The South Shore Public Library is offering something new just in time for March Break.
Your library card will now let you borrow a “Be Active Backpack.”
Deputy Chief Librarian, Jeff Mercer, says “physical literacy” is something younger generations are losing.
“They’re not learning as much about how to play,” he says, “or how to have balance, or run around, or be able to, sort of do that stuff before they get to school. So, this is one way to address that.”
He says the bags will encourage children stop staring at screens and have fun outside.
“There are links, definitely, to being able to do better in school or at work,” he says, “if you’re a little bit healthier, a little be more in shape, or just relaxed physically. Your mind is more open to learning or processing, and it’s fun!”
The backpacks are filled with frisbees and skipping ropes, along with books that can help you get started.
There are currently two bags per library branch, but Mercer says they hope to see the program grow.
