Top Psychologist to Address VHI Cork Seminar

4th April 2000 - VHI Says Go For It is a fun, practical approach to healthy living based on sound medical advice and national and international research which shows that healthy living habits formed as a child are passed on from one generation to the next.

"VHI’s key message in Go For It is that you don’t have to be an Olympic athlete to live healthily. As well as being fun, this programme has a very serious goal – to make us all more active so that we live long and healthy lives," said VHI medical director Dr Bernadette Carr.

As part of the VHI Says Go For It programme, a free public seminar will take place on Thursday next, 6 April, 2000 at 7.30pm in the Maryborough House Hotel. The topic to be addressed by leading psychologist, Marie Murray is ‘Healthy Kids – How to Stimulate Your Child’s Development’. The Seminar will identify the social and technological changes which have led to children becoming less like ‘Celtic Tiger Cubs’ and more like ‘Couch Potatoes’.

According to Marie Murray, "In a changing world, children are increasingly exposed to technological toys. While these may have their own inherent learning values, over consumption of technology can deprive children of important developmental opportunities, particularly in the areas of physical development and consequent health".

The Seminar will explore the developmental needs of the child, with particular emphasis on the importance of engaging in physical activities and developing physical skills. A colourful activity poster is available from VHI for 5 – 10 year olds, to encourage them to play fun, active games and provide an alternative to hours spent in front of TV and computer screens. For a free poster call Darina at 1-850-789-999 or e-mail darina.kehoe@vhi.ie.