Parent Connect: Discussing physical activity & unstructured play
Introducing Parent Connect, a parent/caregiver discussion group for the greater Thetford community, led by Audrey Leitao and cosponsored by Latham Library. Meet other parents and caregivers to discuss the questions and interests of raising kids today. Meetings times and activities will vary, depending on the groups’ needs.
Next up:
Mon June 2nd (5:00pm): Topic is physical activity and unstructured play.
We’re looking at the advice out there surrounding exercise, health, team sports, leisure and socialization, and the challenges families face to balance all of the above! And to stay on theme, this discussion will take place outside (weather depending).
Feel free to listen to any of the podcasts below, or choose your own podcast, article, or book, or simply show up with your thoughts and questions!
Podcast Sample:
Teach. Play. Love. by early educators from Bright Horizons, Episode from June 28, 2021 “Risk and Reward in Outdoor Play”
Stellar Teacher Podcast by Sara Marye, Episode #250 “Let Them Be Bored: Why Boredom Might Be Exactly What Kids Need with Mike Bender ad Chuck Dillon”
Healthy Sports Parents by Jonathan Carone, S1 E19 “The Honest Realities of Youth Sports Today (with Steve magness, performance coach and author)”
Ideas for future topics and activities:
- Reading a book or listening to a podcast episode then discussing
- Topics on our radar so far: Picky eaters/nutrition; Talking to kids about current events; Puberty – The Talk and also coping strategies for parents
- Presentations on topics of interest, such as technology and independence
- Watching and discussing a documentary
If childcare would help you attend, reach out!
We are committed to making this program accessible for families. In fact, we’re looking for teens who might be willing to lead younger kids in some activities like book read alouds/acting (think Mo Willems!), board games and crafts. Good for TA service hours! Reach out if you are interested or know a teen who is!