We are excited to kick off the spring and summer season of 2021 with an array of new programs and events. We are releasing all our programs in one brochure this spring that will cover both the spring and summer months. We will continue to follow all COVID-19 protocols throughout all of our programs to maintain a safe, healthy and engaging environment for all of our participants, families and the community.

This past year we ran many of our programs following these guidelines and we are well accustomed to running safe programs.

For early childhood age children, we are offering a fun-filled gymnastic-inspired Mini Star Tumblers program where parents/guardians can enjoy time with their toddler usingmovement,tumbling, music, parachutes, balls and obstacle courses.

Among other programs, we are offering a Smart Start program, where young athletes can dip their toes into the world of athletics and learn the fundamentals of different sports each week.

For our Summer Day Camp, expect exciting theme weeks, lots of outdoor fun and amazing counselors in 2021.

We have expanded and are offering eight weeks at camp as we feel kids need to be active and engaged this summer now more than ever. We also listened to the community and are in our third year of kindercamp for 3- to 5-year-olds. This program offers age-appropriate sports, activities, arts and crafts and provides a warm, nurturing atmosphere for our youngest campers.

We are also partner with the Norwich Public School system and will be offering additional activities and care during their summer enrichment program.

More information will be out shortly as we firm up all the details.

We are also offering weekly sport and specialty camps throughout the summer. We are starting the summer with a basketball camp, multi-sport, soccer, art camp and LEGO S.T.E.A.M camp.

Mohegan Park beach will soon be prepared by our staff. Lifeguards and swim instructors are being hired and we are planning to open June 24. Be ready for swim lessons several days a week this summer. It is very important for your child to learn how to swim. Drowning is still one of the most common causes of accidental death in children, so being able to swim is an essential life-saving skill.

For special events, we are offering several events for the family, which include S’mores and Stars in June, a family fishing program in July, and movie night at Mohegan Park Beach in August. Come join us at these fun events!

Our spring book came out in the Norwich Times on March 25 and will be sent in school back packs this week, so be on the lookout.

You can register for all of these programs and more online at norwichct.org/recreation, where registration is quick and simple. We also have an active Facebook page @NorwichRec for updates.

The Recreation Department constantly strives to create community through people, parks and programs all year long. If you have a new idea or question, please call me anytime!

Cheryl Hancin-Preston is director of the Norwich Recreation Department.