Organizations prepare for critical summer learning programs

Been a it has been a challenging year for students and families and that's why experts say it is even more important that kids continue learning this summer.

Several wabash valley organizations are finalizing plans for summer camps.

I spoke with program coordinators about the focus on offering children all the things they missed this past year.

Nats: kids making music at museum getting back into a summer rhythm... it's time parents consider their options for continued learning when -- what has been a challenging school year -- ends.

The terre haute children's museum is one of several wabash valley organizations planning for summer camps.

Terre haute children's museum director of education renee henry says, "we're giving them an enriching educational experience as well as a fun and social experience.

It's kind of the whole package."

The children's museum is offering a range of programming for kids 12 months to 12 years old.

Henry says the enriching lessons will engage kids on topics like space... spies... and "messy" science.

Henry says, "what we're hearing from the teachers is they haven't had time to do a hands on science, that they're just working so hard to keep this kids through the basics, that doing hands on science opportunities has really been rare this year."

"museum in the park" will also be offered again this summer.

It was offered last year as a way to inspire learning while keeping kids in the open air and distanced from others.

Nats: kids playing on the court the clay county ymca is also offering summer learning opportunities.

The summer day camp is expanding to serve preschoolers this year.

It focuses on "learning loss prevention" so kids are prepared for the next school year and includes days filled with games with friends.

Clay county ymca executive branch director nicole fry says,"that social interaction we can provide and just making sure that they know that they have a community and they have friends and people that care about them, that really goes with the whole circle of wellness."

Registration is also open for sports programs like flag football that had to be canceled last summer.

Clay county ymca sports director shane chessir says, "you're getting the physical activity but you're also getting back out there and enjoying good times with your friends."

Prices for both the ymca and museum programs vary.

Registration will open soon.

Area school will open soon.

Area school districts -- like vigo county -- are also offering summer programs. in most cases... just reach out to your child's