Published: December 24, 2007 12:07 am         

MEDINA: Exercising in primetime

In an effort to improve member services, the Lake Plains YMCA will be adding a primetime room for child care beginning in January.

From 5:30 to 8 p.m. Monday through Thursday, parents will be able to leave their children in the care of licensed professionals while they exercise their way to a healthier lifestyle a few yards away.

The primetime room on the second floor of the YMCA will be open to children ages 3 and older as a free service to members, said School Age Child Care Program Director Taryn Moyle.

The only requirement is that parents or guardians sign their young ones in and stay in the building.

“It’s primarily going to be geared for the littler ones, but we’ll have activities for older kids as well,” Moyle said. “It’s something that a lot of Y’s offer. It’s a useful service.”

The room was formerly used as a dance studio until last year. Within the next few weeks, it will transform into a play area to keep children occupied while their parents take an aerobics class, hit the weights or jump on a cardio machine.

A separate bathroom and adjoining storage room make it perfect for child care. Moyle said she plans to create areas of interest for both boys and girls around the room.

Those who like to dress up or play with puppets can do so in the drama corner. Those with dreams of building might gravitate toward the construction corner. The craft area will appeal to little hands who like to color pictures for mom and dad.

There will also be a number of games, puzzles and toys for all age groups.

Each child care staff member is CPR and First Aid certified, Moyle said. The hours for the primetime room were chosen because it is when a number of exercise classes are offered.

“We want to offer the ability for families to come out and exercise,” said YMCA Board President Dean Bellack. “We’re very committed to the primetime room for the long term.”

The Lakes Plains YMCA offers a myriad of services, including regular sports programs. The indoor soccer season will kick-off in January. Free swims at Wise Middle School in Medina are popular, as well, Moyle said.

Through SACC, Moyle directs a before and after school program in Lyndonville and Medina for elementary students in kindergarten through fifth grade.

The primetime room is for busy parents who can’t always find a baby-sitter, Moyle said. It will allow them to blow off some steam and get in shape for an hour or so, while their children socialize.

Moyle’s advice for any new year’s resolution to make a healthy lifestyle change: “Start small so it becomes a part of your daily activities and thinking.”

Contact reporter Nicole Colemanat 798-1400, ext. 2227.