What kid doesn’t look forward to recess? Some kids might even joke it’s their favorite “subject” in school. Although kids may view recess as nothing more than a nice break from the classroom routine, studies suggest that providing them access to unstructured, outdoor playtime offers crucial benefits to their cognitive, emotional, and physical health development. Despite growing evidence showing the salubrious effects of recess, most school-aged children in the United States don’t meet federal health guidelines for exercise. With that in mind, Culturelle® Kids, the #1 pediatrician-recommended probiotic^†, is bringing outdoor play back to the schoolyard with its Project Playground initiative. 

Culturelle® Kids has launched a nationwide search for one school in need of a brand-new playground beginning September 15, 2017. Culturelle® Kids has partnered with KaBOOM!, the national non-profit dedicated to giving all kids the childhood they deserve through great, safe places to play. 

Contest Submission Guidelines

From now until November 15, 2017, schools, parents, and administrators across the country are invited to enter their school for a chance to win a new playground by completing a brief application on Culturelle.com.

On February 15, 2018, a month-long voting sweepstakes will begin, with the public invited to vote for their favorite of five finalist schools and enter to win prizes of their own in the process. The winning school will be announced in April 2018. 

More than Child’s Play

Beyond the physical health benefits, research suggests there is a positive connection between physical fitness and academic performance in math and English for active children as early as the fourth grade. 

According to pediatrician and child health expert Dr. Jennifer Trachtenberg^°, unstructured outdoor play aids children’s behavioral development and social skills as well. “Navigating playground equipment during unstructured play is important because it helps teach children social norms, such as learning to take turns amongst their peers,” she says. Through play, children learn essential skills, including negotiation, cooperation, sharing, and problem-solving and coping skills, such as perseverance and self-control. Moreover, recess offers children a socially structured means for managing stress.

The combination of fresh air and physical activity also offers essential physical health benefits. Getting outside to play not only keeps children moving but also helps ensure they are building up their natural defenses, which is key to maintaining a healthy immune system. 

Don’t Miss Out

To enter for a chance to bring a dream playground to your school or for a full list of entry guidelines, visit https://www.culturelle.com/ProjectPlayground.

This sponsored article was written by Culturelle® Probiotics.

† Based on a 2016 survey among pediatricians recommending a probiotic brand.
° Paid spokesperson for Culturelle®. The information provided herein is for educational purposes only and is not intended to be construed as medical advice or to replace professional medical care.