Stratford Recreation Department
TEEN & YOUTH PROGRAMS

All program registrations take place at the Recreation Office at Short Beach Park unless noted in the description. All Programs Subject To Change. Non-residents may take particular classes for an additional $5 fee.

Updated August 26, 2008

Youth and Teen Activities

Toddler Open Gym      419360        Section 64, 72, 73

This is an open gym program for toddlers, preschoolers ages 1-3, and caregivers.  The gym will be open for them to explore, play ball games, climb through tunnels, run, parachute play, jump and make new friends.  This is a "free play" activity with a closing time circle.  A caregiver must remain with the child.  A Recreation Department certified staff member will be the facilitator.  Registration is September 2-12 for the fall session, which runs on Thursdays for 8 weeks beginning September 18.  Classes run from 9:00-10:00am, 10:15-11:15 am and 1:30-2:30 pm at the Birdseye Complex.  Cost is $35 per child for the 8-week class. 

New program:  Creative Cooking for School Age Children    514460-Section 23

This is a hands-on; no heat cooking class for school age children.  Children will measure, mix, count, and create edible projects.  Class will also have story time and singing.  Discover the fun in cooking with your childe.  Program is designed for ages 6-7 years old.  The fee is $50 per child and includes all supplies.  The 8 week class begins on Monday, September 15 at the South End Community Center from 5:45-6:30pm.  Registration is September 2-12.

Creative Cooking    514460-Section 21

This is a hands-on, no-heat cooking class for preschoolers and their caregivers. Children will measure, mix, count and create edible projects. Class will also have story time and singing. Discover the fun of cooking with your child. Program is designed for ages 3-5 years old. The fee is $50 per child and includes all supplies. The 8-week class begins on Monday, September 15 at the South End Community Center from 5:45-6:30pm. Registration is September 2-12. 

Preschool Sports Camp        113080        Section 11, 12

Preschoolers ages 2-5 will participate in the sport of the week doing drills, games, circle time with singing, parachute play and snack time.  Parents supply the snack.  Camp will be Monday - Friday from 9-11:30am at Longbrook Park.  Soccer camp is TBA.  T-ball camp is TBA.  Registration is TBA.  The fee is $35 for each week.  Space is limited.  Parents or caregivers are encouraged to stay and participate.

Karate Program - online registration        542580        Section 07-12 & 13-17

Karate Class will be on Monday, Wednesday and Friday nights at Franklin School and Saturdays at Flood Aux Gym starting January 7.  The program will run for 8 weeks.  Registration is at the Recreation Office at Short Beach.  First session begins September 3-October 24 at Franklin School.  Registration is July 21-August 29 at the Recreation Office. The next session will begin October 27-December 19 with registration September 22 - October 20.  For information and registration visit www.superiorkarate.net. 

Little Ninjas (ages 4-6) Monday and Wednesday         Beginner 5:00-5:30 pm                    Section 07
                                                                               Advanced 5:30-6:00 pm                  Section 09
Beginner Class (ages 7-adult) Monday, Wednesday & Friday     6:10-7:00pm             Section 10
                                    Saturday                                10:30-11:15 am at Flood

Advanced Class (age 7-adult) Monday, Wednesday & Friday   7:15-8:00pm                Section 11
                                       Saturday                                11:15-12:00 pm at Flood

Fee: Little Ninjas two times per week = $98  

Beginner/Advanced two times per week= $128    Beginner/Advanced three times per week= $148 

Ballet & Jazz Dance Classes for Youth

The Recreation Department will offer dance classes on Tuesday afternoons at the Baldwin Center. The next session will begin on Tuesday, September 9 - October 28.  No class February 19 due to school vacation.  Class times are as follows:

• * 4:00 - 4:45pm for 3-4 year-olds (Tap & Ballet)
• * 4:45 - 5:30pm for 5-6 year-olds (Tap & Ballet)
• * 5:30 - 6:15pm for 7-12year-olds (Hip Hop & Jazz)

Classes will be for 8 weeks and the fee is $60.  Registration is August 18-September 5 at the Recreation Office at Short Beach  or online.                                                                          

Toddler Summer Camp        419360        Section 63, 65, 66

A fun-filled camp for toddlers/preschoolers and their caregivers that includes singing, story time, crafts and open gym time.  It is a great way to build motor and social skills.  Class meets once a week for 7 sessions at Birdseye Complex from 9:30-10:30am.  Class is for ages 1.5 - 4 years of age.  There are classes on Tuesday and Friday morning from 9:30-10:30am or Tuesday evening from 4:30-5:30pm.  Program begins Tuesday, TBA and Friday TBA.  The fee is $45.  Registration begins TBA.

