According to Childhood Obesity Action Network, State Obesity Profiles, 2009, 37.3 percent percent of children in Georgia are overweight or obese. This means that our kids are at risk for developing chronic adult diseases, such as high cholesterol, cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure and type-2 diabetes.

Lifestyles that include regular physical activity and healthy eating can lower kids’ chances of becoming obese or overweight and developing chronic diseases. As a leading nonprofit strengthening community through healthy living, the Y believes that getting kids more active and allowing them to play leads to a healthier lifestyle. We know that many parents struggle to find the time and resources to incorporate physical activity and healthy habits into their kids’ daily routine. So, the Effingham YMCA is holding YMCA’s Healthy Kids Day™ to celebrate and teach good health for kids, encourage active play and inspire a lifetime love of physical activity.

On April 16, the Effingham YMCA invites families throughout Effingham County to come to Healthy Kids Day for a play date. Healthy Kids Day is the Y’s national initiative to improve the health and well-being of kids and families and is the largest event of its kind in the nation. At nearly 1,600 events across the country, the Y will provide activities and educational demonstrations on how to be more active and incorporate healthier habits at home. Activities will include Family Field Day activities, Youth Fitness Classes, Youth Boot Camp Demonstration, and Scavenger Hunt.

“We know it’s not always easy to make healthy choices, and that’s why Healthy Kids Day is so important,” said Kim Dennis executive director of the Effingham Y. “At our event families will learn that it doesn’t take extra money or resources to live healthier. All it takes is planning, commitment and spending time together.

“We encourage the community to join us for Healthy Kids Day. Other agencies who promote healthy lifestyles for families and children are welcome to join us.”

Contact Dennis at 826-2199 to reserve space.

“By helping families get on track to healthier living, we can significantly improve the health and well-being of kids, one play date at a time,” Dennis said.