Cottonwood Heights Recreation Sports of All Sorts Summary

This literature helped me develop a recreation program for preschoolers ages 3-5 and

elementary children ages 5-7 at Cottonwood Heights Recreation Center. I used the theory of

developmental intentionality to create my program. When looking at the component of ethos,

which is one's philosophy of working with youth. I already had a positive philosophy about

working with youth. I have worked in the recreation field for many years, and working with

children and teaching sports is my passion.

The next element is learning experience, which includes, the relationships within the

program, the context of the program, and the method, plan and content of the program. When

reading the literature, I learned that a coach needs to provide opportunities for positive

relationships as well as an environment that supports belongingness. I created positive

relationships with the kids, by always being supportive of the kids’ effort when learning new

skills involved in the program. Before the start of each session, I had the kids say their names

and their favorite food, sport, or animal. I would have the other kids cheer for each other and

give high fives to their teammates during activities. At the end of each session, the whole group

would do a cheer that wet along with each sport they learned. The context of the program was

that it was a recreation program for young children at a community recreation center, so I had to

adapt the program to be open to anyone who signed up for it. Lastly, I had to develop the

method, plan, and content of the program. Based on the literature I had to follow certain

guidelines when working with young children, such as play vs. skill development, variety of

activities, amount of physical activity, and amount of competition. I created a program that

taught a different sport/activity every session. Each session was only an hour long, because any

longer would have been too taxing for these children. The classes I taught were: soccer, t-ball,

flag football, hockey, running/relay races, basketball, yoga, parachute games, and dance. Also,

within each session I created a variety of activities so that the children could develop different

skills. I had nutrition games, jumping games, throwing, catching, running, and many more. I

made sure that many of my games had a play and creative element involved, since play is an

important factor with children this young. During the program, I focused on skill development

and not winning. Most of my games were more individualized and not team oriented. With the

older ages, I played some games where there is a winner and a loser, but I didn't emphasize who

won.

The third factor in the theory of developmental intentionality is youth in their world. This

means that youth bring their outside world into each program. I had to make sure the program

was supportive of all cultures, faiths, genders, and skill level. Many preschoolers didn't know

much about sports, so I had to adapt my program, so that the skills were very basic. I also wanted

to bring their world into the program. I created at-home activities with games that went along

with each session and a recipe. I wanted the people in their lives to know what they learned and

to continue that skill development at home. No matter how solid a curriculum is, the youth

involved ultimately decide what the curriculum should include. In order to create a

developmentally appropriate curriculum for preschoolers ages 3-5 and elementary children ages

5-7 at Cottonwood Heights Recreation Center, I incorporated all of those factors from the theory

of developmental intentionality to create my recreation program.

Developing an appropriate program for Cottonwood Heights was not my biggest concern.

I was mostly worried about executing the program. I had worked with kids a lot in the past, but I

didn’t have much experience with children that young. When you put everything on paper, it

seems so easy, but actually teaching 3-5-year-olds a sport is a lot harder. I expected that when

working with the preschoolers that I would have some issues actually teaching them the proper

skills. I didn't know if the kids would understand what I was teaching them or if they would pick

it up right away. I thought that working with the elementary children ages 5-7 would be easier. I

have worked with children that age, and I know that they understand sports and pick up most

skills easily. I also wasn't sure exactly what type of equipment Cottonwood Heights had, so I

didn't know if it would be appropriate for each age group. Lastly, I was concerned about

executing dance, yoga, football, and t-ball. I have barely played those sports, let alone taught

them to children. I was worried about teaching a sport that I wasn't very good at myself.

Overall, the program was extremely successful and the kids had a blast. I saw their skill

development throughout the program. However, there were still some valuable lessons that I

learned in developing and executing this program. Working with the 3-5-year-olds took a lot of

patience. In the beginning, I wanted to follow my program schedule. However, I learned that

preschoolers work off their own agenda. They lost interest quickly and a lot of the group

activities they did not understand. I had to make sure that I slowed down and thoroughly

explained all the rules. I learned that even going over the rules a few times was needed. I learned

that even if the kids don't understand the activity or can't do it, that I need to remain positive by

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cheering the kids on constantly. I need to make sure that I always cheer on the effort that they are

making when learning a new skill. Since they lost interest quickly, I needed to have a lot of

activities planned for each session. Sometimes I needed to come up with new activities during

the session, if the kids did not understand something or if I ran out of good activities to do. Also,

with some activities they were more into playing with the cones than learning the actual skill. I

never physically expressed my frustration, but internally I just wanted the kids to listen and

follow my directions. Patience is definitely needed when working with preschoolers. Also, in a

few sessions, such as basketball and football, the equipment was not appropriate for

preschoolers. The footballs were too big for their hands to hold, so it was difficult for them to

throw. Basketball was an especially difficult session for the preschoolers. The basketballs were

so big they couldn't dribble or shoot the ball. Also, in basketball, the nets did not go low enough,

so they couldn't make one shot.

