Health, kids, fun in action

Experts say school-age children should engage in physical activities for at least one hour every day to be healthy.

That was no problem April 12 at Camp Cedar River in Maple Valley, where hundreds of kids and their parents participated in activities associated with YMCA’s national lHealthy Kids Day.

For four hours, starting at 10 a.m., the throng took part in family yoga sessions, bounced crazily on inflatable structures, and took turns on a climbing wall and an archery range. Crafts and a visit from a fire truck also were part of the event.

The sponsor was Lake Heights YMCA. Camp Cedar River is at the Renton Lions Youth Camp at 21230 SE. 184th St.

Organizers of the event wanted to do their part to encourage healfhy lifestyles among youngsters.

Studies show that almost two-thirds of children nationally aren’t getting the suggested amount of physical activity for good health, according to YMCA officials. They also noted that more than nine million children in the United States suffer from weight-related problems, including obesity.

The YMCA of Greater Seattle is a charitable, non-profit organization serving King County and part of Snohomish County. The local organization, formed in 1876, serves more than 190,000 people annually through 13 branches, two resident camps and 200-plus program sites. More information is available at www.seattleymca.org.

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