Youth Development and Recreation
Goal: Saginaw County will increase access to education, fitness, and health programs to reduce the obesity rate of youth to federal levels.
Measure
The measures used can be directly impacted by access to development and recreation programs and facilities. They are: 1) obesity of low-income preschool children; 2) overweight and obesity rates of middle school students; and 3) overweight and obesity rates of high school students.
Why This Indicator is Important
Decreasing risk factors that may lead to juvenile delinquency, teen pregnancy, fatal injuries, and related behaviors and incidences is an important goal within the community. Measures can be taken to prevent antisocial and risky behavior by building strong social ties in a positive community environment.
Giving youth a voice in the community and providing them with positive role models and constructive activities can boost self‐esteem and encourage a sense of responsibility for their actions. Combating childhood obesity is a key to eliminating adult obesity, and the dangerous implications for health and economic future of the county.
Giving youth a voice in the community and providing them with positive role models and constructive activities can boost self‐esteem and encourage a sense of responsibility for their actions. Combating childhood obesity is a key to eliminating adult obesity, and the dangerous implications for health and economic future of the county.
How Are We Doing?
Obesity rates of low-income preschool children in Saginaw County and Michigan are the same. However, in general as children age in Saginaw, their obesity rate (2009) becomes higher than the state average (the same for the number of overweight children). The implications are that Saginaw County needs to increase access to activities and recreation programs that can combat obesity beyond early childhood. Data from the survey for park usage shows that children under the age of 18 are not using Saginaw County Parks as a source for activities and recreation programs, and this can be related to Saginaw County’s youth obesity rates.
How Can You Have An Impact?
- Support local recreation facilities.
- Volunteer time to youth sports activities.
- Make time for recreational activities with your child.
- Encourage healthy eating habits.
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