Registration for Early American Summer Days program open

Date: 6/15/2011

WEST SPRINGFIELD — As the school year comes to a close, summer camp and activities are at the top of every parent's "To Do" list. Storrowton Village's Early American Summer Days is a remarkable program that merges learning and fun to bring history to life for children ages 7 to 12.

Reservations are currently being accepted for sessions Aug. 1 to 5 or Aug. 8 to 12.

Early American Summer Days offers children a unique, hands-on approach to learning about life in 19th century New England. Historic Storrowton Village is the perfect setting for children to "try on" a lifestyle of the past. The week is packed with interactive games, crafts and activities to reflect the life of youngsters in the old days. 19th century clothing is provided for each child to immerse them in the realistic experience.

A typical day consists of a variety of old-fashioned fun, with new activities for each of the five days. Children will act as apprentices in a blacksmith's forge, write on slates with quill pens in an authentic one room schoolhouse and sing and dance to live music of the 19th century.

In the kitchen, children learn firsthand how everyday foods are made. They join in on the cooking by milling corn into meal, learning to milk a cow or goat and churning the fresh milk into homemade butter and cheese.

Kids tap into their creativity and make one-of-a-kind crafts to bring home, such as a woven basket and hand dipped candles. Lessons on carding and spinning wool and how to weave cloth from fiber teach children how clothing used to be made.

Outdoors, they compete in sack races or hoop rolling, visit the historic homes, workshops and gardens of the village, and hear Early American lore and storytelling by a 19th century character.

The adventure ends with a chance for children to share their experiences with family and peers. On Friday, parents are welcome to watch their children perform a skit onstage, admire their artistic creations and newly learned skills, and to take a guided tour of historic Storrowton Village.

An experienced and knowledgeable staff is on hand to guide participants through educational, interactive, and fun activities designed to delight and challenge children. The cost is $150 for either week-long session, and a discount is available if registration is completed by June 10.

To register for this popular program, or for more information, contact Storrowton Village Museum at 205-5051.