Working with the 5-7-year-olds was much easier. Most kids had some experience in

sports, so they understood the basic skills. They all listened and followed directions. However,

they still got bored of activities, but not as quick as the preschoolers. It was still important to

have a lot of activities planned for each session. However, I learned that if an activity doesn't go

as planned, a coach needs to come up with appropriate activities during the session. Also, some

of the equipment hindered the ability of the 5-7-year-olds to practice their skills. Basketball in

particular was hard for them. This age group did not have has hard to a time as the preschoolers,

but I think that having a smaller ball would have made dribbling and shooting easier.

Overall, I learned many valuable lessons for my future work in the community recreation

field. First and foremost, intentionally creating a developmentally appropriate recreation program

is important for children ages 3-7. I learned that even when you develop an appropriate

curriculum, some activities do not go as planned and that a coach needs to go with the flow.

Being able to develop extra activities on the spot is important. I also learned, that being patience

with the kids and explaining all the rules thoroughly is needed. Not only is appropriate

curriculum important, but appropriate equipment is important as well for young children to learn

new skills. Recreation programs are about learning new skills, but most importantly they are

about having fun.

After the program finished, I asked the parents/guardians of the children who came 6 out

of the 9 sessions to fill out a feedback/evaluation form. After reading the evaluations, I received

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only positive comments about the program. Parents loved that there was a different sport each

week. They thought it was a great way to allow kids to try new sports that they wouldn't have

tried normally. They thought that changing it up allowed for the kids to stay interested every

session. The parents loved the nutrition portion of the program. They thought it was important

for their kids to learn about healthy eating from someone other than their parents. Parents said

that their kids talked about eating healthy more after participating in this program. Most of the

parents liked filling out their child's "Physical Activity and Healthy Eating Log". They said it

gave them a chance to review what their kids did over the week. The kids would get excited if

they ate something healthy or did exercise, because then they could add it to their log. Most

parents really liked the At-Home Activities that I handed out each session. They said that they

tried to do the activities and it was always nice to have more ideas. Also, many parents used the

recipe that was one there. They would usually make it with their kid, which I enjoyed hearing.

Everyone said that they definitely want this program to continue in the future. Parents mentioned

that this program would be awesome during the winter season, because it allows for the kids to

still be active and get exercise, even with the bad weather. Some parents suggested to add other

activities, which included: ice staking, ice hokey, water polo, water volleyball, Pilates,

meditation, Zumba, and tumbling. The only problems that the parents had were with the

registration process and lack of advertising. Parents said that they didn't see the program

advertised much. Also, registration was a problem, because the classes would fill up quick, but

many times kids wouldn't even show up. Some parents figured out that they could still come and

usually the class wouldn't be full. Other than that Cottonwood Heights provided a great place for

the Sports of All Sorts program to occur.

Experience During the Masters Program

I have loved this program and I will be sad to leave. What I found most useful from the

masters program was that it taught me to think more critically and to not just accept the first

answer I hear or come up with. Also, this program taught me how to backup my ideas using

literature and research. In almost all of my classes I was forced to think more critically about my

answers and the 'why' to them. In this program I need valid reasons and research to back up my

answer. Also, I found that allowing me to pick a lot of classes that were more geared to my

future career was very helpful. Instead of forcing me to take a ton of classes that didn't apply, I

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was able able to pick classes that suited me. I was able to pick class that I thought would apply to

my future career, which made me work harder because I enjoyed what I was learning about.

I feel like this masters program prepared me for the field that I want to go into. I want to

work in community recreation, so I was able to take classes that were geared towards that.

Before this program I have never development my own recreation program that was supported

by literature. I feel like I have learned information that for once has stuck in my head. In

undergrad I would just memorize information, so I would do well on the test, but in this masters

program, I feel like I actually learned a lot of information about the field. Even now I can cite

information that I have learned in my classes that would explain the reasoning behind certain

factors that need to be included in a youth program or a certain theory that would support the

reason behind a certain coaching environment. I am by no means an expert, but I was taught by

many experts in this field, and I feel like they have prepared my to get a career in community

recreation.

I am currently searching for jobs in the community recreation field. My dream job would

be the director of a community recreation center. I believe that everyone deserves the

opportunity to be healthy and participate in some form of recreation. I know that I won't be able

to be a director right away, because that takes more experience, but I will be looking for jobs that

will lead me down that path. I look forward to finally getting a career in the field I love most.

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Appendix 1: Sports of All Sorts Program Summary

This is a word for word from my journal after every session with each age group. I discussed what happen with each activity in each program, what I need to work on for next session and what went well.

