Youth center hosts summer programs for child entertainment

  • Published
  • By Karen Abeyasekere
  • 100th Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs
RAF MILDENHALL, England --  With summer break beginning June 15, children will be off school and looking for things to do.

Rather than be stuck in front of the television, or on computers or video game consoles, the RAF Mildenhall Youth Center has a variety of programs designed to keep school-age children entertained.

Catering for 5- to 18-year-olds, the full-day "summer camp" program allows children to be at the youth center for up 12-hours-a-day, though it is recommended they spend no more than 10-hours-a-day on a regular basis, said Mark Beecham, 100th Force Support Squadron Youth Programs assistant director.

"We pride ourselves on offering a diverse range of fun programs that educate and entertain youths, and have dedicated staff to help them try out new things and make new friends," said Beecham. "No matter what their interests or hobbies, we have something for everyone. I believe that this summer's program is one of the best we have ever had."

Activities include karate camp June 19 to 21 and Aug. 20 to 22 for kids aged 6 to 18; graffiti camp June 25 to 29 for ages 9 to 18; a girls-only lock-in June 16 and 17 for ages 9 to 12; and a kids' night out for 6-to 12-year-olds June 23.

Additionally, a trip to London is scheduled for June 27 for 13- to 18-year-olds. Water zorbing July 2 and 3 for 9- to 18-year-olds, Missoula Children's Theatre July 9 to 12 for 6- to 18-year-olds, and overnight camping in Thetford forest July 10 and 11 for 9- to 12-year-olds, are also scheduled.

Other camps throughout July and August include music; soccer - conducted by premier league team Norwich City; arts and crafts, and multi-sport. A pre-teen adventure camp in Wales, animation, magic, tennis and circus camps are also planned. A trip to Chessington World of Adventure Aug. 2 is scheduled for 9- to 12-year-olds.

In addition to trips and camps, teenagers can also join the Mildenhall Marvels Keystone Club, which is part of the Boys and Girls Clubs of America. According to the youth center, Keystone Clubs are chartered leadership and service clubs for children ages 14 to 18. Keystone members implement activities in three focus areas: academic success, career preparation and community service.

"The fantastic opportunities that (we) offer to youths this summer are incredible," Beecham said. "This may be the first step to discovering new talents that children never even knew they had."

He reassured parents that their children are in safe hands, and will be cared for by fully-trained, professional staff.

"I encourage parents (military members or Department of Defense civilians) with children or teens to visit the youth center and see what we have going on this summer," Beecham said.

All trips and camps have a cost and require sign-up. For more information on these and other youth center activities throughout the summer, call DSN 238-2831 or 01638-542831.