Tot TV Watch

(Source: Nickelodeon)
One of the most common complaints I hear about children’s television is that it encourages kids to sit in front of the TV instead of being active and using their imagination.  TV shows and video games are often cited as some of the leading causes of childhood obesity and other pediatric health problems.

In 2005, Nickelodeon partnered with the Alliance for a Healthier Generation to try to combat this problem.  The “Let’s Just Play” initiative was formed to encourage kids to engage in healthy and active lifestyles.  Using Nickelodeon’s multimedia platforms, the group has been able to spread their message and reach millions of kids.

Beginning Sunday, April 29, at 8:30 p.m. ET/PT, Nickelodeon will premiere the second season of its Let’s Just Play Go Healthy Challenge.  The six month series, airing during TeenNICK, will showcase real kids participating in a challenge to live a healthier lifestyle.  It will feature two 12-year-olds, Kenderick and April, as they participate in the challenge to become healthier.  It will also include a revolving third storyline each month that will focus on an individual or group of kids working to improve health and wellness in their personal lives or communities.  Various NFL players will also appear in the new “Workout Like a Pro” segments, where they will provide fitness tips.

This year’s challenge will include all new multimedia content and tools online to help kids participate.  Beginning April 5th, kids can download a personalized tracker to their desktops to help them track their progress during the Let’s Just Play Go Healthy Challenge.  The tracker includes a list of favorite activities and healthy food options.  Kids can use the tracker and an online e-calendar to keep their activities and healthy habits organized.

In order to reach the most viewers, the Let’s Just Play Go Healthy Challenge will be available on multiple platforms.  TurboNick will be streaming the full episodes, along with behind-the-scenes footage of the challengers.  Episodes will also be available as free downloads from iTunes and made available  on video-on-demand platforms.  Profiles of Kenderick and April will also be featured in the April and May issues of Nickelodeon Magazine.

While the television segments may be aimed at the elementary and tween/teen crowd, I think parents can also adapt many of the healthy habits showcased for the younger audience as well.  There is no reason that your toddlers and preschoolers can’t start learning healthy habits early on.

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