On April 28, the YMCA of Florida's First Coast is celebrating Healthy Kids Day® with a free community event for kids and families in Duval, Clay, St. Johns, Nassau and Baker counties. This nationwide celebration is meant to kick start physical activity and learning throughout the summer – a critical out-of-school time for kids.
Healthy Kids Day is filled with fun, active play and educational activities that will help parents improve their kids' lifestyles for the long term. Research shows that without access to activities that stimulate the mind and body, kids are more prone to gain weight and fall behind academically over the summer months.
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"At the Y, we know that when the school year ends, many kids lose exposure to activities that keep them moving and learning. Healthy Kids Day will help parents begin thinking early about what their kids need to stay physically and intellectually active in the summer," said Eric Mann, President and CEO of the YMCA of Florida's First Coast. "Summer is just around the corner and is an ideal time for kids to get out and grow so they are healthier and sharper when the next school year begins."
Healthy Kids Day is free and open to the entire community. The Y will provide a healthy lunch and water for the whole family. Families can enjoy a day full of fun activities to teach healthy habits, encourage active play and inspire a lifetime love of physical activity. Some of the highlights will include:
• Family Boot Camp
• One-mile Fun Run at Dye Clay Family YMCA, Orange Park
• Rock climbing wall at McArthur Family YMCA, Fernandina Beach
The YMCA of Florida's First Coast will also launch a new initiative to help local families create and maintain a healthy lifestyle. Click here to learn more about attending Healthy Kids Day at your neighborhood Y.