Beginning February 3, 2020, Norwalk residents will be able to register for the Summer Play & Learn Camp – a six-week all-inclusive camp experience for ages 6 to 14. The well-known Summer Play & Learn Camp is run by the Norwalk Recreation and Parks Department, and this summer season, replaces the Personal Fulfillment Camp (PF Camp) formerly operated by Norwalk Public Schools.
This shift provides the schools the opportunity to continue to focus on instructional and academic opportunities, while experts in camp programming deliver an exciting and unique program for the body and mind. This year, Play & Learn has been revamped, expanded to five locations, and has programs dedicated to creating a safe and nurturing environment full of innovation, creativity, and exploration.
“The Summer Play & Learn Camp is a wonderful recreational and educational program that I know young people will enjoy,” said Norwalk Mayor Harry Rilling. “Those familiar with PF Camp will be impressed with what our Recreation and Parks team has lined up this summer – from sports to arts and science to history – there is something for everyone.”
Play & Learn has been completely overhauled this year to provide a fresh and new experience. Activities include sports, games, arts exploration, performance arts, pool and beach time, field trips, adventures, and weekly special events and themes. All site directors are currently teachers, recreation professionals, or school support staff members. Decreased program registration revenues and increased camp expenses, such as an increase to the minimum wage, have resulted in summer camp programming to operate at a loss in recent years. When deciding on the 2020 fee structure, City staff did extensive research on public and private summer camp offerings in the area. The new registration fees are below other program fees and will allow the city to expand camp offerings.
“The increased fees help us cover the cost of new and imaginative field trips, unique activities, and high-quality programming,” said Nick Roberts, Director of Recreation and Parks. “I appreciate the public allowing us the opportunity to provide an enjoyable and unforgettable experience for their children this summer.”
Play & Learn runs weekdays from 8 a.m. – 3 p.m. from June 29, 2020 to August 7, 2020. The cost is $900 and payment plans are accepted through the Recreation and Parks office. Aftercare is also available until 5:30 p.m. for $150. There are also weeklong pre- and post-camps for those looking to expand activities this summer.
Registration begins online at nwlk.norwalkct.org and in-person at Norwalk City Hall this Monday, February 3, 2020, and will remain open until June 12, 2020 or when all camps are full. Online payment plans and sibling discounts are available through May 22, 2020. A $200 non-refundable deposit is required at the time of registration. For more information, please email Sandy Korkatzis, Recreation Superintendent, at SKorkatzis@norwalkct.org or visit norwalkct.org/recreationandparks.