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PARENTS CONNECTION
Athlete's Corner

 
 
 

WINTER 2009

In this issue:

   
> Facts About the Flu

> Holiday Travel Tips

> Ask the Pediatrician
< Athlete's Corner
> Nutrition & Your Family
> The Mom & Dad Minute
 

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Local Fun Runs and Events for Kids
Are you looking for a way to give back during the holiday season? Charitable sporting events provide exciting opportunities to contribute to a worthy cause, and you’ll receive an extra benefit—physical fitness.

There are many ways to get involved, from local fun runs to organizing your own event. Regardless of the method, it’s a great way for your child to see that she can make a difference!

 


 


Run to register your kids!

Texas Children’s Hospital is hosting its 13th annual Kids’ Fun Run on January 16, 2010.  The non-competitive 3K run or walk  kicks off the 2010 Chevron Houston Marathon and is open to children 5 to 15 years old.  Kids with special needs may also participate in the 1K adaptive run or walk. All participants will cross the official marathon finish line and receive a Kids' Fun Run t-shirt and medal.

Learn more or register now.

 

There are many runs, walks, rides and relays to raise money for particular charities—many of which take place right here in Houston. From disease research to increasing awareness of social issues, you can choose an organization that interests or directly affects you or someone you know.

Most events allow for individual participation, but some require a team to enter. If your child knows someone directly affected by a disease or dedicated to a social issue, being a part of that person's team can be a meaningful and eye-opening, experience for your child—and it’s a great way to bond. Entry fees are nominal ($5-30) and usually include a souvenir t-shirt.

Events are available in varying degrees of competitiveness, so you are sure to find something that matches your child’s fitness level. For the more serious athlete, a 5K run, endurance ride or ½ marathon may be just what you’re looking for. But novices should try out a fun run or walk for starters. You can even walk or run as a family.

Whether it’s a fun run or a baseball tournament, seek out opportunities where your child can see a direct impact from his efforts. You probably don’t have to look too far to find a cause that really piques your interest. Following are some upcoming events right here in Houston:

Date Event Location
12/05/09 CHRISTUS St. John’s Reindeer Run
 
CHRISTUS St. John Hospital -  Nassau Bay
12/05/09 Hearth and Sole Houston Farm and Ranch Club
1/16/10 Texas Children’s Hospital Kid’s Fun Run George R. Brown Convention Center - Downtown
1/30/10 The Bill Crews Remission Run Carl Barton, Jr. Park
1/31/10 Ride to the Rescue
 
Start at Tom Bass Regional Park - Hwy 288 at Beltway 8
2/6/10 Christopher’s Heart Fun Run Sam Houston Park - Downtown
2/10/10 Kingwood Medical Center Bridge Fest Lake Houston YMCA
2/14/10 Hearts of Asia WalkFEST Sam Houston Park - Downtown
2/21/10 Tri Country Hill Hopper Start near Roundtop, Texas
 

Help a Child in Your Community

 

When you participate in a YMCA event—whether it’s a run, ride or golf tournament—you’re helping make YMCA programs and services available to those who otherwise couldn’t afford it. Through these events, the YMCA Partners Campaign allows kids and families in need to participate in YMCA programs. With your help, they too can reap the benefits of growing stronger minds, building healthier bodies, developing a strong spirit and gaining a sense of belonging. YMCA Partners is a great way to make a difference in your own community as the funds raised by your Y are used locally to reach people near you.