Niverville Recreation is expanding their programming to reach more ages and offer new activities and easier payment systems. One new program, Kids in the Kitchen, will give kids a head start in terms of learning practical cooking skills. It also gives them a chance to understand the importance of good nutrition.
Kids in the Kitchen was created after Niverville Recreation received a grant from Healthy Together Now and Southern Health-Santé Sud in the spring of 2018. They had found that their demand for children’s programming was higher than other ages. The classes have proven quiet popular so far, filling up almost immediately and requiring a waitlist for each session.
“The classes have been run in sessions that consist of six two-hour classes that focus on nutrition education, food preparation, safe food handling practices, and fun and interesting recipes,” says Niverville Recreation programmer Angela Janz.
Each session this fall focused on a different age group, allowing the program to reach as many kids as possible. The classes range from kids aged six to 14 and only cost $5 per child, thanks to the grant funding. The classes are instructed by Rebecca Rempel, of Southern Health- Santé Sud, who is a registered dietician and certified diabetes educator.
“We have had volunteers for two of our sessions, which has helped immensely with the younger groups where more assistance is required,” says Janz. “The classes have been taking place at the Heritage Centre, in the Manor family room, which has been graciously provided to the program.”
With the high demand for children’s programming, as well as the feedback the program has received thus far, Niverville Recreation is looking to continue Kids in the Kitchen in the new year. However, as the grant funding will be used up by then, the price per session will necessarily increase, as the program will be run on a cost-recovery basis.
In addition to the new children’s programming, Niverville Recreation is getting adults involved as well. They are already getting into the holiday spirit, offering a wreath-making party at the south end of the Niverville Arena. The party will take place Friday, November 23 from 7:00–9:00 p.m. and cost $45 per person, or two for $80 (plus GST). No experience is necessary to participate.
In an effort to make registration easier, Niverville Recreation will be implementing online payments in the new year. Residents will be able to access the payment options through the town’s eServices website. This change will also mean that the Recreation Department can better keep track of enrolment. Online payments will also be accessible to those who don’t live in Niverville. They will accept credit card and online debit.
“[This change means] that people will be committing to registrations when they sign up,” says Janz. “As of now, there are a number of people who sign up for classes, then last minute decide to drop out and they have not paid. The Recreation Department runs classes based on enrolment numbers, and cancels when there is not enough, so no-shows can really create an issue, with instructors counting on these registrations to meet minimum numbers. People will have to be aware of our refund and cancellation polity as well.”
