NHSGGC encourage Glasgow families to keep children active
Anna Baxendale, head of health improvement at NHSGGC, said: "Physical activity is vital for children's mental wellbeing, cognitive development, and physical health.
"Children who are active from a young age are more likely to maintain healthy habits into adulthood.
"Active play, especially when it's fun, social, and self-directed, is the most common and effective form of exercise for children outside of school."
Read more: Nurses in Glasgow could go on strike over pay dispute
(Image: Supplied) (Image: Supplied) NHSGGC recognises that keeping children active throughout the summer can be challenging, especially for families facing financial pressures or juggling multiple children.
The health board is sharing details of organised activities in communities, as well as ideas for active play that can be enjoyed at home.
Anna said: "Our aim is to support families in finding free or low-cost ways to keep active in the summer months and beyond by sharing with them organised activities in their local area and creative, cost-free ideas that they can adopt for active play at home.
"We are grateful to our partners and local authorities for creating and hosting these events, as well as developing at-home resources."
NHSGGC is signposting families to resources that promote active play, including Play Scotland, Parent Club, and the HENRY programme.
The HENRY programme, delivered in partnership with Early Years Scotland (EYS) and PEEK (Possibilities for Each and Every Kid), is designed to bring practical support directly into communities.
This summer, EYS is running free Step Into Summer sessions across the region, featuring sensory play, arts and crafts, and outdoor activities.
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PEEK will also host a Play Day on July 30 at Crownpoint Sports Complex, offering go-karting, crafts, outdoor games, and a silent disco.
NHSGGC also works with local authority leisure providers offering holiday programmes, free play sessions, and discounted court hire.
Families in Glasgow can take advantage of Glasgow Life's Summer of Fun, which includes free family swimming, sports camps, and games sessions at local sports centres.
Further details about NHSGGC programmes, including Thrive Under Five and HENRY, are available on the Child and Young Persons' Healthy Weight section of the NHSGGC website.
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