Camps and Programs: Raising Bakersfield

American Kids Sports SW: Home School Class!!!

American Kids Sports Center SW

Now Offers A Class For Home School Students!

This class is great for all Home School students who want something fun and active to do. This class is American Kids version of a P.E. Class. Kids will learn gymnastics skills along with doing a variety of fun physical activities. So don't let your child end up in front of the T.V. this school year. Bring them to American Kids Sports Center SW!

For just $100 you recieve 1 Term of classes (7-9 Weeks)

Sign-Up TODAY!

Located: 4401 Ride St. (behind 24hr Fitness on White Ln. & Gosford)

Phone: 833-3986

Website: www.AmericanKidsSports.com

Email: Info@AmericanKidsSports.com

American Kids Presents Parent Night Out Halloween Style!

American Kids Sports is hosting a Parent Night Out!

LOCATION: American Kids SW 4401 Ride St. (behind 24hr Fitness on White Ln. & Gosford) PHONE: AKSC SW 833-3986 & AKSC NW 589-2100 E-mail: INFO@AmericanKidsSports.com

WWW.AmericanKidsSports.com

Fri October 31st (Halloween) & Sat November 1st

Time: 6:00-11:00

Price: 1st child $20 - $13 for additional kids

This is a great opportunity for Parents to provide their Children with a Halloween like no other! Parents can go and enjoy a night out without the kids or any worries. American Kids Sports SW is the place for a fun and safe environment this Halloween! Kids will enjoy:

-Costume Contest

-Haunted Maze

-Spooky and Fun Game Booths with Prizes

-Halloween Games

-Halloween Movie & Snacks

American Kids Vacation Sports Camp!

Looking for a Summer Sports Camp for your kids while your at work or running around town? American Kids Sports Center is here to serve you! AKSC offers a variety of activities for your children that are well organized. They are available early in the morning and later in the evening, so you can drop your kids off and be to work on time! Lunch and snacks can be purchased at The Monkey Bar Cafe.

*For kids ages 4 through 12

*FLEXIBILITY - Pick and choose the days YOU want. Don't have to go a certain week or pattern of days... you set your own schedule.

*FUNPASS - Save 20% by purchasing a Funpass of 20 days. Use the pass for all your kids in your family. Good for one year.

*VARIETY - Our camp has a wide variety of sports, fun activities and group games everyday! And it changes all the time so that the kids stay engaged all summer!

*3 Time Choices: Sports Camp 9:00a.m-4:00p.m A.M. Class 7:30-9:00 & P.M. Class 4:00-5:30

Sports Camp activities include: Gymnastics, Swimming(NorthWest Building), Basketball, Dance, Indoor Baseball & Soccer, Trampoline, Martial Arts, Crafts, Games, and much more!

AM class activities will include: Basketball, soccer & trampoline. Along with group games and gymnastics based activities!

PM class activities will include: Arts & Crafts, reading & story time, and even movies!

Two Locations: NW 3622 Allen Rd. Phone: 589-2100 & SW 4401 Ride St. Phone: 833-3986

Are Your Kids Tired Of Babysitters? Try American Kids Parent Night Out!

All Summer Long

Parent Night Out at American has been known to be the most fun your kids will ever have on a Saturday night all Summer (for the least amount of money, too). Activities include gymnastics, group games, tumbling, trampoline, crafts and a lot more. The Monkey Bar Cafe will be open to purchase snacks, but it is best to have dinner beforehand. So, why trouble with finding a babysitter when American Kids is always here to serve you? For reservations call 589-2100

Time: 6:00- 11:00 Saturday Night

Special Activity Nights: Gymnastics- 6/14 & 7/19 Dance- 6/7 &6/28 Martial Arts- 5/31 & 7/5 Swimming- 6/21 & 7/12

Location: 3622 Allen Rd.

Phone: 589-2100

*Please be aware that PNO may be cancelled due to major holidays or special events held at the facility, so be sure to call ahead of time.

Summer camps: It's time to sign up the kids

Summertime and the living sure promises to be easy for greater-Bakersfield kids and their parents during the leisure months this year.

That’s because of the lavish local offerings of summer day and overnight camps and other options.

From Girl and Boy Scout camps and activities to art and science classes at local museums to fun rehearsals and productions at several theaters in town to sports training with the city’s Recreation and Parks Department to day camps at the Police Activities League and the Boys & Girls Clubs of Kern County: The list of things to do is not quite endless, but it’s long!

And there are activity schedules and fees to accommodate the calendars and budgets of a wide range of parents: from free to $2,000, from a couple of hours to several weeks.

If your child is a preschooler, no problem. If your child is 18, no problem, either. Just review this community service listing of summer activities we have compiled and find what suits your young one’s needs.

This list is not intended to be all-inclusive; it’s a starting point for parents who want to keep their kids’ minds and bodies active throughout the summer months.

