Dozens of children and their parents attended the local YMCA’s Healthy Kids Day event April 16 as part of a nationwide effort to encourage youngsters to eat healthy and enjoy physical activity. The free family-oriented event included 25 community partners, a bounce house, family spinning classes, dance classes and activities with the Sheriff’s and Fire departments. Experts recommend that kids engage in at least 60 minutes of physical activity each day. Studies show these kids tend to have higher self-esteem and perform better academically, according to the YMCA. “Play should not seem like a chore,” said Lynnette Ferrari, YMCA Activate America program manager. “It is an activity that is fun and brings joy, and allows a kid to just be a kid.”
