EXCITING NEW CAMPS PROVIDE FUN ACTIVITIES TO KEEP KIDS ACTIVE AND ENGAGED THIS SUMMER
Spring is almost here, and summer is just around the corner. That means it’s time to start signing up for exciting sum mer camps offering everything from learning experiences to outdoor fun, performing arts and more. The Osprey Observer team has rounded up the best local summer camps and put together a special pullout section with top recommendations for this season. Whether your child is into music, theater, sports, coding or outdoor adventures, there’s something for every interest and age group.
trips and themed weeks, with both half-day and full-day options. Easterseals School for Limitless Learning provides specialized camps for neurodiverse families, offering an inclusive and engaging environment.
Got a budding performer in the family? Music Showcase allows kids ages 5 and up to shine in musicals hosted by the Florida Academy of Performing Arts. The Straz Center’s Patel Conservatory also offers a variety of arts programs, including dance, theater and music, with over 50 camps and classes to choose from.
For a fun, active summer, 5th Dimension Dance Center features field
If your child loves the outdoors, Circle F Dude Ranch, Cedarkirk Camp & Conference Center and Busch Gardens offer traditional summer camp experiences, with overnight options available. Brandon’s High 5 Inc. has a thrilling summer lined up, including safaris and exciting field trips. The local YMCAs — Campo Family YMCA in Valrico, North Brandon Family YMCA in Seffner, Spurlino Family YMCA in Riverview and YMCA Camp Cristina in Riverview — feature camps that mix fun with valuable learning opportunities.
Sports enthusiasts can level up at Buckhorn Springs Racquet & Pool Club’s specialty camps or join Tampa Dynamo FC for soccer training.
Kinovo School, a newcomer to the community, is offering camps at four local locations this summer.
For martial arts, Sidekicks Martial Arts Camp teaches kids self-defense, discipline and provides plenty of fun while staying active. Kids ‘R’ Kids Circa FishHawk offers both full and halfday camps, with weekly field trips and exciting themes for kids of all ages.
To keep their minds sharp, Mathnasium offers summer learning opportunities, while Skill Samurai and Code Wiz host coding, robotics and gaming camps, with options for all experience levels in Roblox, Minecraft and more.
For full details — including dates
April 27 10am to 4pm
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and registration information for all of these camps — check out our special section and start planning your child’s best summer yet! And don’t forget to enter our Summer Camp Sweepstakes! The Osprey Observer will cover the cost of a week at the summer camp of your choice. Simply email us with the subject line “Summer Camp Free” at contest@ospreyobserver.com to enter. Think we missed a fantastic camp? Let us know by emailing us at editor@ospreyobserver.com. With so many exciting summer camp options, get ready for a fun and unforgettable summer 2025!
HIGH 5
YMCA
MATHNASIUM
BUSCH GARDENS
HIGH 5 INC. LAUNCHES SUMMER CAMP SAFARI FOR CAMPERS DAY CAMPS, RESIDENTIAL CAMPS AND MORE IN STORE AT CEDARKIRK
High 5 Inc. is gearing up for its highly anticipated annual summer camp, set to begin on Tuesday, June 2, and run through Friday, August 8. This year’s exciting theme, Summer Camp Safari, will feature a blend of indoor and outdoor activities, along with fun-filled field trips.
“Our goal is to inspire young athletes, foster teamwork and promote a love for physical activity,” said Jada Spano, vice president of operations. “This summer camp offers a dynamic environment for children to stay active and develop new skills.”
Campers can enjoy a flexible schedule with drop-off starting at 7 a.m. and pickup running until 6 p.m., Monday through Friday. The camp costs $165 per week. Participants are asked to bring their own snacks, lunch, a change of clothes and a towel. Swimsuits and closed-toed shoes are required daily.
Throughout the camp, children will have the opportunity to participate in a wide variety of sports and activities.
“Our skilled and dedicated coaches will guide campers through training sessions, teaching fundamental sports skills and
Staff Report
helping them enhance their techniques,” Spano said.
The camp will maintain a low student-to-teacher ratio, with approximately 25 students per instructor. In addition to sports, campers will engage in creative crafts, such as making banners to showcase their personal values. Teamwork and sportsmanship will be emphasized as campers work together toward common goals and cheer each other on.
Daily activities include options like swimming and diving, outdoor fields, the playground, the gymnasium, Gamer’s Grotto, arts and crafts and STEM-based projects.
High 5 Inc., a nonprofit organization, is dedicated to promoting after-school programs that support students in learning to swim and providing special education through recreational activities.
Located at 405 Beverly Blvd. in Brandon, off State Road 60, High 5 Inc. offers a welcoming environment for campers. For more information or to register for the summer camp, visit https://high5inc. org/ or call 813-689-0908.
Cedarkirk is a yearround Presbyterian camp and conference center established in 1971, and it’s gearing up again with plenty of outdoor activities and events for guests and campers on its 170 acres of woodlands, wetlands and uplands.
“Our mission statement is ‘to be a place apart to build up the body of Christ in love.’ … Summer camp is a big part of that, in the sense that we really just want kids to have a place where they can be loved and nurtured and cared for, and grow into the person they were created to be and feel confident doing that,” said Matthew Shick, executive director of Cedarkirk.