1) Soccer September 13thWarm-Up

Sports Models went really well. Both age groups loved that activity and understood it.

Circle Time: I should have gone over soccer rules more, because a lot of the kids especially the

younger age group did not understand that you couldn’t use your hands unless you are the goalie.

Next time I need to take more time for introductions between the kids and myself.

Red Light, Green Light: Both age groups loved this activity and were able to understand this activity.

Tunnel Goal: This activity went well. Both age groups were able to understand and do it. Next time I need to explain rules a little more and make sure they know how to do the

activity.

Destroyer: This was the favorite activity of each group. Younger age: couldn’t understand that they had to go back to the outside of the circle

before they kicked it again. Next time I need to explain the rules a little more, which I think would have helped.

Steal the Bacon: The younger kids didn’t get this activity at all. They couldn't remember their numbers or

understand that the number that was called is the only one that can run out in the middle to get the ball.

The older kids loved this game.

Nutrition/Cool Down Activity: The kids understood and loved playing Healthy Food Hugs.

End Circle Time: I forgot to break it down and do the cheer at the end. I need to separate kids more when rating the day with smiley faces. I could have Morgan

do it, while I hand out the activities. When handing out the at-home activities try to do a better job explaining.

Overall:

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I need to slow down and don't rush through the rules of activities. I need to explain all the rules and make sure the kids understand that activity before I

move on. I need to not get nervous that the parents are watching, especially the younger group.

Number of Participants: 3-5-Year-Olds: 6 5-7-Year-Olds: 4

Fun & Smiles Meter: 3-5-Year-Olds: 6 smiles 5-7-Year-Olds: 4 smiles

2) T-Ball September 20Circle Time:

Went over everyone's names again Instead of asking, "What is your favorite sport?" each time, I will ask a different question.

Favorite music? Song? Animal? Color? Game? I forgot to sing the baseball song. Going over t-ball rules went well. The kids listened well.

Warm-Up: I did not do the activity Friend in the Middle. Would have done that activity if there was

music, but I wasn't able to get some. Kids instead chose different animals and that they would act out as a warm-up

Throwing and Catching: Went well for both age groups. I need to remember to always stay positive and cheer

each other on. I need to remind the kids to cheer for each other more often.

Clear the Yard: Younger age: It was hard for them to understand to not cross the line, but the still enjoyed

it. Older: this game was successful.

Running Bases: Did not get to the relay part of the running. Instead, I would call out a base number and

the kids would run to that base as fast as possible. Maybe next time see if they can "beat" the coach to the base.

Hitting Practice: Younger: It was hard for them to wait in line to hit the ball. It worked better when they

stood on the bases and took turns throwing to me. I need to make sure that the younger kids are always occupied.

Older: They LOVED hitting the ball.

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Food Rainbow: It would have worked better if the jump rope colors actually matched the food colors. The

kids did get excited to grab certain foods though.

End Circle Time: Try to remember to end with a cheer every time.

Overall: When working with the kids, especially the younger ones make sure to pick up the

equipment because they were more distracted and interested in playing with cones than t-ball.

Happy Healthy Bucks: Younger: DO NOT DO IT WITH THEM, they cried when they didn't win, even though

we talked about cheering each other on no matter who wins. Older: This went well and they cheered the winner on. I will continue to do this with the

older kids.

Child Physical Activity and Healthy Eating Log Returned: Younger: 1 kid Older: 1 kid

Number of Participates: 3-5-Year-Olds: 5 5-7-Year-Olds: 5

Fun & Smiles Meter: 3-5-Year-Olds: 5 smiles 5-7-Year-Olds: 5 smiles

3) Football September 27Circle Time:

Taught the kids some rules about football The kids liked talking about the information they knew about football.

Warm-Up: They all liked choosing what workout activity they wanted to do to warm-up. Make sure to allow options for creativity and taking turns.

Football Activities: Simon Shows: Made it simple for the younger kids. They enjoyed learning ball-handling

skills. Throwing: The kids liked throwing the ball in the hula-hoop, however the ball was too

big for most kids so smaller footballs would have been helpful. The right equipment is important.

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Catching: The younger kids only played catch with the coaches. The older kids practiced throwing and catching with each other. They switched partners a lot and it went super well. No one complained that they had a bad partner.

Don't Look Down: Basically we just played tag. The kids would chase us and then we would switch and

chase the kids. The kids loved this. There were so many giggles. The older kids chased each other. It was green vs. red.

Running Obstacle Course: Younger: The kids didn't really get it. I should have done follow the leader through the

obstacle course. Older: The kids got this and did a relay race.

