Two weeks into its Tot Gym program, Wrangell's parks and recreation department expects some new equipment and other changes will have a positive effect.
At the Parks Board monthly meeting in November, department director Kate Thomas brainstormed with board members and concerned parents about how to give the tri-weekly gym program a boost. The number of participants dropped from 1,058 for the 2013-14 season to a mere 164 for 2014-15. Thomas has said several changes that year probably contributed to the drop, including implementation of age restrictions and an admission fee to the once-free service.
The $2 fee is meant to cover facility and labor costs after the addition of a gym attendant to monitor activities, but has been off-putting for some parents. At around 75 sessions per year, the program could cost up to $150 per child.
The rejection of some big-wheel toys and other equipment due to possible floor damage was also a factor, with parents less inclined to pay for a service that featured fewer perks. Board members recommended Thomas find some new amusements to keep kids – and parents – happy.
Since the meeting, Thomas said the department has acquired two new rideable toys – push bikes shaped like ladybugs – aimed for toddlers and sporting softer plastic wheels with 360-degree rotation that will not scuff the gym floors.
The program has also added a play tunnel system and balance beam, as well as a gym parachute for activities. Together these toys cost under $400, with funds coming from a Wrangell Early Childhood grant.
The biggest change to the program will be the addition of a commercial-grade bouncy house this month, which can accommodate up to six kids at a time. That addition cost a more expensive $800, which came from the community recreation fund. However, Thomas believes the expense will be a worthwhile investment.
“It will greatly serve our Tot Gym program,” she said. Similar programs in Ketchikan and Juneau feature such inflatables, both keeping children entertained and making user fees more acceptable. The bounce-house will also be available for party rentals under certain guidelines, which may bring in additional revenue.
“There's interest already generated from it,” said Thomas.
A fee structure has not been set up yet for its rental, and Thomas said she will put such considerations to the Park Board first. She also plans to talk to Ketchikan and Juneau counterparts to see how their fee model is based.
Reader Comments(0)