If you run a summer camp and would like it to be added to the list, please send an e-mail to lmedina@bakersfield.com. We will update the list and publish it again.

ACADEMIC/EDUCATIONAL

KERN COUNTY MUSEUM (Lori Brock Children’s Discovery Center), 3801 Chester Ave., www.kcmuseum.org , 852-5000

Half-day (8 a.m. to noon) and full-day camps (8 a.m. to 5 p.m.) offered for ages 5-11.

Camps will be run the weeks of:

June 2: Science of the Ancient World

June 9: Kitchen Science — ages 5-7; Science of Summer — ages 8-11

June 23 (Full-day camp only): Kitchen Science — ages 8-11; Science of Summer — ages 5-7

June 30: Holidays Around the World

July 14: Superhero Science — Kapow!

July 21: (Full-day camp only) Geology Rocks!

July 28: Science Magic

Aug. 4: Olympics Around the World

Costs:

• Half-day morning camps: $85 per week for members, $100 for nonmembers.

• Full-day camps: $160 per week for members, $190 for nonmembers.

CALIFORNIA LIVING MUSEUM (CALM), 10500 Alfred Harrell Highway, 872-2256, ext. 12, www.calmzoo.org

• Zoo Camp — for first- through sixth-graders. Children will experience the wonders of California’s animal and plant life. Snacks are provided. Camp is from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., but certain weeks offer half-day options.

Camps will be held as follows:

- June 2-6

- June 16-20

- July 7–11

- July 28-Aug. 1

- Aug. 11-15

• During two weeks, CALM will hold joint camps with the Kern County Museum as follows:

- June 23-27 at CALM

- July 21-25 at the Kern County Museum

Cost: $160 per weekly session for CALM members; $190 for nonmembers.

BUENA VISTA MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY, 2018 Chester Ave., 324-6350, Web site under maintenance.

• 2008 Summer Science Camp — for kids in grades 1-8. Different sessions will help kids explore the world of science and history. Sessions will be offered between 8 a.m. and noon Monday through Thursday as follows:

July 7-10: Crime Scene Investigation - CSI at the Museum, for grades 4-8; The Dinosaur World, for grades 1-3

July 14-17: Alternating Classes: The Digestive System from Beginning to End, and The Eyes Have It. For grades 1-3 and 4-6 taught in separate groups.

July 21-24: Sharks, for grades 4-8; Teeth, Jaws and Sharks, for grades 1-3

Cost: $80 per student/per session ($70 for museum members), with multisession discounts available. Fee includes midmorning snack and camp materials. Space is limited to 25 students per session.

OUR LADY OF PERPETUAL HELP SCHOOL, 124 Columbus St., 327-7741, www.olph1.com

• Academic Summer Session — for students entering grades one to five.

Skill building and maintenance in language arts and math. Session runs from 8 a.m. to noon, June 9 to July 3. Extended day care and afternoon enrichment sessions available.

Cost: $325. Enrichment classes extra.

COUNTRY CHRISTIAN SCHOOL, 2416 Dean Ave., 589-4703

• Reading Only Program — for students in grades 1-6 who struggle with reading and spelling. Concentrated six-week program in “simply phonics.” Four topics covered: phonics rules, spelling, creative writing and reading.

• 3 in 1 Program — for students in grades 1-6 who need to maintain academic progress and have a love of learning. Six-week course that incorporates reading, math and computer work/science. Each of the three subjects is taught in 45-minute intervals. Recommended

Camp runs 9 a.m. to noon June 2 to July 11.

Cost: $650

ARTS/MUSIC

E3 PERFORMING ARTS (a division of Garden Pathways, Inc., a fully licensed day care center), 900 22nd St., 323-8311, www.gardenpathways.org

• Summer Day Camp: Dance, gymnastics, music, drama, art, sports, academic enrichment, field trips and more for grades K-7. Camp runs 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday, from June 2 to Aug. 15.

Cost: Daily, weekly and summer rates available.

THE SPOTLIGHT SCHOOL OF ARTS, 1622 19th St., 634-0692, www.theatreap.com

Summer Stock Program — for children ages 5-18

• Intensive Technical Theater Class: Does your child love the theater but wilt under the limelight? Let your child shine ... backstage! They will learn the basics to bring a show to life with lighting, sound and set design. This hands-on class meets twice a week for two hours a day. Days TBA.

Session 1: June 16 - July 18

Session 2: July 21 - Aug. 15

Cost: $150

• Americana!: For little Broadway stars in the making, this class hones the skills of acting, singing and dancing, featuring short scenes, skits, songs and dance numbers that focus on America. Two instructors and a teacher’s aide give each student loads of instruction.

8:30-11:30 a.m. Monday through Friday, June 9 - July 3.

Performances showcasing students’ skills will be held at 2 p.m. on July 5, 6, 12 and 13.

