TENNIS LESSONS

WHO:  Children 6-14 years of age

WHEN:  Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays:   July 31-August 11

TIME:  5:00-5:45pm

WHERE:  Van Buren Central Park, Canton Street

FEE:  $40.00/participant, plus one can of tennis balls

(Minimum # for class to run = 3; Max in class = 8)

Beginner tennis lessons for children 6-14 years of age.   6– 45 minute sessions will be taught by Nick Walker at the Van Buren Park tennis courts.   Little or no tennis experience is necessary.  Junior size rackets will be provided for those who need them.

Class will not be held if it is raining.  We will not make up classes if only one day is missed.  If two or more classes are missed, they will be rescheduled for a different day.

SAFE SITTER® BABYSITTING COURSE 

WHO: Boys and girls 11-15 years old

WHEN: Session I:   Saturday, May 6

                 Session II:  Thursday, August 10

                Session III:  Tuesday, August 15

TIME: 9:00am-2:30pm

WHERE: Van Buren Park Lodge FEE: $60/participant (Min. for class= 4; Max. # in class = 8)

Safe Sitter® teaches young teens everything they need to know to be safe when they're home alone, watching younger siblings or babysitting. Participants will learn life-saving skills such as how to rescue someone who's choking, basic first aid, how to handle situations that may occur, how to prevent injuries, how to seek help when serious issues arise and helpful information like what to do if there is severe weather.

Students will need to remain on site for the entire time so each participant will need to bring the following items to class: a lunch, drink, snack, notebook and a pen/pencil.

GIRLS K-2 BASKETBALL PROGRAM

 WHO:  Girls ages K-2

WHEN:   Fridays, April 28 - June 2    

TIME:  6:00-6:45pm

WHERE:  Elden  Elementary School

FEE: $30.00/participant  (Min for class = 7; Max. for class = 20)

** Includes a t-shirt

The Little Ladies Basketball skills camp is for girls in grades pre-k to grade 2. The Little Ladies Basketball skills camp is intended to teach the basic fundamentals of the game of basketball. Participants will learn how to dribble, pass, catch, shoot, and move while playing both offense and defense. Participants will also gain general knowledge including game rules.

DOG OBEDIENCE - BEGINNER CLASS

(OUTDOORS)

 WHO:  Dogs (at least 4 mos. old) and their handler (at least 14 years old)

WHAT:  A beginner class

WHEN:  Mondays, July 10-August 14

TIME:  6:45pm-7:30pm

WHERE:  Van Buren Park

(near tennis courts)

FEE:  Beginner - $50.00/participant  (Min. in class = 4,

Max. in class = 8)

Beginner:  This class will cover basic obedience training, so handlers can have fun with their dogs!  Includes: heeling, stand, come, sit-stay and down-stay.

NOTE:  Those registered need to bring proof of Rabies, DHL and Parvo inoculations to first class.  You will also need to bring a six-foot lead and training collar to class (beginners) and a 10 foot lead to the advanced class.  Please bring treats for reinforcements.

DOG  TRAINING - BASIC MANNERS AND SOCIAL SKILLSCLASS

WHO:  Dogs (at least 4 mos. old) and their handler (at least

14 years old)

WHAT:  A continuation of basic dog obedience

WHEN:  Mondays, July 10-August 14

TIME:    7:45pm-8:30pm

WHERE:  Van Buren Park (near tennis courts

FEE:         $55.00/participant  (Min. in class = 3,

Max. in class =5)

This class covers body language, leash manners, setting boundaries, correcting unwanted behavior and defining socialization.

Training collar and 6' leash are required.  No flexi leads or choke collars allowed.  All dogs must have current vaccines.  Handlers should bring soft chewy treats.

Evaluations to ensure dogs have basic obedience skills, which are needed for the class, will be done the first night of class.

NOTE:  Those registered need to bring proof of Rabies, DHL and Parvo inoculations to first class.

