YMCA Healthy Kids Day to be celebrated across Delaware

Delaware State News
Posted 4/20/21

WILMINGTON — Following a year of social distancing, virtual school, mask wearing and endless hours of screen time, YMCA of Delaware branches across the state are hosting Healthy Kids Day on …

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YMCA Healthy Kids Day to be celebrated across Delaware

Posted

WILMINGTON — Following a year of social distancing, virtual school, mask wearing and endless hours of screen time, YMCA of Delaware branches across the state are hosting Healthy Kids Day on April 24, encouraging families to take a moment to help kids be kids.

The Y aims to provide a carefree day for children, celebrating what makes a kid, a healthy kid. In-person events will feature physically distanced activities and be in accordance with the Center for Disease Control and Prevention and state/local recommendations.

Healthy Kids Day, now in its 29th year, is the Y’s national initiative to improve health and well-being for kids and families.

Research shows that without access to out-of-school learning activities, kids fall behind academically. Kids also gain weight twice as fast during summer than the school year. Following a year filled with numerous changes and uncertainty, Healthy Kids Day is a reminder to families that we can help ensure all children have access to the key ingredients to reach their full potential, even during out-of-school time.

In celebration of the YMCA’s Healthy Kids Day, the Y is focusing on five “ingredients” that make a healthy child:

  • Healthy Food – Children need at least five servings of fruits and vegetables each day for healthy development. Kids who help make their own meals and snacks are more likely to try the food, so enlist children in meal prep to encourage tasty explorations.
  • Physical Activity – From increased screen time to virtual school, studies show that children moved less in 2020 than usual. Help kids get back into physical activity routines by setting at least 60 minutes for fun games and play every day.
  • Curiosity – Children who are read to by a family member at least three times per week are almost twice as likely to score in the top 25% in reading compared to their peers. Encourage children to access new wonders with their own library card.
  • Laughter and Fun – It’s important to let kids be kids. Parents should make sure they are joining in the fun with their kids. Close the laptop, turn off the phone and have uninterrupted play time. These opportunities allow adults to model a love for activity while providing invaluable family bonding time.

Event activities will vary by location. More details are available online.

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