How to Help ‘Let’s Play’ Give Schools a Sports Equipment Makeover!

Disclosure: This post is sponsored by Let’s Play, an initiative by Dr Pepper Snapple Group that provides kids and families with the tools, places and inspiration to make active play a daily priority by building and improving playgrounds and donating sports equipment to groups in need. Although I received compensation for this post, all opinions are my own.

“Play is our brain’s favorite way of learning.” -Diane Ackerman

As moms, we all want the best for our kids, right? And, becoming a mother means suddenly your heart thinks of all kids, not just your own. What if I told you that there was an easy way, right now, to help support kids, to encourage them to be active, to help them thrive? Well, keep reading ladies, because I have some ideas you’re going to love!

“Children need the freedom and time to play. Play is not a luxury. Play is a necessity.” -Kay Redfield Jamison

Studies continue to stress the importance of play to children’s development. They learn almost as much on a playground or in a gym as they do in the classroom. Play and sports help kids learn to problem solve, build creativity, the importance of teamwork, and – it gets them moving. All kids deserve safe playgrounds with cool toys, awesome gyms and sports equipment, as well as parents, educators and coaches to encourage them.

Play is essential for kids to grow up healthy and happy, and that’s why I’m teaming up with Let’s Play, a Dr Pepper Snapple Group initiative that encourages active play in communities around the country. They have donated millions in brand-new sports equipment already, but now they’ve got something extra special. They’re currently sponsoring a contest that will award $100,000 in brand-new athletic equipment to one lucky high school!

Groups of students at underfunded high schools across the U.S., under the supervision of educators and coaches, created videos to explain why active play is important to them and why their school and fellow students really need updated athletic equipment. Think about any hobby you’ve ever had – having the right tools and supplies makes a big difference. And kids thrive when they feel valued, when they’re able to use really awesome gear, when they see that their school and community is really investing in them.

So, how can you help? Go to http://bit.ly/2wP8Nef watch the videos, and vote for your favorite! {And since I know I have a lot of PNW readers here – you’ll have to check out the Seattle finalist, Rainier Beach High School!} Help support a local school that’s near to your heart, or just watch the videos and try to choose your favorite. Warning – they’re all so great, and so deserving, that it’ll be a tough choice!

The voting period is September 8 at 12 p.m. EST- September 17, 2017 at 11:59 p.m. EST and will determine the top 10 finalists. Then, a panel from Dr Pepper Snapple Group and Good Sports will select the first place winning high school, which will receive $100,000 in new athletic equipment!! My heart gets happy just thinking of how much that will mean to those students and all of the adults who support them. Because it takes a village, guys, and kids and schools need all the support that we can give!

When you vote – be sure to check out some of the amazing information and resources that Let’s Play has available – ideas for games and exercises for kids of all ages, how to apply for grants, get inspiration – you can even search by age for fun play ideas. You’ll love it.