3 Easy Ways to Keep Kids Healthy All Summer Long
bcbsm
| 3 min read
The final bell of the school year is about to ring, which means two very different things to kids and parents. Children race out of the building excited for months without homework or schedules, while parents worry about things like how on earth they’re going to keep their kids from sitting in front of a screen until September. It’s a valid concern: During the school year, physical education classes and programs like Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan’s Building Healthy Communities keep kids moving. But without the structure of school, it’s way too easy for them to lose track of the healthy habits they learned during the year. That’s where Blue Cross can help. To continue its mission of supporting the health of Michigan’s kids year-round, Blue Cross sponsors a variety of family-focused summer programs.
- For kids with way too much energy: Tri-City Kids’ TriathlonThis youth-only event (it’s only open to kids ages six through 15) is a traditional triathlon geared to boosting self-esteem and confidence. And the best part is kids don’t need to have any experience with triathlons. For the week leading up to the race, which happens on July 15, kids can take part in training camps at the Midland Community Center. There they will learn the skills needed to swim, bike and run through the course, giving them the know-how to succeed on race day.
- For kids who love brain teasers: Be Greater Kids AdventureThis brand new event doesn’t just make kids’ bodies work, it also challenges their minds. The Be Greater Kids Adventure is an outdoor, team activity for kids between the ages of five and 12. Groups of five (each team must have one adult over the age of 18) figure out challenges using clues and perform physical activities while running around the neighborhoods surrounding the Midland Community Center. The race takes place on Thursday, August 10, from 6 – 8 p.m.
- For kids who love the great outdoors: Michigan Activity PassNo matter where you live in the state, the Michigan Activity Pass lets you explore Michigan’s beautiful sites with your family. This year marks the program’s 10th anniversary of providing free or discounted access to hundreds of state parks, historic sites, cultural attractions and campgrounds. Library card holders can print a free one-day pass at home and use it at 435 participating destinations across the state. The Michigan Activity Pass is offered through MI Big Green Gym, a collaboration between Blue Cross, mParks and the DNR.
For more on Blue Cross’ commitment to the health of Michigan’s kids, check out these posts:
- Michigan Activity Pass Program Celebrates 10 Years, Offers Free Passes to State Parks and Cultural Destinations Courtesy of Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, Michigan Parks and Libraries
- Cadillac Youth Fit Program Helping Teens Make Healthier Choices
- Success Stories: How a Commitment to Michigan’s Children Builds Healthy Communities
Photo credit: pbkwee
