WinterKids’ four-week Winter Games has kicked off

WESTBROOK — WinterKids kicked off the 4th annual Winter Games this week across Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, New Jersey and Canada.
In Maine, kids, teachers, and families in nearly 100 communities are participating in the games. Teachers and families receive a playbook, resources, and incentives to complete a four-week series of fun outdoor physical activity and nutrition challenges. There are more than 6,000 kids participating this year.
“We are thrilled to offer a fun, active way to engage all kids in outdoor learning throughout the winter,” said Julie Mulkern, WinterKids executive director. “This year, the Winter Games is focused on resilience, inclusion, community and service within the context of celebrating winter through outdoor physical activity, nutrition, and family engagement.”
WinterKids’ Winter Games allows kids to participate, whether they are receiving in-person education or learning at home. Embracing outdoor learning helps to avoid the pitfalls of online learning and the negative effects of excessive screen time – particularly for those in elementary school. WinterKids provides resources for both teachers and parents to get their kids outside and active. There is also a WinterKids Winter Games Facebook group for resource sharing, and downloadable activities on the organization’s website.
The Winter Games resources are designed to be used in the winter and beyond for outdoor, active learning. Teachers, parents and community groups who want to join the fun may visit www.winterkids.org to request materials while they last.