Grandparents and Grandkids Bond at Camp Villages' Diverse Summer Activities

Camp Villages, an intergenerational program sponsored by The Villages Recreation and Parks, has been a summer haven for residents and their grandchildren, offering a wide array of activities to foster quality time and shared experiences. During Week 8 of the program, campers embraced both new and familiar pursuits, creating cherished memories and strengthening the generational bonds that make this community so special.

Unlocking the Joy of Shared Experiences at Camp Villages

Platform Tennis Clinic: Introducing a New Sport to Teens

The week kicked off with a Platform Tennis Clinic, where teen campers had the opportunity to learn the ins and outs of this unique sport. Under the guidance of Pauline Bolwell, an instructor from The Villages Platform Tennis Club, the young participants discovered the modified rules, smaller court, and fencing that make platform tennis an ideal introduction to the world of racket sports. By focusing on technique rather than chasing errant balls, the teens were able to quickly grasp the fundamentals and enjoy the game's fast-paced action.For 13-year-old Mickey Lewis, the Platform Tennis Clinic was a chance to try something new, with his grandmother Cindy Lipinsky and 8-year-old sister Jackie cheering him on. As a returning camper, Mickey appreciated the diverse activities offered at Camp Villages, and the Platform Tennis Clinic proved to be a highlight of his week.

Summer Carnival: A Whirlwind of Fun and Prizes

The laughter and pitter-patter of little feet filled the air at La Hacienda Recreation on Wednesday, as the 5- to 10-year-old campers immersed themselves in the joys of a Summer Carnival. Organized by the Villages Recreation and Parks Department, with the assistance of volunteers from Clown Alley 179, the carnival offered a dazzling array of activities, from face painting and balloon making to putt-and-play and suction dart games.Young campers like Violet Kosmach, accompanied by her three sisters and her mother and grandmother, eagerly bounced from one station to the next, collecting a bounty of prizes and accessories. The sheer delight on their faces as they experienced the carnival's creative games and activities was a testament to the magic of Camp Villages.Jaxson Harmon, 8, was another enthusiastic participant, his grandmother Helen Harmon by his side, marveling at the wide variety of engaging games. The carnival provided a perfect opportunity for the grandparents to bond with their grandchildren, creating shared memories and experiencing the pure joy of childhood.

Embracing the Familiar and Discovering the New

Camp Villages has long been a beloved tradition for many residents and their grandchildren, with many returning year after year to partake in the diverse offerings. From platform tennis to summer carnivals and golf cart scavenger hunts, the familiar activities continue to captivate and delight the participants.However, the program also embraces the introduction of new experiences, ensuring that campers of all ages can discover and explore novel pursuits. The Platform Tennis Clinic, for instance, allowed teens like Mickey Lewis to venture into a sport they had never tried before, broadening their horizons and fostering a sense of adventure.The intergenerational nature of Camp Villages is its true strength, as it provides a platform for grandparents and grandchildren to bond, share experiences, and create lasting memories. Whether it's mastering a new skill or reveling in the timeless joys of a summer carnival, the program offers something for everyone, cementing its place as a cherished tradition in the vibrant community of The Villages.As the summer program draws to a close on August 2nd, the memories and connections forged at Camp Villages will continue to resonate, serving as a testament to the power of intergenerational engagement and the enduring spirit of this remarkable community.