17 minute read
The Parenting Biz: Kids Just Wanna Have Fun
THE PARENTING BIZ Where The Cool Kids Spend Their Summer . . .
Feature Story By Jim Murphy
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Summer is here and it’s time to get the kids out of the house and away from computers and video games, so they can enjoy the time away from school!
That’s why this edition of our parenting section lists plenty of fun things for kids to do.
Whether it’s dance, film, technology, horseback riding, art, sports, gymnastics, food prep, exploring nature, history, science, attending area fairs or even cosplay, we cover it all! A bonus too is that everything is very affordable and at times . . . free!
Let’s begin now with day camps, and then move to local businesses and organizations you can visit at your own convenience. Lastly we wrap up with some family friendly events in Windsor and Essex County.
Dance Barre
Dance Barre, 4530 Rhodes Drive in Windsor, specializes in classes for ballet, tap, jazz, hip-hop, lyrical and contemporary dance.
Throughout July and August they are offering one-day “pop-in” classes and weeklong camps.
“Our pop-in, hour-long classes are for ages two to 18 and all skill levels are welcome,” say Lindsay and Blake Angier, Owners and Artistic Directors of Dance Barre. “Kids can expect days filled with music, dance, crafts and meeting new friends!”
Their staff of 20 offer the pop-in classes during the week, between 4:30 to 8:30 p.m. and Saturdays from 10 a.m.to 2 p.m. Full week camps are from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Shall we dance? There is plenty of summer fun at the Dance Barre with dance camps, parties and pop-in classes for those aged two and up. Students (Applause Ballet Company dancers are pictured) also participate in their events like Ballet in the Park, in mid-June 18 at the Belle River Outdoor Amphitheatre. Photo courtesy of Lindsay Angier.
with early drop off and late pick up options available.
“We are very excited to be entering our 16th season at Dance Barre,” states the couple. “To celebrate we are presenting ‘Encampo — the Show,’ a week-long camp running from August 8 to August 12 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., for ages seven to 12. From start to finish the young dancers will take the lead in the creation of the show; dancers will discover and share their strengths with their fellow dancers through student choreography, program and ticket creation, lighting, makeup, costumes and more!”
The final show is presented at the Dance Barre location on Friday, August 12 at 5 p.m.
Pop-in classes start at $15 per hour and week-long camps start at $200.
Have little ones who love to dance? Then check out: DanceBarre.ca, where registration for new students is always open!
Film Camp For Kids & Youth
The Film Camp for Kids & Youth — operated by Windsor Centre for Film, Digital Media & the Creative Arts since 2013 — offers 10 to 15 different types of camps, including filmmaking, writing, photography, animation, prop making, storyboarding, visual art, music, acting, graphic design and more, for children ages nine to 12.
Camps run throughout July and August. Week-long day camps ($225 per week) are from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. in multiple locations throughout Windsor. Overnight camps ($375 per week) are five days in Harrow at the Kiwanis Sunshine Point Camp.
Participants can sign up for as many weeks as they like as each camp is as different as the films, so it is never the same experience!
Virtual on-demand classes are also available, including customized private lessons with flexible hours and pricing, averaging $10 an hour.
If your kids are interested in these creative arts and digital media camps, refer to: WindsorFilmMaking.com and: FilmCampForKids.com.
Nimble Brain Education Inc.
Nimble Brain Education Inc. (3020 Dougall Avenue, Unit 11 in Windsor),
At Nimble Brain Education Inc.’s summer camp in 2019, students learned about metal chassis-based machines, which can be operated by remote control. Photo courtesy of Amit Modi. Day camps on the farm allow kids to experience the magic of horses! Clair Arsenault rides Jake inside the arena at the Windsor-Essex Therapeutic Riding Association facility. Photo courtesy of Debbie Goldring.
has offered training in Abacus based mental math, robotics, coding, 3D/AR/VR, drone programs and English language programs, since 2012.
Their staff of 10 are offering summer day camps August 15 to 19 and August 22 to 26 from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., for kids eight years old and above.
Their robotics camp is one week ($300) and covers basic electrical circuits, logic gates and electronic components.
The 3D/AR/VR camp is two weeks ($500 plus the costs of the kits) and kids learn about 3D drawing, printing and game building using licensed software, Augmented Reality and desktop game building.
The Drone camp is also two weeks ($500) and kids work on gamification-based patented software to learn various controls of drones — individually and in synchronization with others.
