Kids, City YMCAs Benefit From Annual Health Bee Competition

PITTSBURGH (KDKA) - There are a lot of different ways kids learn. One company is doing something a bit different to get students involved after class is done for the day.

Teams of middle school kids from around Pittsburgh battled in the annual Health Bee sponsored by United Healthcare.

"To help kids in pre-teen years learn a little bit more about healthy behaviors, exercise, nutrition and the like," Kimberly King, of United Healhcare, said.

One of the people asking questions is Allegheny County Health Department Director Dr. Karen Hacker.

"Really, what we are trying to do is to get young people to really be understanding about positive type of health behaviors," Dr. Hacker said.

The kids represent seven YMCA branches around the city. They compete for money for their location. The winner takes home $2,000, with $1,000 for second place and $500 for third.

"I think it is just a fun event and great way to learn health, and hopefully they will be able to follow their own guidelines," Dr. Hacker said. "They really have enjoyed themselves. It's been quite amazing how much they know about food, health, and nutrition and physical activity. So, I think it's getting the message out."

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