What is it?This well-received program is being brought to local libraries, preschools, elementary schools and recreation centers in MA, ME and NH. The children are read a story about dance and/or fitness and then they get up and "move the story off the page" and on to the floor. A multitude of various physical activities are performed including stretching, jumping, leaping, dancing, singing and improvising to music while using props. The program concludes with a discussion of the importance of daily reading and physical activities and how each can impact their lives in a fun and positive way now and in the future.

Why do it? Here's the stats! According to the Centers for Disease Control, over the past 30 years the obesity rate for preschoolers ages 2-5 has more than doubled and it has more than tripled for the 6-11 year olds living and breathing in the US today. In addition to the obesity epidemic, these children are up against the enormous literacy dilemma that also impacts their young lives. The Literacy Company states "To participate fully in society and the workplace in 2020, citizens will need powerful literacy abilities that until now have been achieved by only a small percentage of the population. "Moving the Story off the Pages!" is a program created to positively promote literacy and fitness to the children of today who are our 2020 citizens.

What's the feedback?As one Stoneham, MA second grade teacher stated, "The program shows how out of shape children really are and that there is a definite need for more movement and activity". In addition, a Boxford, MA children's Library Director stated, "Who knew fitness could be such a blast?"