SPECIAL SECTION
There is something about the summer that most of us look forward to. Those hot and humid days make us slow down. Without the hectic school schedules, what can you do to keep the kids entertained? Before you know it, the summer will be here and there are many local options to choose from. For kids, summer spells time to sleep in, no homework and maybe an upcoming family vacation. With long days that seem to drag on, think about signing your child up to learn a new skill, or to try something adventurous, learn to swim, or about places and cultures far away. The staff at the Osprey Observer has collected the top recommendations for local summer camps and created this special pull out section. Whether kids want to enjoy some olympics fun at Kids ‘R’ Kids Summer Games camp, or maybe learn to swim at the iconic Brandon Sports & Aquatic Center, home to Olympic swimmers and divers, there is plenty to do. Enjoy themed weeks that include Futuristic Fun, Fear Factor, Under the Big Top and other fun subjects. Kids can look forward to tons of field trips at Camp Primrose Summer Camp with explorations and fun including field trips every week to places like MOSI and the Ringling Museum or hiking at Lettuce Lake Park. Ostinger Baseball summer camps provide hands on training from professional baseball players. Or Hillsborough Community College offers camps for students interested in FLATE technology and more. At Happy Days Summer camp, your child will enjoy many field trips to fun places
such as the Florida Aquarium and Dinosaur World. My Gym in Brandon will keep your child entertained through movement, while A Child’s Haven will offer a mix of education along with great field trips. Maybe your kids would like to spend the summer “horsing around.” R&R Ranch offers just that opportunity, and not just to learn to horseback ride, but also about the care of the horses. Artist campers will enjoy projects at Art Monkey or Center Place camps, and a Christian curriculum is offered at The Peacock’s Plume. At Music Showcase, music and theatre take the stage and so can your child. Musicals such as Fiddler on the Roof and High School Musical will be offered, and your child can hold starring roles in these and other popular musicals offered from the Florida Academy of Performing Arts for children ages 5 and up. Patel Conservatory located at the STRAZ in Tampa offers budding young actors a chance to participate in dance, theater and music. Morning Glory campers will enjoy biweekly field trips, and The Learning Experience offers themed weeks. The local YMCA will offer many types of camps which mix fun along with great learning experiences. With choices of half or full day camps, there is something for everyone. For dates, prices and registration information on these and more, turn the page and enjoy this special section and have a great summer. Did we miss one? Let us know by e-mailing subject line “Summer Camp” to michelle@ospreyobserver.com and we will be sure to add to our full listing online.