Salmon Arm Recreation is offering a Learn to Play initiative called Making Movement Matter – a variety of children’s programs made possible by RBC grants to develop physical literacy in children.
Physical literacy is termed the gateway to physical activity.
The first event, on Friday, Nov. 28, will be a free Try – It Day at the recreation centre for kids from two to 14 to try a variety of sports and movement skills.
There will be tennis, basketball shooting, baseball batting and soccer shooting, along with movement testing in sprints, vertical jump and flexibility. The event is divided into two age groups, 1 to 3 p.m. for preschoolers and home-schooled children, and 3 to 5 p.m. for school-aged children.
Nov. 28 is also Jersey Day so wear your sport jersey to show pride in your favourite team.
Starting in January, there will be Get Active programs for six to nine year olds and Tot Sports for three to five year olds.
These two programs will be focusing on the fundamental movements required for children to become active for life.
Running, jumping, throwing, batting and catching are the key fundamental movements.
Basic sport skills will be introduced but the main focus is mastering the fundamental movements.
These programs will be offered at reduced rates due to the support through the RBC Learn to Play Project.
More information on these programs will be in the Winter 2015 Fun Guide due to come out on Friday, Nov. 28.
The initiative also wants to support community leaders who work with young children in a physically active setting.
Whether you are a sport coach, day care leader or school teacher, a Fundamental Movement Workshop is being offered for free at the rec centre on Sunday, Jan. 11 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Register early as space is limited.
For more information, call Donna at 250-832-4044.