From Sunday, June 8, through Friday, August 1, Cedarkirk will host its summer camp programs, which include residential summer camps, the Challenge to Change mission program and the return of its Adventure Day Camps.
At its residential summer camps, campers spend six days and seven nights in family groups — groups of campers with their counselors. It has programs for everyone from first through 12th grade, as well as adult and intergenerational programs.
In the Challenge to Change program, youth groups will spend a week at camp participating in off-site, hands-on missions
By Taylor Wells
with fact-finding opportunities to increase awareness of poverty and social justice issues. Cedarkirk’s adventure-based, faith-focused day camp is one of its newest programs, first offered last year. Starting on Monday, June 9, campers — current kindergarteners through fifth graders — will be in family groups and have fun playing outside, making friends, growing in their faith and trying out new adventures, like zip-lining, arts and crafts, shark tooth hunting, swimming and so much more. And at $230 a week, Cedarkirk’s day camp is an affordable option.
“I would say the biggest things that have changed in the last couple years … would be the addition of the day camp and then trying to put a greater emphasis on partnerships with organizations and nonprofits that can use this space and help forward their own missions,” said Shick.
And for those new to Cedarkirk, the Spring Fun Day is a great, free opportunity to get to know it. On Saturday, May 10, from 10 a.m.-3 p.m., For those who’ve been to Cedarkirk before, the cost is only $16.
Cedarkirk is located at 1920 Streetman Dr. in Lithia, near the Alafia River. Visit https:// cedarkirk.org/ or call 813-685-4224.
MATHNASIUM SUMMER PROGRAM HELPS DEVELOP CRITICAL THINKING SKILLS
Summer is the perfect time to give your child’s brain a boost. Mathnasium believes that learning math doesn’t have to stop when school’s out. Its summer programs are designed for students from prekindergarten through 12th grade, making sure every child has a chance to build confidence and even enjoy the process of learning.
Mathnasium’s personalized approach ensures that each child gets the right support. Whether your child is in elementary school working on building a strong foundation, a middle schooler looking to catch up or get ahead or a high schooler tackling advanced math, its expert instructors will tailor lessons to fit their needs. Mathnasium helps students not only understand math concepts but also feel more confident when approaching them.
“We offer flexibility that allows your child to learn from wherever you are this summer, whether in-center or virtually,” said Mathnasium owner Becky McDaniels. “It is a joy having the kids join us in the summer to keep their math skills sharp. The kids have a huge opportunity for growth, as they can truly focus on new skills while reviewing prior skills without homework and testing stress.”
Students at Mathnasium will receive a comprehensive assessment and a custom-
CIRCLE F DUDE RANCH CAMP: A HAVEN FOR YEAR-ROUND ADVENTURE AND SUMMER FUN
By Kelly Wise Valdes
ized learning plan that details summer goals for long-term success. Live face-to-face instruction is offered both in-center and virtually.
“Our hope for summer learning is that each child who walks in our door has a better understanding of math and potentially a new or increased love for learning,” McDaniels said. “We ultimately want to help the students avoid the summer slide and walk into their new classroom in the fall being well prepared for the new school year with a boost of confidence and a big smile on their faces.”
Mathnasium knows that summer is all about having fun, which is why it makes math sessions engaging and interactive. For younger kids, it uses hands-on activities and games that make learning feel like playing. For older students, it challenges them with problems that keep their minds sharp and help them get ready for more advanced work ahead.
Give your child the gift of confidence and growth this summer. The Mathnasium of Brandon center is located at 1048 E. Bloomingdale Ave. in Valrico. Call 813-655MATH (6284) or visit www.mathnasium. com/brandon, where you can also get started and see how “Mathnasium changes lives through math.” Staff Report
Circle F Dude Ranch Camp, a beloved institution located in Lake Wales, is more than just a summer camp. The ranch was founded in 1952 as a traditional sleepaway summer camp for girls and boys ages 6-16 rooted in a classic dude ranch experience. Owned and operated by Reed Fischbach, the camp offers a year-round haven for adventure and education. Since its inception, Circle F has been a destination for outdoor enthusiasts, school groups and families seeking a unique experience.
During the summer, Circle F becomes a bustling hub of activity, welcoming approximately 200 campers per session. These sessions are evenly split between boys and girls, creating a balanced and inclusive environment. Campers can look forward to a wide array of activities, including horseback riding, waterfront activities, arts, team and individual sports, ax throwing and climbing towers. The ranches activities are designed to build character and foster individual growth through experiences for all the campers.
Fischbach’s passion for running Circle F is evident in his day-to-day interactions with campers. “I enjoy walking the grounds and meeting the campers,” said Fischbach. “It’s always interesting learning about why they love Circle F, and they ask great questions.”
What sets Circle F apart from other camps is its commitment to quality and professionalism. The camp boasts yearround, highly trained professional staff, a pristine private lake and a private herd of over 50 horses. These elements contribute to the camp’s unique charm and appeal.
Looking ahead to the summer, Fischbach is excited to highlight several new upgrades and improvements.
“We have been upgrading facilities and revamping the riding program with new horses and tack,” he noted.
This dedication to continuous improvement ensures that returning campers and new visitors alike will have an enhanced experience.
As Circle F Dude Ranch Camp prepares to celebrate its 74th summer, Fischbach is eager to share this milestone with the community.
