- Location:
- Tolland, Connecticut
- Sponsor:
- Happy Feet Club (Carol Goodrow)
- Age group:
- Elementary 6-12yrs
- More info:
- http://www.kidsrunning.com
The Happy Feet club began in 2004 by a teacher, author and web master, Carol Goodrow. She has shared many ideas with teachers, parents and kids via her website, kidsrunning.com. Her after school club emphasizes healthy eating, running, hiking, and literacy. Each session includes a running game, journal writing and take-home component. She has two 10-week programs with lesson plans - one for spring and one for fall. The program also has a significant nutrition component.
Happy Feet is for all ability levels. Currently there is a deaf student and the Happy Feet book has been translated into Braille.
The club is so popular that there is always a waiting list for the 40 - 50 spots. Because of Carol's willingness to share her materials, many similar programs are being created in other states. Just this fall, new Happy Feet Clubs have begun in Michigan, New York, Virginia, and Maryland.
Parents attend and help with club each week and the goal event called the Chipmunk Chase is a family fun run.
Carol is looking forward to running in the Manchester Road Race with a blind student who was in her first club in 2004 and used her braille book.