People participate in recreation when they are free from work, school, or other responsibilities.[1] Recreation includes a variety of activities that are physical, artistic, intellectual, or social.[1] Recreational activities provide opportunities for children and youth to learn new skills, socialize, and participate in their community.[2] Children and youth who participate in recreational activities are more likely to experience positive psychosocial and physical development.[2]
Data on recreation and leisure includes three indicators:
[1] Ontario Task Group on Access to Recreation for Low-Income Families. (n.d.). Affordable access to recreation for Ontarians policy framework. Available at: http://www.prontario.org/index.php/ci_id/3681.htm
[2] The Canadian Parks and Recreation Association (CPRA). (2001). Recreation and children and youth living in poverty: Barriers, benefits and success stories. Ottawa, ON: The Canadian Council on Social Development (CCSD). Available at: https://www.cpra.ca/UserFiles/File/EN/sitePdfs/initiatives/EGTP/literature.pdf