“We operate year-round with outdoor education programs for school groups and group rentals of 50 to 250 people,” said Fischbach. “We’ve had some groups that have been coming for 40 years.”
For more details, visit https://circlefduderanchcamp.com/ or contact the office directly at 863-676-4113. The camp is located at 5301 Dude Ranch Rd. in Lake Wales.
MARTIAL ARTS, PERFORMANCE, CODING & SLEEP AWAY CAMP
The Patel Conservatory With 100 Plus Camps & Classes
The Straz Center’s Patel Conservatory offers arts education courses and programs in dance, theater and music, with 100-plus camps and classes available. Running from Monday, June 2, to Friday, August 1, full and half-day camps are available weekly for ages 3-18. The cost varies depending on the camp; financial aid and scholarships are available. For more information, visit www. patelconservatory.org or call 813-222-1040.
Sidekicks Family
Martial Arts
Sidekicks Family
Martial Arts is excited to announce registration for its Powerful Kids Summer Camp. This action-packed
camp is open to rising kindergarten through fifth graders and includes daily age and developmentally appropriate martial arts training, a wide range of activities and exciting on-campus field trips. There are options available for the full summer or a flexible Pick Your Weeks option. Secure your spot for as little as $49 upfront.
Code Wiz Coding & More
Tampa Dynamo FC Offers
Soccer Fun
Get ready for an action-packed week of soccer fun at Tam-
pa Dynamo FC’s summer camp. Designed for players of all skill levels, the camp focuses on skill development, teamwork and passion for the game through engaging small sided games and activities. Camp will be held at the Summerfield Sports Complex in Riverview from June 2-6, from 8a.m. until 11a.m. Spots are limited, visit wwwTampaDymanofc. com for more information and to register.
Code Wiz, located at 16132 Churchview Dr., Ste. 105, in Lithia, teaches coding and robotics to children and embraces the Montessori approach to learning, which means its camps are hands-on, student-driven and designed to foster curiosity and independence.
Campers are encouraged to explore, problem-solve and create at their own pace, with guidance from coaches to support their individual learning journeys. Camps will run throughout the summer from Monday, June 2, to Friday, August 1, and are available for mornings, afternoons or full days.
Visit its website at https:// thecodewiz.com/fishhawk-fl for more information and to register.
Compiled By Jenny Bennett
5th Dimension Dance Center Offers Themed Weeks & Field Trips
5th Dimension Dance Center is offering fun-filled, action-packed weeks for kids from ages 3-12 years. There will be daily dance classes, games, arts and crafts and weekly field trips for full-day campers.
There are a wide range of themes, including boogie boogie, superhero, tutus and tiaras.
Visit its website at www.5thdimensiondancecenter. com or call 813-643-5332 for additional information and to register. 5th Dimension Dance Center is located at 3239 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Valrico.
Cedarkirk Camp & Conference Center Day & Overnight Camps
Cedarkirk Camp & Conference Center, located on 170 acres of woodlands, wetlands and uplands near the Alafia River, will have summer camps starting on Sunday, June 8, and finish on Friday, August 1. Campers can sign up
STEM, PERFORMING ARTS, DUDE RANCH CAMP & SUMMER SAFARI
for a week or the whole summer. Cedarkirk offers overnight camps for older students which run Sunday through Friday and day camp, and younger campers in grades one through three can attend a shorter threeday camp. Day camp is available for campers who have completed kindergarten up to those who have completed fifth grade and is priced at $230 per week. Day campers must bring their own lunch. Cedarkirk is located at 1920 Streetman Dr. in Lithia and can be reached at 813-685-4224. For more information and to register, visit https:// cedarkirk.org/.
Skill Samurai STEM, Robotics, Game Design & More
dale Ave. in Brandon. Visit its website at https://skillsamurai. com/fl-brandon.
High 5 Inc. Offers Fun Summer Camp Safari
Are you looking for a one-of-a-kind summer camp that combines fun with future-ready skills? Skill Samurai Summer Camps offer kids ages 7-14 hands-on experiences in coding, robotics, game design and STEM activities. Through engaging, project-based learning, your child will develop critical thinking, creativity and confidence while building real-world tech skills. Whether they’re creating games, programming robots or exploring 3D design, Skill Samurai makes learning exciting. Give your child the ultimate summer adventure — sign up today. Skill Samurai is located at 931 E. Blooming-
Brandon’s High 5 Inc. is inviting students to embark on an exciting and adventurous journey where your child will experience the thrill of Summer Camp Safari, kicking off on Monday, June 2, and running through Friday, August 8. Daily activities will include pool time, outdoor play, field games, arts and crafts and more, including field trips. Camp is offered Monday through Friday from 7 a.m.-6 p.m. at High 5 Inc., located at 405 Beverly Blvd. in Brandon. Campers can sign up for individual weeks or throughout the entire summer. To learn more, visit https://high5inc.org/ or call 813-689-0908.
Music Showcase And The Florida Academy Of Performing Arts
Music Showcase and the Florida Academy of Performing Arts will host their annual summer camp this summer. The Music and More and Musical Theater camps will immerse campers into acting, singing, dancing and more throughout the summer. In Musical Theater camp, campers will learn to work collaboratively, the art of stage character, voice projection, props and working with a set. The Music and More camp has full and halfday camps with instrument, art, acting and singing activities. Music Showcase is located at 402 Oakfield Dr. in Brandon. For more information, visit https://faopa. org/.
