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Families encouraged to play it forward

A new and unique version of Play It Forward is ongoing in Rimbey and it seems to be working well.
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Play it forward: Six-year-old Mason Tisdale and Damen Balan

A new and unique version of Play It Forward is ongoing in Rimbey and it seems to be working well.

Leanne Evans, program co-ordinator for Early Child Development Coalition in Rimbey said huge bins of toys have been placed at parks throughout town.

The bins are at Lions 1 and Lions 2 parks, Pas Ka Poo Park, The BMX Park, the soccer field playground, and in the green space in front of the Provincial Building.

Children are encouraged to play with the toys and parents who may have unused toys at home who wish to donate to the bins are welcome to do so.

“The toys are free for anybody to play with and parents are encouraged to add some of their own,” said Evans, adding the project has gone well so far.

“It seems to have gone really well and the feedback has been positive. Parents really appreciate it.”

Evans said she was concerned that the toys may be stolen or simply disappear, but her concerns have proved to be groundless.

“I think it is a good way of teaching kids stewardship and teaching them about sharing with others in the community.”

The Early Childhood Coalition has been ongoing in Rimbey for two years, operating on a $30,000 government grant and through fundraising.

“It is a very valuable thing and helps make people aware of healthy child development, she said.

The coalition has sponsored a family fair, a calendar, encouraged family friendly business and also held a Powerful Moms and Super Dads workshop.

Attendance was low at the workshop, but the response from those in attendance was positive.

Plans are already underway for the next Powerful Moms and Super Dads workshop which will be held Feb. 28.