Frigid weather forced dozens of school districts to cancel classes on Thursday. But that didn't stop local agencies from reaching out to help families.
Nearly 100 kids are getting a workout and more at Two Rivers Y in Moline. They're playing a vigorous game of pinball. This is an emergency session for the School's Out Club. The Y's staff was pressed into action.
"We play games," said Y counselor Erica Attwood. "We keep them active. We give them healthy snacks, and we have a lot of fun."
Sometimes that involves a lot of fancy footwork. Counselors like Attwood are spending the day with kids. They're trying all kinds of steps. It's just the right mix for a brutal winter day.
"We also have homework support time," said Shannon Flynn, who directs before and after school activities. "We've had parents ask if there's a way for kids to practice their spelling. Do we have time? Yes, we do."
K-8 kids from all over the Illinois Quad Cities participate. It costs $25 per session. It's a positive option for working parents. Kids are busy, and parents know they're spending the day in a safe place.
"They don't have to find alternate care for their children at the last minute because they know the Y is place that they can send their kids," Flynn said.
Everybody seems to enjoy the pinball game. It's a nice blend of fitness and fun. Reasons why the School's Out Club is a nice fit.
"They realize that it's just a great time," Attwood concluded.
Beating the winter blues, and burning calories, too. Two Rivers Y is at 2040 53rd Street in Moline. (309) 797-3945.