Music and Movement Exploration - online registration    419360-Section 22

A musically delightful class for a child and their caregiver, which involves sing-a-long songs, movement, instrument play, parachutes, scarves and an open gym time. This class will be a great fun time for parent and child ages 1.5-4 years old beginning September 17. Class will meet on Wednesdays from 9:30-10:15am at the Birdseye Complex Gymnasium. Fee is $35 for the 8-week class.  Registration is September 2-12.   

Story Art - online registration    419360    Section 31

A creative class for child and their caregiver that uses a weekly theme to incorporate an age appropriate craft, book, songs, parachute play and games. Children will make 2 projects each class. The class will be Mondays beginning September 15 from 9:30-10:15am at the South End Community Center.  The class is great for siblings ages 2-5 and their caregivers. Fee is $35 for eight weeks.  Registration is September 2-12. 

Vacation Day Camp:  Columbus Day - October 13                    419360     Section 13

The vacation day camp is for youth ages 5-12.  Children will take part in educational, fun and recreational games and activities throughout the day from 9am-3pm at South End Community Center.  The theme for the day is "The World Around Us."  The cost of this program is $25 with extended day being offered in the PM from 3-5:30pm for an additional $10 per child.  Children must bring their own lunch but snack is provided.  Sibling discount is available.  Registration is September 22-October 3.

Holiday Vacation Camp    419360-Section 51

The camp runs December 29-30 from 9am-3pm and December 31 from 9:00am-2:00pm at the Birdseye Complex.  The program is geared for children ages 5-12 and will feature a holiday theme, sports, games and more.  Registration is November 10-December 12.  Fee is $75.

K-3 Vacation Day Camp: Martin Luther King Jr. Day        419360    Section 14

The South End Community Center will be offering a vacation day camp for children in grades K-3.  Participants will be led in educational and recreational activities focusing on cooperation, inclusion and respect.  Children must bring a lunch but a nutritional snack will be provided.  Program runs from 9:00am - 3:00pm for the core program with extended day from 3:00-5:30pm being offered if 10 or more children register.  The fee is an additional $10.  Program date TBA.

Winter Vacation Camp        419360    Section 70

The South End Community Center will be offering a winter vacation camp for children in grades K-3.  Children will take part in recreational and educational activities based around a winter theme.  Children must bring a lunch each day but a nutritional snack will be provided.  Program runs daily from 9:00am - 4:00pm for $100 with extended day being offered for 10 or more children from 4-6pm for an additional $30.  Sibling discounts are available at $75 for the second and third child only for the core program and $15 for extended day for second and third child.  Registration dates TBA.

Winter Vacation Karate Sports Camp    542580    Section 80

Have fun learning Karate Drills and Games at Flood School.  The program is for ages 7-13.  Fee is $55 from TBA.  The program runs 10am - 12pm.  Registration is TBA.

Winter Vacation Basketball Camp        312600    Section 31

There will be a Girls Basketball Camp on TBA at the Flood Middle School for grades 1-6 from 9am - 12pm.  Fee is $50.  Registration is TBA and space is limited.  There will be swimming after camp each day if pool is available.  Groups will be divided into grades 1-3 and grades 4-6. 

Winter Vacation Week Teen Activities - online registration

The Recreation Center will be open during winter vacation at the Birdseye Complex from 1:00pm-3:00 pm for grades 4-8.  Grades 9-12 meet from 3:00-5:00pm.  Watch for more information in the paper.

April Vacation Karate Sports Camp        542580    Section 81

Have fun learning Karate Drills and Games at Flood School.  The program is for ages 7-13.  Fee is $70 from TBA.  The program runs 10am - 12pm.  Registration is TBA.

April Vacation Basketball Camp - online registration    312600    Section 32

There will be Girls Basketball Camp on TBA at the Flood Middle School for grades 1-6 from 9 am-12 pm. Fee is $50. Registration is TBA, and space is limited. There will be swimming after camp each day if the pool is available. Groups will be divided into grades 1-3 and grades 4-6.

