Twilight games cut health risks

By Shaun Inguanzo
A KEYSBOROUGH Primary School this week hosted a twilight games night to encourage students and their families to take part in at least 30 minutes of exercise a day.
Maralinga Primary School hosted its Twilight Games session on Tuesday to reduce the risk of students being subjected to health problems such as diabetes, heart disease and obesity.
The school’s primary wellbeing officer, Elissa Sewell, said the twilight games coincided with the launch of the Victorian Premier’s Active Families Challenge.
Premier John Brumby has challenged all Victorian families to exercise for at least 30 minutes each day.
Ms Sewell said the twilight games evening promoted games that could be easily played together as a family, while keeping children – and adults – fit and healthy.
Ms Sewell said the evening complemented the school’s healthy eating approach, too.
“We are trying to encourage some healthy habits and highlighting the need that people need to be considering the amount of activity they are doing and what they are eating,” she said.
“One in four children by the time they reach their 20s is suffering from health issues such as diabetes and heart problems.
“The risks are real – and these are our kids.”
Ms Sewell said the Premier’s challenge was a month-long campaign.
She said the school would continue to promote healthy eating and exercise by having Nutrition Australia visit forthcoming parents’ forums to discuss packing healthy lunches.