The Learning Experience in Lakewood Ranch tackles a flag football event

East County 4-year-old Caitlyn Knapp was ready for The Learning Experience's big flag football game July 18 at the daycare's facility at 14425 Arbor Green Trail in Lakewood Ranch.

She had spent plenty of recess time practicing and scrimmaging so they would be prepared.

Knapp was one of the most energetic of the 36 players who were participating in the daycare's "Sports Galore" themed event, which also included four teachers playing along with the kids.

"I was happy to play with my friends," Knapp said. 

The event originally was scheduled for July 18 but bad weather cancelled it so the kids had to wait another five days.

Lakewood Ranch 4-year-old Aurora Martinez was ready for the challenge. She said her mom, preschool teacher Kate Martinez, congratulated her for staying inside the lines.

"One team had the football and I didn't have the football," Aurora Martinez said. 

Center Director Staci Eades "Sports Galore" is the daycare's theme every July. This was the first time the event featured flag football.

Eades said watching the kids' faces light up and seeing them understand how the game is played were highlights of the experience. 

"It was so fun to watch our teachers engage and play," Eades said. "The kids cheered (the teachers) on. They rally and support one another."

Preschool Teacher Nyzirria Curry was one of the staff members who facilitated the game and even played herself. 

"I was excited to be a part of watching the children come together, play as a team, and grow," Curry said. "Happy happens here."