NATIONWIDE -- More than 1,700 YMCAs across the country are gearing up for Healthy Kids Day on April 12. The day celebrates making fitness fun, and, through free programming for the day, introduces children to an array of Y programs and tools that teach healthy behaviors and healthy ways to play—an essential lesson in learning how to take care of themselves throughout their lifetimes, according to the YMCA of the USA.
Launching this year at Healthy Kids Day is Healthy Family Home, a program to help families incorporate healthier habits at home. Funded by Eli Lilly and Co., the program focuses on practical, achievable lifestyle changes in the areas of family life where small changes can have the biggest impact, such as playing every day, eating healthy and scheduling family time.
The Healthy Kids Day event is celebrated annually. Activities at participating Ys vary and may include games, sports, health screenings and more, according to the YMCA of the USA.