Tony Temple (center), founder of TempleMade Fitness, with Assistant Branch Manager Sher Mirador (left) and Youth Librarian Irma Reyes (right).

The Kansas City Public Library is launching a series of free wellness classes this summer for its youngest patrons in partnership with TempleMade Fitness (TMF). A Spotlight on Literacy Library Services & Technology Act (LSTA) grant makes the June and July classes – and the expansion of existing services – possible. 

Tony Temple, a former University of Missouri football player, founded TMF to provide youth-focused services in both physical and mental health to underserved communities. The program teaches interactive movement, leads mindfulness practices such as breathwork and stress management, and hosts conversations about healthful eating. 

The partnership with the Library seemed like a natural fit to Temple.

“Reading opens the minds and imagination of our little ones, and imagination is the fuel our future leaders need for wellness – physically and mentally,” he says. “We are looking forward to this partnership and great opportunity to get kids moving and learning.”

Students participated in the TempleMade Fitness class at North-East Branch.

The program kicks off with TempleMade Fitness Summer Camp. The sessions are geared toward children ages 5 to 12 and run from 5:30-6:30 p.m. at the Library’s North-East Branch (6000 Wilson Avenue) on four designated days:

•    June 5 - Animal Movements Interactive Session: Kids will go on an imaginary trip to the “Animal Kingdom” where they learn about different animals, imitate their movements, and learn what animals eat. All participants will receive Tony's Animal Movements wellness workbook.
•    June 12 - Art Session: Participants will complete art projects focused on empathy and taking others’ perspectives into account. 
•    June 26 - Sports Day: Kids will have the opportunity to participate in several sports stations, including basketball, football, baseball, and soccer.
•    July 3 - Superhero Day: Activities for students will promote anti-bullying and increase emotional soft social skills.

TempleMade Fitness volunteers worked with students at the North-East Branch.

“The Library is excited to offer TempleMade's engaging wellness programming for our young patrons,” said Jamie Placht, the Library’s health and wellbeing specialist. “It is important for the Library to offer programming that not only inspires our youth to cultivate healthier lifestyles, but also allows them to use their imagination in activities that support them in their mental, physical, and emotional well-being.”

Later this summer, the LSTA grant will also expand the Library’s existing partnership with NickiFit, a Kansas City-based personal trainer, instructor, and nutritionist, who provides free exercise programs for adult patrons at the North-East Branch.