Iowa State University Extension

Problem:
There are a limited number of places in rural Iowa communities for children to get safe gross motor play indoors. Parents in Fairfield identified a need for an indoor active play space for children in the community, for use when the weather makes outdoor play difficult or unsafe. Currently, parents were driving to Iowa City or other communities to access an indoor play space.

Response:
The ISUE family life specialist met with Beth Alonso from Fairfield to discuss options for creating an indoor active place space for young children. The identified goals included having a safe indoor active play place for children, reducing miles driven out of the community to access indoor play areas and enhancing the quality of life in Fairfield . The meeting produced a plan of action for achieving the goals.

Impact:
Beth Alonso has formed a group of parents who are exploring options for an indoor active play space. They have contacted city officials, potential funders and the Fairfield Recreation Center . Plans are underway to create a small play space at the Recreation Center , with long term plans to build a larger site with other recreation facilities. There are many steps in the planning process-site, liability coverage, who will supervise the play area, funding, and others. The planning group of parents are already raising funds and taking concrete steps to make this dream a reality. Children will benefit by having a place for safe indoor active play. The parents will save money because they can access this service locally, rather than having to drive to Iowa City or other locations. The community will benefit by being able to offer a desired service, making Fairfield more attractive to families with young children.

Contact:
Mary Crooks
Louisa County Extension
317 Van Buren Street
Wapello, IA 52653
319-523-2371
mcrooks@iastate.edu