Long-Term Benefits of Activity for Children

Harry Chugani, a pediatric neurologist was quoted in Newsweek as saying, "It is the experiences of childhood, determining which neurons are used, that wire the circuits of the brain as surely as a programmer at the keyboard reconfigures the circuits in a computer. Which keys are typed, which experiences a child, determines whether the child grows up to be intelligent or dull, fearful or self assured, articulate or tongue-tied. Early experiences are so powerful that they completely change the way a person turns out."

When children struggle with weight issues at an early age, the effects are devastating and may last a lifetime. I have worked with countless children who could have easily joined the ranks of the overweight or obese. Here is just one story.

At five years of age, Drew was already visibly overweight. Can't was a word he used often. In truth, he could not do what others his age could do. He had poor coordination, body control and spatial awareness. He was afraid of new experiences and socially withdrawn. When Drew did try to run, throw a ball or participate he complained that he didn't like the feeling he got from physical exertion. He just avoided activity and sulked. He was not wired for physical activity.

Fortunately, Drew's parents decided to be proactive.

Drew began the GYMTRIX program, a progressive curriculum. He started to learn simple skills and then build on them. With encouragement, Drew experienced small successes. He started to associate physical activity with fun. He started to smile and to joke. He began to look forward to doing new things such as throwing a ball, catching, and jumping. Every day he would run home to tell his mom what he learned. He beamed as he described every thing he accomplished. With all the playing around Drew started to slim down to a normal weight. He came to enjoy the feeling of physical activity and getting sweaty. Within one year, Drew went from being fearful and overweight to being a physically fit, self-confident and happy little boy. The change was amazing to everyone that knew this little boy. But, the truth is that every child can experience the long-term benefits of physical activity. We need to take action, and start early so our children do not become just another obesity statistic.

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