MORGANTOWN, W.Va. – WVU Medicine Children’s will host its 19th annual Kids Fair from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, April 22, at the Morgantown Mall. The event, themed “Launch Into Wellness,” will focus on helping kids to be “mission ready” for a lifetime of good health.
Many of the 53 exhibitors will teach children daily health habits. Puppets will demonstrate how to properly brush and floss. Kids will learn how to make smart, nutritious food choices. And, they’ll be encouraged to get moving and stay active.
Children will learn about the dangers of tobacco use and how to be good stewards of the environment. Many exhibitors will showcase safety practices.
Kids are encouraged to attend the event dressed in their favorite space or sci-fi gear.
At the WVU Medicine Children’s booths, located near the mall play area, kids can learn about proper hand-washing techniques and car-seat and summer safety. Fun raffles will be available, and kids will receive a drawstring backpack to gather all of their Kids Fair goodies. There also will be BMI (body mass index) and glucose testing.
Other free health assessments being offered at the event include blood pressure, developmental, flexibility and strength, lung function, and vision (for kids ages 3 to 5). Kids can also listen to their hearts.
Child seat safety inspections will be conducted outside, in the front of the mall, by the Monongalia County Sheriff’s Department.
Some of the “Destination: Fun” activities happening at the event include an alien walk balance challenge, astronaut training exercises, and “I’m a Star” self-esteem activities. Kids can make sky rockets and go fishing for alien life; they can also make 3D constellations.
There will be ambulance tours, arts and crafts, a kiddie carnival (sponsored by the Rotary Club of Morgantown), photo booths, puppet shows, a yoga and meditation circle, entertainment, and more.
Many “stars” will make special appearances at the event, including Alliance of Therapy Dogs; Cooper, the West Virginia Black Bears mascot; Monti, the Mountaineer bear; the WVU Mountaineer and Muskett, the Mountaineer’s “little furry friend;” Ronald McDonald; Smokey Bear; Woodsy Owl; and the WVU Robotics Team.
Expect a grand day of fun and learning to be healthy and safe.
Look for a special four-page Kids Fair insert in The Dominion Post on Sunday, April 16.
Follow WVU Medicine Children’s on Facebook for more event details and updates.