Nutrition Activity: Breakfast behaviors went well. They were able to discuss the healthy foods they eat and learn the healthy foods that each

other eat.

End Circle Time: Younger: Still have the kids do the fun and smiles meter but did not do the happy healthy

bucks drawing. Older: Still did the fun and smiles meter and did the healthy happy bucks drawing, so one

person wins every session. Overall:

Football went better than I thought it would. Need to remember to always cheer the kids on for effort.

Child Physical Activity and Healthy Eating Log Returned: Younger: 2 kids Older: 2 kids

Number of Participates: 3-5-Year-Olds: 5 5-7-Year-Olds: 10

Fun & Smiles Meter: 3-5-Year-Olds: 5 smiles 5-7-Year-Olds: 10 smiles

4) Hockey October 4Warm-Up:

The kids loved the animals. Everyone understood it and had a great time. I will use the safari warm-up more.

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Hockey Stick Handling Skills Younger: Had a hard time controlling the ball and stick since it is more fine motor

movements. They also had a hard time keeping the stick on the ground. Older: They were able to handle the stick and ball more.

Red Light, Green Light Younger: They mostly just ran around and hit the ball, but they still tried and had a great

time. Older: They had a great time with this. They especially liked the purple light, which is

dancing.

Clear the Backyard: Younger: They struggled keeping the stick on the ground. I was afraid that they would hit

each other on accident, so I didn't do this one. Older: They understood it and had a great time.

Hockey Ball Shift: Younger: They practiced shooting in the hula-hoops that were placed around the room.

They got so happy when they made a shot. Older: They got into partners and used cones instead of hoops. First practiced shooting in

their own goals and then went around and shot in all the goals that were placed around the room.

Steal the Bacon: Younger: They didn't understand it, so played keep away. They had to steal the ball from

the coaches. They loved chasing us and giggled non-stop. Older: They wanted to do boys vs. girls. It went well and it was a way for them to play a

type of hockey game.

Nutrition/ Cool-Down Activity: Everyone loved this activity, because it included running. They all love telling me the healthy things they ate over the week/weekend.

End Circle Time: I remembered the cheer.

Overall: Younger: They have a hard time understanding team sports. Hockey is more of a fine

motor movement sport, so they had trouble. They get tired too easily and I think that an hour could be too long for this age group.

Older: They loved hockey and it went super well. I don’t know how accurate the smiles are, because so far every activity has been all

smiles or they are actually all having a great time.

Child Physical Activity and Healthy Eating Log Returned: Younger: 1 kid

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Older: 3 kids

Number of Participates: 3-5-Year-Olds: 4 5-7-Year-Olds: 9

Fun & Smiles Meter: 3-5-Year-Olds: 4 smiles 5-7-Year-Olds: 9 smiles

5) Running/Relay RacesWarm-up:

All kids loved the exploring movement warm-up. They all understood it and had a good time.

Red Light, Green Light: All kids enjoyed this and understood it.

Obstacle Course: Didn't make it a relay race, just had the kids practice getting better individually every

time they went. Some of the younger kids struggled with the some of the moves.

Relay Races: I taught the kids what a baton was and the type of shoes you use during a race. It was nice

to have a visual to show them. We just did one big relay race and cheered each other on. They all loved using a real baton.

Practice Racing I taught them the correct way to start a race and then we raced a few times. I didn't

highlight who won, just about fun.

Four Corners + Sharks and Minnows: This was the kids’ favorite activity. They loved us chasing them the most.

Nutrition/Cool Down Activity: Cheddar, cheddar, cheese: The kids' loved this game and they all understood it after a few

rounds.

Overall: I loved running the most, because all kids have those skills and are able to run. I had two parents today tell me this is the best program that they have had their kid

involved in. The kids look forward most to this class during the week. They hope it continues and could be offered a few times a week.

Child Physical Activity and Healthy Eating Log Returned: Younger: 1 kid

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Older: 6 kids

Number of Participates: 3-5-Year-Olds: 5 5-7-Year-Olds: 9

Fun & Smiles Meter: 3-5-Year-Olds: 4 smiles, 1 frowny face 5-7-Year-Olds: 8 smiles, 1 neutral face

6) Basketball October 18Warm-up:

They all loved the warm-up and were able to understand it. This was a great way to practice colors.

Dribbling Techniques and Drills Younger: They all STRUGGLED so much with this. The balls were WAY too big. They

could not dribble at all. They got very discouraged. For Red Light, Green Light: the ball basically rolled the whole time and they were chasing it most of the time. Four Corners: They also couldn’t dribble and chased the ball most of the time. The kids started to lose interest really early

Older: They could dribble the ball for the most part, but smaller balls would still have been helpful. Red Light, Green Light: They could do it and only chased the ball a little. Four Corners: They all loved this game.

