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June 4, 2007
Dear Editor:
Almost monthly, news headlines announce a dramatic side-effect of our nation's growing childhood obesity epidemic: Overweight and obesity among kids are on the rise. Unhealthy eating and physical inactivity are associated with an increased risk of a number of chronic health conditions. The percentage of young people who are overweight has tripled over the last 25 years.
But what is the solution?
In 2005, a panel of experts from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommended that school-age children should participate in moderate to vigorous activity for a minimum of 60 minutes a day. Other studies have shown that children who develop healthy exercise and eating habits while they are young are more likely to continue to lead healthy lifestyles through adulthood.
As the day camp pioneer, the YMCA is a key part of this effort, building health and wellness through play, character development and lasting memories for thousands of children each year.
Kids love the imagination and adventure opportunities afforded by the great outdoors. Camp offers a chance to bring simplicity back to kids' lives and to help them reconnect with nature.
The need for camp is as strong today as ever before. Families are under increased stress as they struggle to balance work with quality of life, health and as they try to connect with supportive communities. More physical activity through play helps children and families better manage stress, succeed in school, reduce tension, build energy and, most of all, learn skills that encourage a lifetime of activity.
We think Mom said it best when she said, "Go outside and play!" In a changing world, there is no time like the present.
Sincerely,
Angela Rende, After School and Camp Director, Greenwich Family YMCA
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