Cost: $265

• A Play About a Dragon

Synopsis: A troupe of traveling actors happily believe they’ve volunteered to perform their play about a dragon for a king, but they’ve actually volunteered to slay a real dragon!

This course will teach the basics of acting, including improvisation and character work, and culminate in a full-length production.

Class meets from 1 to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday, June 9 - July 18.

Performances will be at 2 p.m. on July 19, 20, 26 and 27, and Aug. 2 and 3.

Cost: $375

• Disney’s Aladdin Jr: A full-scale musical in which Disney’s resourceful young hero and wise-cracking genie come to life on stage in a special adaptation that features songs from the Academy award-winning “Aladdin.” Teaching everything from acting to vocal work to dance choreography, this class is perfect for those starting out as well as for those wishing to improve their skills.

Class meets from 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. Monday through Friday, July 7 - Aug. 8.

Performances for this production will be at 2 p.m. on Aug. 9, 10, 16, 17, 23 and 24.

Cost: $375

• New offering: Walk Like an Egyptian: Fun class for beginners or veterans alike wanting to hone the skills of acting, singing and dancing to create a truly unique revue. Students’ personal talents will be showcased in short scenes and skits, songs and dance numbers with an Egyptian theme.

Class meets from 1 to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday, July 21 - Aug. 15.

Performances will be held at noon on Aug. 16, 17, 23 and 24.

Cost: $265

• For all classes, be sure to ask about scholarships, gift certificates and 15 percent sibling discounts. At least three students must be enrolled for a class to begin.

BAKERSFIELD MUSIC THEATRE,1927 Eye St., 325-6100, www.bmtstars.com

• School of Fine Arts Summer Workshop — for kids 5-18

Kids will participate in one of two productions of “Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory” as follows:

Session 1: 8 a.m. to noon, Monday through Friday, June 2-26. Performances will be held June 27 and 28.

Session 2: 1-4 p.m. Monday through Thursday, June 9 - July 10. Performances will be held July 11 and 12.

Cost: $350 for new students. Ask about discounts for returning students and multiple family members.

BAKERSFIELD COMMUNITY THEATRE,2400 S. Chester Ave. (at O Street), 831-8114, www.bakersfieldcommunitytheatre.com

• Summer Youth Program: Kids will learn about drama by putting on a production of the much-loved classic, “Charlotte’s Web.” Auditions are scheduled for June 7-9, but dates may change depending on director availability. Call the theater closer to those dates to find out about audition times and also about rehearsal dates and times. Performance dates for this production will be July 18-20 and 25-27. Times to be determined.

Cost: Free. Parental volunteer time is strongly recommended.

COLOR ME MINE, At The Marketplace, 9000 Ming Ave., Suite I-2, 664-7366, www.bakersfield.colormemine.com

• Summer 2008 Art Adventures — for kids ages 7-13. Diverse multimedia camps combine art (clay building, ceramic painting, mosaic, paper-mache, watercolor and more) and learning about amazing subjects.

Classes are held 2 to 4 p.m. Monday through Thursday over eight weeks or sessions. Each session features a different theme as follows:

June 9-12: Extreme Room Makeover

June 16-19: Famous Artists

June 23-26: Under the Sea

July 7-10: Art Around the World

July 14-17: Myths and Legends

July 21-24: African Safari

July 28-31: Mirror, Mirror on the Wall (for kids 10-13)

Aug. 4-7: It’s Raining Cats and Dogs

Cost: $145 per session. Prepaid reservations are required at least two weeks in advance.

BAKERSFIELD MUSEUM OF ART, 1930 R St., 323-7219, www.bmoa.org

• Experience Art 2008 — for children ages 6 to 12: Learn drawing and painting, sculpture and art history through imaginative projects in a creative environment. Kids may attend one to four weeks of camp, which will be offered for a total of eight weeks, from June 9 through Aug. 1.

• Costs:

- Members: $80 for one week; $130 for two weeks; $185 for three weeks; $245 for four weeks.

- Nonmembers: $90 for one week; $150 for two weeks; $210 for three weeks; $275 for four weeks.

* Note: Although there is no summer program for teens offered by the museum, teenagers are welcome to volunteer for helping with summer camp.

• Side By Side — for children ages 3 to 5 and their caregivers: Enjoy art activities with your children and watch them build important school readiness abilities such as social/language skills, problem solving and kinesthetic awareness. Two classes to choose from: 9 to 10 a.m. and 10:30 to 11:30 a.m., running the week of June 2 only.

• Costs: $50 for museum members; $60 for nonmembers.

MOORE'S ART SCHOOL, 5610 District Blvd., Suite 105, 837-1037, www.mooresartschool.com

• Children’s Summer Art Classes: Painting, drawing and sculpture for ages 6-9 and 10-18. Classes held 1 to 3 p.m. and 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday.

Cost: $75 for four two-hour sessions per month.