School Vacation Open Swims:

During school vacations the Flood Pool will be open from 1-3pm for open swims on Tuesday-Thursday. The cost is $1.00 for children under 18 and $2.00 for adults per swim.

Summer Learning Camp        113560        Section 01

For learning disabled children, ages 7-12 who are currently enrolled in a Stratford School system resource room. This is a 6-week program held at Birdseye Complex from 9am - 3pm.  Registration will be at the Recreation Office at Short Beach beginning TBA from 10am - 12 Noon.  Participants may register at the Recreation Office through TBA.  A parent meeting will be held at the Birdseye Complex on TBA at 6:30pm.   The camp runs from TBA.  Fee is $55.  The camp is limited to 20 children.

Open Gym Recreation Schedule

The winter schedule for open gyms will begin November 12.  On Wednesdays and Thursdays, Jr. High and High School students can participate from 6-7:00pm at Lordship and Wooster.  From 7:00-8pm it will be for men 19 and over and out of high school.  At Birdseye, there is a high school open gym from 7:30-9pm on Wednesday and Thursday.  On Saturday at Wooster Middle School from 10am - 12 Noon will be open to all high school age youth and men.  Registration is at Recreation Office or online. 

Indoor Youth Tennis Clinics            212360-Sections 26 & 27

Class will be held on Wednesdays at Chapel School beginning November 12 - December 17 for 5 weeks with no class on November 26, registration is October 6 - 29.  Pee Wee (ages 4-5) will be from 3:15-3:45pm and the fee is $49.  Juniors (ages 6-8) will be from 3:45-4:45pm and the fee is $79.

Youth Wrestling Program

The Stratford Recreation Department is offering a Youth Wrestling Program for grades 3-8 on Monday and Thursday evenings from 7:30-9:00 pm. The program will alternate between Bunnell and Stratford High Schools depending on the school sports schedule. The program will begin December 8 for 12 weeks. Registration is at Recreation Office November 12 - December 3. Fee is $70.

The focus of this program is to introduce the youngsters to the sport of wrestling. The basic fundamentals of wrestling will be taught to gain interest and knowledge of the sport. This program will prepare elementary and middle school students to compete at the high school level or just have fun.

Youth Chess Club - online registration        219300        Section 21

Chess Club for grades 3-12 will meet on Thursdays from 6:30 - 7:30 pm at Birdseye Complex beginning Thursday, September 25.  Matches will be arranged according to ability. This is an eight-week program. Registration is August 18-September 19 and the fee is $30. Chess instruction will also be offered for beginners. Volunteers are needed, please contact the Recreation Office at 385-4052.

Tiny Techs            549360        Section 40
This introduction to computers class is for children in grades K-3.  Participants will be instructed in the basics of computer operation using age-appropriate software.  Classes will be offered at various schools from 3:15-3:45pm.  Classes will be announced in January.   Class size is limited.

Girl Talk! Girls Empowerment Group      514760    Section 02

This age-appropriate discussion group is for girls ages 11-14 years old and will focus on topics such as self-esteem, domestic violence, anger management and drug and alcohol abuse and prevention.  The class will meet on Thursdays at one of the middle schools to be announced.   Program is FREE.

TrendSteppers Drill Team        514800    Section 05

This program is for girls ages 9-18 from the Town of Stratford.  Girls interested in this program must try out in order to participate.  The drill team performs and competes at various community events.  This program is designed to promote positive self-esteem, community involvement and leadership in drill team members.  A parent meeting regarding the Drill Team Program will be held at the South End Community Center on Monday, September 22 at 6:00pm.  The Drill Team Program will meet on Mondays and Wednesdays beginning October 6 from 6:00pm-7:00pm at the South End Community Center.  Registration is September 1-26.  Fee is $50.

Double Dutch        214170    Section 42

This new and exciting program for girls and boys ages 10-16 will promote physical fitness and teamwork in all participants.  Participants will work with an instructor on putting together routines and learning double dutch and jump rope techniques each week.  Program dates and times TBA.

