The Sonoma County Family YMCA : Initiatives

ACTIVATE YOUTH INFO

The program is currently implemented throughout the program day at our 20 school-aged childcare sites in the county. Activities alternate between unstructured out- side play, organized games, hands-on cooking projects, and basic education on leading a healthy lifestyle. The children also use pedometers and set goals as they walk state-to-state learning about National Parks. The Activate Youth program provides baseline data and an initial assessment of youth fitness and attitudes that will be used to plan a broader, more comprehensive program.

GOALS & OBJECTIVES

Implement a Youth Health & Fitness program, which will help develop character and teach healthy lifestyles, along with building Developmental Assets
Provide a minimum of 30 to 45 minutes of structured physical activity, 2 to 3 days per week
Increase regular physical activity
Provide an educational component regarding nutrition and benefits of physical activity
Improve self-image and self-confidence
Reduce anxiety, depression and tension
Reinforce interpersonal skills and socially acceptable behavior
Lower the risk of developing chronic health conditions
Create clear guidelines/recommendations for Healthy Snacks and Nutrition in all programs
Involve the family

BENEFITS OF PHYSICAL ACTIVITY

Helps build and maintain healthy bones, muscles, and joints
Helps control weight, build lean muscle and reduce fat
Prevents or delays the development of high blood pressure
Reduces feelings of depression and anxiety and improves self-esteem
Improves strength
Enhances academic performance
Decreases risk of Type 2 diabetes

TIPS FOR FAMILIES

Limit Sedentary Activities: Firmly control the amount of time your children spend in front of the TV, computer or video games to about 1 to 2 hours per day. Instead, help them choose any type of moderate or higher intensity physical activity, e.g., brisk walking, playing tag, jumping rope, biking, or swimming, as long as it adds up to at least one hour per day.

Remember Safety First: Begin to be physically active by starting slowly and gradually building to a higher level to prevent the risk of injury or feel defeated by unrealistic goals.

Promote the Concept of Personal Best: Have youth be physically active by doing things that interest them; this will help establish an active lifestyle early on. Give positive feedback to your child for surpassing what he or she did the previous week.

Work Together as a Family: The home environment is one of the strongest influences on behavior. Discuss how family members can work together as a team to decrease high calorie foods and increase physical activity. Make family activities fun.

Teach Them to Like Healthy Food: The earlier kids start enjoying a healthy, well-balanced diet, the better off they'll be for life.

Get Preventative Screenings

Sonoma County Family YMCA - 1111 College Avenue, Santa Rosa, CA 95404 (707) 545-9622

501c3 not-for-profit charitable organization.

Financial assistance is offered on a sliding scale providing access to those unable to pay.