Local kids will unknowingly be getting exercise while taking part in fun activities during the 13th semi-annual Fit and Fun Day, to be held from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. on Saturday, April 2 in Gentile Hall. The event is sponsored by the University of Maine at Presque Isle’s Physical Education Majors Club.

For the past several years, the Club has organized the free play day for area children in grades 1 through 5 to teach them about health and fitness in a fun environment. Activities will include cooperative games and team building activities.

The multipurpose court in Gentile Hall will be set up for the various activities. Children will spend about 20 to 30 minutes at one of four stations before moving on to another activity. UMPI physical education and athletic training students will facilitate the activities and help children throughout the day.

Dr. Chris Standefer, Professor of Physical Education, said the event provides wonderful benefits both to college and elementary students.

“The biggest benefit is that kids can do fun activities and realize that fitness isn’t just about exercise. It’s also about playing and just being a kid,” she said. “And our university students get the opportunity to work with school-age children. Anytime I can get my students working with kids, it makes their teaching skills stronger.”

This year, the climbing wall and swimming pool will be open to all Fit and Fun Day participants immediately following the event, from 12-1 p.m. Parents will need to sign a release form in order for their children to use the swimming pool and rock wall.

Parents who would like to be active while keeping an eye on their kids will have the opportunity to take part in a walking club that will be making loops around the elevated track that overlooks the gym where children will be playing. Coffee and tea for parents will also be provided by Aramark Food Service.

Athletic Training staff and students will be on site as first aid helpers. Registration for this event will begin at 9 a.m. If the weather is nice, organizers may include some outdoor activities during the event – participants are urged to bring a jacket and dress for the outdoors. Participants also should bring their own snacks for this event if desired.

For more information, call Dr. Chris Standefer at 768-9457.