By Kristi Stasi, Austin YMCE

Demands of work, school, homework and never-ending to-do lists often make playtime a luxury that does not always make the daily schedule. But experts agree that making play a priority brings a multitude of benefits for kids, including improved health and emotional well-being and increased positive academic performance.

“Families are under increased stress and struggle to balance work, family and health and to find supportive communities,” says Neil Nicoll, president and CEO of YMCA of the USA. “More physical activity through play helps children and parents better manage stress, succeed in school, reduce frustration, build energy and, most of all, learn skills that encourage a lifetime of activity.”

Recent studies suggest children need at least 60 minutes of physical activity each day. As many schools reduce their focus on physical education and activity to meet academic goals, it is increasingly important families ensure their children’s physical activity needs are met. YMCA experts believe it is important for kids to enjoy a balance between structured activities or sports and relaxed free play and offer the following tips to help parents put more play in their kids’ days:

*Avoid TV, video games and computers for at least 30 minutes after school. Taking a bike ride, walk or just playing outdoors not only gets bodies moving, but also helps kids decompress before homework time.

*Lose the guilt and do not think of free play as wasted time. Play is as much a part of a healthy day as eating nutritious foods and brushing teeth. A regular dose of play can boost test scores, self-esteem and metabolism.

*Commit to spending time outdoors almost every day — rain or shine. Just getting out the front door greatly increases the opportunities for physical activity through play.

*Make play a part of family rituals. Shooting hoops before dinner, walking the dog, taking a Saturday morning bike ride, sledding, skating or skiing will get everyone moving. It provides great opportunities for building family connectedness.

*Get creative and incorporate play into “necessity” activities. Visit a park for 30 minutes on the way home from a doctor’s appointment; walk or bike to nearby errands like the bank or post office; crank up some music and engage the family in a Saturday morning clean–the-house dance party.

To participate in fun play activities in their own community, families are encouraged to take part in YMCA Healthy Kids Day, Saturday, March 23. The nation’s largest health day for children, YMCA Healthy Kids Day will bring more than 500,000 kids and families to 1,800+ YMCAs nationwide to “Get a Jump on Summer.” This is the 22nd annual event, which offers tips and tools to help families work toward building healthier lifestyles together.

Activities at the YMCA of Austin Healthy Kids Day on Saturday, March 23 from 9:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. will include: canoe rides, kids’ fitness testing, Zumba, nutritional activities, bounce house, basketball contest, obstacle course, gymnastics and so much more!