Basketball Passing: Younger: We tried to practice against the wall, but most of the kids started to lose interest

because they struggle so much. They did not pass with the coach or with each other. Older: First practiced against the wall and then they got into partners. They understood it

and were able to do it.

Defense Drill: Younger: They just copied me and did not do partners. It went aright, but wasn't great. Older: First they copied me and then they got into partners and had to take turns copying

each other. They really liked this one and enjoyed it.

Shooting Drills: Younger: Once again, they could not do this at all. The nets did not go low enough and

the balls were way to heavy for them to shoot it up high. The all got so discouraged. Not one kid made a basket.

Older: They were able to shoot some baskets. They loved making baskets. I had them see how many shots they could make in a minute.

Obstacle Course: Younger: I knew that they would not be able to do it, so didn't even try.

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Older: They all ran through it one time. They would dribble through it and then shoot at the end.

Nutrition/Cool Down Activity: Younger: They enjoyed dancing with the activity Snack Moves and understood this

activity. They liked telling me all the healthy foods they ate over the week. Older: They also enjoyed this activity doing different dance moves. They liked telling me

all the healthy foods they ate over the week.

Overall: Younger: This was by far the worst program for the younger group. The biggest issue

was the equipment. The balls were way too big and the basketball net did not lower enough. Because of the equipment, they could not dribble or shoot at all. They got really discouraged and did not have fun at all. The right equipment is extremely important. I forgot to hand out the at-home activities.

Older: They still had a good time because they could dribble and shoot. It still would have been better with smaller balls and a lower net.

Child Physical Activity and Healthy Eating Log Returned: Younger: I forgot to hand out the at-home activities, so they couldn’t return them. Older: 5 kids

Number of Participates: 3-5-Year-Olds: 5 5-7-Year-Olds: 8

Fun & Smiles Meter: 3-5-Year-Olds: 4 smiles (one left early) 5-7-Year-Olds: 4 smiles, 1 neutral face

7) Yoga October 25Warm-up:

The kids loved freeze dance. It was the first time I played/had access to music. It was awesome and I think it made the kids more excited. I will definitely be playing music from now on.

Before starting yoga, I was definitely worried about how it would go because I didn't think the kids would be able to sit long enough to do a whole yoga session.

Yoga Poses: Younger: They all participated and did the poses with me. Surprisingly, most listened the

whole time and didn't bug each other. Older: They also participated and did all the poses. They didn't really bug each other and

enjoyed learning the poses. Me: I had to read the poses from a book, which was kind of annoying. Next time, I want

to be able to show the kids the poses and not read it from a book.

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Surfin' U.S.A.: Younger: They loved it! It was a nice break where they could move a little more and run

a little in the middle of the yoga poses. Older: They also loved it like the younger kids. They loved it so much that we did it

again at the end.

Posing Pictures: Younger: Kids surprisingly membered lots of poses' names and had fun guessing. Older: Kids also remembered lots of poses and loved guessing.

Nutrition/ Cool Down Activity: They all loved the dinner train activity, because there was lots of running. The kids were actually individual trains, because making one group train was too

difficult.

Overall: Yoga was great and was one of the best classes. All ages understood it and participated in it. Kids were able to do this program regardless of skill level.

Child Physical Activity and Healthy Eating Log Returned: Younger: 2 kids Older: 5 kids

Number of Participates: 3-5-Year-Olds: 5 5-7-Year-Olds: 7

Fun & Smiles Meter: 3-5-Year-Olds: 5 smiles 5-7-Year-Olds: 6 smiles, 1 neutral face

8) Parachute Games November 1 Warm-up:

All ages loved this warm-up and were able to understand it. I elaborated more and had them go through the whole day all the way until bedtime

again.

Parachute Games: Younger: They didn't understand parachute tag and they didn't do shoe shuffle, but other

than that they loved the activities and were able to understand the activities. The parents/guardians had to help with the parachute, because we didn't have a lot of kids and they are so tiny, so it was hard for them to lift it above their heads.

Older: They all understood the activities and had fun participating in these activities. Did not do the shoe shuffle activity.

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Everyone loved popcorn and the tent activity the most.

Nutrition/ Cool Down Activity: Instead of using the colors of the parachute, I used the multi-colored foam balls. I spread the balls out and talked about healthy foods that relate to the rainbow colors. They had to run out and grab one ball at a time. When they brought me back a ball, they

had to tell me the healthy food that matched the color of the ball. They all liked running around and collecting the balls and they understood the activity.

Child Physical Activity and Healthy Eating Log Returned: Younger: 1 kids Older: 4 kids. Also, some parents said they filled it out, but they forgot it.

