Summer Programs

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SUMMER 2023 PROGRAMS COMING SOON.

REGISTRATION OPENS MONDAY, APRIL 3, 2023 AT 9AM

 

run like a girl

Wednesdays, June 28 to August 16, 8:30 to 10:30 a.m.

For girls entering grades 4-8
Join us for a summer of running while building self-esteem, inspiration, goal setting, leadership, courage, and more!  Each week we’ll go for a group run on local trails, followed by fun activities at LYSB. Beginning runners welcome!! Coached by Alli Behnke, MSW (and fellow runner!) with LOLHS mentors.  Fee: $30, includes tshirt and supplies.

ENGINEERING CAMP

• AGES 5 to 8: Mon July 31 to Fri August 4, 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
• AGES 9 and up: Mon August 7 to Fri August 11, 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Aspiring Engineers! Discover the marvelous and spectacular world of engineering through the hands-on, minds on summer camps offered by Engineering Imagination, LLC! In these exciting, educational summer camps, participants will use a variety of mediums such as LEGO, recycled materials, salvaged motors and gears, balsa wood, and more to explore the STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) curriculum. Using the different mediums, participants will learn about and build projects such as hydroelectric waterwheels, model rockets, and scale bridges! With activities focused on green engineering, mechanical engineering, chemical engineering, and architecture, your child is sure to have a blast while learning along the way! Fee: $300. Scholarships available.

HAMBURG FAIR SINGERS

Tuesday, August 15, 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at LYSB
Saturday, August 19, at the Hamburg Fair Stage
All ages, free

Perform on stage at the Hamburg Fair!!
Calling all youth singers in Lyme/Old Lyme! Steve Roslonek of SteveSongs, on air host of PBSKids Television, will be performing at the Fair and he needs YOUR help! Come to a one-day rehearsal at LYSB to learn some of Steve’s best-known numbers, and the Hamburg Fair Song. No previous experience is necessary. To learn more about Steve CLICK HERE. To see a video of our group’s performance at last year’s Fair CLICK HERE.
For all ages, t-shirt included. FREE!

INFANT & BABY MASSAGE

Mondays, June 10 & 17, 2023, 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

Ages infant to crawler, $20

Infant massage is a great way to communicate and comfort your baby. A two-week class that allows you to massage your baby while learning the full massage routine. This is a relaxing time for both baby and parent with time allowed for socializing with other parents. The International Association of Massage has been providing professionals, parents, and caregivers with information and expertise on infant massage since 1992. IAIM massage promotes positive bonding, stimulation, and relief from colic and gas pains. It also promotes better sleep.

MUSIC & MOVEMENT

Ages 1.5 and up, 10:00 to 11:30 a.m., $15/day
Pick the dates that work for you

Let’s be active, dance, make music, and have fun! Music and Movement starts with free choice play as we gather and then moves to a group circle with a welcome song. Each class we will do finger play songs, try instruments, use gross motor full body movement, practice movement skills with equipment, sing, and dance. This will be an outdoor class, meeting on the LYSB basketball court. Please dress for the weather, bring a water bottle, and sun protection such as sun hat and/or sunblock.

Monday, July 24 – If You’re Happy and You Know It:  freeze dance, drums, parachute activities, and dancing with ribbons
Wednesday, July 26 – Slippery Fish: freeze dance, triangles, ball & cup activities, obstacle course, and dancing with pom poms
Friday, July 28 – Little Peter Rabbit: freeze dance, bell sticks, silly feet, parachute activities, and dancing with umbrellas
Monday, July 31 – Itsy Bitsy Spider: freeze dance, tambourine, ball & racket activities, obstacle course, and dancing with fans
Wednesday, August 2 – Kentucky Fried Chicken and a Pizza Hut: freeze dance, rhythm sticks, bouncing balls, parachute activities, and dancing with flowers
Friday, August 4 – I’m a Little Tea Pot: freeze dance, shakey eggs, jump sack activities, obstacle course, and dancing with scarves
Monday, August 7 – Pirate Song: freeze dance, kazoos, hula hoop activities, parachute activities, and dancing with ribbons
Wednesday, August 9 – Head Shoulders Knees and Toes: freeze dance, drums, toss to targets, obstacle course, and hula hoops
Friday, August 11 – Open Shut Them: freeze dance, rhythm sticks, silly feet, parachute activities, and dancing with pom poms.

