The Niles-Buchanan YMCA is celebrating Healthy Kids Day Saturday with a free event for kids and families in the community. More than 1,900 Ys across the country are taking part in the celebration, meant to kick start physical activity and learning throughout the summer — a critical out-of-school time for kids.

Healthy Kids Day, a national initiative of the Y to improve the health and well-being of kids, is filled with fun, active play and educational activities that will help parents improve their kids’ lifestyles for the long term. Research shows that without access to activities that stimulate the mind and body, kids are more prone to gain weight and fall behind academically over the summer months.

“At the Y, we know that when the school year ends, many kids lose exposure to activities that keep them moving and learning. Healthy Kids Day will help parents begin thinking early about what their kids need to stay physically and intellectually active in the summer,” said Greg Schuman, membership and marketing director. “Summer is just around the corner and is an ideal time for kids to get out and grow so they are healthier and sharper when the next school year begins.”

The event will take place at the Niles-Buchanan YMCA, 905 N. Front St., Niles, from 1 to 4 p.m. and will feature activities such as inflatable bounce houses, games, open swim, healthy snacks, gymnastics, dance and more.

A leading nonprofit committed to strengthening community through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility, the Y holds Healthy Kids Day to teach healthy habits and inspire a lifetime love of physical activity through active play.

As part of this initiative, the Y — along with hundreds of thousands of parents and kids nationwide — is taking on summer by addressing critical gaps in health and education that cause kids to be at risk for childhood obesity and suffer summer learning loss.

In addition, the Niles-Buchanan is proud to host representatives from the Mason’s Child ID program, Child and Family Services and more, who will be providing information and resources to parents who attend.

For more information, contact Greg Schuman at 683-1552 or visit www.nb-ymca.com.