Number of Participates: 3-5-Year-Olds: 3 5-7-Year-Olds: 6

Fun & Smiles Meter: 3-5-Year-Olds: 3 smiles 5-7-Year-Olds: 6 smiles

9) Dance November 8Warm-up:

Everyone understood how to play freeze dance and had a great time doing it. It is such a great warm-up.

Dance Activities: Younger: They loved all the songs and were able to sing and do the dance moves that

went along with them. They did not do: tight rope dance, old macdonald, beat goes on, rhythm trains, or dance down the line. We didn't have time for everything, but dance went well with this age.

Older: Some kids thought the songs were baby songs, so it trickled down to the others and it was hard to keep them interested. For the older kids, use older songs and maybe try to teach them real dance moves or a real dance routine. Did not do: shadow dancing, this old man, if you're happy and you know it, old macdonald, beat goes on, rhythm train, wheels on the bus. In the end we just played tag, because the kids weren't having the best time.

Nutrition/Cool Down Activity: Everyone loved this activity and they understood it. They really liked running around.

Overall: I could try to teach them a real dance, some dance moves or a routine. For the older kids, I need to use older songs that they want to dance to. It would be nice to have more dance props or instruments, because the kids really liked

using the streamers to dance with.

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Child Physical Activity and Healthy Eating Log Returned: Younger: 1 kid Older: 3 kids

Number of Participates: 3-5-Year-Olds: 3 5-7-Year-Olds: 6

Fun & Smiles Meter: 3-5-Year-Olds: 3 smiles 5-7-Year-Olds: 5 smiles (one left early)

Appendix 2: Parent Feedback Form and Evaluation Responses

There were 10 kids who went at least 6 out of the 9 sessions. I got 8 out of the 10 kids parents/guardians to fill out the form. Below are the questions I asked from the parents/guardians and their exact responses to each question.

1) Did you and your child enjoy learning a new sport/activity each session? Would you have preferred a 4-week soccer session verses different sports each session or was learning a different sport more beneficial for your child?

-For my child it was more beneficial to learn different activity. Every time, she comes over very happy and excited that she had a fantastic time as Sport of All Sorts. I have a very outgoing 6 year old, who is excited to learn new activity and participate in many different things.

-My kids loved going to this Sports of All Sorts program. They get so excited when Tuesday comes.

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-My kids preferred learning a different sport each week. They had a lot of fun with every class and looked forward to each class. It was great for them to try new sports that I may not have considered putting them into for longer time periods. For some of the sports with more rules it might be fun to have 2-week classes, but no more than that.

-He did enjoy the different activities. I think at his age he enjoyed playing with the kids and having different things to learn. We often played the sports learned during the week. Hopefully the program continues and as the age groups progress having longer session of a sport would enhance their learning.

-I think a different sport each time was good. We already participated in soccer on our own, so it was a good way to try out new sports that we might enjoy or want to look at in the future.

-My kids really enjoy learning new sports skills each week. It helps them learn what they like and they enjoy being active thanks to this program.

- Yes, we did enjoy learning about new sports, or should I say Anabelle did. The experience to explore different sports was very unique. Anabelle had never played floor hockey, flag football or volleyball before (at least with peers). So I have to say different sports were very beneficial.

2) Do you think the coaching staff was beneficial? Why or why not? Do you think your child learned the basics of each sport? What parts of the coaching were helpful? What parts of the coaching could use more work? What parts of the coaching didn't work at all?

-I can't answer that question, because I wasn't present during each sport activity. But based on my child's happy face I figured that she picked up the basics.

-I like that every time different sports.

-Yes. They were great with the kids. They broke down that basics of each sport to basic, appropriate levels for the age group. My daughter learned the basics of sports better in these classes than in weekly classes she has attended dedicated to one sport.

-The coaching staff was excellent. They had the skills to handle the children’s different learning levels and capabilities. They were very positive and encouraging to everyone. He learned about the sports but more importantly sportsmanship and sharing and taking turns.

-I think the coaching went well and was beneficial.

-The coaching staff is the best park of the program. They are so kind and patient. They were able to hold the kids attention and the kids learned a lot. They included imaginative play in their warm-up which was a nice added touch.

- Yes, very beneficial! Gilli works great with the kids and brings an enthusiastic energy to the program. Her personal desire to be physically fit and healthy comes through her teaching. We loved how she incorporated activity at class, but also challenged us a home to continue being

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active and tracking eating. We wish she was staying with us at CWHRC on a regular basis, we will miss having and the class.

3) Do you think your child benefited from the nutritional activity at the end of each session? Do you think your child learned a little more information about eating healthy? Did you as a guardian/parent know that there was even a nutritional segment added to the sports program?

-We don't support eating out or eating that has little or no protein in it. She always asks for granola bar or water or other juice that has vitamins in it. Yes, I did know that, she mentioned that sometimes you cover that at the end of the program.