RECREATION CENTERS

The centers are open November 12 through March 27 for basketball and games at:

• Birdseye            Tues.                        Adult (19 and over)                   7:30-9:00pm
• Birdseye            Wed. & Thurs.            High School                            7:30-9:00pm
• Wooster            Wed. & Thurs.            Jr. & High School                   6:00-7:00pm
• Lordship            Wed. & Thurs.           Jr. & High School                    6:30-8:30pm
• Wooster            Saturday                    Jr. & High School                    10:00am - 11:00am

 K-3 Afterschool Program

This program is for grades K-3 at the South End Community Center.  It meets Monday - Friday from 3-6pm.  Program provides participants with homework assistance and tutoring, as well as theme-based enrichment activities like basic computer classes, art and music enrichment, gym activities and other safe, fun educational and recreational activities.  The fee for this program is $240 per month.  Daily snack is provided.  Registration is open to youth who attend Honeyspot, Johnson, Wilcoxson, Nichols, Eli Whitney and Lordship.  Transportation is available from some Stratford schools.  Scholarships are available.    Registration for the 2008 - 2009 school year will begin April 21, 2008 until all slots are filled.  A $60.00 registration fee and one month tuition are due at the time of enrollment.  Registration packets are available at the Stratford Recreation Department and the South End Community Center. 

Birdseye Complex Recreation Center

The Birdseye Complex Recreation Center will be open Monday - Friday from 3-5 pm for grades 4-8 with a variety of activities scheduled in the game room, cafeteria and gym. Birdseye Rec Center will open the week of September 15. All children must be registered prior to attending the center. Registration starts August 18 and is ongoing throughout the school year. This is a free program offered by the Recreation Department. Extended care is available from  5-6 pm for $15/week with children being picked up no later than 6:00pm or a late pick up fee will be assessed.

Birdseye        Monday- Friday                        grades 4-8                    3:00-5:00 pm

Birdseye        Tuesday                                       Men                        7:30-9:00pm
Birdseye        Wednesday & Thursday            grades 9-12                  7:30-9:00pm             

After School Programs:

The program starts on November 12 and will be from 3:00 pm - 4:30 pm Monday - Thursday. Children will have the opportunity to do homework, as well as activities such as games, crafts, and special events. Children will meet in the gymnasium. Grades 3-4 will meet on Monday and Wednesday and grades 5-6 will meet on Tuesday and Thursday. There is no after school program on school closing due to weather or scheduled half days. Register online at www.townofstratford.com or at the Recreation Office located at Short Beach Park. This is a free program and children must be registered prior to attending . They are also free to leave at anytime from 3:00 pm - 4:30 pm once they sign out. For more information please call 385-4052. 

Drills & Skills Summer Basketball League        112650        Section 01

This league will be a continuation of the Drills & Skills program we have during the year.  It will be for six weeks for boys and girls in grades 3-8, who live in the Town of Stratford.    The league will have Drills & Skills on Mondays and games on Thursdays at the Birdseye Complex Gymnasium from 6-8pm.  The fee is $15 per player and will include a t-shirt.  League dates and times TBA. 

Black History Month Essay Contest

 In collaboration with the Stratford Library Association, the South End Community Center will once again be sponsoring a Black History Month Essay contest for Stratford youth.  Categories and themes will be determined for youth ages 5-9 and youth ages 10-16.  Topics will be distributed in the Stratford schools, Stratford Library and at the South End Community Center.  Essays must be returned to the South End Community Center.  All entries must list the child's name, age, grade and contact number.  Prizes will be distributed to the top three entries in each age group at a date and time to be announced.

Drills and Skills I - online registration     514760    Section 23

This six-week basketball and life skills program for youth in grades 2-5 and 6-8 will be held on Tuesdays, starting September 23, from 6:00pm- 7:00pm at the Birdseye Complex Gymnasium. Youth will get hands-on basketball drills and age-appropriate life skills on topics related to wellness and fitness, communication, goal setting, decision making and problem solving, responsibility and leadership. Community leaders and special presenters will also be invited as speakers on various program topics.  Registration begins August 25-September 19. The fee is $15 for the 6-week program.

Drills and Skills II         514760    Section 24

This intermediate level 6-week basketball and life skills program for youth in grades 2-5 and 6-8 is for those youth who have completed Drills and Skills I and are ready to move on to the next level of basketball instruction. The program will offer more intense drills and scrimmages for participants applying the life skills learned in Drills I to the game of basketball. This program will be offered on Wednesdays, starting September 24, from 6:00 pm - 7:30 pm at Birdseye Complex. Registration begins August 25-September 19.  Fee for this program is $20.