“Classes are run by trained professionals,” explains Amit Modi, Director of Nimble Brain Education Inc. “Children will not only learn the technical curriculum, but also develop soft-skills to demonstrate the project and present to other children and the course instructor.”
All programs are also offered in regular classes throughout the year. For further details visit: NimbleBrainEducation.com.
Windsor-Essex Therapeutic Riding Association
Opened in 1963, Windsor-Essex Therapeutic Riding Association (WETRA) provides many types of therapy utilizing horses and other farm animals to build confidence, self-esteem and a sense of belonging.
Located at 3323 North Malden Road, RR#2 in Essex, their summer camp program is for all abilities and runs Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., for children ages five to 14, with seven weeks to choose from in July and August.
“Children can expect to meet their equine ‘partner’ for the entire week on day one,” says Executive Director Becky Mills, one of nine multi-faceted employees of WETRA. “They will learn to groom, saddle, ride and care for their assigned horse.”
Mills continues, “Our afternoons consist of fun games involving the farm animals and informative lessons about the life of horses.”
They have many air-conditioned spaces to interact with the horses, so an entire day on the farm is comfortable in any weather.
“As well, we invite special equipment and guests to our farm, such as a fire truck, veterinarian and blacksmith,” Mills indicates. “Many children make lasting friendships and return to the camp year after year.”
The camp costs $350 per week and you can fill out a form for your child to attend on: WETRA.ca/camp/summercamp-registration.
Art Windsor-Essex
Located at 401 Riverside Drive West in Windsor, Art Windsor-Essex has harnessed the power of art to open minds and hearts to new ideas, perspectives and ways of thinking that inspire people to grow emotionally and intellectually, since 1943 (previously named the Art Gallery of Windsor).
For 2022, summer art camps ($250 per week with one exception) operate July 25 to 29, August 2 to 5 ($200 only due to Civic Holiday) and August 8 to 12, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., for children ages seven to 12.
“We are seeking creative explorers to come spend the summer at Art WindsorEssex,” says Sophie Hinch, Education and Public Programs Coordinator at Art WindsorEssex. “During this five day camp, campers will explore their surroundings and discover hidden gems in the city. From painting to drawing and sculpture to photography, campers will create unique works of art inspired by city landscapers and Art WindsorEssex’s current exhibitions.”
For more information go to: ArtWindsorEssex.ca or: AGW.ca/page/665 to see the daily agenda.
Aerosports Windsor
Located at 7654 Tecumseh Road East on the Tecumseh Mall property, Aerosports Windsor is an indoor trampoline park, specializing in ways to get kids active while also having fun.
Opened in June 2022, attractions include open jumping, aero hoops basketball, aero foam pit, dodgeball, ninja warrior course, aero ladder, aero joust, warped walls, aero drop, aero bags and more!
Their camps are open to kids six to 12 years old and take place August 1 to 5, August 15 to 19 and August 29 to September 2 — the cost to attend is $65 per day and $300 for the week.
“Whether it’s with friends or family, it’s the perfect way to stay active and cool on a hot summer day,” comments Kayla Lumley, General Manager of the Windsor location. “Campers will dive into sports, team building, crafts, outdoor play, cooperative games, and of course, tons of bouncing!”
For more information jump over to: AeroSportsParks.ca/windsor.
Winstars Gymnastics Training Centre
Since 2000, Winstars Gymnastics Training Centre’s 23 employees have been dedicated to teaching children essential life skills through the sport of gymnastics.
Situated at 8400 Twin Oaks Drive in Windsor, their camps for 2022 take place Monday to Friday throughout July and August. The morning camp is for children aged three to five and runs from 9 a.m. to noon; full day camps run from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. for kids three and up.
“Our tagline is — Sports start right here; Be a part of it,” says Carey Vigneux, Owner and Director of Winstars Gymnastics. “That’s why our camp activities include gymnastics, trampoline, arts and crafts, yoga, outdoor water games, cooperative games, and a different theme each week.”
Morning camp is $110 per week and full day camp is $210 per week, plus a $25 registration fee; siblings receive a 20% discount.
At last year’s camp, one of Winstars Gymnastics Training Centre’s Superstars of the Week strikes a pose inside their location, 8400 Twin Oaks Drive in Windsor. Photo courtesy of Kiara Gelinas/Winstars.
“Our successful camp is full of non-stop activity all day, organized by the best staff,” Vigneux remarks. “Kids will be in bed early after a day spent at Winstars camp!”
Read more about their summer camps, regular programs and birthday party options on: WinstarsGym.com.
