October is Family Health Month, and the McGaw YMCA is dedicated to supporting all families as they work to create healthier lifestyles for themselves and their loved ones. Check out these five easy ways to support a healthier household today!

Eat Healthy

Be mindful of the nutritional choices you make. The Y encourages a well-balanced diet. This can start with small, gradual changes! Check out the USDA website for healthy eating tips that are great starting points to plan healthier meals for the whole family.

Daily Play

Everyone needs varying levels of everyday physical activity depending on their age. At the McGaw YMCA, families can play together during Family Gym, Family Swim, and classes like Family African Groove Dance! Visit mcgawymca.org/programs/family to learn more!

Together Time

Relationships are the heart of a healthy family. Strengthen the family bond by prioritizing quality time and creating shared memories. On Friday evenings, McGaw Y offers free Family Fun Nights for those with family memberships. These fun nights include activities like a bounce house, swimming, board games, arts & crafts, dance parties and more! Keep an eye out for special Community Family Fun Nights that are open to the public, like the one on October 20. Visit mcgawymca.org/events/family/ for dates and details.

Get Outdoors

Great things happen in the great outdoors! Unplugging and enjoying nature is good for the body and mind. Make time for family park trips, hikes or plan for Family Camp next summer at Camp Echo! Early registration lottery for the 2024 summer opens in January. For more information, visit ymcacampecho.org/camps/family/.

Prioritize Sleep

After physical activity and mental stimulation, it’s important to get quality rest! Getting a good night’s sleep is beneficial to body, mind and spirit. Make sure everyone in the family is getting the recommended amount of sleep each night.