Kids are the focus at YMCA centers around the Bay area Saturday.
Healthy Kids Day is being celebrated at 1,600 YMCAs around the country. The goal is to get kids moving and learning so they can keep up the habit through the summer.
"There's a lot of obesity in the world and we don't want that because it causes a lot of health problems," said YMCA member Hudson Franklin. "And if we're fit, that's going to help us a lot."
In St. Petersburg, the day began with the Meek and Mighty Triathlon. Activities are also planned at YMCAs from Largo to Crystal River.
"Not only are we bringing awareness of obesity but we're helping to end it," said member Amanda Reupero.
At the Tampa Y, there are bounce houses, sports and fitness areas and healthy snacks.
Tampa wasn't the only place reaching out hoping to get kids to adopt healthy lifestyles. Former Facebook spokeswoman Randi Zuckerberg helped Largo kids "unplug" from technology at Largo Central Park.
"We want kids to play outside and experience the world and experience one another and not lost that by becoming so buried in tech too early," said Zuckerberg.
To mark the day, the Y is promoting the these tips:
- Make sure kids get at least five servings a day, the minimum number nutritionists recommend to maintain healthy childhood development.
- Read to and with your kids. Help children read at every age and every stage of their development.
- Team Up for Athletic Events. Set a family goal of great health by teaming up for community or charity events like races, walks and fun runs.
- Volunteer Together. Find a cause that matters to the kids. Open their eyes to a world beyond themselves and the rich rewards that come from making a difference.
- Lead By Example. Kids can be influenced by seeing how hard their parents work at home or on the job, and how rewarding that experience is.