As a widowed/single father with two young children who works a full-time job, like many parents in my situation, I struggle to find activities for my kids to occupy themselves once school closes for the summer. I don't want my loved ones' summertime activities to consist of watching endless hours of television or staring at their digital devices. 

Education is just as vital during the summer months as it is during the school year, so it's essential to tell minors that learning does not take a break just because school is no longer in session. Thankfully, in Greater Danbury, parents have a great selection of services available to keep their children's bodies and minds active throughout the summer break.

The city of Danbury has partnered with the Danbury Sports Dome (https://www.danburysportsdome.com/) to offer a seven-week summer camp program that focuses on health and fitness. At only 100 dollars a week, the summer program is an excellent bargain for working families, and since the activities take place under a dome, the weather does not affect the program. The summer program is on a first-come, first-served basis, is limited to only 250 campers per week, and only to residents of Danbury.

The Danbury Library (https://danburylibrary.org/) has a wealth of fantastic free activities for children throughout the summer, as well as a free lunch program for children eighteen years old and younger. An added benefit to the summer programs is that your children will become more comfortable using the services available at the library, which will positively affect their overall educational skills throughout their school year. Why spend excessive money on summer camp when you can use the library’s services for free! 

The Danbury Police Activity League (https://www.danburypal.org/summer-programs) offers an excellent "summer fun and experience" program at their facility on Hayestown Road, which includes arts and crafts, sports activities, field trips, and swimming at Hatter's Park and Candlewood Lake. The price for the summer program is very affordable, and they offer discounts for families with multiple children.

The Danbury Community Center (https://www.cifc.org/danbury-community-center), re-opened on July 1, offers a wide variety of activities and services for Danbury residents, such as swimming, basketball, yoga, volleyball, and more. Located on Boughton Street, the community center is a perfect destination for downtown residents.

It's vital to keep your children active during the summer months, and the city of Danbury has a multitude of services that keep your little ones busy (and away from the television and cell phones) through the dog days of summer.