Healthy Kids Day 2009 is just one of many programs and activities available at local YMCA's that help kids and families develop in countless ways. These activities promote good health, learning, skills development, leadership training, and are just plain fun!
Healthy Kids Day 2009
Healthy Kids Day is annual event that takes place this year on April 18th. As many at 1750 local Y’s are participating in this program. “The nation’s largest health day for children and families, YMCA Healthy Kids Day offers fun, engaging and creative activities for children and families and promotes year-long wellness and healthier living,” (YMCA website, 2009.) Activities including demonstrations, crafts, healthy foods, educational information, and the opportunity to participate in mini-classes will be available. Please note that at some YMCAs, Healthy Kids Day may be held on a day other than April 18th. Local Ys will be able to provide specific dates and times. The YMCA also has a Healthy Kids Day parenting guide available for download on their website.
America on the Move Week
The YMCA also sponsors an annual America on the Move Week, which takes place each September and helps encourage people to become involved in healthy activities. YMCAs will provide assessment tools and other resources families can use in their efforts to reach these goals. America on the Move Week encourages participants to do two simple things: cut 100 calories out of their daily diet, and take 2,000 additional steps each day. Healthy Kids Day and America on the Move Week events are part of a larger “Activate America” initiative, the goal of which is to address nation’s health crisis by promoting healthy lifestyles in a fun, proactive way.
Other YMCA Classes and Programs
The YMCA also offers a popular aquatics program, as well as health and fitness centers and activities, sports and arts programs, day and overnight camping opportunities, child care, and a variety of family programs. Classes and programs are available for members of all ages from toddler to senior citizens, in a variety of interest areas. The YMCA also offers an Adventure Guides program designed to strengthen relationships between parents and kids. The comprehensiveness of YMCA program offerings highlight their motto, “We build strong kids, strong families, strong communities.” Local YMCAs can be located through the YMCA website.
YMCA Youth Leadership Programs
The YMCA offers a variety of programs to help teens develop critical leadership skills. “Leaders Clubs involve teens in community service projects. In Youth and Government, hands-on activities teach them about state government. Model U.N. helps them learn about world politics and the interdependence of nations. The YMCA Black Achievers program …. helps young African Americans to develop a positive sense of self and to set high education and career goals.” (YMCA website, 2009). Other activities for teens include dances, tutoring, mentoring programs, and teen centers.
YMCA programs across America offer a wide range of activities for kids and families that promote healthier ways of living. Memberships allow families to take advantage of multiple benefits and activities, and participate in classes at reduced prices. Local Ys also offer special and seasonal events for families throughout the year.
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