‘Playground Pals’ Is For Latchkey Kids

Starting next week, Post Falls parents will have an alternative to finding a baby sitter for their children when they go to work.

“Playground Pals” is a new Post Falls Parks and Recreation program designed to entertain and educate children ages 7 to 12 for the next 10 weeks.

The day camp is scheduled from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. five days a week, and will be held at Q’emiln Park or at Ponderosa Elementary School on rainy days.

“We’re trying to catch the latchkey population,” said Lance Bridges, recreation director. “What we see in this community is so many people have to work just to survive. We find so many kids have to stay home by themselves.”

The program isn’t free. It costs $65 a week or $15 a day, on a space available basis.

The goal is to have 30 kids a day. Bridges and camp coordinator Robin Warn plan to have at least one adult employed for every 10 children.

Each week will have a different theme. The first week will focus on nature and the animals and plants living in the park. Each day will also include time for swimming and exploring the park.

“No other public entity offers a program like this in North Idaho,” Bridges said.

For more information or to register, call 773-0539. , DataTimes