Compiled By Jenny Bennett
one to three-week sleepaway camp sessions. Kids range in age from 6-16.
Of all the summer and overnight camps in Florida, there’s only one Circle F Dude Ranch. If you’re looking for a horseback riding camp near you, then look no further. But that’s not all — Circle F also offers unique Western Fun activities you won’t find anywhere else. Of course, it’s a traditional sleepaway camp, so it has all the sports boys
and girls love, plus extreme adventures, like paintball and skateboarding, and its Alpine Climbing Tower, zip line and high ropes course.
Circle F Dude Ranch has arts and theater, and you know its Florida, so it has excellent water sports too.
Circle F Dude Ranch
Circle F Dude Ranch, located in Lake Wales, welcomes boys and girls from all over the United States and the world for
How can Circle F be described? It’s Florida’s best, most exciting, kid-friendly dude ranch experience. For details about the camp, https://circlefduderanchcamp.com/
YMCA, BUSCH GARDENS, KINOVU, NEURODIVERSE CAMP & MORE
Compiled By Jenny Bennett
Easterseals School For Limitless Learning — Inclusive Summer Camp For Neurodiverse Learners
Get ready for an exciting and inclusive adventure designed specifically for neurodiverse young learners and those with other disabilities in kindergarten through second grade. Packed with hands-on and interactive STEAM activities, it’s a supportive space where every child can explore, grow and thrive. Each session has a different theme, with topics including such things as Ocean Explorers, where campers dive into the wonders of the deep blue sea, and LEGO Builders, where campers engage in building challenges, teamwork exercises and imaginative play using LEGO bricks. The Easterseals School for Limitless Learning is located at 2460 Bloomingdale Ave., Ste. 170, in Valrico, and the summer camp is avail-
able for eight weeks from Monday, June 16, to Friday, August 8, with morning, afternoon and all-day sessions available.
New To Area Kinovu School Offers Four Locations
The theme of summer camp at Kinovu School is ‘Where Summer Adventure Meets Education,’ and the goal of the educational program at Kinovu School is to nurture autonomous, lifelong learners because learning autonomy has been proven to be a key determinant of life success. Camps are for all ages and are available all day from 6:30 a.m.-6 p.m. Your child will explore, learn and grow at Kinovu School, which is located at 3105 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Lithia. For more information, visit https://kinovuschools.com/ or call 813-654-2124. YMCA Summer Camp
With over 25 different summer camp options throughout the Tampa YMCA area, there’s something for every camper to enjoy.
From art and gymnastics to zip-lining and splashing in its pools, the Y is the ultimate summer destination with friends, fun and adventure. Summer camps start on Monday, June 2, and run all summer. Register online at https:// tampaymca.org/letscamp.
Busch Gardens Offers Camps For Students K-12th Grade
ers experience activities that are both enriching and educational, providing a well-rounded experience. Visit Busch Gardens’ website at www.buschgardens. com for additional information.
For more than 25 years, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay has provided children with inspiring, exciting and educational experiences through some of the best Tampa summer camp options. There are a wide variety of Summer Day Camp options to fit your child’s grade level and interests. One of the reasons to choose Busch Gardens as your summer camp include it being accredited by the American Camping Association, meaning parents can trust that the camp meets high standards for safety, staff training and program quality. Also, campers get to enjoy the adrenaline rush of rides as well as the unique opportunity to meet animals up close. Beyond the fun, camp -
CAMP WITH US!
With over 25 different camp options throughout the Tampa YMCA area, there’s something for every camper to enjoy! From art and gymnastics to ziplining and splashing in our pools the Y is the ultimate summer destination. Summer Camp starts June 2nd!
MATHNASIUM SUMMER, KIDS ‘R’ KIDS, RACQUET CLUB & MORE
Compiled By Jenny Bennett
Kids ‘R’ Kids Offers Wanderlost Summer Camp & Field Fun Field Trips
Who’s ready for the ultimate summer adventure? This year, Kids ‘R’ Kids is your passport to fun. Each week, its Wanderlost Summer Camp will whisk your child away to an exciting new destination where they’ll explore fascinating cultures, discover amazing animals and dive into hands-on adventures.
From epic games to creative projects, every day is a new journey of imagination and discovery. Kids ‘R’ Kids is located at 5815 Kids Crossing Dr. in Lithia. Additional information can be found at https:// kidsrkids.com/ or by calling 813-7975497.
is a fun and engaging way for your child to keep up their math skills and prepare for the year ahead. It has a proven teaching method that results in true understanding and increased confidence, along with reward opportunities and more.
Mathnasium Brandon Offers
Math Skills
There’s no better time for kids to catch up and get ahead in math than during the summer break. Summer at Mathnasium
The Mathnasium of Brandon center is located at 1048 E. Bloomingdale Ave. in Valrico. For more information, visit www. mathnasium. com/brandon or call 813-655MATH (6284).