Canadian Christian Academy
Since 1979, the Canadian Christian Academy provides high-quality, faith-based education for students JK to grade 12.
Running out of 2275 Wellesley Avenue in Windsor, they provide an individualistic and nurturing learning environment, where students can receive one-on-one attention by their trained staff of five.
“We have several summer camps for various ages that we are offering to the community,” indicates Kerrington Maedel, Vice Principal of Canadian Christian Academy and Teacher. “We employ screened and trained teachers, volunteers, and child care workers to facilitate the camp. CPR and first aid trained workers will be on site at all times.”
Their Sky Kids Camp ($150 per child) is for those in JK to grade six and runs August 15 to 19 from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The week includes lessons, crafts, experiments, two daily snacks, prizes and more!
The Overtime Athletics Kids Summer Camp ($275/week) is designed to motivate young people to embrace a healthy lifestyle at an early age, while learning the rewards of teamwork and the fundamentals of games such as wiffleball, soccer, flag football, dodgeball, tag games, capture the flag and kickball. This camp runs August 8 to 12 and is for kids aged six to 12.
Register for either camp online at: CanadianChristianAcademy.com.
Green Heart Catering
Green Heart Catering, located at 28 Main Street West in Kingsville, has offered fresh whole meals with real ingredients and healthy lunch programs for schools since 2011.
The company operates Green Heart Kitchen (a retail store) and the Green Heart Lunch Club, which makes healthy lunches for childcare centres and elementary schools.
In addition, for the last five years, their 16 employees have also run a camp for kids aged seven to 11. It is entitled Planting The Seeds Of Wellness and includes hands on cooking and food preparation.
This year they are running it on their very own farm, from August 8 to 12 and August 15 to 19, between 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
“Kids can look forward to yoga and mindfulness meditation to start the day and being involved in all snacks and lunches,” says Dennis Rogers, Owner of Green Heart Catering. “We focus on connecting with nature, foraging, music activities and art activities.”
Everyone is guaranteed to get their hands dirty and have fun doing it!
Cost of the camp is $400 plus HST. Email: hello@greenheartkitchen.ca for further information or see: GreenHeartKitchen.ca or: GreenHeartLunchClub.com.
PLACES AND EVENTS TO ENJOY WITH YOUR MUNCHKINS
Museum Windsor
Museum Windsor offers fun and excitement for children of all ages at the Maison François Baby House (254 Pitt Street West) and Chimczuk Museum (401 Riverside Drive West).
“The Maison François Baby House highlights Windsor’s French roots, the War of 1812, recent acquisitions and includes selfguided children’s crafts and activities,” says Craig Capacchione, Museum Coordinator, Exhibitions, at Museum Windsor. “The Chimczuk Museum is home to permanent and temporary exhibitions exploring Windsor’s history, along with a children’s gallery filled with crafts, games, musical instruments and activities.”
It’s all child’s play in the Children’s Gallery inside the Chimczuk Museum, 401 Riverside Drive West in Windsor. Photo courtesy of Museum Windsor.
The Maison François Baby House is open Tuesday to Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. (May 1 to September 25). Admission is free.
The Chimczuk Museum is open Tuesday to Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sundays 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is $5.50 for adults, $4.50 for students and $17 for families of up to five people.
Log on to: MuseumWindsor.ca to learn more about these City of Windsor cultural facilities.
Established in 1993, The Interactive
Science and Technology Centre of Windsor
Inc. displays hands-on exhibits, along with workshops, classes and demonstrations designed to advance the understanding of science, its principles and applications, as well as demonstrating how science can help one build a robust comprehension of nature and the world around us.
“Kids love our dinosaur dig, our two corn snakes and the human bubble, but there are plenty of attractions and opportunities for discovery for the whole family,” points out Dr. William Eric Baylis, President of the Board of Directors of The Interactive Science and Technology Centre of Windsor Inc. “We are currently operating a farmers’ market on the front lawn every Saturday (May to October) from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.”
The Interactive Science and Technology Centre of Windsor Inc. has been closed for renovations, but plans to reopen August 2022, when they anticipate a slight price increase.
Located at 749 Felix Avenue, its regular hours of operation are: Tuesday to Saturday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. (June through August), and Wednesday to Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. (September to June) or by appointment. Admission is $8 for adults, $7 for seniors and students, $6 for children and $25 for families.
Watch for special events when they are fully operational on: CSScienceCity.com.
Art Splash Atelier
Located at 3395 Howard Avenue, Unit 10 in Windsor, Art Splash Atelier is a space where people can enjoy all types of painting and crafting objects, such as ceramics, pottery, mosaics, sculpting clay by hand, and more.
