Summer fun and learning at Park Ave. School

North Bellmore’s Foundation for Academics, Enrichment and Recreation’s eighth summer recently ended, but the program, full of fun and learning, has given participants a lifetime of happy childhood memories.

The non-profit summer enrichment program took place at Park Avenue Elementary School in North Merrick from July 8 to 26. Students ranged from pre-kindergarteners to sixth-graders.

“This program offers a mix of education and fun. The kids love it,” said Rose Davis, the program’s founder and president.

Before the program began, students were asked to select daily, age-appropriate activities, which included Art Around the World, Blast into Space, Mad Scientist, Duct Tape Adventures, baseball, basketball, computer games, Wii games, storybook treats, drawing and painting, animal fun and Legos

The program also included Academic Academy classes, directed by Leah Weissinger. These were literature-based and provided children with a daily opportunity to work on their reading and writing.

There was also a kindergarten transition class for children who will attend kindergarten in the fall. Through the class, kids learned what it would be like to be in a classroom while working with other students their age. The future kindergarteners played in groups, worked on crafts and enjoyed games.

“Having all of the kids here brings unity to the district,” Davis said.