Yes, that near-record snowfall may be a very recent memory, but the Parks & Recreation Department is reminding parents and families that now is the time to think about summer camp and swimming lessons. Here is some important information.

Traditional Day Camp

Chester's traditional camp rivals any camp in the area. It offers swimming, sports, science and nature, arts and crafts, and more. Unlike many camps, children choose most of their activities throughout the day. It is open to children entering grades 1 through 7 and the hours are from 8:30 a.m. until

3:30 p.m., the weeks of July 8, 15, 22, 29 and Aug. 5 and 12 at Chester Elementary School on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and severe weather days, and at Cedar Lake on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. The children take field trips on Thursdays. The fee is $95 per child, per week, and payable at the time of registration. Children do not need to be Chester residents to attend.

This year an extended daily camp care option is being offered from 8 until 8:30 a.m. and from 3:30 until 4 p.m., for those registered in the traditional camp program. The cost is an additional $25 per week. When the camp meets at Cedar Lake, the afternoon care will be swimming lessons, weather permitting.

Introduction to Day Camp

If a child has ever wanted to try the Chester Parks & Recreation Children's Summer Program, this half-day camp may be just right for him or her. Introduction to Day Camp, designed for children aged 4 through 7, meets from 8:30 a.m. until 12:15 p.m. on Tuesdays and severe weather days at Chester Elementary School. On Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays the camp meets at Cedar Lake, the weeks of July 8, 15, and 22, with staff and programming designed specifically to meet the needs of younger children. Activities include games, sports, crafts, nature, swimming, and story time. This camp does not meet on Thursdays. The cost is $55 for the four-day week. There are currently just seven spaces left in each week of this introductory camp program.

Swimming Lessons

The swimming lessons offered by the Park & Recreation Commission are open to Chester residents or current park pass holders. Children must be at least three years of age and able to attend the classes independent of their parents. The small group classes meet on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays on July 8, 10, 12, 15, 17, 19, and 22. The fee is $40 for the seven classes. Severe weather makeup days will be held on July 24 and 26 if needed. For further information on times and classes, and for registration forms for any of the programs, visit http://chesterct.org.