As a family-owned and women-led business, they care about providing a relaxing, creative and welcoming
Young artists, Yousef and Mariam Hijazi hold their 2D ceramics on canvas artwork created at Art Splash Atelier. Landscaping ceramic objects are coloured and then glued onto a flat painted canvas. Photo courtesy of Rana Fasheh. environment. And they can’t wait to paint with you soon!
“We want to encourage people to use art as an outlet to express themselves,” says Rana Fasheh, an artist and the owner of Art Splash Atelier. “Our staff of four believe everyone is capable of being an artist.”
Opened in 2018, their summer studio hours are Monday to Friday 2 to 9 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Prices vary based on the material and time spent in the studio, but they cater to all family budgets.
“Kids of all ages can enjoy painting ceramic pieces to create unique and creative 2D landscape projects, a mixture of ceramics and canvas,” Fasheh notes. “Kids can also choose a variety of canvas paintings to learn. We offer canvas painting for birthday parties and by special appointments.”
They also host all kinds of events from birthdays, date nights, team building, staff outing activities, art classes and workshops. You can also reserve their art studio for any function.
Questions on their activity list? Visit their website: ArtSplashAtelier.ca.
Essex County Library
Opened in 1966, the Essex County Library (administrative office located at 360 Fairview Avenue West, Suite G01 in Essex) is a system of 14 libraries that provide quality materials and services, free of charge, to all residents of Essex County.
They carry books (of course LOL!), DVDs, CDs, digital collections including e-books, audiobooks, streaming shows, and movies.
Essex County Library Manager, Community Services, Manuela Denes, explains they are running Summer of Discovery programs from July 4 to August 27 featuring crafts, art, games and contests — all free of charge. Hours vary, but the programs for children are during the day with adult programs in the evening.
If your kids are bookworms, refer to: EssexCountyLibrary.ca/client/en_US/ home for more information on the library’s programs and branch locations.
Comber Fair, August 5, 6 & 7
The 163rd annual Comber Fair takes place August 5 to August 7 at the Comber Community Centre, 6211-6213 McAllaster Street.
Admission is $7 for adults and kids under 12 get in free. Fair passes are available for $15 and allow admittance to the grounds at any time during the fair.
This year features several contests including quilting, the Essex County Farm Safety Association Poster Competition,
baby show, photo, flower, grain and seeds, roots and vegetable, culinary and others. And there is a car show and demolition derby too!
Times for all events can be found on: ComberFair.com.
The 166th Annual Harrow Fair September 1, 2, 3 & 4
The Harrow Fair is back this year from September 1 to September 4 and celebrating with a Bushels, Bales & Tails theme. Admission is $10 for adults and children under 12 can attend at no charge.
Located at 134 McAffee Street in Harrow, the fair includes 99 competition classes from posters to horse shows, 4-H auction, midway rides, a parade, lawn tractor races, Border City Barkers dog show and more!
For kids they have a children’s peddle pull, Lego and K’Nex competition, live entertainment, teddy bear parade, and a mom/dad calling contest, just to name a few.
See: HarrowFair.com for detailed information on the entire schedule.
From September 16 at 3 p.m. to September 18 at 9 p.m., the Town of Amherstburg hosts the Amherstburg Uncommon Festival in downtown Amherstburg.
(Left) A group of cosplayers of all ages dress in steampunk and wizard attire for the 2019 Amherstburg Uncommon Festival. (Right) “Expelliarmus!” This little Harry Potter wizard knows the magic is indeed real at the Uncommon Festival. Photos courtesy of Agatha Knelsen.
Admission is free, so get in the spirit and wear your steampunk or wizard attire.
This year’s event features Dr. Vol Houligan’s Travelling Variety Show and interactive Washboard performances and workshops by the Vaudevillians. Get the latest details on: VisitAmherstburg.ca/events/ amherstburg-uncommon.
Make The Most Out Of Summer Vacation
Summer is a time of new experiences, meeting new friends and making lots of good memories. And with all the camps, activities and events mentioned throughout this story, we know your kids will have a blast whatever they decide to do.
You can also read the Biz of the Month profile in this edition of Biz X to learn about overnight and day camps at Gesstwood Camp and Education Centre. As well, check out the other articles and advertisements in this magazine for even more great ideas of things to do locally.
So make sure your child(ren) recharge their batteries during summer vacation. Before you know it, they will be sitting at a desk inside the classroom again!
