Final answer:
The statement that children's innate desire to move is stifiled by elementary age is false. Although environmental factors and societal trends may influence activity levels, many children are still eager to engage in physical activities and benefit from initiatives promoting healthier lifestyles.
Step-by-step explanation:
When considering the statement regarding children's innate desire to move being stifled by the time they reach elementary school age, it is critical to evaluate the nature of childhood development and the environmental factors influencing children's activity levels. This is broadly a false statement. While it is true that environmental factors, such as less time for unstructured play and increased academic pressures may impact children's activity levels, it is not accurate to say that the innate desire to be active has been stifled in all elementary-aged children.
Physical activity and healthy eating are indeed fundamental parts of a child's education and overall development. Outdoor play, for instance, is not just about staying active but also about sensory experiences that contribute to a child's physical and cognitive development. Despite the societal trends mentioned, many children still actively participate in sports and other peer-group activities as indicated in resources like Figure 23.6.8. Hence, an en masse diminishment of the desire for physical activity by elementary school age cannot be concluded definitively.
In conclusion, while efforts such as the Let's Move! campaign underscore the importance of active lifestyles to combat obesity, these initiatives also recognize that children still possess a desire to be active and can benefit from healthier nutritional options paired with increased exercise opportunities.