The sun is shining and temperatures are rising which are a sure sign of the approach of summer. Children from all over Thurston County will be exiting their classrooms and preparing for time spent at home. The South Sound YMCA is hoping to encourage kids to make healthy choices for the summer by hosting the 25th annual YMCA’s Healthy Kids Day.
“It’s all about getting kids to stay active during the summer,” explains Briggs Community branch executive director, Joyce Neas. “Kids are less physically active and engaged in learning during the summer months and research shows that children gain weight two to three times faster than during the school year. They can also fall behind academically because they don’t have access to out-of-school learning opportunities. This day is dedicated as a powerful reminder to not let children idle away their summer days but instead, focus on physical and mental play.”
Beginning at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, April 30, kids and their families will have the opportunity to learn about games, healthy cooking, arts, and crafts that can facilitate learning and health over the summer. Some of the tips that will be discussed at this year’s event include healthy eating, fostering a passion for books, athletic events, volunteer opportunities, and creating good sleeping habits.
Businesses from all over the South Sound will be participating in this year’s event including South Sound Reading Foundation, Tumwater Farmers Market, Twin Star Credit Union, Olympia Smiles, Thurston Conservation District, Zoe Juice Bar, Home Depot, Costco, Molina Health Care, and Olympia Police and Fire Departments. Each organization will have activities and items to hand out to help children. Group Health will even be on hand fitting children for brand new bike helmets.
“This is our 5th year participating in Healthy Kids Day,” explains Dr. Yathi Lingam of Olympia Smiles. “We want to get out into the community and teach healthy oral habits and educate on the importance of oral hygiene. We participate ever year because the Y encourages total physical health, physical activity, healthy eating habits, and daily hygiene. There are so many fun activities during the day. It’s a great way for me to give back to my community by providing supplies to families. I always want to give back to my community and Healthy Kids Day is a great way to do just that.
“The Y believes in the potential of all children, and we strive to help kids find the Wow! factor inside themselves. A child’s development is never on vacation and Healthy Kids Day is a great opportunity to educate families and motivate kids to stay active in spirit, mind and body throughout the summer,” says Neas.
South Sound 25th Annual YMCA Healthy Kids Day
South Sound YMCA Briggs Community Branch
1530 Yelm Hwy SE, Olympia, WA 98501
Saturday, April 30, 2016
11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Thrifty Thurston highlights inexpensive family fun in Thurston County. The weekly series focuses on family-friendly activities throughout our community. If you have a suggestion for a post, send us a note at submit@thurstontalk.com. For more events and to learn what’s happening in Olympia, Lacey, Tumwater and the surrounding area, visit our complete event calendar.