HARMONY ROAD MUSIC SCHOOL, 5381 Truxtun Ave., 665-8228, www.harmonyroadbakersfield.com

• Junior Music Camp — for ages 4 to 6 and 7 to 10. Activities include singing, keyboard concepts, arts and crafts. Two sessions in June, two in July.

Cost: $125 for five days, two hours per day.

• Toddler Tunes — for toddlers ages 16 months to 3 years old and their parents. A first-music experience that includes singing, playing with rhythm instruments, activities with balls, scarves and hoops, and keyboard exploration. Two sessions in June, two in July.

Cost: Six-lesson course, $70.

• Intro to Piano Camp — for kids ages 4 1/2 to 12 and their parents. No instrument needed. Designed to introduce your child to the piano keyboard. Activities include singing, movement, rhythm, ear training, note reading and more. Two sessions in June, two in July. Great preparation for the regular piano program which begins in September.

Cost: Four-lesson course, including book, $75.

CLASSY KNITS & YARNS, 1839 F St., 325-7226, www.classyyarns.com

• Embroidery Class — for children ages 8 and up. Class meets 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Saturdays in June.

Cost: $5 per class, plus materials.

• Beginning crochet and knitting class — for children 8 and up. Class meets 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Saturdays in July and August.

Cost: $5 per class, plus materials.

BOY SCOUTS

SOUTHERN SIERRA COUNCIL BOY SCOUTS OF AMERICA, 2417 M St., 325-9036, www.sscbsa.org

•CSI: Cub Scout Investigators — day camp for boys ages 7 to 11. An adventure into the world of investigating and crime-solving techniques. As Agent 008, filling in for Agent 007, James Bond, who is on assignment in Europe, you will become a detective and learn how to spy, dust for fingerprints, build your own tools, crack secret codes, and more.

Times, dates and locations as follows:

- In Ridgecrest: Twilight June 9-12 and all day June 13 (at the Fairgrounds)

- In Bakersfield:8 a.m. to 1 p.m. July 7-11 (at the Cal State Bakersfield track area); 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. July 14-18 (at the Bakersfield College practice field)

- In Tehachapi: Aug. 4-8 (time and location to be advised)

Cost: $90 early registration fee through May 30; $100 thereafter.

• Camp Kern 2008 — Available to Boy Scouts ages 11 to 18

Camp for a week (Sunday afternoon to Saturday morning) on the shores of Huntington Lake in California’s Sierra Nevada, about 3-4 hours north/northeast of Bakersfield. The camp is open for weekly sessions from June 22 to Aug. 16 Some weeks are already booked. Campers can come with a troop or on their own.

Cost: $300 per week ($275 for those returning for a second week) with a $100 deposit required to guarantee a spot.

Merit badges for campers to work on, including astronomy, leather-working, camping, cooking, environmental sciences, swimming, sailing, canoeing and more. Visit www.campkern.net for more information.

GIRL SCOUTS

GIRL SCOUTS JOSHUA TREE COUNCIL, 1831 Brundage Lane, 327-1409, www.girlsfirst.org

• Camp High Adventure — for girls entering grades 5-12.

Sessions available July 13-18 or 20-25. This six-day camp in Kernville will expose girls to kayaking, river rafting, horseback riding, rock wall climbing, rope courses, hiking and other outdoor activities, allowing them to challenge themselves safely and at their own pace. Lots of “girl time” will also be included so girls can journal, read, relax and make new friends.

Cost: $625 for six days. A minimum of 8 and a maximum of 30 girls per week will be accepted.

• Valley Trails Camp — for girls entering grades 3-6.

Session: Aug. 3-8

In this new summer camp offering in Castaic, in the heart of the Santa Clarita Valley just one hour south of Bakersfield, girls will enjoy high ropes, zip lines, rock climbing, archery and swimming. There will also be a “Rock Around the Clock” 1950s theme to this camp, that will include a “sock hop” event for girls to be able to dance the night away.

Cost: $425 for six days. A minimum of 20 and a maximum of 50 girls will be accepted.

• Summer Options Program— for girls in grades K-12: From June 3 through Aug 14, girls will have an opportunity to enrich themselves in a variety of ways, through a peppering of urban and rural outings lasting from one to three hours on different days. Learn fashion secrets at the mall; tour Dewar’s famous ice cream and candy factory; visit the California Living Museum; find out about interviewing for a job; enjoy a fun morning at Murray Family Farms; ride on a raft in the Kern River; learn about etiquette and manners, and more.

Cost: There are more than 40 age-appropriate activities for girls to choose from throughout the summer, and these range in cost from $2 to $47.

ATHLETICS/ADVENTURE

CLEAR CREEK "B" RANCH (Presented by the Lilac Ranch Riding Club), Hart Flat, 822-7062, www.lilacranchridingclub.com

• Adventure Horse Camp — for beginning to intermediate riders ages 8-15. A weeklong camp (June 23-29) featuring daily horseback riding and certified instruction, as well as classes in art, American Indian history, stable management and horse health and care.

