Celebrating Healthy Kids Day

Healthy Kids Day is the Y’s national initiative to improve the health and well-being of families across the country. On this day, Ys hold events and encourage parents to make play dates with their kids every day as a simple way to become a healthier, more active and connected family. 

At a time when one in three children and the majority of adults in the United States are overweight or obese (according to the Centers for Disease Control), developing healthier habits, that include increased physical activity, is more important than ever. As a leading nonprofit for healthy living, the Y holds Healthy Kids Day to teach good health for kids and inspire a lifetime love of physical activity.

The Y knows that many parents struggle to find the time and resources to incorporate physical activity and healthy habits into their kids’ daily routine. By making time for active play every day, families can work together, have fun and achieve greater health and well-being for their spirit, mind and body.

Join us on April 16th from 9 - 12 PM at any of the YMCA of Coastal Georgia branches!

 Click Here to Find Your YMCA Branch

Tips for Families to Make a Play Date

Including more physical activity into your family’s day doesn’t have to require money or resources. It’s as simple as making a play date, with two key requirements – be active and have fun! Here are five things families can do to incorporate more active play in their day: 

1. Schedule a Game Night: Play games with the kids that incorporate physical activity, such as Charades.
2. Dance, Dance: Turn on your favorite party music and dance! Make this activity more fun with a dance contest.
3. Go Riding: Find a new bike path or park for a fun afternoon outdoors; grab your helmets and go rollerblading or bike riding.   
4. Channel Your Inner Youth: Remember playing hopscotch, jump rope, Simon Says or freeze tag as a kid? Teach your favorite childhood game to your kid(s) and play them together.
5. Play Outside: Visit your neighborhood park or camp out in your backyard for some outdoor fun. Get everyone moving with fun sports like soccer, basketball or baseball.