Writer / Samantha Stutsman
Summer break is just around the corner, so the sound of giggling kids will soon be heard at Dillon and Forest Parks. The Noblesville Parks and Recreation Department is gearing up for their 19 different day camps that will run periodically from June 15 to August 7.
Recreation Director Nichole Haberlin and Assistant Director Cindy Knapp have been working hand in hand to create a summer schedule that mixes fun and games with a hint of education. They’ve hired 14 camp counselors to tackle the task of entertaining kids from the ages of 2 1/2 to 12 years old.
“All staff will be first aid and CPR certified,” Knapp said. “They all like working with children; they will be energetic and outgoing. Parents can feel comfortable talking to our counselors.”
Camps will offer morning and afternoon sessions, except for two weeks in July when a full day option will be available.
Camp Olympics and Amazing Race Camp are two of the most popular options among kids; these both take place at Dillon Park.
New this year at Forest Park is the Princesses and Pirates Camp where kids will dress up and learn about the animal kingdom and sea creatures. Big Vehicles Camp, a past favorite, is being brought back to the schedule this year.
While Dillon Park is primarily for sports, Forest Park provides campers with a functioning carousel, putt-putt course and spray park.
“We have a lot of trees, and it’s a very historical park, so it’s just an absolutely gorgeous place to have a camp,” Haberlin said.
For the little ones that are 4 and under, parents will have the opportunity to attend camp with them. It’s a time for the parent and child to interact together in a new environment.
Seven to 12 year olds will have the opportunity to participate in specialty camps the week of the Fourth of July. These camps will be three days in length and will offer tennis, footgolf, art or model aeronautics.
Registration is now open, and the recreation department will accept campers all through the summer. Go online, call or feel free to stop by the office to register your camper for one or more of the sessions. The schedule and list of descriptions for each camp can be found on their website at cityofnoblesville.org/parks.
Attend the meet and greet on April 17 or the newly added parent meeting June 9 for your chance to meet the directors and the summer staff.
“It’s for parents to get an opportunity to understand our camp and ask any questions they may have,” Haberlin said. “The counselors will take the children to go play games.”