Cost: $950

IN-SHAPE LAUREL GLEN , 6901 Ming Ave., 833-3740, www.inshapeclubs.com

Various camps will be offered. Please call for information.

BAKERSFIELD COUNTRY CLUB, 4200 Country Club Drive, 871-5410

• Junior Summer Tennis Camps — for children 4 to 18. Children will learn tennis fundamentals and strategies, and play lots of games. Camp runs 8 a.m. to noon, Tuesday through Friday. Mid-morning snacks and lunch are served.

Dates: June 3-6; 10-13; and 17-20; July 15-18; 22-25; and 29-Aug. 1.

Cost: $100 per week

CSUB SOCCER 9001 Stockdale Highway, 654-2407 or 654-2594, www.gorunners.com

• CSUB Boys and Girls Youth Soccer Camps — for kids ages 3-14.

Pee Wee Camp: Ages 3 to 4; 8 to 10:30 a.m. Cost: $150.

Half-Day Camp: Ages 5 to 11; 8 to 11:30 a.m. Cost: $175.

Full-Day Camp: Ages 7 to 14; 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Cost: $195.

Costs/Dates: Above costs are for one week of instruction. Three weeks to choose from as follows:

- June 23-27; July 21-25; and

- July 28-Aug. 1.

Camps are taught by head men’s and women’s soccer coaches and many current and former CSUB soccer players. Participants are divided up by age and skill level.

CSUB BASKETBALL, 9001 Stockdale Highway, 654-2190

• CSUB Basketball Youth Camp — for kids ages 6 to 15. Camp will run from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., June 9-12.

Cost: $200

CSUB VOLLEYBALL CAMPS, 9001 Stockdale Highway, 654-2007, www.csub.edu/volleyball

• All-Skills Camps — For all-level players, boys and girls. July 7-10 and July 14-17: 1 to 3:30 p.m. for grades 3-8; 5:30 to 8 p.m. for grades 9-12

Cost: $100 for preregistration online and $110 for walk-up registration.

JAMESON RANCH, P.O. Box 459, Glennville, CA 93226, 536-8888, www.jamesonranchcamp.com

A private, accredited camp one hour northeast of Bakersfield near the Sequoia National Forest. Activities include horseback riding, kayaking, fishing, archery, riflery, mountain biking, drama, crafts and much more.

• One-week early session — for kids 6-15. June 15-21

Cost: $1,015.

• Two-week sessions — for kids 6-15. Choose from among four sessions: June 22 to July 5; July 6-19; July 20-Aug. 2; Aug. 3-16.

Cost: $2,000 per two-week session.

• Family Camp — no age limit. Aug. 18-24.

Costs vary, please call for more information.

• Counselor-In-Training program — for youths ages 16-17. Available June 22 to July 5; July 6-19; July 20-Aug. 2; Aug. 3-16.

Cost: $1,840 for two weeks.

IN KERNVILLE

SIERRA SOUTH PADDLE SPORTS, 11300 Kernville Road, 760-376-3745, www.sierrasouth.com

• Three-Day Youth Kayaking 101— a Tuesday-Thursday day class for children 11-16. Fee includes equipment use, lunch and transportation from Sierra South to the Kern River.

Sessions: From approximately 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on June 17-19, July 15-17 and Aug. 12-14.

Cost: $275 per three-day class

• Kids’ Kern Kayaking Club — for ages 8-16. A beginning class that introduces children to basic kayaking skills on the tranquil Isabella Lake. As kids develop their skills, they can graduate to kayaking on easy-moving water on the Kern River near Kernville. 3 to 6 p.m. Wednesdays June 11 through Aug. 13 .

Cost: $29 per session

• One-day Raft/Inflatable Kayak Combo — for kids 11-18

Enjoy a half-day in a guided paddle raft and the other half in a two-person inflatable kayak on the upper Kern River just above Kernville. Class runs from approximately 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. any day of the week.

Cost: $102, including lunch. Ask about group discounts.

MOUNTAIN & RIVER ADVENTURES , 11113 Kernville Road, 800-861-6553, www.mtnriver.com

• Kids Adventure Camp — for children ages 10-15. Five days of fun and adventure in the great outdoors. Activities include whitewater rafting, mountain biking, rock climbing, hiking, river and lake kayaking, tours and team-building activities. Camp runs from July 27-31.

Cost: $509.85

A maximum of 25 kids will be accepted.

STARS GYMNASTICS, 4401 Ride St., 833-3986, www.starsgymca.com

• Summer Camp — for children 5 to 18. Two daily sessions offered. Session One: 8 a.m. to noon. Session Two: 1 to 5 p.m. Weekly sessions offered from June 2 to Aug. 15.

Costs: Half-day and full day rates available. Enroll for 10 days and get one free.

