A Summer Well Spent
Summer programs offer children and youth the opportunity to stay active, explore their interests, build confidence, and connect beyond the classroom walls. This summer, ACSA offered a broad range of programs across multiple locations supporting children and youth through opportunities focused on development, STEM, health and well-being, and food and nutrition. With programs designed for different ages and interests, our children had the opportunity to learn new skills while having fun and building connections. From younger children taking part in summer adventures to older youth engaging in hands-on experiences and other recreational activities, there was something for everyone. As August comes to a close, we’re taking a look back at some of the highlights and memorable moments from this summer.
“My daughters love coming here. They play with many toys and enjoy their interaction with other children. The snack time is the best time, they look forward to it. This is a great place to bring your kids.”
At ACSA’s Child and Family Program, children ages 6-9 took part in the Summer Adventure Program, with a mix of games, crafts, science activities, snacks and group outings. Between the games and activities, the summer program gave the kids a space to practice sharing, taking turns, making friends and navigating complex emotions in a group setting. Having a steady weekly routine also helped them settle into a comfortable rhythm while giving them time to have fun and play. From musical chairs to colourful flower experiments, each day offered an engaging way for children to learn and develop through play.
At ACSA’s Bay Mills Hub, children aged 13 and under had a summer filled with fun activities that kept them moving and involved. The children got to step into the ring for a quick boxing session, learning basic techniques and working through engaging, interactive drills. The workshop encouraged the youth to stay active and build confidence, while giving them the chance to try something new.
At ACSA’s Newcomers Centre, youth aged 8-15 spent their summer participating in a variety of activities, outings and hands-on experiences that encouraged them to try new things and connect with others. A highlight was a STEM robotics workshop with the Robeartics team where the children learned the basics of coding with Scratch and programmed the LEGO cars they built themselves. Working in groups, they also had the opportunity to practice cooperation, share ideas, and bring their vision to life. It was a fun introduction to coding and robotics, giving the campers the chance to explore their curiosity, creativity, and problem-solving skills.
At ACSA’s Chester Le location, youth had the chance to participate in a cooking session focused on food, nutrition, and practical kitchen skills. During the workshop, the children made tacos, learning how to prepare and season the ingredients before enjoying their meal together. Beyond just cooking, the session allowed them to learn how to work around the kitchen, make their own food choices (when assembling the tacos), and learn more about making balanced meals. Sharing the food also gave them the chance to connect with others while eating a meal they made themselves.
This summer, ACSA’s programs brought hundreds of children and youth together across multiple locations, creating opportunities to learn, connect and explore. At the Newcomers Centre alone, 40+ youth participated in the summer program which introduced them to new experiences and people.
From developing social-emotional skills through play to exploring STEM pathways, staying active, and learning practical cooking skills through mock MasterChef and other cooking sessions, each day of programming gave children the opportunity to grow in their own way. Partnerships with corporations, teachers, and instructors also helped introduce new avenues and experiences to everyone, whether through learning to code, trying boxing for the first time or just being introduced to new healthy foods.
The summer programming wasn’t limited to ACSA’s locations either, with children and youth visiting places such as Canada’s Wonderland, Ripley’s Aquarium, and High Park. These adventures gave them the chance to build lifelong memories with their newfound friends while exploring new places and sharing experiences beyond just their usual routines.
As August comes to a close, ACSA’s summer programs emphasize the importance of community-based programming through giving children and youth meaningful opportunities to learn, grow and build connections. Ultimately, these programs provide spaces to build friendships, develop confidence, discover new interests, and feel a stronger sense of belonging within their community. Supporting and investing in these programs helps ensure that children and youth can continue to access these opportunities that will benefit them in the years ahead.