CLAY CLUB

Tuesdays, 12:00 to 2:00 p.m.
Ages 6 to 12, $20/day, register for one or all three

In Clay Club we will practice the basic techniques for creating with polymer clay. We will have a magical forest theme for our guided projects. There will be time for making pieces from your own creative choices also. The pieces will be baked at LYSB and ready to take home at pick up.

  • Tuesday, July 25 – Making a unicorn
  • Thursday, July 27 – Making an elf
  • Tuesday, August 1 – Making a forest house

MERMAID CRAFTERS

Thursdays, 12:00 to 2:00 p.m.
Ages 6 to 12, $20/day, register for one or all three

Calling lovers of sparkle, seashells, scales, purples, blues, and turquoises. We will meet in Mimi’s Place for some crafting fun all with a mermaid theme. Each session will offer two crafts, time with friends, and lots of fun!

  • August 3 – Mermaid Rock tic-tac-toe game and Mermaid Slime
  • August 8 – Mermaid Dolls with pipe cleaners and Mermaid Tail Keychain
  • August 10 – Mermaid Initial Letter Decor and Jeweled Shell Necklace

ACTS OF KINDNESS

Service Projects for Children
Tuesdays, 10:00 to 11:15 a.m.
Ages 3-8, $15/date, register for one or all four

Tuesday, June 20 – The Summer Lunch Project
Create packages of much needed summer items including food for local families in need, providing a little boost to help get through the summer.

Tuesday, June 27 – Dog & Cat Treat Making
Please bring a small bag of dry dog or cat food with you this day. We will be crafting homemade treats at LYSB. All treats and food will be shared with local shelters & food pantries.

Tuesday, July 11 – Treasure Boxes for the Lymes Senior Center
Decorate and fill treasure boxes with items guaranteed to make our local seniors smile.

Tuesday, July 18 – Fill a Sock Project & Birthday Boxes
For youth in at Safe Futures

WILDCAT EXPLORERS

Exploring various outdoor locations in Old Lyme
Ages 0 and up, 10:00 to 11:30 a.m., $15 per family/date

Enjoy the beautiful outdoors with the Wildcat Explorers. Little explorers and their parents will enjoy time in Old Lyme’s Land Trust areas with friends. We will meet at a different trail head each morning. We will start our journey with an opening circle, then go on a hike, do an outdoor craft or game, read a story in the woods, and finish with a closing circle at the end of the hike.  Please dress for the weather, rain, or shine. Bring a water bottle for each person in your party. Choose a bug repellent method that works for you such as tall socks and/or bug spray.

  • Tuesday, July 25 – Goberis Chadwick Preserve, 372 Shore Rd
  • Thursday, July 27 – John Lohman CT River Preserve, 33 Coult Lane
  • Tuesday, August 1– Hatchets Hill Preserve, 29-1 Hatchets Hill Rd
  • Thursday, August 3 – Mile Creek Preserve, 191 Mile Creek Rd
  • Tuesday, August 8 – Lay-Allen Preserve, Bayberry Ridge Rd
  • Thursday, August 10 – Upper Three Mile Creek Preserve, 106 Four Mile River Rd

PARTY PIGS with Gilbert & Meadow

Wednesday, July 12, 10:30 to 11:30 a.m.
Ages 2 and up, $15/child

Connecticut’s famous “party pigs” entertaining all they see while traveling throughout New England. Gilbert with his young friend Meadow will join us outside at LYSB. Gilbert is an American Mini Pig who loves to travel & amuse those whom he visits. You may find yourself scratching his back, feeding him, or giving him a kiss. Meadow is an American Mini Pig under one year old and much smaller. She loves to join in on the games. Join us for this action packed hour of fun.

CREEPERS, CRAWLERS & CRUISERS

Five Thursdays, June 15 to July 20, 10:00 to 11:00 a.m., (no class on 7/6)

Ages 1ish to 2ish, 5 weeks, $50
Summer fun for the ones. In this playgroup you will enjoy both inside and outside play. Sensory, simple water play, group time, crafts, and a story. Is there and activity you want to try with your child but haven’t yet?  Contact Arleen Sharp @860-434-7208 x207 and we’ll make sure we include it in our fun.