Buckhorn Springs Racquet Club
Do you have a budding tennis
player? Sign them up for summer camp at Buckhorn Springs Racquet Club, located in Buckhorn Springs Golf & Country Club at 2721 S. Miller Rd. in Valrico. Camps will run all summer from Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m.-12 Noon, starting Monday, June 2, and ending Thursday, August 7. Early drop-off is at 8:30 a.m. and late pickup is at 12:30 p.m. The price per week is $185 with sibling discounts, multiweek discounts and an early-bird discount. Advanced/tournament players have a full-day option, including match play and video analysis. Tennis shoes are required.
Music & Theater Summer Camps
Music & More Camp
coaching experience, Ostingers Baseball coaches are ready to provide young athletes with safe fun this summer.
Visit www.buckhornracquet.com for more information.
Ostingers Baseball Academy
Learn baseball from the pros at Ostingers Baseball Academy. With a combined 30 years of professional playing and
Four weeklong sessions will take place in June and July for players ages 7-14 years old at the academy’s fields. The camp is priced at $275 per week; multichild and multiweek discounts are available. Your child will develop a better understanding of the game of baseball through instruction, drills and games. Having a good time while learning the fundamentals will be the main focus of this camp. Ostingers Baseball Academy is located at 8711 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Lithia. To learn more, visit www. ostingbaseball.com or call 813-737-3000.
• Free early drop off and late pick up
Full and half-day week-long camps, plus daily drop-ins
• Activities to explore instruments, acting, singing and art
• Themed weeks like: Barbie & Ken, Pixar, Taylor Swift, Superheroes
• Scholarships and sibling discounts
Musical Theater Camps
• Productions for all ages and skill levels
• Elementary, Middle School, and High School productions
• Broadway Boot Camp - Broadway Artists To Attend
• Visit FAOPA.org for shows, schedules, and performance dates
Past Summer Shows
MUSIC SHOWCASE AND THE FLORIDA ACADEMY OF PERFORMING ARTS TO HOST ANNUAL SUMMER CAMP
Music Showcase and the Florida Academy of Performing Arts will host their annual summer camp this year.
The groups’ Music and More and Musical Theater camps will immerse young kids in acting, singing, dancing and more throughout the summer.
“Students will learn to work collaboratively, learn the art of stage character and development, choreography, voice projection while singing and speaking, props and working with a set,” said Danielle Sanchez, academy director.
Each camp will be two weeks long and fast-paced, she said. Some camps are in just the mornings or afternoons, but they generally run between 9 a.m.-5 p.m. The earliest drop-off time is 8 a.m. and the latest pickup time is 6 p.m.
The Music and More Camp has full and half-day camps, with instrument, art, acting and singing activities for campers. It will also have themed weeks, with topics like Taylor Swift, Barbie and Ken and Pixar.
The Musical Theater Camp has productions for students of all ages and skill levels. It also has a Broadway Boot Camp that will
By Lily Belcher
be attended by Broadway artists.
Past summer shows have included Mean Girls, Newsies, West Side Story and Legally Blonde
While the shows have not yet been announced for the summer, they will be different than last year’s.
“This program begins developing body awareness on stage and giving the confidence to express themselves,” Sanchez said. “At the end of the program, students will showcase their new abilities on the stage.”
The cost for the camp is $275, with a onetime registration fee of $30. Families can also take a sibling discount of $25 off the same program over the summer.
Students should pack lunch and wear closed-toed shoes and comfortable clothing.
“As always, we are excited to work with new and returning students, to continue growing their talent and watching them shine throughout the camp and onstage,” Sanchez said.
To register, visit https://faopa.org/. The camps will be at Music Showcase, located at 402 Oakfield Dr. in Brandon.
EASTERSEALS SCHOOL FOR LIMITLESS LEARNING — INCLUSIVE SUMMER CAMP FOR NEURODIVERSE LEARNERS
Get ready for an exciting and inclusive adventure designed specifically for neurodiverse young learners and those with other disabilities in kindergarten through second grade. Packed with hands-on and interactive STEAM activities, Easterseals School For Limitless Learning’s summer camp offers a supportive space where every child can explore, grow and thrive. Each session has a different theme with topics such as Ocean Explorers, where campers dive into the wonders of the deep blue sea, and LEGO Builders, where campers engage in building challenges, teamwork exercises and imaginative play using LEGO bricks. The Easterseals School for Limitless Learning is located at 2460 Bloomingdale Ave., Ste. 170, in Valrico, and the summer camp is available for eight weeks from Monday, June 16, to Friday, August 8, with morning, afternoon and all-day sessions available. Sessions are $200 per week for half-day camps and $350 per week for all-day camps. Register by Tuesday, April 15, to get the early-bird discount — $50 off the first week’s tuition. Register for all eight sessions and get the last week free. Please scan the QR code to register for the camp and feel free to contact Easterseals at limitlesslearning@
Staff Report
fl.easterseals.com or 813-236-5589. It is located at 2460 Bloomingdale Ave., Ste. 170, in Valrico. Learn more at www.easterseals.com/ florida/programs-and-services/children--families/ school-for-limitless-learning. html.
