Amarillo Family YMCA, along with many YMCAs across the nation, dedicated Saturday April 8 to promoting fun fitness to improve health and wellness. An estimated 500,000 children and families chose to “Put Play in Their Day” as they gathered at community-based events that celebrated healthy living, encouraged families to embrace a more active lifestyle and introduced unique YMCA programs.
The day-long event taught attendees that being physically active and healthy does not have to be boring. Kids pattern their behavior after their parents. When kids and parents spend quality time doing physical activity together, they ultimately develop a lifelong commitment to physical activity and respect for their health.
BikeTexas Safe Routes to School Outreach Coordinators Fernando Martinez and Joyce Cunningham provided bicycle safety information to event attendees. Exhibitors joined in with fun, games, prizes, food and kid’s booths both indoors and outdoors. The YMCA’s motto of “We build strong kids, strong families, strong communities” was evident as visitors toured the booths. Sleeping infants in strollers to adults on walkers with wheels enjoyed the many attractions and activities.
YMCA Healthy Kids Day is part of YMCA Activate America, an innovative public health initiative of the YMCA movement that is making healthy living a reality for millions of Americans. By celebrating health and wellness of young people through a variety of fun, physical activities, YMCA Healthy Kids Day encourages kids and their families nationwide to stay active, connected and healthy.