Girls Basketball - online registration

The league has three divisions: girls' grades 3 & 4, grades 5 & 6 and grades 7-9. Registration begins September 15-November 22 with a fee of $70.  A clinic will be scheduled in October at one of the high schools.  Date will be announced. Grades 3 & 4 will play games on Friday from 6:00-7:00pm and grades 5 & 9 will play on Saturday mornings.   All games will be played at the Birdseye Complex Gymnasium. Program begins in December and will run through mid March. Teams will practice one day during the week, schedule permitting. Fee includes a trip to a local college basketball game.  Anyone interested in volunteering to coach, referee or be a scorekeeper should contact the Recreation Department Office at 385-4052.

Men's Basketball League

The men's league will be on Thursday nights at Bunnell HS. The league meeting will be on Thursday, October 4, at 6:00 pm at the Baldwin Center. Games Scheduled to start on January 10.

Summer Girls Basketball Camp        113930        Section 18

This camp for Stratford girls entering grades 1-6, at the Birdseye Gymnasium.  The camp starts Tuesday TBA from 6-8pm and will run for 8 weeks.  Fee is $50 and includes a camp t-shirt.  Registration is required and camp will be limited.  Registration begins TBA until full. 

Girls Youth Softball League    412190        Section 01

The league is for girls ages 5-10 and meets on Monday and Wednesday at Longbrook Park from 6-7:30 pm. The fee is $55 which includes a hat and t-shirt. Registration is at Longbrook Park on TBA.  There will be a registration and clinic in March at a local school.

Jr. High Girls Softball League    412190        Section 01

The league is for girls ages 11-15 and meets on Monday and Wednesday at Longbrook Park from 6-7:30 pm. The fee is $55 which includes a hat and t-shirt. Registration is at Longbrook Park on TBA. There will be a registration and clinic in March at a local school.

Gymnastics Movement Class        419360        Section 26

This is a fun-filled gymnastics and movement class that teaches beginning gymnastic tumbling skills, movement techniques and creates a positive physical fitness environment. Children will play other sports as well.  Program is designed for ages 3-5 years old. The fee is $55 per child for the 8 weeks. Class is held at the South End Community Center on Tuesdays from 9:30-10:15am beginning September 16.  Registration is September 2-12. 

Youth Gymnastics        214570        Section 01 & 02

This is a tumbling and basic gymnastic skills program for children ages 4-8. The program emphasizes fitness and fun in a non-competitive environment.  It is designed to build self-esteem and confidence by providing a successful and fun experience for each child.  The class will meet on Wednesday nights at Flood Middle School from 5:45-5:45-6:45pm.  The fee for the 8-week program is $55 per child. Registration is September 2-19.  Class will begin September 24.  Class size is limited. 

Birthday Parties

Stratford Recreation Department offers a variety of themed birthday parties. The Department has Gymnastics, Karate, Flood Pool Parties, Gym Parties, Karate, Toddlers, Special needs and Mini Golf Parties. Parties are for only child's birthday at a time: no double parties are allowed. Space is available at the South End Community Center, Birdseye Complex and Flood. Reservations and prepayment are required. The parent or guardian supplies their own food and decorations. Restrictions apply. Please contact the Recreation Dept. for information and reservations at least 1 week in advance. This is a very popular program and space is limited.

Gymnastics Birthday Parties

Fitness is fun for everyone with a gymnastics party. The parties are held on Saturday afternoons from 12-2 pm at Flood School. The cost is $90. The parties are for ages 4-6 with a maximum 8 children, and for ages 7-9 for a maximum of 10 children. Call the Recreation Office for reservations.  Parties are for 1 hour of gymnastics and fitness and 45 minutes in the cafeteria.  Program is offered by a certified instructor.

Karate Birthday Parties

The parties are held on Saturdays from 10-12 or 12-2 pm at Flood School. The cost is $75 for the 1.5 hour karate party. These are limited to 15 children. Call the Recreation Office for reservations and to set up dates and times.  Program is offered by a certified instructor.   

Flood Pool Parties

These are held on Saturdays during open swims from 2-3 pm or 3-4 pm. Cost is $25 plus $1.00 per child. If there is more than 20 youth an additional $25 is required. Call the Recreation Office for reservations.  An adult must accompany children who cannot swim.  Set up for the party is 15 minutes prior to the start.

Gym Parties

Birdseye Complex is open for themed birthday parties on Saturday afternoons. Themes include basketball, volleyball, arts and crafts and games. The times are 1-3pm  from September-December or 5-7pm from January-April. The cost is $75 for 19 youth. Twenty and over up to 30, there is an additional charge of $25. Games and activities will be done for 1 hour and there is 1 hour for the party portion. Call the Recreation Office for reservations.

