Many children and teens around Squamish aren't going to have the spring breaks of the movies: big, beachy vacations where memories are made and brain cells killed. This year's hot spring break destination is decidedly much closer to home - as in Brennan Park Recreation Centre. But don't despair - spring break close to home can still be a memorable occasion.
"Many kids want to do something fun so we have designed a host of programs," said Shannon Collier, District of Squamish recreation supervisor. "It's a chance to hang out with other kids in the community and develop confidence in new areas."
With that in mind, here are the top five local things to do during next week's spring break.
1. Become a photo expert
The BC Museum of Mining and photographer Cindy Cardiff from Trek Photography is offering a one-day Digital Photography Camp, Monday (March 16) from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Cardiff said students will learn how to take great shots and get the best from their cameras through different techniques.
"We will talk about a few different techniques and do lots of field work in different parts of the museum," Cardiff said.
Students can explore areas of the mining museum unavailable to the public with cameras in tow. The museum is also running a photo contest during spring break and anyone taking part in the camp also has a chance to submit a winning entry,
Cost is $50 and includes entry to the museum as well as printing and framing of one photo from the day. Students need to wear outdoor clothing, brig a packed lunch and have a digital camera. For more information, contact Robin at 1-800-896-4044 ext. 226 or email robin@bcmuseumofmining.org.
2. Watch some hockey action
There's nothing like a hockey game to get the adrenaline flowing. It might be spring break and the tulips are on their way but there will be plenty of action on the ice.
Brennan Park is hosting the BC Midget Hockey Championships from Friday (March 14) to Friday (March 20). The top teams in the midget division (15 to 17 year olds) will battle it out to determine the top team in the province.
Opening ceremonies are set to kick off the event on Sunday (March 15) at 7:30 p.m. and include a team parade, musical talent, native dance ensembles and guest speakers.
3. Have a spring break blast
Figuring out what to do for spring break is easy with the Spring Break Blast program. Youth ages seven to 12 years old can take part in a week of swimming, sports, crafts and more.
The cost is $200 per child. Program hours will be 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Registration for Spring Break Blast is on a first-come, first-served basis. For more information, check out 604-898-3604.
4. Walk on the wild side
Brennan Park Sports Centre is offering Slackers Slacklining, a one-day workshop on the art of walking on a small, flat nylon rope between two points, Thursday (March 19) Seems easy right?
"It's a great activity for improving balance and it's a lot of fun to learn," said Collier.
Slacklining is a common and popular pastime that started with the climbing community and has since spread throughout the rest of the outdoor world. It is practiced in the backyard, parks, and even 3,000 feet off the ground.
The workshop is designed for students seven to 18 years old and starts at 10 a.m. To register call Brennan Park at 604-898-3604.
5. Dust off that mountain bike
If there are two things that seem to have an affinity for each other they are youth and dirt. Throw in a mountain bike, and you're halfway to childhood nirvana.
Mad March Racing is offering a season kick off mountain bike workshop Monday (March 16) and Tuesday (March 17). The Youth Academy Program includes a mixture of trail riding, skill lessons, bike safety and maintenance.
The fee is $150 for two classes from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. To register call Brennan Park at 604-898-3604
