There’s no better time than the hot, sunny days of summer vacation to get kids moving. And with the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games kicking off this July, young people all across the country will have a chance to see some of America’s finest athletes in action as they run, jump, swim and ride in hopes of bringing home the gold. 

First Lady Michelle Obama delivers remarks during an Olympics event at the Hilton Anatole in Dallas, Texas, May 14, 2012. Mrs. Obama joined members of Team USA to announce nationwide commitments to getting more kids healthy and active. (Official White House Photo by Sonya N. Hebert) 

But watching from the couch is only half the fun—First Lady Michelle Obama, who’s leading the Presidential Delegation to this year’s games, is encouraging kids to support Team USA not just by cheering our athletes on, but by getting involved in sports themselves. That’s why she’s partnered with the U.S. Olympic Committee, as well as the national governing bodies of sports like track and field, tennis, swimming, volleyball, gymnastics—even BMX biking—to help connect 1.7 million kids with beginning athletic programming in their communities. 

Being active and moving more doesn't mean training like our nation’s elite athletes, but the more chances our kids have to move, the healthier their lives will be. And these new opportunities-- which range from swim lessons, to gymnastics clinics, to free membership at bike racing tracks, and much more -- will continue giving young people the chance to try something new long after the Olympics come to a close. 

Families can go to www.ahealthieramerica.org/olympics and type in your zip code to find programs near you.

Learn more: 

• Find out how you can help your little ones channel their inner-Olympians and get fit this summer
• Learn easy tips for encouraging a healthy active lifestyle at home
• Tips to get your kids moving and exploring outside in and around your community