AMERICAN KIDS SPORTS CENTER, 3622 Allen Road, 589-2100, www.americankidssports.com

• 2008 Summer Sport Camp — for kids ages 4 to 12. Activities include basketball, gymnastics, swimming, crafts, indoor baseball and soccer, trampoline, dance, martial arts and games. Camp dates and times: June 2 through Aug. 1; Three time choices: Sport Camp: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., A.M. Classes: 7:30 to 9 a.m., P.M. Classes: 4 to 5:30 p.m.

Costs:

For Sport Camp: $35 per day; $140 per week; $560 for 20-day fun pass.

For A.M. Classes: $5 per day; $20 per week.

For P.M. Classes: $5 per day; $20 per week.

For combined A.M. and P.M. Classes: $9 per day or $40 per week

• Adventure Tot Camp — for ages 4 and 5. Features same activities as Sport Camp but is more age-specific.

Camp dates and times: 9 a.m. to noon from June 2 through Aug. 1

Cost: $23 per day and $100 per week; $560 for 20-day fun pass.

GENERAL DAY CAMPS

BAKERSFIELD CARDEN SCHOOL, 714 Columbus St., Suite A, 325-2271, www.bakersfieldcardenschool.com

• Camp Carden — for kids in grades Pre-K through 6. Seven weeks of cooking, sewing, science, outdoor and indoor games, water play, field trips and crafts. Camp is not just for Bakersfield Carden School students: All children are welcome. Space is limited. Camp is from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. Day care before and after camp is available.

Dates: June 9 through July 25.

Cost: $20 per day or $90 per week.

BAKERSFIELD POLICE ACTIVITIES LEAGUE, 301 E. Fourth St., 283-8880, www.bakersfieldpal.org

• Day Camp — for boys and girls ages 8 to 17. Maximum capacity is 200 kids per day. Daily schedule is from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., beginning sometime in June and lasting for eight or nine weeks. — exact dates to be announced. Curriculum includes sports, recreation, games, and arts and crafts. Campers will play Junior Giants baseball at the PAL center. The baseball program is sponsored by the San Francisco Giants.

Cost: Free and a hot lunch is provided.

BOYS & GIRLS CLUBS OF KERN COUNTY

Two locations:

- 801 Niles St.

- 7850 Brimhall Road

325-3730, www.bgclubsofkerncounty.org

• Summer Day Camp — for kids 5-17

Camp is from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday, beginning the Monday after school ends and running through the Friday before school starts. Activities include organized sports, arts and crafts, computer education, weekly field trips, dance, photography, a teen center, cooking classes, and much more. Two snacks are provided daily at both facilities and the Niles Street location provides a hot lunch as well.

Cost: To be announced. Scholarships are available.

CITY OF BAKERSFIELD RECREATION AND PARKS DEPARTMENT CAMPS AND PROGRAMS

SILVER CREEK COMMUNITY CENTER , 7011 Harris Road, 665-8033, www.bakersfieldcity.us

• Camp Fun — for children in grades 1-6.

Camp will run 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. daily during weekly sessions beginning June 2 and concluding Aug. 8. Full-day and half-day options are available. Each weekly session will have a special theme. Camp activities include arts and crafts, sports, storytelling, special events, games and swimming. Field trips and guests speakers included.

Costs: $62 per one-week session for half days; $98 per one-week session for full days.

DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. CENTER, 1000 S. Owens St., 322-9874, www.bakersfieldcity.us

• Camp King — for children 6-12, Swimming, field trips, sports, arts and crafts, dance and special events. Camp is held from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Dates: June 2 through July 24.

Cost: $40, including a camp T-shirt

PEE WEE SPORTS CAMP, Held at Silver Creek Community Center, 7011 Harris Road, 326-FUNN, www.bakersfieldcity.us

• For children 3-5 and their parents, camp includes basketball, soccer, track, T-ball and circle games. This is a developmentally appropriate sports activity for preschoolers. Camp meets 9:30-10:30 a.m. June 9-13.

Cost: $45 for five classes and parents must accompany children.

SUMMER BOWLING CAMP — for kids 5-17, held at AMF Southwest Lanes, 3610 Wible Road, 326-FUNN, www.bakersfieldcity.us

• Have fun while improving your game of bowling. Learn techniques, rules, etiquette and strategies. Build skills in sports, math, goal setting, social interaction and more. Parents must be present. Camp is from 1-3 p.m. Fridays, June 6-27 and July 11-Aug. 1.

Cost: $50 for four classes

BC RENEGADE FOOTBALL CAMP — for kids 8-14, held at Beach Park, on the corner of Oak and 24th streets, 326-FUNN, www.bakersfieldcity.us

After an exciting 2007 season, Bakersfield College football coaches and players will teach boys and girls such skills as passing, catching, kicking and blocking. Members of the Renegade team provide role models for local kids. Please bring plenty of water and sunscreen. Camp meets 8-11 a.m. July 7-10.