CANVAS ART

Who:  Kids 5 and up for all projects except crayon art;  8 and up for crayon art on March 9

Date: Thursdays: March 9, April 6 or May 4

Time:    5:30pm -  most projects will run 30-60 minutes

Location: Van Buren Park Lodge, Connors Road

Fee:  8”x10” canvas -  $10 

11”x14” canvas - $14

Minimum for each class=3; a maximum of 10 kids

 Unleash your little Picassos!  It’s the perfect opportunity for you to create a unique work of canvas art! There is no experience needed just your enthusiasm as our instructor will walk you through the creation. All the supplies are provided, participants will paint one canvas.

** Crayon art must be done on the 11”x14” canvas

March 9   (Crayon Art or Handprint Fish)

http://townofvanburen.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/crayon-art.jpg

April 6 (Silhouette pictures)

http://townofvanburen.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/silhouette-print.jpg

or

May 4 (Handprint)

http://townofvanburen.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/handprint.pdf

WHO: Boys and girls, grades 1-6

WHEN: Mondays and Wednesdays, July 10-August 2

TIME: 10:00-11:30am

WHERE: Baldwinsville Impact Martial Arts Studio (Smokey Hollow - 118 Oswego Street, Baldwinsville)

FEE: $35/participant (Min. for class= 15; Max. # in class = 35)

Pee Wee Wrestling has returned to the Town of Van Buren. This program will be held in a safe and fun environment where wrestlers will learn the basic fundamentals of the sport. With this they will learn respect for self and others, as well as discipline and self confidence.

JR SCIENTIST CLASS I & II

Jr Scientist I:

WHO:  Children 8-12 years old

WHEN:  Mondays, May 1-22

TIME:   5:45-7:00PM

WHERE:   Van Buren Lodge (off of Connors Road)

FEE: $45.00/child  (Min # of kids = 3, Max # of kids = 6)

 If you're looking for some fun science experiments for kids then you've come to the right place.  Learn interesting science facts by experimenting with different materials that react in surprising ways. You'll find a lot of experiments can be done using simple ingredients found around your house (with adult supervision of course). Basic materials can help you perform experiments that are simple, safe and perfect for kids.

Some of the experiments that we will be doing will include dancing raisins, elephant toothpaste, lumpy liquids/squishy solids and more!

** Kids will need to bring their own pair of goggles to the class! 

U.S. COAST GUARD AUXILIARY 

BOATER SAFETY COURSES - 1 DAY CLASSES

 WHO:  Ages 10 and up

WHAT:  A course in boater safety

WHEN:  Session I:  Saturday, April 1

                 Session II:  Saturday, April 22

                Session III:  Saturday, May 13

                Session IV: Saturday, June 3

                Session V:  Saturday, June 24  

TIME:  9:00am. - 5:30pm

WHERE:  Van Buren Town Hall

FEE:  $35.00 per participant (covers materials and certificates)

(Min. for class = 20; Max. for class= 30)

The Boating Safety Course is a comprehensive, one day, training class focusing on the importance of safety on the water. It presents an opportunity to learn from U. S. Coast Guard Auxiliary certified instructors.  The course is specifically designed for New York State Boaters and tailored to local boating waters for the safe operation of boats and personal watercraft.

This course satisfies  the boater education requirements for ALL STATES.

Instructors that have extensive knowledge and experience with local boating,  are certified by the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, New York State Parks, and the National Safe Boating Council will provide professional instruction and answer your boating questions.

The number of students in each class is limited.  Advance registration is required.

Participants must pass the exam to receive their certification.

ALIVE AT 25

WHO: Drivers between the ages of 16 and 24

WHAT: A driver's safety course targeting this age group

WHEN: To be determined (please check website after February - a class will be scheduled for late March/beginning of April)

TIME: TBD

WHERE: Baker High School

FEE: $30.00 (min for class=10; max for class=20)

Attention All High School Drivers: This course is REQUIRED to have a parking permit on Baldwinsville school grounds. The DCC-Alive at 25 class is specifically targeted to drivers between the ages of 16 and 24 -the group most likely to be involved in fatal collisions. This highly effective program encourages young drivers to take responsibility for their driving behavior. Information is presented in a nonlecture, interactive format featuring two video presentations. The course includes information concerning why young drivers often underestimate risks, state and local laws and regulations, the effects of inexperience, distractions and peer pressure and techniques to maintain control while driving and more.

