Kids can use the section called "Feel like a misfit" to design their own fitness program based on their personality types. Here they can get tips on the right equipment and techniques to promote safe and exciting fun and read stories about individuals who excel in each sport.
Kids also can learn how to overcome asthma or other physical limitations that might make physical activity more difficult. The site gives tips on reducing risk for heat stroke, Lyme's Disease, West Nile Virus and athletes' foot and guidance on helmet use and water safety.
Two fun activities are the "I Heard" Huddle Race where they jump virtual huddles as they answer true and false questions about exercise and fitness. They can also take a virtual tour of the boys and girls locker rooms (all clean fun) to learn how to reduce risk for bacterial and fungal infection.
The site is very interactive and easy to use. The kids can even share testimonials on-line about how physical activity has changed their lives. In the works is a new section called "Head Strong" that will discuss good decision making and how attitude can affect performance.
Teachers are encouraged to use BAM in the classroom. A special section gives tips on how to determine what parts of the site will benefit their students and additional classroom activities are offered to supplement the material on the web.
So "BAM!" offers a lot or everyone. Next time your youngsters say they are bored, send them surfing to this new and entertaining web site.
Source: CDC website: www.bam.gov
Debbie Wilburn is County Agent/Family and Consumer Science Agent with the Hall (770)535-8290 and the Forsyth (770)887-2418 County Extension Service.
http://accesswdun.com/article/2003/4/179910