YMCAHelps Families Bring Healthy Habits Home (NAPSA)—Keeping kids physi- cally active and healthy isn’t exactly child’s play. Efforts to keep kids fit are most successful when scheduled as a family affair, according to Chicago-based YMCA of the USA. Children are more likely to stay active and to make smart, health-related choices when parents lead by example. “Families that make health, activity and exercise priorities in their daily life enjoy many benefits like strengthening family ties, developing similar interests, pre- venting chronic diseases and, most importantly, simply having fun as a family,” said Mike Spez- MAKE HEALTH A FAMILY ACTIVITY— Commit to 20-30 minutes of physi- cal activity as a family each day. zano, national health and fitness specialty consultant for YMCA of healthy goals. Reduce stress at The YMCA offers six “get family members; accept responsi- the USA. started” tips for embracing a healthier lifestyle at home: 1.Commit to 20-30 minutes of physical activity as a family home by agreeing to respect the property and feelings of fellow bility for personal actions; and behave in a caring and thoughtful manner. 6.Celebrate success with like nature hikes or skating. simple rewards. Enjoy movie night or a YMCA family night; buy a new board game; create hand-made awards; reinforce achievements with positive verbal least five days a week. Select recipes that use lower fat, sodium, and refined sugar; choose natural and information can find it at YMCA Healthy Kids Day cele- each day. Walk the dog as a group before dinner; share an afternoon bike ride; play a game of tag; plan fun weekend outings 2.Prepare healthy meals at and unprocessed ingredients feedback. Families seeking inspiration when buying prepared meals; buy fruits and vegetables over un- brated nationally April 8, 2006 and at 1,420 YMCAs nationwide (local dates may vary). The free event engages families in fun, gether in the kitchen or dining room. Eating on the go or in ful information to encourage healthy lifestyle choices. meeting to set group goals sponsored by Disney Channel, Tropicana, Kimberly-Clark Corporation and Kimberly-Clark’s Hug- healthy snacks. 3.Choose to eat meals to- front of the television leads to unhealthy eating habits. 4,.Hold a weekly family about health and activity. For extra encouragement, display goals for everyoneto see. 5.Stress and conflict are major culprits in undermining physical activities and offers help- YMCA Healthy Kids Day is gies, Pull-Ups and Neat Sheet brands. For more information about YMCA Healthy Kids Day events, please visit www.ymca.net.