SENSORY SATURDAYS

Two Saturdays 10:00 to 11:00 a.m.

Ages 1.5 to 5, $12/date, register for one or both
Hands on summer fun and sensory play. Please bring or have your child wear a bathing suit & a towel. Groups will meet outside if weather permits. Inside if necessary.

  • Saturday, June 24 – Water Play & Pirates
  • Saturday, July 15 – Dino Day and more

FOREST BATHING

Wednesday, July 19, 9:30 to 11:00 a.m.
at McCullough Family Open Space, Old Lyme
All ages, $20, each child must register, adult must accompany

Bring the family and come dip your toe into the Japanese-inspired practice of shinrin-yoku or “taking in the forest atmosphere,” also known as forest bathing. On this family-friendly walk, your certified forest therapy guide, Regan Stacey, will guide you on a mindful (and playful!) stroll. We will slow down, awaken our senses, and enjoy the wonders of nature through a series of sensory-opening invitations designed to connect with nature. What will you discover?  You are welcome to bring a blanket, towel, or mat for our sitting sessions.

What is Forest Bathing?
A growing global wellness movement, it is backed by nearly 40 years of scientific research on the holistic benefits of immersing yourself in nature. These benefits include reduced stress and blood pressure, increased creativity and focus, improved mood and sleep, and a boost to immune functions.  Regan Stacey is an artist and advocate for the Earth whose passion is to reconnect humans to nature for personal and planetary well-being. She believes we can all awaken the forest within. Through her private practice, she offers forest bathing walks, mindful nature retreats, and mindfulness training.  She is also co-founder of The Forest Therapy School, training forest therapy guides to share this work around the world. Find out more about her work at reganstacey.com or theforesttherapyschool.com.

DINOSAUR PLACE FIELD TRIP

Wednesday, June 28, 10:00 a.m t0 2:00 p.m., Rain or Shine
Join LYSB at this 60 acre family fun park!

Meet us at Nature’s Art Village in Montville to enjoy a fun packed day of adventure. Included in this visit is New England’s largest splash pad, A-MAZE-asaurus, Monty’s Playground, T-Rex Tower, and Jump & Roar Jurassic Moon Bounce.

Fees: Children under 2 free, Ages 2-5 $29.99, Ages 6-17 $33.99, Ages 18-59 $29.99, Seniors Age 60+ $27.99

Details: We will enter as a group.  Meet near The Ice Cream Shoppe no later than 10:15. This is a stroller friendly park. We will be outside all day. Bring sunscreen, bug spray, a hat if desired, lots of liquid refreshments & your lunch (picnic style) in your own cooler. There is a food stand if needed.  Socks are a MUST for the T-rex Tower. The splash pad is for all ages to enjoy. Non-skid water shoes or sneakers are required for the splash pad. A bathing suit and towel. There is an area to change clothes by the splash pad.  For more information please see: Naturesartvillage.com

ICE CREAM SOCIAL for 6th GRADERS

☼☼Family Event☼☼

Wednesday, August 24, 2023, 2:00-2:30 p.m.

After you visit LOL Middle School to see your classroom and teachers, stop by LYSB for ice cream, music, and friends! Parents and siblings welcome.

HAMBURG FAIR SONGWRITING WORKSHOP

August 16, 17, 18, 10:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at LYSB
August 20, 5:00 p.m. at the Hamburg Fair Stage

Join us to write the new Hamburg Fair Theme Song! Want to help create a brand-new song from scratch? Are you interested in performing on stage at the Hamburg Fair?

Steve Roslonek of SteveSongs, on air host of PBSKids Television, will be facilitating a unique program of songwriting and performing.  Students will explore several fundamental elements of songwriting and then help Steve write an original song.  They will also have the opportunity to perform that song along with other select numbers with Steve on the big stage at the Hamburg Fair.  No previous experience is necessary. To learn more about Steve CLICK HERE
For all ages, t-shirt included.  FREE!

