Summer 2020 will look different as some cities cancel programs due to COVID-19 and others adjust to comply with social distancing requirements.
But, that doesn't mean there won't be anything to do at all. WFAA has compiled a list of summer activities to help keep kids entertained throughout the Dallas-Fort Worth area.
Carrollton
Carrollton’s Summer Reading Program begins Monday, June 1 and runs through Aug. 1. The reading program is open to all ages.
Participants will earn points that will be used to purchase drawing tickets for prize packs or purchase items from the Prize Store. Readers can earn one point for every one minute read. Earn 100 points and receive one drawing ticket. A library card is not required, but it is encouraged.
Dallas
Dallas libraries will host a virtual summer reading program with Mayor Eric Johnson. Pre-registration began on May 11. The program kicks off May 30 and runs until Aug. 15. A child can obtain a free book after 10 days of reading. For more information, visit www.dallaslibrary.org/smartsummer
Libraries in the city will also host virtual programs such as story times and adult learning. Individuals must register for the programs to get the link to participate.
The Dallas Parks and Recreation Department is continuing to evaluate its options for summer programming. The city told WFAA there will be changes to the traditional summer camp programming and staff are diligently working to provide a safe and exciting alternative for families.
DeSoto
The DeSoto Public Library is scheduled to reopen on Monday, May 18 with limited hours and safety restrictions. Face coverings will be required.
The library and computer lab will initially be open weekdays from noon to 6:00 p.m. and will be closed on weekends. Only 30 visitors will be allowed into the library at one time for a period of up to one hour per day per visitor.
The recreation center will reopen on a limited basis with safety restrictions on Tuesday, May 26. During the first week it's back open, the facility will be open on May 26, 27 and 29 before it then moves to schedule of every Monday, Wednesday and Friday.
The fitness center will have limited capacity on an hourly basis. Patrons will be required to schedule an appointment to gain access and will need to call (972) 230-9655. Social distancing and PPE protocol including a face covering and gloves will be mandatory. During the initial opening, patrons will only have access to the fitness center. The gym, running track and other rooms will remain closed.
Fort Worth
The Fort Worth Mayor's Summer Reading Challenge will take place virtually as libraries continue to be closed. The Fort Worth Public Library is donating 300 books to 22 locations hosting summer programs.
A proposed plan for summer camps at City of Fort Worth community centers would be a smaller version of what the centers typically host, with plans to enroll fewer participants to help promote social distancing. The start date for summer camps has not yet been determined. The proposal for a modified summer camp cost is $30 per week of camp. Scholarship discounts will be available based on income needs.
Grand Prairie
All summer library programs will take place on Facebook or Zoom. Individuals must pre-register.
Richland Hills
The City of Richland Hills will offer its summer program at the The Link recreation center. That plan is tentative on opening timelines and details from the Governor’s office and Tarrant County.
The Link will host 11 weeks of summer camp from the beginning of June until school resumes in August. The camp hours are from 7:00 am to 6:00 pm with options to pay for early or extended care.
Although there is no registration deadline, once the camp reaches enrollment capacity a child will be placed on the wait list. The cost is $125 per child per week. The camp provides breakfast, lunch and a snack. Field trips will be included in the price as well.
The program is for campers that just finished Kindergarten to 5th grade.
More on WFAA:
- Inside Texas Politics: Dallas ISD superintendent 75% sure students will physically return to school in August
- North Texas colleges make changes to admission policies due to coronavirus
- Plano toddler diagnosed with Kawasaki, similar to rare condition showing up in kids during coronavirus pandemic
- Schools will need to address learning lapses post-COVID, experts say
