For Immediate Release
Kids Play at the YMCA
Ask any parent and they’ll tell you that the Toddler and Preschool years fly by much faster than most people anticipate. Parent and child bonding is vital for the healthy growth and development of children ages five and younger, and it’s a great way for families to make memories.
A study by the American Academy of Pediatrics explains that play is essential to a child’s development because it contributes to the cognitive, physical, social, and emotional well-being of children and youth. Playing with their children offers parents an ideal opportunity to be fully engaged, without the distraction of electronics and outside priorities.
Today’s busy lifestyles often cut into the time that used to be set aside for child-centered free play. This decrease in active, uninterrupted interaction can often contribute to a decline in health and attentiveness in young children. At the Mattoon Area Family YMCA, we believe in providing opportunities for youth development- and we believe they should be FUN! That’s why we created Kids Play.
During Kids Play, children ages 2 through 5 will experience both structured and free play time with a goal of developing social, cognitive, sensory, and motor skills. Through a variety of games, songs, exercises, and activities, children will develop coordination of fine and gross motor skills while having fun with friends. Caregivers are asked to stay and participate during class.
Sessions are one month long and meet from 11-11:45 a.m. on Fridays beginning October 4. Registration is required and opens the first Friday of the month prior to the session start. There is a fee of $7 per month for YMCA members and $15 per month for non-members. For more information or to register, call (217) 234-9494.
