Families can overcome the post-Christmas blues by partaking in the City of Nanaimo Parks, Recreation and Environment department’s Family Fun Challenge.
Families are being challenged to complete activities with a chance to win a $500 gift basket, which includes board games – such as Monopoly – puzzles, books, pedometers and a three-month family recreation pass.
“This time of year is a dreary time of year and we’re trying to encourage families to get out and play together, even during the dreary time and ... as a lead up to our Family Day in February,” says Deborah Beck, city recreation coordinator.
Family Fun Challenge sheets are available for pick up at all of Nanaimo’s recreation facilities. The sheets list activities in perforated squares. Families cut out the squares, which double as entry forms, complete the task and drop them off at either Beban Park or the Nanaimo Aquatic Centre. Entries will be accepted until Feb. 5.
Activities include walking with the family dog around the upper trail at Colliery Dam Park, playing a board game, exploring the Fairy Trail at Neck Point Park, counting the ducks while walking through Bowen Park, cooking together, geocaching, building a fort of sheets, pillows and cushions at home, putting on gumboots and rain gear and jumping in puddles or enjoying a bed-time story together.
Not all the activities have to be completed.
“The more items they complete, the more chances they have to win. Every time they complete one, that’s a ballot into the draw,” says Beck.
If families are inclined, they can document their participation with their smartphones and cameras. Photos aren’t mandatory, but are encouraged and can be e-mailed to askpre@nanaimo.ca.
A draw to determine the winner will take place on Feb. 7 at Oliver Woods Community Centre’s Family Play Day between 9:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. Puppet making, storytelling, fort building and tumble time in the gym will be among the activities for the children, says Beck.
A family pass for the event is $12, while it is $3 for individuals and children two years old and younger get in for free.
“It’s geared to two to 12-year-olds, but just a really fun time to ... get your kids out running around and enjoying some family time together,” Beck says.
Anyone with questions regarding the Family Fun Challenge is asked to please call Beck at 250-756-5203.