-It's a great learning habit to eat healthy. It was a great idea.

-Yes, learning about nutrition from people other than parents is always helpful.

-We talked more about healthy eating and not having snacks until he'd eaten something healthy. He became more aware of what healthy choices are.

-I think the nutritional component was great. We try to focus on healthy food choices at home, but often I think it gets filed into one more thing mom and dad and they still gravitate towards junk. So it reinforces what we try to do at home. It helps if we're encouraging trying new things. We have started into a bad habit of not liking foods we have always liked so we are trying to convince them to "try new things" and have a food adventure.

-I didn't know there would be a nutrition aspect until the first time we went and I am so glad there is. It motivated my older kid to see if he could fill it up all week and if they could do better than weeks previous. They also get excited to make the healthy recipe he got each week.

- Yes. Definitely, she was actually learning about the food pyramid at school the past two weeks so being conscious about what health foods and choices are was reinforce weekly through the Sports of All Sorts program. If is an excellent way to encourage our young children that just being active isn’t enough to being a well rounded healthy individual. I did not know there was going to be a nutritional segment to the program

4) Did you or your child find the physical and healthy eating log beneficial or was it more of a hassle to remember filling it out? Did your child choose to eat healthier and participate in more physical activities at home because of the log or did the log have no affect on their activity/eating levels at home? Did your child remember to fill out the log or did you as the guardian/parent have to remind them? Would you want to continue doing the log in the future?

-Honestly saying, I, as a parent didn't care much about physical and healthy eating long, because at school she gets 2 recess times. In addition to home meals, she doesn't get school lunch. I always prepare her food at home. Also, she is on multivitamins. So, personally I didn't care much about those logs.

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-It's very helpful and my kid always eat healthy.

-My child was too young to remember to do it herself and I usually forgot. When I remembered that log was helpful. I really liked the recipe ideas and the activity ideas.

-I filled it out but it gave us the opportunity to go over the week and remind him what he did that was an activity. He was often surprised we did so much. IT was a good review and reminder.

-We struggled with the log. I always had to remind them and I wouldn't say to really changed the eating habits. We already try to have an activity everyday.

-The log wasn't a hassle, it was fun. My kids were motivated to eat better and get in more physical activity throughout the week. I had to help my little one with their log, but my big guy and I did his together. I'd love to keep it up.

-Yes, the log was beneficial from the stand point that Anabelle was taking initiative verses us telling her what to look for in her nutrition. She was disappointed when she couldn’t circle a “plate” at every meal. We discussed that having waffles with syrup and no protein was not a balanced choice for breakfast and she could not get credit for making a healthy balanced option. Funny, now in the morning if she wants a bagel or toast with jam she says, “oh, and I’ll have Greek yogurt or eggs with that so I can get my protein” ;-) She was very diligent to fill out the log, she would get upset if she went to bed and realized that she didn’t finish out the day. I would continue using the log, it’s a great reminder for Belle and she took pride in realizing when good choices were made and when they were not.

5) Did you use any of the At-Home activities and recipes with your child from the handout? Did you find those handouts beneficial or were they just another paper that your child brought home? Would you want to continue to get At-Home activities and recipes in the future?

-It not a bad idea of an idea. She eats salads like crazy. When you had salad recipe we gladly prepared that at home.

-We always eat at home food and we always cook and kids love to help.

-Yes.

-We didn't use the handouts! Sorry :(

-I did read the at home activities and recipes. Some we added ingredients or tired, so not so much. I think it is always good to have more ideas.

-We did a couple at-home activities, but struggled fitting them in with homework. I would like to try them, there were not a waste of paper. The recipes helped my kids want to cook with me, so in addition to getting them to eat better, they also boned with me and each other, Win-win.

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-Yes, each week there was an activity or recipe! Belle love to bake so it was fun for her to try “My own recipes from my class”. The ideas and recipes were welcomed at our home. Some weeks we didn’t get to all of the activities but we did review them at dinner frequently and do activities on the weekend. Yes, I would continue using the ideas provided.

6) How did Cottonwood Heights facility do overall? Is there anything that Cottonwood Heights can do with this program to make it better in the future? Any problems with, registration, location (outside, inside, gym), staffing, or equipment?

-I overheard from another parent about this program. I would say make is accessible and better advertised. Our kids must be active no matter the weather. Limited space was a little on an issue for us. But, still it was a great program.

-No we didn't have any problems.

-It was sometimes frustrating that the class was listed as full and then people didn't show up. I understand that there is a child/instructor limit, but there were classes that weren't full we could have attended.

-I didn't see the program advertised at all. A friend mentioned her grandson has done a sport camp during the summer. After that I just happened to see a flyer for this camp. So, my suggestion would be to advertise the program. I love having this opportunity for the kids to be active and involved at this young age.

