With childhood obesity on the rise and outdoor play declining, the importance of physical activity is something that’s been heavily emphasized in recent years. Parents are being made more and more aware of how crucial regular exercise is for their child’s overall health and well-being. And new programs are making it easy for kids to take part in all kinds of different sports and activities. But one of the benefits of physical activity that isn’t discussed nearly as often is the social aspect. And for a child that doesn’t feel confident about their abilities, the fear of being mocked or excluded by peers can be a huge barrier to taking part in any type of sport.

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Luckily, Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital is changing that with the Igniting Fitness Possibilities program. Designed to bring together children of all skill levels, both with disabilities and without, the program helps make physical activity fun for everyone while encouraging social interaction and acceptance at the same time. [Read more…]