Tyler — Tyler Parks and Recreation is kick-starting the summer season on Tuesday, June 7, with the Summer Playground Program for children ages 6 to 12. The free Summer Playground Program has been a favorite of Tyler children for generations. Established in the 1950’s, it has provided educational and quality of life enhancement to thousands of participants.
This year many new and exciting activities have been planned. There will be guest presenters and instructors, organized group activities including athletics, free play, crafts, and active and passive games. Children will also be taught safety tips, life skills and will participate in fun educational games, special events, contests and activities including a community service project.
A new feature of the program this year will be instruction in fine and performing arts. Representatives of the Downtown Tyler Arts Coalition will teach young participants a variety of disciplines, including dance, drumming, and drawing. The arts instructors will visit one park each day of the week, ensuring that children at each park get to participate in the arts activities.
“We want to inspire the playground program participants and encourage their talent in the arts,” said Beverly Abell, Main Street department leader. “We hope that these sessions will increase their appreciation for the arts, but perhaps also encourage some budding artists.”
The park sites also participate in the Federal Free Lunch Program offered through the East Texas Food Bank.
The program will take place Mondays through Thursdays from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Fridays from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. through Aug. 12 at the following sites:
• City Park, located at 200 W. Queen St.;
• P.T. Cole Park, located at 1001 S. Vine St.;
• Emmett Scott Park, located at 1710 N. Confederate Ave.;
• Pollard Park, located at 710 E. Amherst; and,
• Glass Recreation Center located at 501 W. 32nd Street.
Admission is free except at the Glass Center location where a one-time $10 fee is required for a youth membership. Registration will be accepted throughout the summer. For more information, please call Ann Santana at (903) 595-7271.
From City of Tyler