Marathon Kids is suitable for large groups and can be modified to ensure all participants are involved. Below are some best practices to help coaches manage and engage multiple students at once.

At the beginning of your season, it's beneficial to establish a routine for scanning cards during your run club.

This allows students to practice and learn the process, whether scanning independently or with a handheld device managed by a teacher or coach. This will ensure a smooth, quick, and efficient experience.

If your club session includes several students, a helpful strategy is to color-code the cards and devices.

For instance, if the entire grade level participates simultaneously, each class can be assigned a different color. Class A will have red cards and scan at the device marked with a red sticker or tape. Class B will have green cards and scan at the green device, and so on.

*Note it's best to use lighter-colored paper instead of dark colors. For example, using a lighter shade of red instead of traditional red.

Using multiple devices can help prevent congestion at the scanning area. Anyone with the scanner app can assist with scanning ID cards by using the Join Live Session feature.

A coach must be present to allow volunteers or additional devices for scanning. Devices need WiFi or cellular service to join the live session but do not require it for scanning ID cards.

For large groups, coaches can place multiple devices at different corners or areas of the track.

For instance, Class A can start their lap at the left corner and use the device there, while Class B starts at the right corner and uses the device there. Each device can operate its session to monitor if a student scans at the incorrect device. This will help reduce congestion and ensure a smooth and efficient scanning process.

Using Marathon Kids as a station is an excellent way to ensure the entire class stays active and meets their MVPA goals.

For large classes, set up stations with Marathon Kids as one of them, allowing students to rotate and practice skills while working toward their running goals. Devices can be propped up at the Marathon Kids station, with the coach monitoring different stations. If multiple coaches or volunteers are present, one can stay at the Marathon Kids station to oversee it. View our Large Group Activities resource for ideas!

When playing a large group game with the entire class, you can use our "Heart-pumping activities," which are any movements that increase the heart rate.

At Marathon Kids, 20 minutes of such activity is equivalent to 1 mile. This allows participants to earn mileage, which can be manually entered for those present or scanned using their QR codes and selecting the minutes of heart-pumping activity in the scanner app.

Games and Activities

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Scanner App FAQs