This course is taught by Baldwinsville Police Officer Marty Knaul. TO REGISTER:

MOTHER’S DAY PROJECT

WHO: Children 11 and under (parents with children under the age of 5 must remain on site with their children)

WHEN: Thursday, May 11

TIME: 5:00-5:30pm

WHERE: Van Buren Park Lodge

FEE: $13.00/participant (minimum #3; max #6) Children will get a chance to personalize a large clay pot using ceramic paints and fill it with flowers. This personalized pot will be transformed into a flower pot for their mothers or grandmothers for Mother’s Day.

FISHING DERBY

WHO: Children, Teens and "tweens", ages 4 to 15. Those ages 14 and under must be accompanied by a parent.

WHAT: A fishing derby!

WHEN: Saturday, April 29

TIME: 8:00 - 11:00am

WHERE: Van Buren Park Pond, enter from Connors Rd.

FEE: FREE!

Come see what fish can be caught at Van Buren Pond! Prizes will be given for "longest fish" in two different age categories Bring your own reels, bait, tackle, buckets, etc. Rain or shine!

TO REGISTER: Please contact the Parks and Recreation Office at 638-4727, weekdays from 8:30am.-4:00pm. to let us know if your child/children will be attending, so we have an idea of a number to expect.

EASTER EGG HUNT

WHO: For anyone 10 & under (Max of 100 kids so register early)

WHAT: An Easter Egg Hunt

WHEN: Saturday, April 8, 2017

TIME: 10:30am.-11:00am

WHERE: Van Buren Central Park, Canton Street entrance

FEE: FREE

The Town of Van Buren’s Recreation Department will be holding an Easter Egg Hunt at Van Buren Central Park on Saturday, April 8 at 10:30am. sharp. We can only take a limited amount of children so please register early. There will be hunting for wrapped candy and plastic eggs, some of which may be redeemed for prizes. The eggs will be hidden around the park and it may be wet, so please dress appropriately! The Easter Bunny will be available before and after the hunt so bring your camera.

FLASHLIGHT EASTER EGG HUNT

WHO: For anyone 5 and older (max of 35 children)

WHEN: Saturday, April 8, 2017

TIME: 8:00pm

WHERE: Van Buren Central Park Lodge (Connors Road Entrance)

FEE: $5.00/child ** must be pre-registered/no registration will be taken the day of the event

Bring your flashlight to find eggs filled with candy and prizes at Van Buren Park in this fun hunt! When the park gets dark your flashlight will be your guide to candy and other prizes! Please make sure to bring a bag or basket for the hunt and then stay for cookie and egg decorating at our Lodge. Shine your light bright to find the special golden eggs that your can redeem for special prizes! Please meet us at the Lodge to check in about 20 minutes prior to the hunt.

** Children 5-8 years of age may be accompanied by only one adult

START SMART SOCCER

WHO:  Kids 3-6

WHEN:  Session I: Mondays, May 22-June 26

                  Sessiion II:  Mondays, July 10-August 14

TIME: 6-7pm

WHERE:  Van Buren Central Park, near tennis courts

FEE:  $40.00/participant  (Min. for class = 6; Max. for class = 12)

Start Smart Soccer is a developmentally appropriate introductory soccer program for children (ages 3-6). It is a parent/guardian participation program for young children who have never played soccer. Get in the game and sign up for Start Smart™ Soccer today. Start Smart™ Soccer teaches children, ages 3 to 5, the basic motor skills necessary to play organized soccer while they work one-on-one and spend quality time with their parents. The program focuses on teaching children, and their parents, skills in dribbling, kicking, passing and trapping, and running/agility without the threat of competition or the fear of getting hurt.

Held once a week for six weeks; each week the exercises become increasingly more difficult as the class progresses and the children show improvement.

Start Smart programs prepare your child for organized sports in a FUN non-threatening environment. Each program is age specific. Equipment is also designed for each age specific group. Equipment is included in the signup fee. Parent participation is required at every session for each program.

