Free bowling is available for all registered children. (Provided photo — Diane Chase)

Some benefits of bowling are that it is multigenerational, is low-impact, provides cardiovascular activity and is an easy way to release stress. In addition to being a sport, it can be played competitively in a league or casually with family or friends. It is an activity that brings people together at a time when children can feel isolated.

Local bowling alleys are safe places to drop off older children and get a few errands done while the kids gain independence and much-needed social skills. It’s a win-win.

The end-of-school transition can be challenging when parents must replace a school schedule with other events. I always needed to establish a routine, or our household became a hurricane of chaotic behavior. Planning fun outings gave my children something to look forward to after completing their daily chores and other requirements. Free bowling is high on the list of engaging options between work and play as it appeals to various ages. The activity also nixed the directionless “I’m bored” whines and whimpers.

For the past 17 years, Saranac Lake’s Romano’s Saranac Lanes has brought free summer bowling to area children. Once again, Romano’s has teamed with the National Kids Bowl Free program. Parents can register children ages 2 to 18 at KidsBowlFree.com to receive two free games per day from June 1 to Aug. 31. Shoe rentals are not included. The weekly coupons are emailed or texted depending on the parents’ registration. The registration is not transferable to other participating businesses. The coupons are only good for the one registered location.

This program also offers an optional family pass ranging in price from $24.95 to $34.95, allowing two to four adults to bowl with the registered children for the same two games during posted Kids Bowl Free times. There are over 1,500 participating bowling alleys throughout the United States and Canada. So if Romano’s isn’t your nearest bowling alley, sign up for the option closest to your family.

For three months, toddlers and teens can spend an hour in an air-conditioned building, being active and having fun. Rain or shine, each registered child gets two free games daily; that adds up to more than 194 games.

Please be considerate of this local business’s generosity. This offer is not good for day care outings, camps, business or club outings, or birthday party celebrations. Romano’s Saranac Lanes is located at 11 Bloomingdale Ave. Please call 518-891-8301 or check the web at www.saranaclanes.net for hours of operation and any restrictions. Enjoy free bowling!