BIRDS OF PREY at LYSB

☼☼Family Event☼☼

Wednesday, August 17, 5:30 p.m.

For Families. WHOOOOO doesn’t love owls, hawks, and other birds of prey? Join the experts from Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center to learn all about these awe-inspiring creatures.  Learn some fun facts, hear a story and if you are lucky, you might even get to meet birds of prey!  $10 per family.

BOLD (Boys Outdoor Leadership Development)

• Session I: Mon, August 1 to Fri, August 5, 9:00 am-12:00 pm
• Session II: Mon, August 1 to Fri, August 5, 1:00-4:00 pm
  (Session II is for incoming high school freshmen only)
• Session III: Mon, August 15 to Fri, August 19, 9:00 am-12:00 pm
• Session IV: Mon, August 15 to Fri, August 19, 1:00-4:00 pm
  (Session IV is for incoming 5th graders only)

For adventurous Lyme Old Lyme boys to learn leadership, respect, listening and teamwork. We will participate in activities such as ROPES, paddle boarding, Open Space Hike, and more adventures on Land and Sea. We will meet at a different location each day. This program is outside therefore events could be cancelled due to inclement weather. Space is limited.  Session I & 3 is for boys entering grades 6-8 only.  Session 2 is for incoming 9th graders only.  Session 4 is for incoming 5th graders only.
Fee: $120.

BINGO ON THE BEACH

☼☼Family Event☼☼

Wednesday, July 13, 6:00-8:00 p.m.
Wednesday, August 10, 6:00-8:00 p.m.

At White Sands Beach
This is a free event. Bring your own picnic, beach chairs and blankets and get ready for some good ol’ fashioned family fun. Open to all Lyme / Old Lyme families.
Registration not required.

BEACH DANCES

Tuesdays, June 28 to August 9, 7:00 to 9:00 p.m.

For Middle Schoolers at White Sands Beach

At White Sands Beach for middle schoolers in Lyme and Old Lyme. $5/admission – music, food, fun, friends!!
Weather permitting, please check our website or facebook page for possible cancellations due to weather by 5:00 p.m. on Dance nights. LYSB requires a one-time registration for the beach dances.

BABIES GROUP

Tuesdays, June 28 to August 16, 1:00 to 2:00 p.m., free

For new and expecting parents of children up to 12 months. This group is casual, comfortable, and informative. Meet other parents of babies.  We will cover weekly topics of interest based on your own questions and concerns commonly found during the first year of parenting. Meeting in the child friendly atmosphere of Mimi’s Place a LYSB. Join anytime.

MIDDLE SCHOOL RUNNING CLUB

Tuesdays and Thursdays, July 19 to August 18, 9:00 to 10:00 a.m. a.m.

Grades 6 to 8, free

Led By High School Runner George WIlliams and other members of the LOL Cross Country Team. The MSRC will teach kids basic running skills, the rules of the road, proper stretching techniques and more. Kids will spend time running on the road as well as the track. Program will be cancelled in inclement weather. All runners will receive a tshirt.

OUTDOOR STUDIO DRAWING & PAINTING FOR TEENS

Tuesdays: July 5, 12, 19, 26, 1:00 to 3:00 p.m.
Thursdays: July 7, 14, 21, 28, 4:00 to 6:00 p.m.

This program is part of the Lymes Creative Arts Initiative

Location: Various around Old Lyme and Lyme
Ages: Grades 6-12 (Beginners to those preparing college portfolios)
Instructor: Artist and Teacher Kristen Thornton
Join Kristen for a relaxed en plein air style class. We will meet at a new location each week to draw and paint with the medium of your choice. Get more experience with your favorite medium or try something new while being guided how to use the materials to make a finished piece. You may pick any combination of the  eight dates/times available. We will be meeting at locations such as the DEEP Ferry Landing State Park, Studio 80+ Sculpture Grounds, and other scenic areas around Lyme and Old Lyme. A backup location for rainy days will be announced. Advanced registration required.  Supplies are not included and a supplies list wll be provided in advance. Fee $25.

