During the winter break, French leisure centers across various localities have embarked on exciting programs aimed at engaging children through diverse activities. From cooking workshops to outdoor adventures, these initiatives have successfully captured the interest of the young participants, providing them with memorable experiences.
At the Sainte-Anne-d’Auray center, the program has been heralded as a resounding success. Over two weeks, children partook in what the center called a "givré" program. This initiative bundled activities suitable for different age groups, primarily focusing on ages 2 to 11. Little ones enjoyed culinary sessions, building ice sculptures, and even ski lessons, which proved to be thrilling and educational. An animator at the center noted, "Durant deux semaines, les enfants ont profité d’un programme « givré » proposé par l’équipe d’animation, en cette période de vacances hivernales."
For older children, activities expanded even more. The 5-7 age bracket and those ages 8 to 11 could participate in group outings such as escape games and forest adventures, alongside visits to ice skating rinks and the popular Cité des Moussaillons, which emerged as favorites. A standout event was the opportunity to experience roller skating, courtesy of the local Rollers’cop association on February 21, marking the end of the winter engagement and leaving children thrilled.
Meanwhile, Couffé's animation center also saw impressive interactions this winter. Director Mélanie Rayer highlighted how their programming incorporated creativity, with children attending workshops on puppet making conducted by local artist Benoit Briand. "Pour la clôture des vacances d’hiver, Benoit Briand, de la compagnie Les JeNous, a proposé un atelier autour de la manipulation et la création de marionnette," she remarked. This push for local collaboration not only enriched the children's experience but also strengthened community ties.
The winter break activities didn't just stop at arts and crafts. Children engaged with various sports and leisure games, promoting both physical health and social interaction among peers. The center's approach was successful enough to report slight increases compared to the previous year, with 78 children participating. Their enthusiasm was evident as they embraced activities ranging from painting to traditional Japanese storytelling techniques, known as kamishibaï.
Looking forward, the association aims to keep its momentum alive with upcoming open days set for March 15, where families can explore the facilities and engage with the programs. "Des portes ouvertes, samedi 15 mars," the center announced, inviting community members to observe and participate.
These winter leisure programs not only provide children with meaningful experiences but also allow them to discover new interests and forge friendships. They create lasting memories, ensuring every winter break is not just about time off from school but about personal growth and community engagement. This commitment to providing safe and enjoyable learning environments makes the work of local associations invaluable and deeply appreciated by families.