The YMCA of Okanagan will join more than 1,700 YMCAs across North America in celebrating the 10th annual YMCA Healthy Kids Day locally on Sunday, June 7, from noon to 4 p.m.
The annual event offers an opportunity for kids and families to “Put Play in their Day,” this special event uses free, fun, engaging and creative activities to encourage children and families to adopt behaviours that support a healthy lifestyle.
“Community-based responses and solutions, such as YMCA Healthy Kids Day, are vital to alleviate the growing epidemic of obesity and physical inactivity amongst young people,”said Kelowna Mayor Colin Basran.
Our children’s health is a concern for the whole community. In fact, the percentage of young people who are overweight has tripled over the last 25 years.
According to the Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, it is recommended that school-age children participate in 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous activity a day. Studies have shown that children who develop healthy exercise and eating habits while they are young are more likely to continue to lead healthy lifestyles through adulthood.
“The need is as strong as ever before,” said Rhonda Zakala, YMCA senior marketing manager. “Families are under increased stress and struggle to balance work, family and health. Physical activity through play helps children better manage stress, succeed in school, reduce frustration, build energy and, most of all, learn skills that encourage a lifetime of activity.”
So come dressed to run, jump, swim and play on Sunday, June 7. Free activities taking place both inside and outside the Kelowna Family YMCA, 375 Hartman Rd. in Rutland, will include an entertaining, interactive main stage, over 40 activity stations with games, crafts and more, giant inflatables, plus a nutritious BBQ and healthy snacks for everyone who attends.
Parents can get connected to their community by participating in activities with their kids and taking away resources that will help them incorporate healthier routines into their family’s daily lives.
YMCA Healthy Kids Day is generously sponsored by organizations dedicated to improving the health and wellbeing of kids and their families in the Okanagan including Interior Savings, Sun FM and Kelowna Capital News.
For more information on YMCA Healthy Kids Day, see ymcaokanagan.ca.
