Ionia is the largest city and the county seat in Ionia County, Michigan. There are several things for children and teens to do in the township. Health and fitness activities are numerous, as are opportunities for kids to get involved in community service. The city parks and recreation department, the YMCA and the Ionia Kids Club each offer services and programs year-round for children and teens.
Run and Walk
Kids and teens can participate in the annual 5K Run and Walk in Ionia sponsored by Ionia Parks and Recreation Department. There are two age divisions for kids---14 and under, and 15 to 19 years. The starting line is on Quarry Road and ends at the Ionia Free Fair Grounds. Awards are given to the first, second and third place winners in each division in the 5K run. Awards for the 5K walk are given to the overall male and female winners.
Youth Sports
The Ionia Parks and Recreation Department offers youth sports programs for kids of all ages. Basketball programs include the Lil' Hoopers for boys and girls ages 4 and 5 years old, and a league for third and fourth grade girls and boys. Bowling, cheerleading, flag and tackle football, floor hockey, taekwondo, T-ball and indoor and outdoor soccer programs are also offered. Ages vary for each activity.
Community Service
The Ionia Kids Club is a club dedicated to community service in Ionia. While families are welcome to volunteer, this is a kid-based volunteer organization. The kids get together every week for games and events, and to learn the importance of community service. They provide free face painting for children at local events, volunteer in the community garden and perform different community services throughout the year. The club is open to all children over third grade. Younger children can attend with an adult. High school students volunteer to help out with the younger children and often lead activities.
Fitness Classes
The Ionia County YMCA offers fitness classes for kids and teens. The Kids Circuit is a circuit training program that also teaches nutrition and basic strength training. Kids Zumba is a fast-moving exercise-dance class. The Move It to Lose It program utilizes a teamwork approach that emphasizes the importance of fitness and nutrition for a healthy lifestyle. Also offered are a running club, music and movement classes, taekwondo, yoga and sports-specific speed and agility training.
Aquatics Programs
The Ionia County YMCA offers a number of seasonal aquatics programs. These include swim lessons for parents and children, preschool, youth, teen, private and competitive classes. The lifeguard training program is a comprehensive program that teaches accident prevention and safety. Children and teens can learn the basics of competitive swimming in the center's swim clubs. Just for fun activities at the YMCA pool include family swim nights, game nights and other special events.
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