Toddlers Parties

Children will have fun singing songs, playing games, doing crafts, enjoying parachute activities, movement exploration, open gym or story book activities.  Parties will be focused on what your toddler or preschooler enjoys.  These are held on Saturdays at the South End Community Center from 10-11:45am for ages 1-4. (45 minutes of activities then 45 minutes for refreshments). Cost is $80. Limit is six children.

Celebrate Your Special Child

These are not currently being offered. 

Gymnastics Sports Camp        214570        Section 11

A one-week sports camp which includes basic tumbling, gymnastics, snack time and a craft each day.  The program is for youth ages 5-9 years of age and is held from 1:30-4:30pm Monday-Friday the week of TBA. Cost is $50 for the week and will be held at the Birdseye Complex. Registration begins TBA or until filled.

Junior Track League for grades 3-8

The league meets on Tuesday and Thursday nights from 6 - 8 pm beginning TBA at Bunnell High School. The fee is $50. Registration is at the Recreation Office at Short Beach TBA.

The league is for ages 9-15 and meets Mondays from 11am – 1:00pm. The league is preceded by a First Tee Instructional 7 week program that costs only $7 and will start on April 22 & 23 (see below). Youth must have attended a First Tee clinic prior to signing up for the league.  The fee is $50. The league has limited space and is on a first come registration basis. The league runs TBA. Registration begins TBA and continues until full.

Classes for each age group will meet once a week during which the participants will be taught the fundamentals, rules and etiquette of golf along with a curriculum of life skills.  The fall session starts on Tuesday, September 2 from 4-5:30pm for ages 7-10, and on Wednesday, September 3 from 4-5:30pm for ages 11-15.  The cost is $7 for 7 weeks.  Registration is now through September 1 or until full. 

Mad Science After School Program - Grades K-6                219380        Sections 21-23

 Stratford Recreation announces that Mad Science will be back at your school this fall offering classes that are out of this world!  Explore the world of criminologists with "Secret Agent Lab".  You will explore the world of technology and amaze your family and friends with the experiments you bring home!  These will be 6 week courses that will meet 1 day per week after school usually from 3:15pm-4:15pm for grades 1-6.  Programs are scheduled to start Monday October 6 at Eli Whitney and Chapel schools and on Wednesday October 8 at Nichols (2:45-3:45 pm), Honeyspot, Johnson, Wilcoxson and South End Community Center.  The fee is $90.  Flyers will be in the schools the week of September 8.  Registration is through September 26.

Outdoor Adventure Weeks

Camp will take place TBA.  Each week will involve different outdoor adventures including rope climbing, hiking, camping, canoeing, and more from 9am - 3pm.  Camp is for ages 11-15.  Extended hours will be at Birdseye Complex from 7-9am and 3-5pm.  Registration begins March 1 from 10am - 12 Noon and will continue until full.  Camp is limited to 15-20 campers per week.  Call 385-4052 for additional information.  The fee is $200.  Extended hours are available at $30 for morning hours and $30 for afternoon hours per week, per child.  A parents meeting will be held on TBA at 6:00pm at the Birdseye Complex. 

These clinics will be for six weeks on Thursdays at Short Beach courts starting May 8 - June 12.  The schedule will be as follows: Pee Wee (ages 4-5) from 4-4:30pm and cost $55; Youth (ages 6-9) from 4:30-5pm and cost $95; Juniors (ages 9-13) from 5:30-6:30pm and cost $95.  Registration is March 1 through April 25. 

Match play offers excellent preparation for children in pursuit of high school tennis or junior tournaments.  Players between the ages of 9-15 must be able to consistently get their serve in play as well as sustain a slow-paced rally with forehands and backhands.  Strategy, court positioning and etiquette will be the focus of instruction.  Play will be on Mondays and Wednesdays from 11:30am - 1:00pm at Flood Middle School. The are two 3-week sessions. First session starts TBA. Registration is from TBA. Second session starts TBA with registration TBA. Fee is $95 for each session.

Beginner/Advanced Beginner Teen Tennis Clinic        212360        Section 15, 21

This clinic is being offered to boys and girls ages 12 - 16 on Thursdays at Bunnell courts from 4:30-6pm.  Cost is $95 per session.  There are two 4-week sessions.  The first session starts on TBA, and the second session begins TBA.  Registration is TBA.

