By Larry Claflin Jr.
Staff writer
May 16, 2008 12:35 am Attending summer day camp is usually positive for both parents and children — youngsters get to spend time outdoors being active, and adults get a well-deserved break during the day. Here are some interesting camps on the North Shore: Brickhouse Board Week Brickhouse, a surf, skate and snow shop in Marblehead and Gloucester, puts on a weeklong mobile surf camp all summer. The camp is designed for boys and girls ages 10 to 16 who are proficient in the water and would like to learn to surf or polish their surfing skills. Class size is limited to 12, so campers get personalized instruction. According to Brickhouse, guides also teach proper surf etiquette, how to maneuver in winds and waves, and about environmental issues. "Our goal is to have each camper leave with improved skills and a big smile," according to Brickhouse's Web site. Brickhouse Board Week runs Monday through Friday, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Cost is $595 with a $200 deposit required. For more information, go to www.brickhouseboards.com. Parker River At Parker River National Wildlife Refuge on Plum Island, several free day camps are planned for the summer: The Sense of Wonder Preschool Camp takes place from June 10 to 13 and is for children ages 3 and 4. The camp will introduce youngsters to the wonders of nature. "We will explore and create, laying the foundation for a lifelong connection to wildlife, nature and the world around us," according to camp organizers. One parent is required to attend, and siblings are not allowed. Also, children must attend all four days of camp, and dress for indoor and outdoor activities and bring a lunch. Snacks will be provided. The camp takes place from 9 a.m. to noon. Habitat Heroes Camp takes place June 30 through July 3 and is for children ages 5 to 7. The camp will explore the different habitats of the refuge and learn about ways you can help wildlife and their habitats. Children must attend all four days of camp, must dress for indoor and outdoor activities and bring a lunch. Snacks will be provided. The camp takes place from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Ocean Investigations Camp takes place Aug. 12 through 15 and is for children ages 8 to 10. The camp will explore coastal habitats and discover the wonders of the Atlantic Ocean. Children must attend all four days of camp, must dress for indoor and outdoor activities and bring a lunch. Snacks will be provided. The camp takes place from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The free camps require advance registration and are limited to 10 participants. For more information, call 978-465-5753, ext. 210. nnn Features editor Larry Claflin Jr. writes his "Get Outside" column weekly. He can be reached at lclaflin@salemnews.com.
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