Healthy Eating and Physical Activity (HEPA) teaches children how to make healthy food choices and to enjoy physical activity, contributing to their social and physical development. HEPA standards include fresh or frozen fruit and vegetables, and whole grain, low sugar foods served for every snack. Foods containing trans-fats, hydrogenated oils and high fructose corn syrup are not served.
Children are provided with opportunities for moderate and vigorous physical activity for at least 60 minutes per day. This includes a mixture of moderate and vigorous activity (activity that increases the heart rate and breathing rate), as well as bone and muscle strengthening activities. Active play takes place outdoors whenever possible.
Social-emotional learning teaches skills that benefit a student’s academic performance, while also focusing on their emotional, mental, and behavioral health. Learning skills to resolve conflicts, work with others, form healthy relationships, and make good decisions prepares students to overcome challenges.
Through age-appropriate games and activities, students will learn strategies to help manage emotions, navigate peer relationships, and achieve academic success.
Science Technology Engineering and Math (S.T.E.M.) activities encourage students to solve problems, find and use evidence, collaborate on projects, and think critically. Incorporating hands-on learning experiences throughout the day offers students the opportunity to gain and apply relevant, “real-world” knowledge outside their regular curriculum.
As a nonprofit dedicated to strengthening community, the Y is committed to nurturing the potential of all youth. Part of that commitment includes introducing youth from all backgrounds to science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) experiences. Through our work, we also have an opportunity to increase diversity in STEM fields. The reality is that women continue to be underrepresented in STEM careers. The Y is helping to change that reality by incorporating gender-equitable practices into our programming.
Time will be provided each day for your child to work on homework. Staff will be available to assist your child if they need help. If your child does not have homework, other quiet activities will be available. The allotted time for homework is at least 30 minutes each day. Electronic devices are allowed for educational purposes only during homework help.