POP UP PLAYGROUPS

Pineapple Slime
Friday, July 8, 10:30-11:30 a.m., Ages 3 and up, $5

Waterplay – Giant Unicorn Sprinkler, Unicorn Bowling and more
Monday, July 11, 10:30-11:30 a.m., Ages 1.5 and up, $5

Waterplay – Splishy Splashy Ice Cream Fun
Friday, July 22, 10:30-11:30 a.m., Ages 1.5 and up, $5

Waterplay – Serpents and Muddy Dogs
Wednesday, July 27, 10:30-11:30 a.m., Ages 1.5 and up, $5

Water and Ice – A variety of frozen fun
Friday, August 5, 10:30-11:30 a.m., Ages 1.5 and up, $5

SUMMER POTTERY WORKSHOP

Session I: Tuesday, July 5 to August 2, 6:00 to 8:00 p.m.
Session II: Thursdays, July 7 to August 4, 6:00-8:00 p.m. – FULL

This program is part of the Lymes’ Creative Arts Initiative

For grades 6 to 12.  Five weeks workshop. Making your own pottery from start to finish working both on and off the wheel.  Classes include demonstrations by Potter Wayne Kirk and lots of hands-on time to play with the clay.  Fee includes the clay, glazes and firing fees with the use of potters wheels, benches and all tools you need.  Classes are held in Walt’s Studio located in the basement of the First Congregational Church of Old Lyme.  Space is limited. Fee: $25.

ACTING UP!

Tuesdays & Thursdays, July 5, 7, 19, 21, 26 & 28, 12:00 to 2:00 p.m.
(no class 7/12 or 7/19)

Middle School students are invited to learn about the fun of improv with LOLHS alumnus Jacob Olsen! We’ll begin with theatre basics and understanding how improv differs from other kinds of performing arts. Classes will then focus on building confidence both on and off the stage, learning different kinds of improv games, and culminate in a show for friends & family.  Fee $25 includes t-shirt.

TENNIS PALS

Monday, July 11 to Friday, July 15, 5:30 to 6:30 p.m.

For youth and young adults with physical, cognitive, and/or developmental challenges, ages 8 and up, Fee: $25, scholarships available.
The mission of Tennis PALS Foundation is to introduce the physical, mental, and social benefits of tennis to youth and young adults with special needs including physical, cognitive, and/or developmental challenges. Tennis PALS provides a fun, supportive, and adaptive environment. We will do our best to make the game adaptable for people with any challenge. We meet at the Lyme-Old Lyme High School tennis courts with local tennis pros and student volunteers. All equipment will be provided by Tennis PALS. For more info visit www.tennispals.org

SUMMER SENSORY PLAYGROUP

Wednesdays July 13, 20, & Aug 3, 10:00 to 11:00 a.m.

Ages 2 and up, $8/date
A variety of sensory experiences for your child to explore.

CPR FOR BABYSITTERS

Friday, July 22, 12:00 to 2:00 p.m.

Add this valuable class to your LYSB babysitter’s course and learn how to save a life! Learn CPR and how to clear a blocked airway in children and infants. Parents want to hire babysitters who know CPR and can help kids who are choking. Instructors will teach you everything you need to know to provide lifesaving care during a cardiac or choking emergency in this class. Class cost is $55 and awards a Certificate of Completion. Scholarships available.

LYSB NIGHT AT THE YARD GOATS

☼☼Family Event☼☼

Thursday, July 28, 7:00 p.m.

Join us for LYSB Family Night at the Yard Goats at Dunkin’ Donuts Park in Hartford. The Hartford Yard Goats are taking on the Red Sox affiliate, the Portland Sea Dogs.  Our group tickets are located in the Picnic Pavilion on the concourse level and include a 2.5 hour all you can eat buffet including hamburgers, hot dogs, bbq chicken, mac and cheese, pasta salad and more! Game starts at 7:00. Tickets are $40 per person. Limited tickets available, so book now. 

GOLD (Girls Outdoor Leadership Development)

August 1 to 5, 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

For adventurous Lyme Old Lyme Middle school girls to spark their personal strength and confidence through a variety of outdoor activities and adventures. This program is outside therefore events could be cancelled due to inclement weather. Space is limited. Fee $120.