The Easterseals School for Limitless Learning opened its doors last September and offers two programs, including a 10-month lower elementary program serving children with a diagnosed disability from pre-K through second grade and a year-round early childhood program serving children from 6 weeks to 3 years old with or without a diagnosed disability. The school’s innovative curriculum is tailored to meet the unique needs of its students, using hands-on activities and a play-based approach. The school follows the DIRFloortime® model, which prioritizes the development of healthy social, emotional and intellectual foundations, rather than just focusing on skills and isolated behaviors. Both programs are currently accepting new students, and financial aid and scholarships are available. Easterseals is a nonprofit organization leading the way to full equity, inclusion and access through life-changing disability and community services.
Music Showcase helps students learn acting, singing and performing skills through its weekly summer camps.
SUMMER CAMP 2025 REGISTRATION OPEN AT THE TAMPA YMCA
Experience everything the fun of camp has to offer at the Tampa Metropolitan Area YMCA. Summer camp registration is now open for both members and nonmembers.
Conveniently located across Tampa Bay, YMCA summer camps will run from Monday, June 2, to Friday, August 8, for those ages 6-15, Mondays through Fridays. Camp hours are 9 a.m.-4 p.m., with early and late supervision available starting at 7 a.m. and ending at 6 p.m. at no extra charge.
Campers will explore a wide variety of activities each day in a safe, fun environment that provides the opportunity to build lifelong friendships and make memories to last long after summer ends. A few examples include swimming, science, arts/crafts, nature education, games, team building and more. All of these fun and educational activities are infused with the Y’s character values of caring, honesty, respect and responsibility.
Tampa YMCA summer camps are ACA-accredited. This means the Tampa Y camps underwent a thorough review of operations by the American Camp Association (ACA) — from staff qualifications and training to emergency management — and complied with the highest standards in the industry. The ACA’s nationally recognized standards program focuses primarily on the program
Staff Report
quality, health and safety aspects of a camp’s operations.
New this year, the YMCA will have summer camps for the little ones too. Children ages 2-5 can enjoy the experience at the newly launched YMCA Preschool Summer Enrichment Camp, which will run from June 2 to August 8 — the same dates for the Y’s older campers. It will be hosted at the Bob Gilbertson Central City Family YMCA in Tampa Heights and YMCA Camp Sierra in Carrollwood.
Designed to spark curiosity and foster social, emotional and cognitive growth, YMCA camps provide the perfect blend of fun and educational enrichment to keep the Y’s littlest campers active all summer. It is also pleased to offer swimming lessons as an add-on to ensure children learn safety around water. This helps families who cannot enroll their children for swim lessons due to work or other commitments. Additionally, it is pleased to offer a sibling discount for those with older siblings enrolled in summer camps.
Spots are limited and fill up quickly. Register at https://tampaymca.org/letscamp. Visit https://tampaymca.org/ for more information.
PERFORMING ARTS SUMMER CAMP AT THE PATEL CONSERVATORY
There are two things to know about the Patel Conservatory’s summer camps and classes:
1. Patel, the Straz Center’s performing arts education center, offers a variety of camps and classes in dance, music and theater for all skill levels, from beginner to advanced.
2. They fill up fast.
“We always recommend that people sign up for our camps as early as possible because they tend to sell out as much as a month before they even start,” said Alice Santana, the Straz Center’s vice president of education and community engagement.
Music classes for younger students and all musical theater camps fill up the fastest. The beginner classes let children try out a discipline to see if it fits.
“We try to offer something that reaches kids at their level of expertise,” Alice said. “We have camps for beginners who just want to dabble in the arts and all the way to students seeking expert training to prepare for a professional career.”
Some students will be on to the next thing by fall. Others, though, may want to pursue acting, dance or music beyond the comprehensive but condensed camp experience.
“We’re literally cramming an entire school year’s curriculum into nine weeks of camps and classes,” said Stephanie Pemberton, in-
ternal clients marketing director.
Patel’s summer schedule also includes intensives, which teach a lot of material in a short amount of time, for advanced students. Some of them attend Patel during the school year as well.
“The students attending the intensives are dedicated,” Stephanie said. “Some want to pursue their discipline professionally. They want to increase their skills and increase their chops.”
Many Patel alums have established professional careers in the arts both on and offstage.
Former students have appeared on Broadway and in national touring companies, danced in some of the most respected ballet companies and performed live and on television and in films.
Others work as producers, directors, writers, stage managers and more. In fact, workshops on stage management, directing and playwrighting are on Patel’s summer roster.
Scholarships and other forms of financial aid are available as well.
To register for Patel’s summer camps and classes, or for more information, please visit www.strazcenter.org/patel-conservatory/ or call 813-222-1040. Staff Report
EXPERIENCE THE ULTIMATE SUMMER AT BUSCH GARDENS TAMPA BAY CAMPS
Looking for the perfect summer plans? Busch Gardens Tampa Bay offers an exciting array of camps for animal lovers and thrill seekers alike. With over 12,000 animals and exhilarating coasters, the park provides a fun and engaging environment where children can connect with wildlife, explore nature and forge lasting friendships — all while taking a break from screens.
Busch Gardens’ camps are recognized as some of the best in the industry, led by highly trained professionals who make learning both fun and impactful. The one-of-a-kind day camps are open to students in kindergarten through 12th grade and run weekly from Monday, June 2, to Wednesday, August 6, from 8 a.m.-3 p.m. (with extended care available).
