At the YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago, Every Day’s a Great Day To Be a Healthy Kid

What do goat yoga, bounce houses, piggy banks, and basketball competitions have in common? They’re loads of fun—and they all played a smile-inducing role at last week’s Healthy Kids Day celebrations.
 
Anchored by four themes showcasing elements of a healthy childhood—physical activity, financial literacy, nutrition, and mental health—the YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago’s Healthy Kids Day events inspired kids, grownups, and community partners to learn and play.
 
Young athletes had a ball in more ways than one: Thanks to collaborations with the Jr. NBA and the Chicago Fire, youth throughout Chicagoland were able to put their basketball and soccer skills to the test during high-octane contests and clinics.

Meanwhile, Wintrust Bank drove home the message that it’s never too early to learn about financial inclusion and empowerment. Local banking professionals walked families through simple, age-appropriate lessons on saving and the positive impact of small, smart choices over time.

With a virtual cooking demonstration from Chef Eric and in-person snack stations at many of our centers, Healthy Kids Day served up plenty of good (and good-for-you!) eats. Growing, active bodies need nourishing!

At the Y, we don’t just believe in healthy bodies—we develop healthy minds and spirits, too. Through creative activities like goat yoga, tie-dying, and dance, youth attending our Healthy Kids Day programming got a chance to relax and express themselves.

And while we might not have goats onsite year-round, every day’s a great day to be a healthy kid at the Y. With summer just around the corner, keep the fun going by finding your adventure at one of the Y’s camps or joining your local Y community. We can’t wait to celebrate all things childhood with you soon!