The Morning Journal (Lorain, OH)
Mercy provides activities for children
Mercy Health and Recreation Center, 47160 Hollstein Drive in Amherst, provided a fun summer activity for local children July 18.
“Each Wednesday, we do these pop-up events at the center,” said Ryan Ladd, facility coordinator for the Recreation Center. “It’s basically a new activity for the kids to get involved with where they are outside having fun.”
Ladd said he selects activities that are fun and inclusive.
“I want it to be something that everyone will enjoy,” he said. “That isn’t too difficult for kids, but it is still the motivation behind what we decide to do.
“Today’s activity revolves around balloons. We have them racing with a balloon to a chair we have set up a few feet away. They will then sit on the balloon, pop it, and run back to tag the next teammate in line.
“We will then have an activity where they try to avoid having a balloon touch the ground, and finally play with water balloons.”
Ladd said the activity serves as a learning experience. “They get the opportunity to learn how to play,” he said. “They learn how to be part of a group activity and how to work together. It also gives them an activity they could easily replicate at their home.
“I preach that kids should get 60 minutes of play a day, and you’re halfway there with this 30-minute event. It is only $2 for the kids to come and enjoy the splash pad and playground we have here. I encourage people to come out and enjoy the facility.”
Michael Oslejsek, of Amherst, brought his children to the event.
“We’re new to Amherst,” Oslejsek said. “I thought it would be a good idea to come out; we’re always looking for something new.
“It’s a really nice facility, and I heard they had a splash pad, pond and playground. It basically has something all my kids will enjoy.”
Amanda Strader brought her two sons to the pop-up.
“I wanted to take them to an outside event, so I brought them here with some of their friends,” Strader said. “The weather is great today.
“It shouldn’t be wasted by staying at home, especially with events like this.”