(Naperville, IL) – The Heritage YMCA Group with branches in Aurora, Naperville and Oswego, will join more than 1,500 YMCAs nationwide in the 16th annual YMCA Healthy Kids Day this Saturday, April 14. An opportunity for kids and families to “Put Play in Their Day,” this special event uses free, fun, engaging and creative activities to encourage children and families to adopt behaviors that support a healthy lifestyle. YMCA Healthy Kids Day is part of YMCA Activate America, a national initiative designed to help children and adults discover and sustain healthier ways to live.

Unhealthy eating and physical inactivity are associated with an increased risk of a number of chronic health conditions including obesity. In fact, the percentage of young people who are overweight has tripled over the last 25 years. In 2005, a panel of experts from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommended that school-age children should be participating in moderate to vigorous activity for a minimum of 60 minutes a day. Studies have shown that children who develop healthy exercise and eating habits while they are young are more likely to continue to lead healthy lifestyles through adulthood.

“The need is as strong today as ever before,” said Tom Beerntsen, President/CEO, Heritage YMCA Group. “Families are under increased stress and struggle to balance work, family and health to find supportive communities. More physical activity through play helps children better manage stress, succeed in school, reduce frustration, build energy and, most of all, learn skills that encourage a lifetime of activity.”

Activities taking place during YMCA Healthy Kids Day will include healthy lifestyle presentations, arts and crafts, game tournaments, fitness and preschool class samplers, obstacle courses, inflatables, family swim and more. Registration for summer and camp programs will also take place during the event. Parents can get connected by participating in activities with their kids. Free YMCA giveaways including materials for parents with tips on raising healthy, active kids will be available.

“For more than 150 years, YMCAs have developed initiatives and programs that have helped improve the physical, social, emotional and spiritual health of millions of Americans in diverse communities across the country,” said Dee Dee McDevitt, Director of Marketing, Heritage YMCA. “Participation in YMCA health and wellness programs such as Healthy Kids Day provides kids and families a chance to build friendship and community, a sense of well-being and confidence and improved physical, mental and cognitive abilities.” In addition to hosting Healthy Kids Day, the community is encouraged to take advantage of the Heritage YMCA's "Find Your Balance" membership promotion special starting April 12th through April 23rd on any new adult, single parent or family membership type. This is a savings of $120 for new members.