Tennis Sportscamp - online registration    212360

There will be six one-week tennis camps. Campers will be taught all aspects of the game and have fun at the same time. These will run Monday-Thursday from 9-11:30 am at Flood Tennis courts. The fee is $125 per week and is for ages 5-12. There is a same-session family discount rate of $115 per camper.  Fridays are for raindates. Registration is TBA. 

                                                                    Section 

Week 1                 TBA                       51
Week 2                 TBA                         52
Week 3                 TBA                      53
Week 4                 TBA                        54
Week 5                 TBA                        55
Week 6                 TBA                        56

The camps are open to Elementary and Junior High Boys and Girls (based on grade entering). The following camps will be at Longbrook Park unless noted:

Birdseye Day Camp Photo Gallery

Birdseye Day Camp Photo Gallery

Camps are one week from 9:00-12 noon daily. Fee is $35 for one camp, $60 for 2 camps, and $25 per camp per child for three or more camps per child. Registration begins TBA.  Discounts apply to the child registered. No sibling discounts for sports camps.

Karate Sports Camp - online registration        542580        Section 20

Have fun learning Karate drills and games at Flood School. The program is for ages 7-13 from 9am - 12 Noon. The fee is $95. Camp is TBA. Registration is TBA.

Summer Karate Classes        542580        Section 51-56 & 61-66

Classes will be at Flood, TBA (4 weeks) and August 4-20 (3 weeks).  The fee for July is: $49 Ninjas / $64 for Beg. & Adv. Adults.  The fee for August is: $37 Ninjas / $$48 Beg. & Adv. Adults.

The only summer camp truly dedicated to sports-minded youngsters ages 5-14, Mondays - Fridays at Short Beach Park, TBA and TBA  Campers will experience over 15 different sports from around the world with the US Sports Institute, promoting good sportsmanship, teamwork and most of all fun. Technical instruction and realistic game situations offered in Athletics, Bocce, Cricket, Football, Handball, Lacrosse, Netball, Rugby, Soccer, Volleyball, World Cup and more. T-Shirt and certificate included. Camp is for ages 5-7 from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm and for ages 7-14 from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm (Fridays finishing at 1:00 pm). Class size is limited.  Extended hours are available. Fee is $140 for 9am-1pm camp and $160 for 9am-3pm camp. Registration begins TBA. 

Beginner Lacrosse players will have great fun learning this exhilarating game. The US Sports Institute Lacrosse program is ideal for entry level players with no previous experience. Players can experience stick handling, passing, scooping, dodging and shooting as well as many other fundamental techniques. This camp will take place at Short Beach, Monday-Friday from 9am - 12 Noon. Dates are TBA and the fee is $95. Camp size is limited. Registration begins TBA.

The US sports Institute Sports Squirts program is a great way to introduce children age 3-5 to a variety of sports such as soccer, t-ball, basketball and hockey all taking place in a safe structured environment to ensure learning. Activities are designed to evoke a child's imagination in which they can find Nemo, send Shrek into a spin or capture Jellyfish with Sponge Bob Square Pants. All activities promote hand eye coordination, movement and balance and most importantly Fun, Fun, Fun. The camp will take place at Short Beach Park. Session I is TBA from 4-5:30 pm and Session II is TBA also from 4-5:30 pm. Fee for each session is $80. Registration is TBA.

Care 4 Kids

Care 4 Kids provides low-to-moderate income families with childcare funding.

Birdseye Day Camp            113460        Section 01-26

The camp will run TBA. A day camp program is offered for youngsters ages 8-14 at Birdseye Community Center. The program will operate from 9:00am to 4:00 pm., with extended hours available. The extended hours are from 7:00-9:00am and from 4:00-6:00pm. The registration will begin TBA or until full. The fee is $150 per week; second child is $75 and third child is $60.  Extended hours are $30 for am and $30 for pm per week per child.  Registration will begin on Saturday TBA from 10am-12 Noon at the Recreation Office at Short Beach. No mail in registration is accepted. Space is limited. Parents meeting will be held on TBA at 7:00 p.m. at the Birdseye Complex.

