Galion YMCA’s Healthy Kids Day helps kids stay active

Submitted article

On Saturday, April 25, the Galion Community Center YMCA is holding a free community event to inspire more kids to keep their minds and bodies active. YMCA’s Healthy Kids Day®, the Y’s national initiative to improve health and well-being for kids and families, features activities such as crafts, fitness activities, and open swim time to motivate and teach families how to develop healthy routines at home.

YMCA’s Healthy Kids Day, celebrated at nearly 1,300 YMCAs across the country, aims to get more kids moving and learning, so they can keep up the habit all summer long – a critical out-of-school time for kids’ health. When kids are out of school, they can face hurdles – or gaps – that prevent them from reaching their full potentials, related to hunger, water safety, learning, safe spaces to play, and health. Each year, the Y helps over 9 million youth nationwide “hop the gap” and achieve more, providing a safe to place to learn, stay healthy and build friendships.

“The Y is so much more than sports and swimming. We support families in their efforts to instill healthy habits at home,” said Jason Gough, Program Director, Galion Community Center YMCA. “We know that it can sometimes feel like a challenge. So at Healthy Kids Day, we’ll encourage kids to stay physically and intellectually active all summer long, and give families tips they can easily replicate at home.”

The Galion Community Center YMCA’s Healthy Kids Day will take place at 500 Gill Avenue in Galion from 9:30 am until noon and will feature fun active play and educational activities, as well as a pancake breakfast for each child who registers for the event. Registration is required for this event. Contact the Galion Community Center YMCA at 419.468.7754 by Wednesday, April 22 to reserve your spot.

Since 1957, the YMCA has worked to strengthen the Galion community through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. Over 183,000 men, women and children of various ages, incomes, backgrounds visit the Galion Community Center YMCA each year to participate in activities that nurture the potential of children and teens, improve the community’s health and well-being, and provide opportunities to give back and support neighbors. For more information about the Galion Community Center YMCA, visit galioncenterymca.org.