Cost: $60

• BC Lady Renegade Basketball Camps — for kids ages 7-18. Lady Renegades and their coaches teach boys and girls the basics of basketball, as well as tips to refine their skills. Dribbling, passing, shooting, defense and other skills will be covered. Meet other kids. Meet the players. Camp is from 8-11 a.m. Monday through Friday on dates yet to be determined. Kids will be split up into three separate camps: 7-13; 14-18; and Girls Camp.

Cost: $60 for one camp

SPECIAL INTEREST

OPTIMAL HOSPICE FOUNDATION KIDS CAMP , 716-8000, www.optimalcares.com

• Fifteenth Annual Bakersfield Kids Camp — for children 8-18 who have lost an immediate family member. Camp is held at Gergen Ranch northeast of Bakersfield.

Dates: Aug. 3-8

Cost: Free. Donations accepted.

Originally posted at http://www.bakersfield.com/calendar/go_do/story/389713.html on Tuesday, March 18, 2008.

Photos:

Photo by Michael Fagans / The Californian

Brent Eviston demonstrates a shading technique to Joseph Stearns, 13, during a class in Bakersfield last summer.

Photo by Amy Rymer / The Californian

Jenna LeJeune, left, and Katrina Jachim listen to Jesse Collins, right, at the Bakersfield Community Theatre production of "James and the Giant Peach" last summer.

Make Your Summer Plans With Christ's Church of the Valley

Yes, seriously, that time of year is already upon us again. The kids have that summer itch and can't wait to get out of school. You are entertaining your annual thoughts of petitioning the school district to change to a year-round schedule, and the summer calendar starts to take shape.

As you juggle the scouting trips, the sports camps, the family vacations and visits from out-of-town relatives, you might want to consider a week of taking it easy. Stay local for a few days. Christ's Church of the Valley invites your children, going into kindergarten through 5th grade, to the "Avalanche Ranch" week of vacation Bible school June 2-6.

Ranchers will be treated to great games, crafts, snacks and friendships, all while discovering God's love on a wild ride through His word. Children will also have the opportunity to support AMOR ministries and feed hungry children in Mexico. Registration begins Sunday, May 4th and will continue through the week of "Avalanche Ranch," as space permits. Spots are limited so don't wait! Contact the church office to register or for more information, if your questions are not answered here:

When: June 2-6 9am - Noon

Where: Christ's Church of the Valley, 13701 Stockdale Hwy, 661-588-2268

Cost: $15 per child/$40 immediate family maximum (Includes, T-shirt, crafts, snacks and fun)

Who: All kids ENTERING kindergarten through 5th grade in Fall 2008

Summer Camps: Experiences that last a lifetime

“If you’re happy and you know it, clap your hands…” CLAP, CLAP! “Kookaburra sits on the old gum tree-ee…” If these nostalgic lyrics bring back fond memories of singing around a campfire or a busload of kids, you’ve probably been a happy camper. Each summer, thousands of Bakersfield youth get to know that feeling, too. Bakersfield is lucky to have access to numerous camps with activities to meet the needs and interests of every age group from 5-to-17 years old.

Both resident and day camps transform lazy summer days into expeditions. At resident camps, kids stay for one or two weeks and experience the traditional outdoor environment or a specialty camp that emphasizes a particular activity or sport. Day camps feature programs that run the gamut from art and drama to sports and science, and campers spend either full or half days.

The Bakersfield YMCA offers a Summer Fun Camp for youth entering kindergarten in the fall through sixth grade and one for teens 12-15 years old. Director, Mike Grover says, “We have many fun activities such as arts and crafts, games and sports and great counselors in a relaxed atmosphere with friends.” Swimming at McMurtrey Aquatic Center and field trips to CALM, the Kern County Museum and local businesses provide real life experiences and lessons that round out the YMCA’s program.

Amber Garza’s sons, ages six and nine, attended Summer Fun Camp four weeks last year and loved it. “It’s a good opportunity for my children to be involved in planned activities in a caring environment,” Garza says.

The YMCA teen program includes a community service project along with other enjoyable activities, such as fishing and field trips. Cindy Houchin, Administrative Supervisor at YMCA, works with the teens and seeks input from them about activities, offering a measure of flexibility. “It’s fun and a chance to be with their friends in a place that’s their own space,” Houchin says.

At California Living Museum’s ZooCamp, kids often get up close and personal with some of Kern County’s wild animals. Debby Kroeger, CALM’s Education and Volunteer Services Manager, believes this is why CALM attracts so many repeat campers. She says, “It’s the animals themselves. Kids love animals and here they get to meet the wild animals that are right around the area.”

Runa Lemminn, small business owner, would certainly agree. Her son, now 10, attended the CALM ZooCamp two summers ago, and she’s sure he’d like to live there. Lemminn says, “Being able to see the animals just an arm’s length away created quite a wow factor.”

