Iowa State University Extension

Problem:
Fairfield does not have an indoor play for young/pre-school children other than the play area located in a local fast food restaurant. While parks provide an outdoor area during warmer months, there is nothing to complement this need for a play area for young children in colder months.

Response:
The need described above was expressed by a mother of young children at an area Head Start Advisory meeting in Ottumwa . Because of the relationship between nutrition and physical activity, the Nutrition and Health Field specialist in attendance at the meeting offered to help seek out resources that would be helpful for the individual in pursing a plan for an indoor playground area. Resources for possible grants was share and n area human development specialists was contacted for suggestions. She became actively invol v ed in the process.

Impact:
6 months after the initial concern expressed at the Health Advisory meeting and as a direct result of the contact information Extension provided, the following has occured: A local committee was formed representing wide community representation including the mayor. The committe is proceeding as follows: A small indoor playground is to be created at the Fairfield Recreation Center children from age 1 to 6. A minimal fee for $25.00 per year is being discussed. A monitoring system for the children using adult volunteers is being explored. Stage 2 of the group's plans include a new Recreation/Youth Center for all ages. Sites are being explored as are fund raising options the for purchase of playroom equi8pment. At a recent Head Start Advisory committe meeting, Iowa State Universdity Extension was credited with being the "support" the individual was looking forward to move the project forward, "Without ISU Extension this would not have happened." These were the comments for the young mother who is spearheading this project.

Other Staff Involved:
Mary Crooks, Human Development Specialist, 319-523-2371, mcrooks@iastate.edu

Contact:
Barbara Anderson
Wapello County Extension
101 N. Court
Ottumwa, IA 52501
641-682-5491
bjanders@iastate.edu