The Greenpoint YMCA, in conjunction with YMCA's all across the United States, celebrated Healthy Kids Day last Saturday. The annual celebration, which promotes physical activity, both in- and outdoors, for young people was once again a hit for North Brooklyn kids. More than 150 families came to the Greenpoint Y to participate in the organization's fun and educational luau-themed festivities.

At the Greenpoint Y's historic facility on Meserole Avenue, neighborhood children and their parents enjoyed hula-hoop workshops, games, and the always-popular bouncy castle. The staff offered a number of other workshops for kids of all ages, including dance classes and other tropical-themed activities.

As part of an effort to get kids and their parents outside and into the many parks in Greenpoint and Williamsburg, Y staff members led walking tours of Greenpoint that brought families to parks and other outdoor play areas.

The event also promoted children's health by creating activities based around nutrition. One such game asked kids to identify the sugar content of everyday foods, while another taught them to make their own trail mix.

As evidenced by the smiling faces of North Brooklyn's youngest residents, the celebration was once again a success, helping kids learn about healthy living while having fun in the neighborhood. (Jeffrey Harmatz)