Get active - put your feet first!

The Put Your Feet First programme, run by Westmeath Sports Partnership is now in its second week in the Lake County as it bids to get children and parents active. The basis of the programme is to motivate children to get active. They are rewarded with stickers if they are active for an hour a day and if their parents are active for half an hour each day. There are a total of 20 stickers available and if they get 15 stickers or more they receive a Feet First t-shirt. So far, the programme has been a great success and there has been some excellent feedback from teachers and children alike. The children seemed genuinely excited by the programme and were more than happy to partake in the activities. This is very positive as the main goal of the programme is to get children active while promoting fun in sports. 'On speaking to some children I found they are enjoying taken part in the Feet First programme, by getting active and receiving their stickers. Some children indicated that their parents are still getting involved and they are getting plenty of physical activity at home,' according to Ben O" Rourke from Westmeath Sports Partnership. He concluded: 'The teachers stated that the children are still very interested in the programme. The teachers have been encouraged by the programme and have noticed increased enthusiasm and enjoyment of active play during break times. Nowadays it is hard getting children active; however with the help of a simple programme like this it gives them the motivation and recognition children need to put their feet first!' For additional information go to www.westmeathsports.ie or call 044-9390208