Baraga State Park hosts healthy kids event
Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan (BCBSM), Baraga County Memorial Hospital, Michigan Recreation and Park Association (MRPA) and the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) are sponsoring a day of healthy fun to teach children and their families what it means to be fit at Baraga State Park on August 17.
The free event is part of MI Big Green Gym, a program sponsored by BCBSM, MRPA and the DNR designed to promote healthy lifestyles and well-being through the use of parks and recreation facilities within Michigan as places to have fun and exercise. Baraga State Park is just one of the many “big green gyms” that children and their families can utilize to stay active.
Children and their families are invited to attend the event and learn about health, nutrition and fitness, experience family activities and giveaway opportunities. Those that pre-register for the event are provided a free lunch with healthy options, like apple slices and carrots. Fitness classes, like tumbling and youth yoga, are available for participation, as well as nutrition and gardening demonstrations, nature photography classes, outdoor first aid lessons, camping 101 and wildlife identification instruction to educate the whole family in healthy activities. An outdoor obstacle course and games are also provided to teach the importance of being active and having fun.
The event is free to all and family participation is encouraged. Those interested in attending should pre-register for the event online or by calling 906-524-3322 to receive the complimentary healthy lunch, although pre-registration is not necessary to attend the park. A recreation passport if required to enter the park, but may be obtained free of charge from a participating Michigan library.
Many studies show that children that learn healthy behaviors with their families are more likely to make healthy decisions and become healthy adults. In contrast, obese children are more likely to become obese adults and experience potential health conditions such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
The event will be held Saturday, August 17, 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. at the Baraga State Park (1300 US-41 South, Baraga.)