For older students interested in zoology, veterinary careers or pushing their adventure limits, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay also offers an Overnight Resident Camp for grades seven through 12,
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which runs from Saturday, July 5, to Thursday, July 31.
For more than 25 years, Busch Gardens has been offering some of the most exciting and educational summer camp experiences in Tampa. Whether your child is interested in animal encounters, educational opportunities or thrilling rides, there’s something for everyone.
New for 2025 is the Wild Professions Camp for college students and teachers, running from Saturday, June 28, to Wednesday, July 2.
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay summer camps are open to students in kindergarten through 12th grade. With accreditation by the American Camping Association (ACA), parents can trust that Busch Gardens’ day camps meets high standards for safety, staff training and program quality. To learn more or to register, visit https://buschgardens. com/camps or call 813-884-4FUN (4368). Busch Gardens looks forward to another amazing summer.
CAMP BAYOU OUTDOOR LEARNING CENTER WELCOMES SPRING WITH EXCITING ACTIVITIES
Camp Bayou Outdoor Learning Center invites the community to welcome Spring with a series of fun-filled activities on Saturday, March 22, from 9 a.m. - noon. The event promises an engaging morning, featuring nature activity tables, trail walks, a free raffle, butterfly habitat tours and golf-cart tours through the property.
By Kelly Wise Valdes
The event will also feature crafting activities, including pinecone bird feeders, vine wreaths, nature journals, seed bead jewelry, and ‘Camp Bayou’ T-shirts. All supplies are provided. No registration is required for this free event,
“In the past, we’ve had about 150 people attend,” said Dolly Cummings, Director of Camp Bayou Outdoor Learning Center. “We are hoping to grow attendance this year.”
Camp Bayou is home to 200 acres of County-owned land, managed by the non-profit organization Bayou Outdoor Learning and Discovery, Inc. (B.O.L.D.). “Our Center is a hidden gem here in South Hillsborough County,” said Cummings. “Whether guests opt for a leisurely walk on their own
or schedule a program with our knowledgeable instructors, there is something for everyone.”
For those interested in a nocturnal adventure, save the date for a night paddle on Saturday, March 29, to explore the Little Manatee River after dark. Canoes and kayaks are available for $25 per boat, or $5 if you bring your own vessel. Registration is required; email campbayou@gmail.com or call 813-6418545.
For those who are interested in helping with registered groups, Camp Bayou is looking for enthusiastic volunteers who love the outdoors and want to pass along that passion to others through hands-on activities, walks and canoe tours, as well as help with maintenance and exhibits. Contact Becki at 813-641-8545 or fill out the form at campbayou.org.
Camp Bayou Outdoor Learning Center is located three miles south of SR674 at the end of 24th St. S.E. in Ruskin. Visit www. campbayou.org or call 813-641-8545.
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Navigator Academy of Leadership (NAL) held a Leadership Day in Valrico and gave students a chance to serve the community by packing thousands of meals for food insecure families in the region. On February 14, NAL, a charter school, invited the community to the campus for a special day filled with events, activities and opportunities for students to showcase their work.
This year’s theme, NAL Loves to Serve, “highlights our mission in raising and teaching student leaders and part of leadership is serving our community,” said Principal Maria Owen.
Between students, faculty, staff and parent volunteers, they packed over 100,000 meals for Feeding Tampa Bay, helping to restock food banks and support families in need.
“It was a huge success. This really has been student centered where they are the ones coming in saying, ‘We’d love to do this,’” said Dr. Diane LaFrance with Compass LLC.
Additionally, the students collected items and packed 500 hygiene kits for struggling families.
“We will be putting deodorant, shaving cream, soap and wash clothes in the kits,” said Navigator Academy eighth grader Keltie Shapiro.
The mission of Navigator Academy of Leadership K-8 is to enable students to be independent learners and leaders by developing each child’s intellectual curiosity and thirst for discovery through a cross-curricular integration of science, math, art, reading and technology.
The vision is to provide a welcoming environment where every student is empowered and inspired to develop agency over learning, and NAL’s goal is to create educational studies in a safe and nurturing environment that will include inquiry and exploration.
Navigator Academy of Leadership is located at 1101 E. Bloomingdale Ave. in Valrico. Call 813-603-9340 or visit www.navigatoracademyvalrico.com for more information.
The roar of jets slicing through the sky — there’s nothing like it. Every April, the Sun ‘n Fun Aerospace Expo takes over Lakeland, drawing more than 200,000 visitors and securing its spot as the second-largest aviation event in the U.S.
What started in 1974 as a small fly-in for aviation enthusiasts has blossomed into one of the most prominent and successful aviation events worldwide.
The expo isn’t just for pilots; it’s an event for everyone. Visitors can enjoy STEM and career fair activities, a Family Fun Zone, and, of course, spectacular daily and nightly airshows. These shows feature jaw-dropping performances from both military and civilian aviators.
SUN ‘n FUN Fly-In Inc., a nonprofit organization, produces the expo and other events year-round. The proceeds from these events support the Aerospace Center for Excellence (ACE), a leader in STEM and aerospace education. ACE runs several programs, including scholarships, summer camps, and outreach efforts designed to inspire and train the next generation of aerospace professionals. The Florida Air Museum, Florida’s official aviation museum, and the Lakeland Aero Club, the nation’s largest high school flying club, are also housed at ACE.