This summer enrichment program is for youth ages 5-7. Youth involved with this program will take part in daily-supervised activities that are age appropriate. All program participants will also go on weekly field trips. The program will operate from 9-4 pm with extended hours available. The extended hours are form 7-9 am and 4-6 pm. The registration for camp will be TBA, or until full. The fee is $150 per week; second child is $75 and third child is $60. Extended hours are $30 for am and $30 for pm per week per child. Registration will begin on Saturday TBA from 10am-12 Noon at the Recreation Office at Short Beach. No mail-in registration will be accepted. Space is limited. A parents meeting will be held on Wednesday TBA at 6:00 pm at the South End Community Center. Camp runs TBA. 

Boothe Day Camp            113320        Section 01, 02, 11, 12, 21, 22

A two-week day camp program is offered for youngsters ages 8-12 at Flood School. The dates for the camp will be TBA. The program will operate from 9:00am to 4:00pm, with extended hours available. The extended hours are from 7:00-9:00am, and from 4-6:00pm. The registration for camp will begin TBA from 10am -12 Noon at the Recreation office. The fee is $150 per week; second child is $75 and the third child is $60.  Extended hours are $30 each time per week per child.  Parents must register at the Recreation Office through June 30. No mail-in registration will be accepted. Space is limited. A parents meeting will be held TBA at 7:00pm at Flood Middle School.

The program will run TBA for ages 5-13. It will be based at the Birdseye Complex. Each day the young travelers will visit a different place. These will include Dinosaur Place, Peabody Museum, Short Beach, Rollerskating, Ice skating, and Lake Quassy. The hours will be 9-3 pm daily and the fee is $150. Registration is March 1- July 31 at the Recreation Office. A parents' meeting will be held Wednesday, TBA at 7:00 the Birdseye Complex. Extended hours will be available if ten people sign up.

Playgrounds - online registration    113871        Section 11-16

The 6 town playgrounds will be open Monday through Friday, TBA from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Playground counselors will be assigned to playgrounds to maintain a 1 to 15 ratio. Youngsters will have to sign in and out, but will be allowed to leave the playground. Boys and girls, ages 5-15, may register TBA. There is a $5 registration fee, which includes a T-shirt. Register for one of the following playgrounds:

Activities include: Arts and crafts, sports, Flood Pool trips, trips to ballgames, Bowling, Six Flags, and trips to State Parks. This is not a day camp program - the youngsters are free to leave the program. There are additional fees for certain trips and crafts.

Playground Carnival    

The carnival will benefit a local charity.  Rides, games and special activities are at Longbrook Park for a day of fun.  The date is TBA with a raindate of TBA.  Admission is $1.

This clinic for Stratford youth in grades 6-8 will meet at the Birdseye Gymnasium Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday from 6-9pm.  Each night youth will be instructed on various basketball drills and techniques.  This program is run by the Stratford High School Varsity coaches and former Stratford High School Basketball team players in collaboration with the South End Community Center.  The fee is $15 per player.  The program will run the week of TBA.  Registration is TBA. 

Halloween Fest

Picture Gallery

"In the Spotlight" 

This is a joint project with Sterling House and Community Services.  It is open to youth in Junior and Senior High School who have an interest in the Dramatic Arts and enjoy performing.  Auditions are tentatively set for early April and May.  Watch for additional information in the paper. 

Halloween Hoopla at Birdseye Complex - Space Invaders Theme

Hayrides, games, moon bounce and costume contest. Fun for everyone!! Date is Friday, October 31 at Birdseye Complex from 5-7pm. Fee is $5 per family. Children 12 & under must come with an adult. Tickets go on sale September 22.  Volunteers are always welcome to help at this event.  Candy giveaway for ages 12 & up will be from 7-7:30pm.  Prizes awarded for Most Original, Best Theme Costume, Scariest, Funniest and Cutest

2008 Fishing Derby
	Fishing Derby Results and Photos

In cooperation with the Conn. DEP Bureau of Fisheries will sponsor a Youth Fishing Course prior to Opening Day. There will be 3 classes from 6:30-8:00 pm on TBA at the Birdseye Complex. The program will consist of basic instruction on fishing and is open to anyone interested in fishing. The cost of the course is $5. Registration is TBA at the Recreation Office.

Fishing Derby        419630        Section 42

The Stratford Recreation Department will have a Fishing Derby on Saturday TBA at Brewster Pond in Longbrook Park from 6:30-9:00am. Fee is $5 and registration is required to participate. Registration will be from TBA.

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