l Time to start thinking about summer camps

Time to start thinking about summer camps!

Have you thought about what you’d like your child to get out of summer camp this year? JCPRD’s programmers and camp directors have already put a lot of thought and planning into this year’s camp offerings. “I want children to try new things, to discover new interests, to learn how to work and play together, and to feel safe and loved by our amazing staff,” said Children’s Services Manager Jennifer Anderson. “We want children to learn something new, meet new friends, challenge themselves, get connected with nature, and make memories,” added Outdoor Education Manager Andrea Joslin. “There are so many camps to choose from, really something for every kid.” “My number one objective for summer camp is to create an experience where kids not only have fun, they meet new people and form friendships,” said Recreation Assistant Misty Town. With a myriad of summer options out there, what makes JCPRD camps unique? “What’s great about JCPRD summer camps is our ability to offer a robust variety of activities,” said Recreation Coordinator Lisa Eagle. “Animals, archery, chess, cooking, field trips, LEGO®, robotics, and more. Campers have the opportunity to try new skills throughout the summer.” “The instructors’ ability to be creative,” Town added. “At Sweet Summer Creations Camp, one minute we’re having relay races with canned biscuits, and the next the instructor is using her best Italian accent to teach a lesson on edible fishbowls. There was so much laughter and it was beautiful to see.” “TimberRidge Adventure Center offers a hands-on experience for a variety of different outdoor skills to youth ages 11 and up,” added Outdoor Adventure Specialist Lysa Holladay Dvorak. “Our site offers many different outdoor opportunities allowing them to explore nature and hopefully develop a lifetime passion for adventure in the outdoors.” “Kids love the opportunities to do something different than what they can do at home and school,” Joslin added. “They get time to explore, use their imagination, and often say, ‘It’s like school, but fun!’ We have also had kids say, ‘At school I don’t have many friends, but at camp I am the cool kid!’” “I wish people knew how much our staff truly care about these kids and their families,” Anderson said. “They put their heart and soul into their programs because they love ‘their’ kids!” There’s also a lot for parents to love about JCPRD camps. “Parents like the face-to-face contact at check-in and check-out,” Town said. “They also enjoy seeing all the projects the kids make.” “Their kids are tired when they get home, are disconnected from electronics, are learning, and are having fun,” Joslin said. Remember, summer camps are consistently some of JCPRD’s most popular offerings of the entire year. The sooner you sign up, the more choices will be available.