Daddy is My Superhero
Rachel Allison is the new director at Greentree Learning and Child Care Center in Rolla, Missouri. Rachel’s goal was to create an inclusive atmosphere while promoting a healthier lifestyle for families.
In 2017, Rachel participated in the Early Care and Education Learning Collaborative (ECELC) where she learned different ways kids can be active. After discussing several options, Rachel and her staff decided to organize a family event, which involved a superhero-themed walk or bike ride. Rachel’s program hosted the “Daddy is My Superhero Walk/Bike/Trike” event on a Thursday evening where children and families were encouraged to dress as their favorite superhero. Rachel and her staff at Greentree Learning Center began setting up the one-mile course where families could walk or ride their bicycles and tricycles. It was an exciting, fun evening with a great turnout. All of the participants walked or rode their bikes for the entire mile with some going further.
Moving forward, Greentree Learning and Child Care Center plans to offer similar events to families on a quarterly basis. They have also started a “Mommy and Me P.E.” program collaborating with a physical education teacher and gymnastics studio within their community. Rachel and her staff have seen the value in providing active events that are fun and support healthier lifestyles for families and staff.
Rachel says of ECELC, “I learned that families really want to be involved in events that include the whole family and provides some physical activity and fun.”