Back-to-school a time to sound the alarm on Canada’s kids: UNICEF

TORONTO, September 5, 2017 – As millions of children and youth across Canada head back to school this week, UNICEF Canada is sounding the alarm on their well-being. Higher than average rates of bullying and unhealthy weight, combined with poor mental health are threatening their chances for success.

According to a UNICEF report released this summer, Canada ranks 25th out of 41 rich countries when it comes to child well-being. Of particular concern are the rankings around child health, violence experienced by children and their own sense of well-being.

“We send children to school in order to set them up for success, said David Morley, UNICEF Canada President and CEO. “Yet with the poor state of so many critical indicators of child and youth well-being – things like their health, safety and their sense of belonging – it’s clear we’re not doing enough to ensure the best possible outcomes for Canada’s children. Now is the time to face the facts and ask ourselves how we can do better.”

One in seven young Canadians are regularly bullied

Canada ranks 27th out of 41 of the world’s richest countries in bullying, with a bullying rate of 15 per cent that is well above average. While many countries have made progress in reducing their bullying rates, Canada’s has remained fairly stable over the past 10 years.

“At least one in seven of Canada’s children regularly and repeatedly experience bullying,” said Morley. “This should be worrying not only for parents and educators, but for every one of us as Canadians. Is this the Canada we want our kids to grow up in – a country of fear and exclusion?”

Bullying can have extensive impacts on mental health, an area where Canada is also lagging. Nearly a quarter of young people in Canada report experiencing two or more symptoms related to their mental health more than once a week.

One in four young Canadians are obese

Back-to-school can also mean back to school cafeterias. In Canada, one in four young people are obese, and the country ranks 29th of 41 countries in unhealthy weight of children.

“Many kids skip breakfast, don’t bring snacks or even a packed lunch to school,” said Olivia L., a young Canadian involved in UNICEF Canada’s work to improve the well-being of youth. “Having spent a lot of time in my school cafeteria from when I was in elementary school to now in high school, I’ve seen many kids who bring lunches that are filled with overly processed food and sugary snacks with no nutritional value. Many young people are also misinformed when it comes to nutrition and healthy eating.”

New movement launching to make Canada the best place for kids

How can Canada address these challenges and move to the top of the UNICEF Index of Child Well-being? UNICEF Canada says the answer lies in better measurement and data, the design of innovative solutions and in all Canadians coming together for and with kids.

“This fall, we’re launching One Youth, and we want all Canadians to be a part of it,” said Morley. “Help us talk about, and develop and test solutions to some of these challenges facing kids today. Whether you’re five or 65, you have a role to play in making Canada the best place to grow up in.”

Visit www.unicef.ca/oneyouth to learn more.