Remember: Fun, Healthy Activities for Children

Dr. A. Webb, Chair, Childhood Obesity Initiative Committee, Division 1 Capital District Kiwanis

SPRING IS HERE AGAIN.  Before you know it summer will soon arrive.  It is the perfect time to get children in your area active and encourage them to enjoy the outdoors.

Remember that it is our social responsibility as Kiwanians to serve children. Provide a healthy environment them.  Here are a few tips to consider.

• If you are serving snacks, choose fresh fruit and vegetable snacks with dips, pretzels and trail mixes.
• Encourage children to drink lots of water a day.  This keeps their bodies well hydrated.
• 100% fruit popsicles and smoothies are also great thirst quenchers and provide essential vitamins and nutrients
• When your club is considering activities, think about
• art activities where children use color and their creativities to improve their mental health – eg. painting, crafts, etc
• outdoor activities encourage exercise and keep children away from watching television all day – hold a picnic or barbecue; visit the zoo; host a walk-a–thon, roller blade or skating event; sponsor a fair filled with fun activities
• inter-clubbing – sponsor a sports day or community outdoor activity and invite children from neighboring clubs to join your event.  This encourages development of their social skills.
•  Children look up to adults to be their role models. Get active in all activities with children and adopt healthier lifestyles too.

I hope that you enjoy the spring and summer breaks with the children that you serve. Continue the great work for Kiwanis.