This summer, youth have splashed, played, and painted together in Morris Area Recreation’s new summer camps.
A way to keep kids active and interactive while out of school, the camps focus on skill building, having fun, and forming new relationships with peers and adults.
“Morris Area Rec always strives to get kids outside, active, creative, and include everyone,” said organizer and recreation facilitator Meagan Dilts. “Summers are short, so I believe in spending as much time outside as we can. Every camp day is about moving, working together, and trying new things while learning as a team.”
Although the camps are a new addition to Morris Area Rec’s offerings, all of the one-day camps have sold out.
“We had 16 youth in the last two camps, lots of energy, and happy campers,” said Dilts. “Each camp is a little different, which keeps things fun. With our first time running camps, we are learning a lot as we go.”
Last Thursday’s group worked on tie-dye shirts in the morning before taking several movement breaks to burn off energy and visit the local pool.
“The mess was fun” and “I like to make art” was a consensus from the many campers. Others preferred the recreational activities of mini-sticks, indoor soccer, dodgeball, or swimming.
The camps have also brought Morris organizations together. Morgan Dickins from the Red River Valley Parent-Child Centre has begun helped Dilts with the program. And this week’s adventures take the youth to the Bruce D. Campbell Farm & Food Discovery Centre at Glenlea in the Morris District Handivan Service shuttle.
“The handi-van has allowed us to explore beyond the Morris community and offer a wider range of activities to our campers,” said Dilts. “These partnerships build a stronger, more connected community.”
Later in August, registered youth will explore the Canadian Fossil Discovery Centre in Morden for Dino Discovery Day and have epic nerf gun wars after crafting their own gear at Nerf Fun camp.
To join in on the fun, contact Dilts at recreation@townofmorris.ca to be put on a waitlist.