ARTS & CRAFTS IN THE AFTERNOON

Monday, August 15 to Friday, August 19, 1:00 to 4:00 p.m.

Join your friends for a fun week of arts, crafts. games and outside time. Clay explorations, weaving, nature drawing, colorful painting and more!  With arts educator Claudia Mathison.  Entering grades 3 and up. Fee $175 includes all supplies.

KINDERGARTEN MEET UPS

☼☼Family Event☼☼

Dates in August tba

Calling all incoming kindergarteners!!!! Come to Mile Creek and Lyme Schools to meet your new Principal, and see other families and friends. LYSB will have some fun activities on the school playground, stories with the Principal, and more. LYSB will host one date at each school. More info coming soon. (Note, we will not be visiting classrooms or meeting kindergarten teachers at this event)

READ WITH A THERAPY DOG

Summer dates/times TBA

Select up to three private 20  minute appointments. LYSB is partnering with our friends at Project Paws, The Tim Buckley Project to provide opportunities for children grades K-5 to read to a therapy dog during a series of three private appointments. Reading to a trained therapy dog can improve reading skills and confidence, and motivate children to read more at home. It can also reduce the stress and anxiety some children feel when asked to read aloud in class. This program will be held outside if possible, or inside in case of rain.  Bring your own reading materials, and a blanket or towel to sit on. To learn more about Project Paws click here.

FAIRY FUN

Tuesdays and Thursdays, June 21, 23, 28 & 30, 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Ages PK to 4th grade, $8/date
Register for one or all four!

Fairies love Lyme/Old Lyme and we love them!  Let’s get creative and make some fairy themed crafts to help make our homes a fairy friendly place.  Each session we will make a fairy themed craft to take home and enjoy.
June 21 – Fairy Doors with popsicle sticks
June 23 – Fairy Lantern made in a mason jar
June 28 – Fairy Tower with terra cotta planters
June 30 – Flower Fairies made with clothespins

TURTLES at LYSB

☼☼Family Event☼☼

Tuesday, July 19, 5:30 p.m.

Did you know that Connecticut is home to 12 species of turtles? Our friends from Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center will be at LYSB for this fun interactive program.  Families can come and learn more about these unique animals, their amazing adaptations while seeing them up close and in person! Bring a lawn chair or blanket.   $10 per family.

SITTER SAFETY CLASS

Mondays, July 11, 18 & 25, 12:00 to 2:00 p.m.

An intense sitter safety and training course appropriate for babysitters, big brothers and sisters, and children staying home alone for the first time. This course touches on a variety of safety skills such as basic first aid, fire safety, and 911 skills. Fee is $50 and includes supplies, snacks, and guest speakers.

CHILL OUT at LYSB

June 27 to July 28 (Monday through Thursday, 2:00 to 5:00, after Park & Rec camp)

Chill out at LYSB after park and rec!  Children will be escorted from park and rec day camp to the LYSB where they can hang out with their friends, play basketball, watch movies, games, art and crafts and much more.  Snacks will be provided.   Fee: $225 per child for the five week session. (you must register for all five weeks).  NOTE: THIS PROGRAM WILL NOT RUN DURING WEEK #6 of PARK & REC CAMP.  WEEKS 1 to 5 ONLY. NOTE: THIS PROGRAM RUNS MON-THURS AND IS NOT HELD ON FRIDAYS. No program on July 4th. Space is very limited. Registration opens on Monday, April 4th at 9:00 a.m.

Looking for the Lymes Teen Arts Page?

COVID Protocols at LYSB

For LYSB’s in person programs, COVID19 protocols will be followed. All programs have limited space available to ensure our enrollment numbers allow for physical distancing to be followed. All surfaces are disinfected daily after each class. We ask all participants to wear masks (if over 2 years old) and follow the guidelines and any signs for distancing during the class, as directed by the instructor.

If you are anyone in your family has had any of the following symptoms DO NOT attend the class

• Fever within the last 48 hours
• Shortness in breath or difficulty breathing
• Chills
• Sore throat
• Cough
• Been around someone who has COVID-19

If you have any questions or want to discuss our COVID19 protocols, please contact LYSB Director Mary Seidner at 860-434-7208 x202, mseidner@lysb.org