UWS Parks are Open for Summer Camps and Classes

In a recent email, Manhattan Borough President Gale Brewer announced that the City had approved her request to allow summer camps to use parks.

The email stated that “As the city reopens and many parents return to work, families need places for their children to be safe, and that often means summer camp. Many summer camps rely on City park space for organized activities. I’m pleased to announce that the City has heeded my request to approve summer camp use of parks and our young people can finally have places to recreate in a supervised and supportive environment.”

Advertisement

While many summer camps have announced they’d be cancelling camp for the summer, there are still some options for UWS parents. Here are a few:

The Art Studio NY

The Art Studio is having a socially distanced outdoor art camp in Central Park for kids 7 through 11 and 12 plus. These programs will run weekly in July and August, with morning and afternoon sessions Monday through Friday. Social distancing and mask wearing is required. There will be a maximum of 8 kids per group and supplies will not be shared. For more information please visit theartstudiony.com or email info@theartstudiony.com.

Spark

According to their website, “’En plein air’ is a French expression meaning ‘in the open air’,” and refers to the act of painting outdoors with the artist’s subject in full view. Plein air artists capture the spirit and essence of a landscape or subject by incorporating natural light, color and movement into their works.” The outdoor camp will use the city and both Riverside and Central Parks as backdrops. Safety guidelines will be followed. For more information on schedule and price, please visit thespark.nyc/pleinaircamp

Juliette and Ella’s Playdate

The beloved song and dance class for babies, toddlers and kids will be taking classes to Central Park this summer, offering classes on Mondays and Thursdays. They’ll also be offering private group classes for anyone looking to set up their own group. For up to date information please find them at julietteandellasplaydate.com or on Facebook at facebook.com/JulietteAndElla/.

Coach Cory

According to their website, they will hold a “modified Central Park Sports Summer program limited to activities that have been deemed safe and legal, as they do not require close contact (tennis, golf, etc.). We understand that not everyone is comfortable sending kids out into the Park at this time. In the end, YOU get to determine when you are comfortable starting programming.” They have plans to add programing throughout the summer and as conditions permit. For more information you can check out the website at coachcory.com.

Advertisement

Mohr’s Explorers

Mohr’s encourages kids to get away from their screens and out into the park to explore. Kids can be creative, get some exercise, and gain experience right in Central Park. Their website states they will not be running the traditional camp, but will offer summer programming. It will be outdoors and will follow a long list of guidelines to keep everyone safe. For more information, please visit mohrs-explorers.com.

The New York City government website urges people using parks this summer to take extra precautions to protect their health. Wearing masks, social distancing, and limited group actives are suggested. The city website states that restrooms will be cleaned daily with cleaning supplies that ensure they are able to fully disinfect the space. They also state that playgrounds are cleaned daily, but that the play equipment is not sterilized. They urge parents to keep children home if they exhibit any signs on sickness. Washing hands before and after being in the park and using any play equipment is also suggested as a way to protect yourself and your family.

Find more info at nycgovparks.org.

Enjoy the parks this summer, but please take precautions to stay safe!

Featured images c/o United Themes via Flickr.