Midland Center for the Arts Offers Free Weekly At-Home Virtual Summer Camp

Summer is often defined by sunny days lounging by the pool, a barbeque with friends, day trips to the zoo and for many in Midland, a week-long of exploration at Midland Center for the Arts for Summer Camp. However, COVID-19 and the aftermath of the recent flood has made it look a bit different this year. With most summer activities and in-person gatherings on pause until further notice, people have been forced to slow down and find creative ways to stay connected. For parents with young children, it wouldn’t be surprising if they’ve already maxed out on activities to keep their kids entertained.

While Midland Center for the Arts had to cancel over 75 camps to be held at its multiple facilities beginning in June, the Center has remained committed to finding creative ways to engage with the community, support families in their children’s ongoing educational development and offer fun activities for the summer.

“We’re excited to introduce our first virtual summer camp, free and accessible for everyone in the community” said Jennifer Kanyo, Midland Center’s Director of Education. “Though we are physically separated, we can remain connected virtually and still explore art, science and history with new and unique activities we are publishing on our website each and every week.”

Every week, the Center posts activities and lessons that families can enjoy on their own schedule and from the comfort of their home – and with lots of opportunities to step outside and enjoy the backyard. Children are encouraged to use their imagination and make discoveries as they build a Medieval castle, design a Viking shield or create a Chinese paper lantern, among other hands-on activities. Lessons will be presented in both video and written format, with past lessons archived on the website to try later on.

Thanks to the generosity of the Dow Chemical Employees’ Credit Union, the virtual summer camp is free and open to all ages. Additional support is provided by Soaring Eagle Waterpark and the Great Lakes Loons.

“Throughout the pandemic, the Center has been a hub for educational resources and fun activities for the whole family to enjoy,” Kanyo said. “While summer plans have changed and face-to-face interactions are on hold for a while longer, our mission remains the same.” For more information and to explore camp from your home, visit midlandcenter.org/VirtualCamp.