Looking forward to a fun-filled March Break

Free skates and swims continue at the Tillsonburg Community Centre through March Break. Last year in March Break, Barret Barclay was learning to skate Friday at the Kinsmen

Memorial Arena, assisted by his dad Aaron Barclay. (File Photo)

Robin Krafft, Post Contributor

There will be plenty of opportunities for kids to be active, get creative, and be amazed and entertained over the March Break here in Tillsonburg.

Spaces have been filling up fast at the popular March Break camps in town: Indigo Lounge March Break Camp, Alexander's Hockey Academy, Brooks Academy of Dance, and Craft/Art Camps.

At the Station Arts Centre, kids registered for Craft Camp and Art Camp are excited to get creative and stretch their imaginations. Executive Director and Curator Tabitha Verbuyst said that an interactive drumming experience and a new storytime session are notable highlights."Our camp is more than just childcare,” Verbuyst said. “It's about giving children an opportunity to explore creativity through various artistic experiences, making social connections through group art projects and games, and building confidence through self-expression." 

For children who aren’t attending a five-day camp, there are numerous drop-in programs throughout the week at various venues.

“Dig into" some fun at the Tillsonburg Library from Monday through Saturday. Age ranges for each event vary, and while some activities require registration, others are on a drop-in basis, while supplies last. Each day features programming based on the theme, such as dinosaurs, fossils, construction, burrowing animals, seeds and plants.

OCL Literacy Program Specialist Katelyn Bennett explained that each OCL branch has interpreted the theme in their own way.

"We're really excited about the Dino Show with Eric. It will be very educational and hands-on," Bennett said. “Slider the skunk will be here, and kids are always excited to pet Slider and they’ll learn how wildlife typically burrows. We’re also having our first partnership for a children’s program with the Tillsonburg Horticultural Society.”

On Saturday, kids will have the opportunity to read to a canine companion in partnership with St John's Ambulance Therapy Dogs (registration required).

"I try to build relationship with families and the community," Bennett said. "One of the biggest things I get feedback on is for more drop-in programs, so that's what we've tried to do. I also encourage people to check out what's happening at all of the libraries. We have 14 different branches; we're a county as a whole."

At Annandale NHS, children are invited to drop in for a variety of creative "Wool Wonder" activities to explore how wool has influenced textile traditions in Canada.

Morning sessions are for ages three to seven, with children accompanied by an adult. Afternoon activities are for eight to twelve-year-olds. Demonstrations for beginners in fibre arts such as weaving, felting, macrame, and sewing will foster creativity as kids discover texture, pattern and design.

At the Tillsonburg Community Centre, the March Break Camp is full, but children can enjoy free public skating at 9 a.m. on March 16, 17, 18, 19, 20 and at 1:15 p.m. on March 15 and 22. Families are required to bring their own skates, and helmets are recommended, but skate aids are available. Free two-hour swims take place at 2 p.m. on March 16 and 20 and at 1 p.m. on March 21. Additional community swims are also available but will require admission fees.

Mark your calendar for March 18 for March Break Bouncy Castle Fun Day. It promises to be a day of high energy fun including giant bouncy castles, face painting, petting zoo and carnival fun foods. Tickets are required for children over the age of two.

“March Break wouldn’t be what it is without the incredible support of our local sponsors and partners,” said Julie Dawley, Recreation Programs & Services Manager. “Their generosity allows us to offer free opportunities that bring families together and help make the community centre a hub of fun, connection, and community spirit throughout the break.”