-I think CHR did a good job. At the beginning there was a little confusion as to were to meet, but not enough to change my opinion of the program.

-It was great. I can't think of a single thing that would make it better.

-We love having CWHRC in our community, it offers what we need, except to have Sports of all Sorts ran on a regular basis. Tuesdays at 5:15 was a perfect time. It allowed me to attend a fitness class while she was being active instead of sitting in the childcare space, which she is almost too old for but too young to join me in activities. What could be done to make it better in the future – continue to offer it at the same time and day each week. I did not encounter any problems; registration was a little complex being we couldn’t sign up for the whole session at once. Each class was set up individually, so the process was time consuming and repetitive.

7) Would you recommend that Cottonwood Heights continue this program in the future? Why or what not? Do you like having it once a week or would you like it to be twice a week? Are there any sports that you would like to see added? Are there any sports that you would want to be taken away?

-Be creative, but safe. I would never say to take some out. The more the merrier. But be safe. I would definitely recommend this program to all of the members. I think once a week is enough, considering that she is also in ice skating and swimming. She is very busy and active!

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-Yes we all would like to keep this program in the future. I think each sports are different it its own way.

-I loved this class and so did my kids. I would love to see this class continued and would sign my kids up again. It is a great way to reinforce the basics of sports and introduce them to new sports without committing to a 1 week course when you don't know if they will like it. I recommend adding a tumbling class.

-Yes, please continue the program! There aren't many opportunities for kids this age to have these types of activities. Twice a week would be great.

-Yes, I would like the program continues. It is a nice change from the usual things we do and encourages experimentation. I think it will be great in winter when it is a little more difficult to get kids exercise. Once a week worked well for us.

-Yes, Cottonwood Heights should continue the program. It gave my kids confidence in knowing more sports skills. It gave my little guy something to look forward to every week. I wouldn't take any sports away.

-YES, YES, please continue to offer this unique opportunity. Even if they focused on the same sport for 2-3 weeks to understand the rules and team engagement then moved onto another sport. Once a week is great, but I would seriously consider signing up for it twice a week. It allows us to come to CWHRC as a family when our school age child has an activity to do as well and not be in the childcare room. I know it would be more work but maybe add ice skating or hockey, especially since we have an amazing rink on site!!! Suggestion, Water polo, water volleyball, I realize that may be limiting to skill and pool space. Pilates, yoga – meditation, Zumba , education around the importance of stretching and preparing your body for exercise and cool down. Track and field/relay. You really did cover quite a bit, I’m just throwing out suggestions

8) How did your child feel about this program overall? Did they have fun? Was your child excited to go every time or were they reluctant to show up?

-Every day she is asking if it is Tuesday. She absolutely loves the program and her teachers. Please, please keep it, don't cancel it. Keep it year round. My kid enjoys it more than spending that 1hour with her mom at the nursery.

-They always have fun after when it’s over and they very excited to go every Tuesday.

-Yes. They loved it and had fun every week. It is only reoccurring sports class my 4 year old has enjoyed attending weekly and that I haven’t had to fight her to get her to keep going after 3 or 4 classes. I think the variety helped.

-At first he was shy about coming but once there he loved it and was excited to come every week.

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-My kid enjoyed coming, always went to look at the list of what you were doing that week and was excited to come.

-My children love this program. They loved it. My eldest kept thinking we wasn't good at sports and the skills he learned in this program gave him confidence when playing with his friends and signing up for sports teams.

-She really enjoyed it!!! She looked forward to Tuesday nights and we have activities Monday thru Thursday. Tuesday is her favorite, “because its always something different, not just the same thing like soccer, soccer, soccer” YES, defiantly had fun she really likes Gilli and Morgan.

9) Any additional comments:

-Thank you for everything that you do for our children and keep them active, happy and healthy. God bless you all!

-We all hope to keep doing what you guys doing in the future.

-Please contribute to offer this class at the rec center.

-The program was a huge success. I was impressed with all the activities Coach Gilly had for the kids to do. She kept everything moving and kept the activities appropriate to their ages and capabilities. She was also very supportive and encouraging and positive to all the kids.

-I appreciate a program for kids that helps them try new activities and get active.

-Thank you for providing this class for my children!

-Thank you for taking a vested interest in creating a program that is so interactive for young children. As you know it is hard to keep their focus and attention. Changing things up weekly and keeping them engaged with the nutrition sheets and activities was a great way to keep them mindful of their once a week class. It also was not just a class but a learning experience on multiple levels.

I wish you the best in you Masters program, but you will be missed. Always enjoyed our lil’ conversations before class. Maybe you could come back as a guest visitor or lead a few classes.

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