The Healthy Playground Makeover Sweepstakes 2013
I don’t view recess as something that takes time away from my kids’ learning. In fact, I believe that physical exercise prepares kids’ minds for learning – and leads to better behavior in the classroom. A quick search will bring up dozens of research studies to support this. As an ambassador for the Together CountsTMprogram, I know the importance of an active lifestyle.
Just think about it from an adult perspective: Do you start to drag at work (or even at home) when you are focusing on task after task without a break? Do you get tired and cranky? Are you mentally exhausted when you’ve been sitting at a desk all day? And when you’re feeling that way, how is the quality of your work? Not so great, in my experience.
When my own kids are cranky and not listening to what I am asking them to do, usually means that they need a physical activity break, be it roller skating in our basement, running in the sprinklers outside, going to the pool, or swinging at the park.
During the school year, we are so lucky to have a wonderful physical education program at our school and a large playground with swings, two structures, basketball hoops, tetherball, and a large field for kickball.
My kids’ daily school schedule allows 2 recess breaks during the day, one in the morning and one after lunch. I love this because for young children it is exhausting to sit in the classroom all day. I not only appreciate that they are able to get outside and burn off some pent up energy, but also that they are able to have that time to mentally reset. These playground breaks and fun PE activities aren’t just beneficial in the now. Kids are learning life-long habits that will help keep them happy and active.
Unfortunately, not all schools are so lucky. Because Together CountsTM sees the importance of daily physical activity, they have partnered with Playworld Systems and Good Sports to help schools in need enhance their recess and physical wellness opportunities.
The great news is that ANY school can enter to win. Check out the details below to help your school or another school in your community win a Healthy Playground Makeover.
Healthy Playground Makeover Sweepstakes
Enter today and every day to win a new playground and more for your school! This year the sweepstakes is also open to preschools.
2 Grand Prizes
2 schools will receive $30,000 in prizes for their school’s wellness program and a new playground from Playworld Systems, Inc.
3 Runner-Up Prizes
3 schools will receive $5,000 in prizes for their school’s wellness programs.
Enter today to win for your school!
For more playground fun, check out these Together Counts’ resources:
Katie’s lifelong interest in food has shown her that part of the goodness in life is enjoying delicious food with friends and family. Katie Goodman is the cook, recipe developer, and photographer behind GoodLife Eats where she dishes on food, books, travel and style. You can also find Katie on Twitter and Facebook.