If I close my eyes and think back to my childhood, I can hear the words “tag -- you’re it!” It was a time that seemed magical when all I had to do was play.
This week Boys & Girls Clubs of America is encouraging kids to play big-time by breaking a Guinness Book of World Records for the most number of people playing tag. Starting Thursday, April 19, at 6:30 p.m., members in Clubs and youth centers around the world will play the time-tested game.
BGCA is no stranger to world records. Last year, we set a record for the most people doing jumping jacks (or star jumps) simultaneously. Some 20,425 Club members participated, shattering the previous record.
Help us celebrate National Boys & Girls Club Week by playing a game of tag with friends and family.
This year we’re at it again! As part of National Boys & Girls Club Week (March 15-21), BGCA will embark on this fitness initiative with its Clubs across the country through the organization’s WANNA PLAY?™ program. This program, supported by Major League Baseball, encourages kids to get active and become nutritionally aware.
BGCA’s attempt to break the world record is to bring attention to the importance of young people staying active and living healthy lifestyles. The WANNA PLAY? program is designed to improve kid’s overall fitness through physical activity and nutrition education. It also teaches the fundamental skills of baseball and softball through fun and enriching games.
Tag and other chase games don’t require lots of equipment. It doesn’t require fancy clothes to get active. Kids will have so much fun playing games that they won’t even realize they’re getting “exercise.” Those active kids will be happier and healthier young people.
For lots of kids, biking to the playground or playing dodge ball has given way to playing the latest video game or watching television. Children and adolescents need at least 60 minutes of physical activity daily. Our young people need role models, so get active yourself and make physical activity a family affair.
Wayne B. Moss is BGCA's senior director of Sports, Fitness and Recreation.
Nearly one-third of children and teens in the U.S. are obese or overweight. Children can avoid many diseases by adopting and maintaining healthy habits early on. Being physically active every day is important for kids, and it can be through activities as simple as playing tag. Young people living healthy, active lifestyles put them on a pathway to a GREAT FUTURE.
Remember, play is the work of kids and adults. So join us ... you're it!
