At the Y we are all about more. The more support, guidance and opportunities we give kids, the more amazing qualities they’ll get out. The more they get out, the more they can achieve growing up. “Put More In, Get More Kid Out” is the theme for our biggest day of the year devoted to kids.
To kick-start physical activity and learning throughout the summer – a critical out-of-school time for kids – on Sat., April 25, the Naperville YMCAs along with Ys across the nation are celebrating Healthy Kids Day® with a free community event for kids and families. YMCA’s Healthy Kids Day is a national Y initiative to improve families’ health and well-being featuring activities to motivate and teach families how to develop a healthy routine at home. Some of the great activities in Naperville this year include family obstacle courses and fitness classes, bounce houses, kids dance demos, nutrition consultations, organic gardening demos as well as visits from community partners like the Naperville Public Library, Naperville Police Department and Fire Department.
Today, according to the Dupage FORWARD Coalition, 25.8 percent of children in grades kindergarten, 6th and 9th in the Naperville/Lisle/Aurora area are overweight or obese. The good news is that this percentage reflects a 3 percent drop since 2010. The bad news is that still 1 in 4 youth at this age are considered overweight or obese. The Y wants to see this decline continue.
“The Y is so much more than sports, swimming, summer camp and a place for kids to hang out. We support families in their efforts to instill healthy habits at home,” said Judy Ellertson, Executive Director of the Fry YMCA. “We know that it can sometimes feel like a challenge. So at Healthy Kids Day, we’ll encourage kids to stay physically and intellectually active all summer long, and give families tips they can easily replicate at home. It’s free and open to the community.”
Activities on April 25 run from 10AM to 1PM at the Fry YMCA and 9:30AM-12:30PM at the Kroehler YMCA. For more information, contact us at the Y or visit www.napervilleymcas.org.
