Photo Gallery: History and Health Combine at the Kids 'N Kicks Walking Program

Kids combined history and healthy living Saturday afternoon at the , as the Detroit Historical Society partnered with Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan as part of its Kids 'N Kicks Summer Walking Program.

The third-annual program aims to promote healthy living among the area's youth, with local participants tracking how much they walk at the mall throughout the summer. They then receive prizes based upon how many visits they make to the mall and how many miles they walk.

The initiative began June 13 and runs through Aug. 19, giving kids and families plenty of time to catch up on their mileage.

Partnering with the Dearborn mall was an obvious choice, given the program's target audience, according to Bridget Hurd, commuity responsibility director of BCBSM.

"What better place to help our youth learn the value and benefit of regular walking as part of a healthy lifestyle?" Hurd said in a statement. "It’s a place they love to visit and a safe environment to encourage regular physical activity.”

The program also includes special events through its August 19 conclusion, the next being an August 6 healthy eating lecture in the mall at 11 a.m.

BCBSM teamed up with the Detroit Historical Society Saturday afternoon to add a bit of local history to the health-focused program. Professional storyteller Linda Boston lectured an audience of children and families about 19th century slave life and Detroit's role in the Underground Railroad.

The Kids 'N Kicks program grew steadily from 100 kids and families in 2009 to 250 in 2010. Catherine O'Malley, general manager of the Fairlane Town Center, said interest in healthy living is becoming commonplace.

"The program continues to grow in popularity throughout our community," she said in a statement. "Every child who takes part in Kids ‘N Kicks will get to enjoy the benefits of a healthy lifestyle, and have some fun while they’re at it."