Wild About Animals theme of first week of Chelsea Recreation camp

Painting his hand to make a peacock body.

About 20 youngsters got Wild About Summer at the first day of the Chelsea Recreation Department’s summer camp program Monday.

With Camp Director’s Krista Bradley and Rourke Skelton at the helm, and a trained staff to assist them, the campers will learn about everything from science to circuses, super heroes to space through crafts, activities and games.

This week, the camp activities center around animals, Bradley said, and next week, campers will learn about Super Heroes.

Camp counselor Krista Bradley poses outside the door to the Wild About Summer Camp space.

Unlike past years, this year’s summer camp is in the 300 building (the preschool building) at the Washington Street Education Center and it’s air conditioned.

Painted hands create the peacock's body. — Painted hands create the peacock’s body.

Hand all painted and almost ready to make her peacock.

Each week has a new theme, said Chelsea Recreation Director Eric VanHevel and incorporates the Chelsea Wellness Foundation’s four pillars: Eat Better, Exercise More, Avoid Unhealthy Substances and Connect with Others.

Children must bring their own lunch, but snacks are provided throughout the day.

Provided the weather cooperates, many of the activities take place outside, VanHevel said.
Here are the themes for upcoming week’s camps:
June 17-22: Super Heroes
June 24-28: Circus
July 1-5: Secret Science Lab (no camp on July 4)
July 8-12: British Invasion
July 15-19: Jungle Adventures
July 22-26: Our Town
July 29-Aug. 2: Water Adventures
Aug. 5-9: Chelsea Bulldogs
Aug. 12-16: Space
Aug. 19-23: The Fair

Camp hours are 7:15 a.m. – 5:45 p.m. with structured activities from 9 a.m.- 4 p.m. A full week is $180, three days are $120 and it’s $45 for a day. Plus, there are early bird discounts available, and discount pricing for free and reduced lunch and multiple children.

Call 475-1112, email [email protected] or click here.