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Healthy Kids Day activities at Sussex Family YMCA April 24

April 21, 2021

Following a year of social distancing, virtual school, mask wearing and endless hours of screen time, the Sussex Family YMCA in Rehoboth Beach will host Healthy Kids Day from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., Saturday, April 24, encouraging families to take a moment to help kids be kids.

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

Attractions include an obstacle course, bounce house, art activities, food, giveaways and more. A pool party is set for 12:30 to 1:30 p.m.

“As adults, we know that 2020 was difficult on so many levels – it’s important to remind ourselves that as much as we try to protect our kids from worry, they faced many of those same difficulties. As communities continue to reopen, the Y is here for families, helping kids recover both physically and mentally from a stress-filled year,” said Deborah Bagatta-Bowles, YMCA of Delaware CEO. “We believe in the potential of all children, and we strive to help kids find that potential within themselves. When a child is healthy, happy and supported, they can make great things happen.”

Healthy Kids Day, now in its 29th year, is the Y’s national initiative to improve health and well-being for kids and families. The Y hopes to use the day to get more kids moving and learning, creating healthy habits they can continue while they’re away from the classroom. When kids are out of school, they can face hurdles that prevent them from reaching their full potential. Research shows that without access to out-of-school learning activities, kids fall behind academically. Kids also gain weight twice as fast during summer compared to the school year. Following a year filled with numerous changes and uncertainty, Healthy Kids Day is a reminder to families that they 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 veggies 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 aside 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 percent in reading compared to their peers. Encourage children to access new wonders with their own library card. Many libraries now offer curbside pickup.
  • 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.

For more information, go to ymcade.org/hkd/.

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