Thursday, May 27, 2010

Bargain summer activities

Today I signed the boys up for swim lessons through the Columbus Parks and Recreation Department. The low-key classes, in which red-cross certified instructors follow the comfort level of the kids, make learning to swim a sometimes longer process than the sink-or-swim lessons with private instructors that many parents opt for. But the rec department lessons seems to suit my tentative kids, and this year Will is truly excited to swim. Since we don't have a pool in our backyard I've felt okay about going the patient route. And it's definitely cheap. For $30 per child you get eight nearly hour-long lessons.

We're also going to let Will try a week of CSU's "Summer Spectacular" program, which at $25 per week, is also a great deal. I have a friend whose son has loved the program, which is geared for 4- to 11-year-olds and which provides an opportunity for teacher candidates to get experience working with kids. (The low fees are just enough to cover snacks and materials). This year's theme is "Structures: Ancient and Modern Wonders of the World". Go here for more information.

We'll also do a week of Vacation Bible School, and I'm calling it quits at that. I want the boys to enjoy some leisurely days filled with play before we ship Will off to all-day kindergarten.

What are some of your favorite summer programs for kids?

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