This year, CALM and Kern County Museum will join forces for two weeks: once during National Pollinators Week in June to study flowers, bees, birds and bats at CALM; and in July they will convene at the Kern County Museum for a session called Eye Spy.

Kern County Museum’s Science Camp began in 2003, offering a hands-on curriculum. Jackie Brouillette, the Kern County Museum’s Education and Volunteer Services Manager says, “We do lots of science and the kids love it!” This year promises even more motivating sessions such as Superhero Science and Science Magic.

Single mom Susan Wright enthusiastically described her daughters’ experiences at several summer day camps. One camp that her daughters, ages seven and 13, enjoyed was the Kids’ Cooking Camp at Café Med last year. Led by the restaurant’s chefs, classes included instruction in nutrition and preparation, and campers were introduced to many cultures through ethnic foods. Their made-from-scratch, kid-friendly foods came from quality recipes. Wright remarks, “They even made their own ranch dressing.” At the end of the week, youngsters invited a friend or relative to come for lunch, which they proudly prepared.

Each year, Nike Tennis Camp operates at Bakersfield Racquet Club. Chandler, 13, says, “Tennis camp enabled me to try something new that I wasn’t sure about.” Upon completion of the session, she received an evaluation of her skill level.

Cal State Bakersfield’s athletics program offers a variety of sports-specific camps, as well as its popular All Sports Camp, which takes place this year form June 16-20. The CSUB All Sports Camp offers a variety of activities including soccer, volleyball, basketball, track and field, swimming, badminton, Frisbee and more. The camp is fun and designed to provide basic instruction in every activity. The CSUB men’s soccer coaching staff and student-athletes run this very popular one-week camp.

The Girl Scouts of America, Joshua Tree Council, appeal to all interests with their fun-filled Summer Options program. Daily tours, lessons or service projects are scheduled, and instead of weeklong sessions, parents may register their daughters for whatever activities interest them. Autumn, a third-grade Junior Girl Scout says, “Camp is fun and helps kids experience new things. It’s exciting!”

Resident camps provide the ultimate in camp experiences as young people learn new skills and forge friendships in an atmosphere totally different than their homes. Most parents notice that their youngsters become more independent and confident after camp.

“We’re in the people-building business; we want kids to grow into the people they are,” said Debby Jameson, owner/director of Jameson Ranch Camp along with her husband Ross. In its 74^th summer this year, JRC, located just above Glennville, is a real ranch where boys and girls ages 6-15 are exposed to positive values, gardening and animals, balanced by rich programs of choice in such areas as drama, adventure and water sports, and art. There is extensive horseback riding and training in the practical side of horsemanship with enough skill levels to help kids progress.

Jameson attributes the high number of returnees and second-generation campers to their offering kids “life-long learnables plus fun in a place that’s totally geared to them. And connectedness; they bond with friends, with the excellent staff, and with the ranch.” Fourteen-year-old August has been to JRC every year since he was eight. He shares, “Everyone is there to be your friend from the first. It’s a very happy environment; there’s nothing negative there.”

YMCA Camp Tulequoia, northeast of Visalia overlooking Sequoia Lake, presents another engaging, positive summer camp experience. Existing since 1914, Camp TQ aims to impart the values of living simply and close to nature, respecting the environment, and recommitting to family and friends. Campers participate in a combination of structured, age-appropriate, small group adventures and opportunities for buddy choice activities from an extensive list.

‘A skateboarder’s paradise,’ Element YMCA Skate Camp, at Millwood Campground on Sequoia Lake, is a place where skate campers learn from the pros, compete in weekly contests, and make their own mini-skateboards. The camp has facilities for all levels of skaters and is open to boys and girls ages 8-17. One of only a few residential skate camps in the U.S., it attracts international skateboarders. Alongside the many skate opportunities, campers can partake of waterfront events and a magazine making class.

Gymnastics rules the day at Tehachapi’s Camp Woodward West. Based on their skill level, beginners and competitive gymnasts work out in structured classes for exposure and lessons in each Olympic event. Afterward, instructors, many of whom are private coaches or collegiate or Olympic gymnasts, offer specialized training to perfect campers’ skills and help them progress safely to the next level of difficulty. Programs are tailored to meet each participant’s personal goals. In addition to gymnastics, Camp Woodward West offers skate and BMX sessions.

The Girl Scouts partner with Mountain and River Adventures for two sessions in Kernville at Camp High Adventure to introduce girls entering grades 5-12 to outdoor adventure opportunities and to help them become proficient outdoors. Rafting, lake kayaking, hiking and low rope elements add to the camping skills program. Ashley, a ninth-grade Cadette Girl Scout says, “Girl Scout summer camps…let you try things you’ve never done. Before I went to Camp High Adventure, I didn’t think that water sports were my thing. Now I wish I could do it again and again.”

Originally published in Bakersfield Life Magazine (a Bakersfield Californian publication) on April 19, 2008.