunities for all children in Ontario. - Foster action that supports and encourages active living and physical activity. - Develop essential processes and frameworks at provincial and municipal levels for integrated planning and action. - Facilitate joint action by individuals, community groups, not-for-profit agencies, media, private sector and governments.

To learn more about the Heart and Stroke Foundation's Spark Together for Healthy Kids log onto www.heartandstroke/spark. For information regarding the benefit of physical activity for kids, log onto bit.ly/dhCvPu. For current summer camp availability click on the following link to the YMCA at www.ymcagta.

Source: HEART AND STROKE FOUNDATION OF ONTARIO