Allamakee County ISU Extension hosts variety of Day Camps during summer

The Allamakee County Iowa State University Extension Office had another successful year hosting its summer day camps for boys and girls completing grades kindergarten through sixth grade. Each day camp focused on a separate theme, such as mystery, invention, or exploration. The varied day camps enabled campers to experience nature, show their creativity, practice cooperation, gain self-confidence, and make new friends.
The summer camp line-up began with Bug Camp held at the Waukon City Park. Campers went “buggy” as they spent the day learning about bugs, making crafts, playing games and going on bug hunts. Bob Hauer, Consumer Horticulture Program Assistant from ISU Extension, presented facts about his own bug collection. Partakers were able to get a closer look as they examined his assortment of bugs under microscopes.
Monkey Mania was held twice this summer, first at the Waukon City Park and again at the Waterville Community Center. Participants learned all about monkeys, the rain forest and much more. Campers stayed busy with monkey crafts, activities and playing monkey games.
Gizmos & Gadgets was also held twice this summer, again at the Waukon City Park and Waterville Community Center. Participants learned all about how things operate. They got to make gadgets that taught them about gravity and gizmos that spin, wobble, and whiz.
Who Borrowed Mr. Bear, a mystery camp, turned campers into crime scene scientists who worked to find out who borrowed Mr. Bear. Campers got a special presentation from the Allamakee County Sheriff's Department, and learned about how police solve crimes. The youth spent the day learning about fingerprints, DNA and other special tests used when solving a mystery.
Right on the Money was held at Farmers & Merchants Savings Bank in Waukon. Participants learned all about making, saving and borrowing money, they also learned the difference between their wants and needs. The group went on a private bank tour and get a glimpse of what happens behind the scenes at the bank.
Fishing Camp finished off the summer with 30 day-campers participating in a fun-filled day of fishing on the Mississippi River. Campers learned how to catch “the big one” from experienced fishing instructors from the Harpers Ferry area.
For more information about the Summer Day Camp Program or joining 4-H, contact Kris Fahey, County Youth Coordinator, at the ISU Extension Office at 563-568-6345.