Gilmore
2025 Expo Highlights: April 1-6
SUN ‘n FUN 2025 will kick off with an unforgettable concert on the Warbird Ramp, presented by Wealth MD. On Tuesday, April 1, at 6:30 p.m., country music stars Tyler Hubbard and Uncle Kracker will take the stage for a fun-filled night under the stars.
A drone, laser, airplane, and pyrotechnic-filled fireworks show will light up the skies from Wednesday, April 2 through Saturday, April 5 at dusk.
On Tuesday, Thursday and Friday, April 1, 3 and 4, will be the Sunset Aerial Circus. The action-packed lineup includes:
• STOL Demo.
• Airythmia Paramotor Team.
• The Chuters Parachute Team.
• Pivotal Aircraft.
• Drones and Balloon Glows.
For the first time, SUN ‘n FUN will host the Academic Drone Soccer League World Cup on April 3 and 4 at the Aerospace Pavilion. Prepare for a high-energy competition as teams battle it out in this exciting new event.
And to cap off the weekend, the U.S. Navy Blue Angels will perform in the airshow on Saturday and Sunday, April 5-6. For tickets, showtimes, parking info and more details, visit https://flysnf.org/. By Marie
FAOPA STUDENTS BRING HOME NATIONAL AWARDS FROM FESTIVAL Staff
Students representing Backstage Theater, Center Stage Youth Theatre, the Florida Academy of Performing Arts (FAOPA) and the Tampa Bay Performing Arts Academy received awards and recognition at the 2025 Junior Theater Festival Atlanta (JTF Atlanta). The monumental weekend dedicated to rewarding and celebrating excellent student-driven musical theater programs happened from January 17-19 at the Cobb Convention Centre in Atlanta, Georgia.
At the festival, each group performed 15 minutes of a Broadway Junior musical for adjudicators.
The Florida Academy of Performing Arts received the Excellence in Acting Award.
FAOPA’s Anna Beth James and Kat Baudoin were named Junior Theater Festival All-Stars, a select group of outstanding performers.
FAOPA presented Disney’s Aladdin JR. to Kelby McIntyre-Martinez, associate dean for arts education and community engagement of the University of Utah; and Bob Lenzi, Broadway actor (Tina: The Tina Turner Musical, Tuck Everlasting). McIntyre-Martinez said, “Wonderful ensemble work, great storytelling!” Lenzi added, “This program finds a way
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to feature many of its talented individuals, while also being able to step back into an ensemble and work together.”
The Florida Academy of Performing Arts is a nonprofit organization established in 2010 with the goal of supporting and developing performing arts throughout the community.
One of the groups operating at FAOPA is the competition team. The competition team was established in fall 2021, and its past pieces were from Junie B. Jones Jr., Children of Eden Jr. and Once on This Island Jr.
Student Morgan Sheriff (2024 and 2022 JTF Atlanta) won a Sheridan Giles Technical Theater Award. Noah Ochalek and Morgan Sheriff (2023 JTF Atlanta) were added to the Technical Theatre All-Stars, a select group of students who worked side-by-side with individuals to help run events.
Students Mary Pope and Nicole Drake (2024 JTF Atlanta) and Timothy Addie (2022 and 2023 JTF Atlanta) made it to the callback for special projects or future video shoots for ‘how-to’ choreography videos. He was ultimately cast and traveled to New York City to film the videos (2022).
FAOPA is located in Brandon at Music Showcase 402 Oakfield Dr Brandon, FL 33511. https://faopa.org/
TAMPA BAY HOT AIR BALLOON FESTIVAL — ENJOY BALLOON RIDES AND MORE
Mark your calendars for the Tampa Bay Balloon Festival on Friday and Saturday, March 2122, at the Florida State Fairgrounds. Bring the whole family out for a weekend packed with fun and excitement. Experience the awe-inspiring sight of hot air balloons and check off a bucket list item with an actual hot air balloon ride.
Enjoy live music from an amazing DJ to keep the energy high throughout the event, explore craft and retail vendor booths offering a variety of unique and interesting items for sale, be amazed by Monster Show Kites performing before the hot air balloons take flight, and don’t forget to satisfy your cravings at the food vendors serving up delicious festival-style fare.
Bucket list alert! Tethered hot air balloon rides will be available for $35 per person (while supplies last, and weather permitting). Announcements on availability will be made on-site.
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to their day!
For a spectacular grand finale each night at around 9 p.m., get ready for the Hot Air Balloon Glow & Laser Show.
Watch as the balloons light up in perfect harmony with thrilling music and a laser performance and join in the fun with crowd ‘Count Downs.’ It’s a glowing spectacle you won’t want to miss.
Don’t forget to bring your blankets, chairs and umbrellas to enjoy the perfect view.
The event will also feature a kids’ zone, games, rides and so much more.
Tickets start at $10 for children and $20 for adults and are limited. To get tickets, visit www. freshtix.com/events/balloonskitestampa.
Additionally, volunteers are needed to help balloon pilots set up the event. Sign up here: https://form.jotform. com/220156954235152.
The Florida State Fairgrounds are located at 4800 U.S. Hwy. 301 N. in Tampa. For more information on the Balloon Fest, visit https://balloonshows.com/. Staff Report
