Today is Charles County’s last day of public school for the summer.
So what now? Plenty of Kids needing things to do and plenty of parents needing low-cost, safe, ideas to entertain the rug-rats.
First off everyone should have a reading and math packet or assignment to work on over the break. A little advice..
Get it done now!
The stress of back to school is always doubled when you have to worry about cramming two month homework packets into two night homework packets. My kids will have a mandatory 30 minute homework session everyday before they can play games, watch TV, hang out with friends, ect. I recommend everyone implement this rule.
Now back to the fun part of summer.
1. Swimming
What would summer be without a little water. If your home owners association doesn’t have a pool to chill at; Charles County does.
For those of you wanting to stay out of the sun try North Point or Lackey. Both have indoor pools. For outdoor pools you have the option of La Plata, McDonough, and Stone High Schools.
Prices for all public pools
ages 2 & under are free
3-12 $4 per visit or 12 day pass $30
13-59 $5 per visit or 12 day pass $40
60 & over $4 per visit or 12 day pass $30
12 day passes are usable at all pools, so you can mix and match. They expire 6 months after date of purchase.
2. Skate Park
Yup Charles County has a skate park. Skateboarding, in-line skating and biking. 1015 St. Charles Parkway, White Plains, MD 20695
Ages 6-17 $3 or $75 for season pass. 18 and over $4 or $95. Season pass is good through April 1st.
Call 301-638-5208 for more information. Don’t for get to ask about equipment rentals.
3. The Park
I know the park is not very original but with free fishing, hiking, pavilions for parties, Playground equipment, BBQ’s and picnic tables, even dog parks; how can you go wrong? Charles Countyhas a large list of parks you can enjoy. For young kids I recommend Laurel Springs Regional Park: 5940 Radio Station Road, La Plata, MD 20646 they have a very impressive play area.
5. The Heron’s Flight
Courtesy of Southern Maryland Trails. The Heron’s Flight features 25 locations. You can eat, drink, shop, fish, or just go for a nice stroll.
6. Water Fight
What kids doesn’t like having a water fight on a hot day. You can get some cheap water guns at the 99 cent store but your money will go further with water balloons. Don’t like the mess water balloons make try using sponge balls. Grab a few packs of cheap kitchen sponges, cut each sponge lengthwise into six 1/2 inch strips. Gather together about 15 of the strips, using heavy string or yarn, wrap around the middle knotting it tightly. Spread the ends out to create a ball like look. For the fight you want to place them in buckets of water strategically placed around the yard.
7. Summer Camps
Summer camps can get a little pricey, especially if you have more than one child but sometimes they are worth it. Charles County offers several:
- Summer Day Camp: Mon-Fri Jun 25-Aug 3 8:00am-4:00pm.$105/week
- All Star Sports Camp: Mon-Fri Jul 9-13 8:00am-4:00pm, Mon-Fri Jul 16-20 8:00am-4:00pm. $130/week
- Campnastics: Age: 6-12 Mon-Fri Jun 25-Aug 17 9:00am-4:00pm. $130/week
- Junior Campnastics: Age: 4-6, Jun 25-29 9:00am-Noon, Jul 9-13 9:00am-Noon, Jul 23-27 9:00am-Noon, Aug 6-10 9:00am-Noon. $85/week
- Aqua Fun & Fitness Camp: Mon-Fri Jul 16-20 8:00am-4:00pm. $160
- Tightline Basketball Camp: Mon-Fri Jun 25-29 9:00am-4:00pm. Full day $150, half day $80
- Sensible Soccer Camp: Mon-Fri Jul 16-20 9:00am-4:00pm. $170
To sign up or get more information call Charles County Department of Community Services 301-934-9305 • 301-870-3388
Hopefully you are able to enjoy your summer. It is going to be hot so remember to have water on hand at all time.
Aug. 27, 2012 is the first day back to school.
Liz B. Real Estate 