Grand Lake Health System Previews Kids Health Fair And Fun Day

Grand Lake Health System is inviting families to take part in its upcoming Kids Health Fair and Fun Day events this summer.

Heather Jurosic, an RN and health coordinator with Grand Lake Health System, joined WCSM’s Spectrum program to preview the events and discuss the importance of helping children build healthy habits early.

The first event will be held Saturday, June 13th, from 9 AM to noon at the Auglaize County Fairgrounds. Jurosic said the event has continued to grow over the past several years and is designed to be both educational and fun for children.

This year’s theme is “Embark on the Grand Lake Health Expedition Around the World.” Jurosic said the goal is to make health and wellness feel like an adventure for kids, rather than something intimidating.

The event will include several free screenings for children, including vision, hearing, developmental and speech screenings. Jurosic said those screenings can help families identify concerns before the start of the school year.

She noted that some children may not realize they are struggling to see or hear properly, and parents may not always recognize those issues right away.

The Auglaize County event will also include bounce houses, pony rides, face painting, crafts, the Wapakoneta Fire Department safety house, and a planned CareFlight helicopter landing at 9 AM.

Several activity classes are also scheduled. L and L Dance will offer a jazz and hip hop dance class at 9:30 AM, and United Martial Arts will offer a self defense class from 10:30 to 11 AM.

Jurosic said the event will also include health education booths, including information on sugary drinks, energy drinks, hydration and healthy choices. She said the goal is not to take away treats completely, but to teach moderation and help children understand what they are putting into their bodies.

A scaled down version of the event will also be held at the Mercer County Fair on August 19th from 11 AM to 2 PM. Jurosic said the Mercer County version drew about 300 children last year, far more than expected, and Grand Lake Health System plans to expand it this year.

The Mercer County event will include additional health related booths, including walk in clinic information and pediatric care resources.

Jurosic also reminded families that Grand Lake Health System has urgent care, emergency care, family physicians and pediatric providers available throughout the area. She said if families need help getting connected with a pediatrician or family doctor, staff at the events can help with that as well.

The events are free for families.

Jurosic said the larger goal is to help children see health care providers as friendly, helpful resources and to give families access to screenings and information in a fun community setting.