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School's Out in Greenwich: Now What?

GREENWICH, Conn. — Some parents are doing the summer camp scramble now that the school year is over. Sukie McFadden of the Boys & Girls Club of Greenwich, one of the most popular after-school programs in Greenwich, wants all kids to join the fun.

“We have a pretty robust scholarship program for kids who have difficulty affording it,” said McFadden. The $150 per child per week tuition can be lowered based on a family’s income, she said. The Boys & Girls Club gives out 75 to 100 scholarships each summer to its three camps. About 230 kids play at the camps each day.

Camp at the Club is open to members ages 6 to 12 and includes activities such as indoor swimming, gym, field sports, computers and crafts, similar to what is offered in its after-school program. Camp Simmons, also for ages 6 to 12, offers more rustic outdoor activities such as boating, canoeing, archery and field sports. The teen camp, open to member 13 to 15, is based at the clubhouse and offers weekly field trips, beach trips, sports and nature activities.

“We also work with Person-to-Person and the town Department of Social Services to identify kids who may be in need of financial assistance,” said McFadden. The kids are typically offered a four-week program funded by Darien-based Person-to-Person and the department, and the Boys & Girls Club supplements another four-week program.  

Transportation, however, is up to the children’s parents, and meals must be provided by the family or bought at a reduced rate. “We offer lunches on a daily basis that’s affordable to the kids that do come. Sandwich, chips and a juice box that’s nutritious and also affordable for families, but there isn’t a formalized food program in place,” said McFadden.  

Other popular camp programs in Greenwich include:

• Audubon Greenwich Nature Camp, a summer day camp with weeklong sessions, offers hands-on crafts, games, hikes and other wildlife and nature-themed activities. Call 203-869-5272 for more information.

• Camp Pelican, 471 North St., is a day camp featuring indoor and outdoor swimming pools. The camp features flexible day-camping dates as well as door-to-door transportation for campers.

• Summer Fun is a program with an array of activities, including arts and crafts, sports, board game tournaments, theme days, trips and weekly beach days. Parents provide the transportation to and from the site, beach or ferry. Call 203-622-7830 for more information.

• Kamp Kairphree operates at Greenwich Point and the Eastern Greenwich Civic Center. Call 203-622-7830 for more information.

• Filmmaking Camp at Bendheim Western Greenwich Civic Center has the award-winning filmmaker/instructors of Filmmakers Ink on staff. Registration is ongoing until sessions are full. Contact Patrick McCullough with questions at 413-320-6071.

• The summer dance program at the Dance Pointe at the Bendheim Western Greenwich Civic Center is created for the beginner and intermediate dancer. Each session will include ballet, tap (ages 3-6 only), jazz, hip-hop, creative and modern. Contact Melissa Truelove at 203-559-8634 for information.

• Skatepark Ramp Camps and Clinics offers skateboarders a chance to learn new tricks, play games and have fun at the Greenwich Skatepark on Arch Street. Call 203-496-9876 for more information or visit the town's website.

• The Music and Art program offers a morning music program, including daily orchestra and jazz rehearsals, and art classes in the morning and afternoon at Greenwich High School. For more information, call 203-622-7830.

• Seton Day Camp for Boys, 363 Riversville Road, is open to all boys ages 8 to 17. No prior scouting experience is required. Activities at the day camp include archery, boating, hiking and sports.

Are your kids going to camp this year? Tell us about it by emailing ahelhoski@thedailygreenwich.com, and don’t forget to include photos!

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