Keep kids busy with events through Parks and Rec

POST FALLS – Tired of the kids hanging around the house during the summertime, wondering what to do with their time?

Here are some fresh answers for their pastime woes: Tennis lessons, soccer league, a skateboard competition, day camps. And the list goes on.

The city of Post Falls Parks and Recreation Department hosts and organizes a variety of activities, giving kids an opportunity to learn a new sport, make friends and work out some of that extra energy.

Here’s a rundown of some of the offerings this summer:

“A variety of sports camps and lessons are available through the Parks and Recreation Department, including tennis lessons for children, ages 7 to 15, and adults. Beginners up to advanced-intermediate players are welcome. Tennis lessons take place mornings and afternoons at the city tennis courts at White Pine Park through Aug. 16.

“For those who prefer swinging a golf club, the parks and recreation department teamed up with Prairie Falls Golf Course to put on a golf camp for kids, ages 6 to 13, from July 23 to 26. Beginners to advanced players can get help to improve their game.

“The city also partnered with British Soccer, a leader in youth soccer coaching, for the second year to kick off summer camps. Kids, ages 4 to 16, can get high-level coaching from a team of international experts. The Post Falls camp will be Aug. 6 thrugh 10 at Beck Field.

“The kids have a great time with them,” said Post Falls Recreation Coordinator Josh Oakes. “They love that they have a British accent.”

One of the department’s most popular activities, youth soccer league, is starting registration Monday for the fall season, Oakes said. In the spring, 645 kids participated on the coed teams. The two-month session for children ages 4 to 15 includes weekly games and practices. No experience is required.

“The department also is gearing up for a flag football league, for children ages 6 to 11. Registration begins Monday with the parks and recreation department.

“Day camps, with arts and crafts, games and outdoor activities, are going on all summer long for kids ages 5 to 13. “Kamp Ka-Mee-Lin” at Post Falls Kiwanis Park includes weekly camps centered on a fun-filled theme, such as “Nuts About Nature,” “Alien Encounters” and “Rodeo Round-Up.” Registration fills up fast, so Oakes advises checking with the parks and recreation department to see if spots are left for the camps, which run through Aug. 24.

“For those who like fun on wheels, Oakes is organizing the city’s first-ever skateboard competition Aug. 19 for beginners to expert riders. The parks and recreation department partnered with Pyramid Skate and Screen in Post Falls to host the competition, which starts at 11 a.m. at the Post Falls Millennium Skate Park at 300 N. Greensferry Road. Live music and food will be on site, and prizes will be awarded.

Only 15 spots are available in the beginner class, 30 spots in the intermediate class and 20 spots in the expert division. Pre-registration is required.

“The need is there,” Oakes said of the skateboard competition. “We’re growing, so our programs should grow with the growing city.”