iPALS keeping students in shape and healthy during the summer

CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (WAND) - iPALS is a four-week program for children during the summer to have fun while staying active.

In a partnership with Champaign Unit 4 School District, Associate Professor of Kinesiology and Community Health Kevin Richards says the program helps bridge the gap that usually happens during the summer.

“Kind of bridging this gap that occurs in summer learning. Sometimes this is called the summer slide where evidence suggests that young people who disengage in learning over the summer regress.” said Richards.

Nicolette Suchon will be joining the program this summer as a program coordinator. She believes the program is unique because not often can students learn about social and emotional health while staying fit.

“Kind of transferring the skills that they’re learning into how that applies to their everyday life, while also helping them stay physically active and I think that’s really important.” said Suchon.

For more information on iPALS, click here.