KNOCKERBALL

WHO: Adults 18 and older
WHEN: Session I: Thursdays, June 8-July 6
Session II: Thursdays, July 13-August 10
TIME: 6:30-7:30pm.
WHERE: Van Buren Central Park
FEE: $30.00/participant (Min. for class = 10; Max. for class = 20)

Be one of the first in the area to play Knocker Soccer. The game itself is a cross between soccer and zorbing. The Knockerball (plastic orb) surrounding the player allows the player’s legs to run around freely. The objective of Knocker Soccer is to score against your opponent’s net and knock each other down while trying.  When players hear the whistle, they rush in to the center to find and kick a soccer ball. As far as how the game is played, standard soccer rules apply, but full contact is allowed.

KNOCKERBALL (KNOCKER SOCCER)  LEAGUE 

DESCRIPTION:  Runs for six weeks.  The first league will begin May 23rd.  The second league will start July 18th.  The league consists of four (4) teams, and each team must have a minimum of 6 people (3 vs. 3 at a time with switches each period).

DATES/TIMES/LOCATION:  Games are played in Van Buren Central Park.    We are forming leagues for  Tuesdays or Wednesday evenings from 6:00– 6:45pm or 7:00-7:45pm. with makeup games scheduled as necessary.  Each team needs to pick the one night of the week they want to play.

LEAGUE FEES  --  The 2017 League Fee is $180.00, made up of the following:

Participation Fee (non-refundable)  =  $150.00 per team.

Forfeit Fee  =  $30.00 per team.  This fee is refundable if you do not forfeit during the season.  However, should you forfeit and we need  to use this fee to pay the referee, then the fee MUST be repaid to the Parks and Recreation Office before your team takes the field again!

WACKY OLYMPICS

WHO:  Kids 6-12

WHEN:   Tuesday, August 8    (Raindate: August 9)

TIME: 9:30am.-12:00pm.

WHERE:  Van Buren Central Park

FEE:  $13.00/participant  (Min. for class = 15; Max. for class = 25)

** $6.00/participant for anyone registered for the Summer Playground Program

Kids ages 6 and up will have fun in extreme gross out challenges such as the Human Cheese Puff, Pudding Pictionary and many, many more! ALL Olympians earn a gold medal!

Wear bathing suits or clothes that can get dirty! A sprinkler will be on hand for all Olympians to clean off in between each event. New events will be offered each day so sign up for one or all four!

Each participant will need to bring a water bottle, a towel and a change of clothing.

 FOOTGOLF

WHO:  Kids 9-13

WHEN:  Tuesdays, May 9 - June 6 (except 5/30)

TIME:  5:45pm - 6:30pm

WHERE:  Van Buren Park

FEE:  $24.00 per participant

(Min. for class = 5 Max. for class= 10)

Footgolf is a sport where players kick a soccer ball into a cup in as few shots as possible. Its name is a combination  of "soccer" and "golf", and the game combines the two sports, being more closely related to golf. The game is played the same way as golf, except players use a soccer ball instead of a golf ball, and the ball is kicked rather than struck with a club.

Our game of footgolf will be played with regular soccer balls.  Basic strategy will come into play with the 6 holes set up for each night.

WHO:  Kids 4-9

WHEN:    Thursdays, July 6-August 10

TIME: Sesion I:     6-6:45pm

  Session II:  7-7:45pm

WHERE:  Van Buren Central Park, near tennis courts

FEE:  $45.00/participant  (Min. for class = 6; Max. for class = 12)

Start Smart Golf is a developmentally appropriate introductory golf program for children (ages 4-9). It is a parent/guardian participation program for young children who have never played golf. Start Smart Golf teaches parents how to introduce their child to golf using fun and age-appropriate equipment from SNAG®. (6 classes)

Start Smart programs prepare your child for organized sports in a FUN non-threatening environment. Each program is age specific. Equipment is also designed for each age specific group. Equipment is included in the signup fee. Parent participation is required at every session for each program.

When registering, please indicate which session you are signing up for.