The event encourages kids to stay active and keep learning all summer long. This event is free and open to the public.
On Saturday, April 29, from 1 to 4 p.m., the YMCA of Burlington and Camden Counties is holding a free community event to inspire more kids to keep their minds and bodies active at the annual YMCA’s Healthy Kids Day.
Healthy Kids Day is the Y’s national initiative to improve health and well-being for kids and families. In addition to Healthy Kids Day, the Y is offering both membership and summer camp specials.
This year’s Healthy Kids Day takes place at the Mt. Laurel YMCA located at 59 Centerton Road and features activities such as family group fitness classes, painting/coloring activities, Soccer for Success, shoot-outs, games and more to motivate and teach families how to develop healthy routines at home.
The first 1,000 children in attendance will receive free giveaways. This event is free and open to the public. Additionally, there will be exhibits from the Mount Laurel Fire Department, Army training games and a visit from the Burlington County Library Book Mobile. Healthy snacks will be provided by the Silver Diner.
In conjunction with Healthy Kids Day, those who join the Y can pay one price beginning April 28 and enjoy the Y through Aug. 27 through a Summer Membership Special, with individuals paying $99 and families paying $129.
Additionally, those who register and pay in full for two weeks or more of Day Camp from April 28 through May 1 can save up to $200 on the cost of camp.
“When a child is healthy, happy, motivated and excited, something amazing is inevitably going to result,” said Bill Emerson, Chair, Board of Governors, YMCA of Burlington and Camden Counties. “We believe in the potential of all children, and we strive to help kids find that potential within themselves. A child’s development is never on vacation and Healthy Kids Day is a great opportunity to educate families and motivate kids to stay active in spirit, mind and body throughout the summer.”
In celebration of YMCA’s Healthy Kids Day, the Y offers the following tips to help families develop healthy habits:
- High Five the Fruits and Veggies — Make sure kids get at least five servings a day, the minimum number nutritionists recommend to maintain healthy childhood development. And to keep kids’ taste buds evolving, have everyone in the family try at least one bite of a new fruit or vegetable at least once a month.
- Foster an Early and Ongoing Passion for Books — Read to and with kids. Help children read at every age and every stage of their development.
- Team Up for Athletic Events — Set a family goal of great health by teaming up for community or charity events like races, walks, fun runs, bike rides, etc.
- Volunteer Together — Find a cause that matters to the kids.
- Make sleep a priority — Doctors recommend 10 to 12 hours of sleep a day for children ages 5 to 12 and seven to eight hours per night for adults.
For more information, call the Mt. Laurel Welcome Center at (856) 231–9622 Ext. 215 or visit http://www.ymca-bc.org/events/healthy-kids-day-2/.
