Clif Bar sparks child ingenuity with return of Clif Kid Backyard Game of the Year contest

EMERYVILLE, Calif. — Clif Bar on Tuesday announced the return of the Clif Kid Backyard Game of the Year contest.



With new research that shows kids continue to spend more time in front of screens than outside, Clif Bar announced the contest returns for a second year to encourage kids ages 6 to 12 years to use their imaginations and reconnect with outdoor playtime. Once again kids will be asked to invent their very own backyard game idea for a chance to win a $10,000 scholarship, a Marin bicycle and Bell helmet and, this year, a trip to San Francisco.



"Clif Kid understands parents are looking for new ways to encourage kids to walk away from their computers and video games and get outside to enjoy more play time," said Jennifer Yun, brand director for Clif Kid. "As part of a healthy, active lifestyle, we make sure our nutritious kids snacks are USDA certified organic and provide the balanced nutrition kids need to stay energized and enjoying their outdoor play adventures."



"Kids are healthier, happier and more creative when they spend more time outdoors," stated Richard Louv, author of the national bestseller "Last Child in the Woods." "I’m excited to be a partner with Clif Kid in its terrific effort to encourage kids and their families to reconnect with nature and invent their own games — beginning in their own backyards."



Louv will serve as "chief outdoor officer" for the 2012 Backyard Game of the Year contest and playoffs.



Backyard game ideas can be submitted through June 17 at ClifKidBackyardGame.com. For 2012, Clif Bar is adding an additional finalist slot for a total of six kids who will be flown with a parent to San Francisco to compete in the Clif Kid Backyard Game of the Year playoffs in July 2012.

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