It's never too early to show your Mini Macaronis how fun exercise and being healthy can be!
That's one of the ideas behind the Healthy Kids Running Series, a national nonprofit organization based in Pennsylvania, but with programs in 29 states across the country.
The series is a five-week running program offered in the fall and spring at local parks coordinated by local residents with the support of community businesses. Children from pre-k through eighth grade can register for HKRS with race distances varying by age -- from a 50-yard dash to a one-mile run.
With a national spotlight still focused on childhood obesity, HKRS is a terrific way for children to exercise, while boosting their self-esteem and sense of accomplishment when they finish that race!
My own Mini Macaronis competed in our local series and while they didn't always love the running (they might take after their mom!), they did enjoy going out and having a great time with their friends during each weekly race, and earning a medal for their hard work and participation.
Jamie Walton, a mom, school counselor, and the energy behind the series in Lebanon, Pa., saw a need in her community to get local youth involved with running to establish a positive relationship with being active while giving them a chance to meet friends.
"I see kids on all different fitness levels come out. They have fun by running! I see kids encouraging kids each week. I see smiles...and sweat. Even runners who finish toward the back learn something about themselves - that they can do anything they put their mind to and that they are stronger than they think they are. It's about building self-confidence and a belief that they have something to offer no matter what place they cross the finish line," said Walton.
There are a variety of ways that families can get involved in the program. If there isn't a local series near you, you can start your own; if your children are older, you can consider volunteering; if you own a local business, you can be a sponsor. Learn more by visiting www.healthykidsrunningseries.org.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EzC1PupilOc
