The Downtown Orlando YMCA, a branch of the YMCA of Central Florida, is stepping up to address the needs of families in the community with its innovative Homeschool PE program. Designed to bring children together for fitness, fun and friendship, the program aims to cultivate healthy habits and foster new relationships among young participants.
“Our program focuses on class participation, developing healthy habits, making new friends, and enjoying new forms of exercise and games,” said Jennifer Sagala, the operations director at the YMCA of Central Florida. “We’ve incorporated elements like fitness group games, creative problem-solving and team-building activities to ensure children have a well-rounded experience.”
Below, Sagala details how this program teaches life skills to homeschooled kids a provides an essential service to families.
How will this program be valuable for participating families and serve the Downtown Orlando YMCA’s greater community?
JS: This program is invaluable for participating families. Homeschooled children often have fewer opportunities to interact with peers. By offering a setting for children to make friends, develop social skills and learn teamwork and cooperation, the program ensures these young individuals gain crucial interpersonal experiences. This not only benefits their personal growth, but also strengthens community bonds by fostering inclusive and collaborative relationships among families.
What was the thought process behind this program? What community needs will it fulfill?
JS: According to a news report by Wesh2 News, Florida has seen a 110% increase in home-schooled families over the past 10 years. Central Florida has seen one of the highest increases in the state. At the Y, we believe in serving all and Homeschool PE will provide a service to our growing homeschool community.
What is most important to keep top of mind when planning this program?
JS: For the Downtown Orlando YMCA to serve as a hub for community engagement, we’re bringing together families who might not otherwise meet each other. I personally want children to enjoy physical activity the way I loved going to PE class as a child. Being active can be fun. I want to foster healthy active habits at a young age that will continue into adulthood and encourage families to prioritize fitness. Hopefully, it will inspire the development of additional community fitness programs.
How are you ensuring the program will be successful?
JS: The focus now is our elementary-age students with the goal to expand the program to middle and high school over the next three years. We want to create a positive experience and expose kids to that one game, exercise or sport they will enjoy and do throughout their life. We want to create a community of lifelong movers.
What advice would you share with other community rec professionals regarding facilitating similar programming?
JS: To facilitate successful programming, get involved in your community and understand their needs through local homeschool groups and co-ops. Create a structured curriculum that integrates nutrition, health and wellness lessons while providing opportunities for social engagement through group games and team-building exercises. Secure knowledgeable and engaging instructors and encourage parent involvement. Ensure your program has a thorough communication and marketing plan to start off strong. Lastly, implement a method for feedback and assessment to make necessary changes, keeping the program relevant and providing an amazing participant experience.
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