| Marybeth Dillon-Butler: Nutrition and Fitness Presentations |
| Audience | Pre-schoolers - 3rd Graders |
| About the Presenter | Assemblies offered -- in costume -- by Marybeth Dillon-Butler, a marathoner and author of "Myrtle the Hurdler and her Pink and Purple, Polka-Dotted Girdle.'' "Myrtle" is a picture book about a treat-craving, leisure-loving turtle who discovers the wonders of healthy eating and the thrills of track and field. Myrtle exchanges her bad habits for good ones and becomes a self-empowered, happier, healthier young turtle. |
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Overview |
Dillon-Butler entertains, inspires and informs youngsters about healthy eating and exercise. Her presentation -- 20-40 minutes long depending on the age group -- is interactive, inspiring, and musical (Myrtle plays the ukulele). Dillon-Butler reads her rhyming, whimsically-illustrated picture book, engaging little ones in the story. |
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Content |
She discusses what sugar does to our bodies. And with her props -- fruits and veggies decorated with eyes, noses, ears mouths and hats -- children learn what healthy foods do for our minds and bodies. Dillon-Butler also lets kids know that being fit doesn't necessarily mean having a pencil-thin body, making the point with large color photos of accomplished athletes.
Myrtle ends her presentation by leading groups with gentle stretches and a short jog where circumstances and logistics permit. She provides educational handouts for students and staff.
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Events |
Myrtle the Hurdling Turtle appears at roadraces, participating in warm-ups and leading young sprinters in kids' runs. She appears at library storytimes, book signings at retail stores and special events. Dillon-Butler also addresses older children and speaks at professional conferences, touching on reading, writing, journalism, and marathoning.
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Cost |
Rates are reasonable, scaled to the budgets of schools, PTOs and libraries. There's no minimum book purchase requirement. Books are personalized and offered at a discount off the bookstore price. |
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Contact
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Marybeth Dillon-Butler
mdillonbutler@aol.com
The Book: Myrtle the Hurdler
(734) 425-7611 (home)
(734) 751-2645 (cell) |
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Other |
A portion of the proceeds benefits the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.
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