Lights On Afterschool events showcase healthy eating, stress management & active lifestyles

Afterschool programs are key players in ensuring children’s well-being, addressing challenges such as hunger and food insecurity, managing stress, encouraging physical activity, and avoiding alcohol and drugs. Many Lights On Afterschool events this year are showcasing how afterschool programs promote health and wellness, from serving nutritious snacks and meals to inspiring students to be active to helping them manage stress and pressure in healthy ways.

Here are a few highlights of the many health-focused activities to be featured at Lights On Afterschool events around the country!

Kenai, Alaska: The Boys & Girls Clubs of the Kenai Peninsula will host “Medicine, Me & Responsibility” for Lights On Afterschool. Police officers will speak with students about why it is important not to take medicine they have not been prescribed, and what students can do if they find medicine that is not theirs. Families will tour the facility.

Brandon, Florida: For Lights On Afterschool and National Emotional Wellness Month, the Carey Family Brandon Boys & Girls Club will host ‘WISH YOU WELLness’ to educate, empower and encourage students to acknowledge and handle their feelings in a positive way. Various rooms at the Club facility will represent outlets students can turn to in times of emotional distress. Instructors lead students in yoga and kickboxing, police deputies will teach self-defense and healthy aerobics, and students will engage in painting, music, and writing. Parents will receive information about resources that help children cope with emotional stress.

Covington, Kentucky: The Sixth District Elementary Community Learning Center will hold a family fitness and wellness night for Lights On Afterschool. The Kenton County Extension Office will offer a healthy cooking demonstration, and students and their families will enjoy an inflatable obstacle course, jump rope competitions, a make-your-own trail mix activity, and a bike giveaway.

Bowling Green, Missouri: The YMCA 21st CCLC will hold a parent’s education night at Bowling Green Elementary School for Light On Afterschool. The event will feature guest speakers from the Bowling Green Library and the Pike County Health Department demonstrating first aid. Older students will read storybooks to younger children. Families will participate in an activity with the Pike County Sheriff’s Department DARE Officer.

Bronx, New York: To celebrate Lights On Afterschool, New York Junior Tennis & Learning will hold a tennis clinic for students and parents. The event will include a Zumba class and smoothie-making activity.

Alexandria, Virginia: Patrick Henry Elementary School will host a fitness event for Lights On Afterschool. Staff, students, and parents will walk 10 laps around the gym and receive a gold medal. The event is called “GO GREEN – Walk it out!” and more than 200 people will attend. The event will be at Patrick Henry Elementary School.