Summer is the time for kids to get up, get out and grow. But for some kids, exposure to activities that stimulate the body and mind ends with the school year. In fact, research shows that kids are prone to gain more weight and fall behind in studies.

On Saturday, the Y will celebrate Healthy Kids Day, our national initiative to improve the health and well-being of kids.

The Y is all about more. The more support, guidance and opportunities we give kids, the more amazing qualities they’ll get out. The more they get out, the more they can achieve growing up.

That’s why we provide kids a healthy, caring environment of fun, learning and belonging to help them reach their fullest potential.

And that’s why we celebrate Healthy Kids Day, our biggest day of the year devoted to kids and more. Over 1,300 Ys across the country are taking part in Healthy Kids Day, holding free community events that are open to all kids and families and filled with fun, active play and educational opportunities. Visit YMCA of Austin on March 19 from 9:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. There will be an obstacle course, bounce house, gymnastics, canoe rides and games in the pool. There are areas to promote Y programs and areas for youth.

There will be youth and tiny tykes sports, teen center, toddler gym, along with gymnastic and swimming lessons, along with healthy snack ideas and prizes.

The event is free and open to the public.