By Taylor J. Hale
Staff Writer

STEVENS POINT – Children eagerly assembled May 31 at Pfiffner Pioneer Park for the annual Kids Walk, hosted by the Central Wisconsin Children’s Museum (CWCM). The family-friendly event runs in conjunction with Walk Wisconsin, held on June 1, and allows families to walk with strollers and children of all ages

“This event started around 10 years ago,” said Sandy Williams, CWCM executive director. “Walkers who participated in Walk Wisconsin and have young kids wanted a way to get their children interested in the big marathons. So the Children’s Museum was asked to start Kids Walk.”

Last year’s walk drew in over 180 participants. This year brought in roughly 150 walkers, according to Williams. Both large numbers, but the Kids Walk didn’t always accrue so many aspiring athletes. “It used to be the same morning as Walk Wisconsin, which limited participation,” Williams explained. “Since we moved it to Friday night, a lot more families can come and enjoy it.”

This year’s event also featured a special presentation by Five Rings Martial Arts, based in Stevens Point. The presentation focused on educating youth on how to avoid dangerous situations. “It’s a seminar on children’s self-defense,” Williams said. “The difference between stranger danger and strangers that you can go to for help.”

CWCM will utilize all proceeds from the Kids Walk for future educational exhibits and youth programming. The group collected an estimated $1,000 this year.
Williams feels the event can give children a chance to experience the exciting atmosphere of marathons like Walk Wisconsin, spurring them to develop healthy habits.

“It brings families together to do activities and learn about healthy living.”