WESTBROOK, ME, Oct 3, 2024 – WinterKids, Maine’s only nonprofit dedicated to keeping kids active and healthy during the winter season, is thrilled to announce that the application window for the 2025 WinterKids Winter Games is now open! Sixteen schools will be selected to participate in this 4-week fun-filled competition, running from January 13 – February 7, 2025. The Winter Games encourage students in grades Pre-K through 8 to embrace outdoor winter activity, build teamwork, and foster a love of winter.

The WinterKids Winter Games is an exciting statewide challenge designed to get students, teachers and the community outside moving and learning. Over four weeks, schools will earn points by completing school-wide challenges. This year’s theme, “Weather,” will inspire creative learning and outdoor fun, with a focus on Maine’s best season.

Participating schools receive a free Winter Games toolkit, which includes PLAYBooks, weekly incentives, and more.

“The Winter Games offer a unique opportunity for schools to bring learning outside,” says Marion Doyle, WinterKids Education Director. “We hear from teachers every year that this program not only energizes their students but also helps them stay focused and active during the winter months. It turns what can be a challenging season into an exciting month for students, families and staff.”

Schools have the chance to win cash prizes, with the top school receiving $5,000! In total, more than $20,000 in cash and prizes will be awarded. The application window closes on October 20, 2024, and interested schools can apply by visiting WinterKids.org.

The 2025 WinterKids Winter Games are made possible, thanks to generous support from Hannaford Snack Pals, Aroma Joe’s, MMG Insurance, and Stockhouse Restaurant & Sports Pub.

About WinterKids: Since 1997, WinterKids has been empowering children across Maine to stay active and healthy during winter through fun, educational programs. From the WinterKids App to the Winter Games, we provide innovative opportunities for kids to embrace the joys and benefits of outdoor winter activities. To learn more, visit WinterKids.org.

WinterKids’ Major Community Sponsor is L.L. Bean. Supporting Sponsors include Agren, Central Maine Power, Harvard Pilgrim Health Care, Kittery Trading Post, WEX, Zachau Construction, WMTW Channel 8, and The CW.

For more information, please contact:
Kristel Hayes, WinterKids Marketing Manager, khayes@winterkids.org