At Little Rascals, we believe that movement and play are essential for healthy development. Here’s how we encourage physical activity and instill a sense of community:
- Circle Time Fun:
- We have themes that change each month! We highlight these themes during circle time!
- During circle time, we emphasize the importance of being active and playful.
- Scarves, ribbons, and free-style dancing engage children’s bodies and minds.
- Outdoor activities further enhance their gross motor skills.
- Outdoor Adventures:
- Our little adventurers ride bikes, play ball, and master hula hoops.
- We actively initiate play and movement, fostering a love for physical activity.
- Balance logs, tires, music chimes, and drums await them in our playground.
- Grooving Indoors:
- Inside, we groove to dance beats with special CDs.
- Ribbon and scarf dances, dance sticks, parachute ball play, and free-style dancing keep our hearts pumping.
- Tumbling on soft floor mats adds to the excitement.
- Weather-Proof Alternatives:
- On days when outdoor play isn’t possible, we turn to indoor options:
- Yoga with Cosmic Kids: A fun way to stretch and breathe.
- Learning Station: Engaging activities through videos or CDs.
- Morning Yoga-Stretches: Part of our daily curriculum.
- On days when outdoor play isn’t possible, we turn to indoor options:
- Body Awareness:
- Our collection of games, books, and music helps children learn about their bodies.
- We create meaningful moments where kids express emotions positively.
- Staff Training and Lifelong Health:
- Our staff receives regular training in physical fitness activities.
- Children are encouraged to be physically active and join in play.
- Active play builds communication skills, social connections, and gross motor abilities.
- Research shows it positively impacts cognition, prevents childhood obesity, and reduces the risk of heart disease and diabetes.