AUBURN – Hundreds of kids and families from across Androscoggin County are expected to celebrate YMCA Healthy Kids Day on Saturday, April 8, at the Auburn-Lewiston YMCA by participating in an activity-filled festival that celebrates the day’s key call to action, “Put Play in Your Day.”

Activities taking place at the day-long event will include aerobics, yoga, swimming, face painting, numerous gym games, healthy snacks and art projects. Parents can get connected, too, by participating in activities with their kids and receiving free YMCA brochures with tips on raising healthy kids. Admission is free and it is open to all.

“With 9 million U.S. children overweight – more than double the percentage in 1980 – increasing the levels of physical activity in the lives of our children is a critical component of this country’s efforts to fight childhood obesity,” said Jim Lawler, YMCA executive director. “Statistics say that in Lewiston-Auburn alone, one in four children are considered overweight, and the Auburn-Lewiston YMCA is committed to helping these young people get healthier.”

Healthy Kids Day is part of YMCA “Activate America,” a national long-term initiative focused on developing and implementing community-based solutions to help all Americans improve their health and wellness.

The day is supported by the American Diabetes Association, American Heart Association, American Public Health Association, American Cancer Society and the Chronic Disease Directors.

The YMCA will host representatives from Healthy Androscoggin, who will be on-site to provide health-related information to participating families.

“Our YMCA is excited about welcoming kids and families to our Healthy Kids Day celebration on April 8,” said Lawler. “We also invite everyone to learn more about our year-round activities like the fitness center, group exercise classes, aquatic classes, youth basketball, field hockey, Twin City Swim Team, child care and teen programming. Registration information for summer programs such as Camp Connor, Kinder Camp, School-Age Summer Camp and Road Rules will also be available.”

“This day is designed to celebrate healthy living, encourage kids and families to get excited about physical fun and activity, and most importantly, just play,” said Lawler. “Increasing physical activity is one way to get healthier, and doing it as a family is a great way to reconnect with one another.”

For more information, call the Auburn-Lewiston YMCA at 794-4095, stop by at 62 Turner St. or visit www.alymca.com.