Playguides provides kids with creative fun outside
By Gillian Slade on July 19, 2018.
gslade@medicinehatnews.com @MHNGillianSlade Creative outdoor activity for families to enjoy is taking place three times a week, and there is no fee to participate. Playguides is all about a range of activities for children from babies to age six although older siblings are welcome to come along and join in, perhaps even entertain themselves on the nearby playground equipment, said active living co-ordinator Jenny Styner with the Family Leisure Centre. Typically there is a theme each day such as ‘move your body’ or ‘crawl and play,’ she explained. The activity, complete with necessary equipment, is set up near to playground equipment. “It is free to come drop in, we just ask that you sign in and come play with us and join in on the fun adventures that day,” said Styner. An example of themes is ‘make your own music’ day at the Family Leisure Centre on Aug. 15. “We are going to bring a variety of musical instruments that we have. Some are toys, some are real drums that the kids can play on and then we’re also going to bring some craft equipment. So, we will have things like papertowel rolls that you can turn into a rain stick with dried noodles and rice,” said Styner. The idea of setting up in close proximity to a playground allows those in attendance to participate in the crafts, explore the playground on their own or a bit of both. “They are welcome to go back and forth or stay at one or the other,” said Styner. The baby centre at each event includes some small toys for young babies of about six months of age to enjoy, said Styner. Parents or adults need to accompany the children. “They do absolutely have to stay with their children,” said Styner. “We encourage them to get right in there and play also.” The Playguides program runs from July 10 to Aug. 23 except on Thursday July 26 due to the Stampede parade. On Tuesdays from 10-11 a.m. the venue is the Southview School playground. On Wednesdays it will be at the Family Leisure Centre Viking playground from 5:30-7 p.m. Thursdays from 10-11 a.m. it will be in Central Park. “There is no charge and it is drop-in so you can stay for the whole time or come for five minutes and leave,” said Styner. It is also an opportunity to socialize with other parents. Playguides is hosted by the Medicine Hat Early Childhood Coalition, in partnership with the YMCA, the City of Medicine Hat and the Parent Link Centre. 20
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