Having programs for teenagers at a YMCA can be incredibly important for several reasons. YMCA programs for teens serve as a valuable resource for personal growth, community building, and skill development. Recently the Skagit YMCA polled some of their members to see what they could do to improve their Y.
The polls came back resoundingly for more options for youth, teens, and tweens. So their Executive Director Justin Davies came to Exergame with a request. How can I make fitness fun for kids, and make them WANT to come to the YMCA? Well gamification of fitness was the solution!
Here are some reasons why these programs are important:
- Youth Development: Adolescence is a critical period of development where young people are forming their identities, values, and skills. YMCA programs provide a structured and supportive environment for teens to learn and grow. Providing them a fun, fitness based experience allows them to develop at their own levels, without adding hard on their bodies equipment.
- Healthy Lifestyles: Many YMCA programs like Exergaming with teens and tweens, focus on promoting physical fitness and healthy lifestyles; while also including learning about nutrition, and participating in sports and fitness programs can help teenagers develop healthy habits that can last a lifetime. All these areas can have an important role in the fitness gaming space!
- Social Interaction: Teenagers often face social challenges and peer pressure. YMCA programs offer a safe and inclusive space where teens can interact with their peers, make friends, and develop social skills. One of the downfalls with technology though is it provides lots of screen time. But with Exergame you can have cooperative games, team building challenges, and provide a more socially engaging atmosphere!