Mini Movers programs are helping Geelong children use sports as a fun way to improve motor skills and school readiness.
Leisure Networks will deliver the six-week program every term for 12 months at Whittington Family and Childcare, St Albans Park Kindergarten, and Norlane West Kindergarten.
St Albans Park Kindergarten leader Stacey Mcginness said she was grateful to receive funding from the Anthony Costa Foundation to provide Mini Movers programs for free at the kindergarten.
Ms Mcginness said she could see improvement in her student’s ability to remember and recall what they learnt each week through the program.
“I think in terms of having a structured activity, rather than free play, the program will help the children as they transition to school,” she said.
“It gives families exposure to a range of different sports so they can see what their children might be interested in before they commit to something outside of kinder.
“It definitely helps with the language and social skills they will need for school, especially learning to take turns, and it’s been good to have access to different equipment and resources.”
Anthony Costa Foundation general manager Cynthia Scherer said she was pleased to support the program through the foundation’s small grants round earlier this year.
“The evidence-based program uses movement and sport as a vehicle to improve the overall well-being of children,” she said.
“We understand the importance of ensuring young children are on track as it relates to their physical health, well-being, social competence, emotional maturity, language, and communication skills.”
