32 Church Street, Guilford, CT 06437
Phone: (203)453-8068
Fax: (203)453-8456
Our Programs

The Guilford Parks and Recreation Department invites you to come in and find out what we have to offer. We have programs, classes, trips, and facilities for all ages, many of which are described below. Go to our online registration page for details on specific times and instructors or give us a call at 203-453-8068. We will be happy to make an appointment to show you around and explain any program of interest to you. We look forward to meeting you!

Preschool Programs

Age 2-3

Age 3-4

Age 3-6

Age 4-6

Age 3-6

Age 6 - Grade 2

Youth Programs

Age 3-10

Age 7-16

Grades K-6

Grades 5 and Up

Gymnastics

Neighborhood Music School

Tae Kwon Do

Adult Programs

Adult

Fitness

 

Tae Kwon Do

Preschool: Age 2-3

WEE FOLKS WITH PARENT (AGES 2-3)

This parent/child program is designed to introduce your child to creative and developmental activities including, art(paint,dough,clay, etc.) and music/movement with parachutes,hula hoop balls and much more.

TWO’S WITHOUT YOU (AGE 2)

Designed for you to leave your child in a safe environment while you’re out on your own. Child will experience free play and music as well as interaction with other children.

MAKE SNACK AND EAT IT TWO (AGES 2-3)

Make a yummy snack with Ms. Christine! A different snack each week - your picky little eater will like them too! Please note: No Peanut Butter.

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Preschool: Age 3-4

STOMPING, DRUMMING & CLAPPING (AGE 3-4)

This program will include music and movement. Children will play different instruments and learn songs to move to!

ON THE LOOSE WITH DR. SEUSS (AGES 3-4)

Come get loose with Dr. Seuss and Mrs. Kathy as we celebrate the wonderful rhyming world of Theodore Geisel. Each week we will read a different story, finish a project, and have some movement fun. We’ll do lots of fun things that are funny!

WINTER EXPLORERS (AGES 3-4)

Come explore the wonders of the season through experiments, crafts, stories and imaginary play.

KIDS, KRITTERS, CRAFTS (AGES 3-4)

Come explore the world of nature. Learn about different animals each week. Also read a story and make a fun craft with all new animal themes. All new animals this season!

MUNCHKIN SCIENCE (AGES 3-4)

This session will include several themes that will last a couple weeks. Topics include: dinosaurs, space, bugs and animals. It’s a creative and innovative way to introduce science to a preschooler.

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Preschool: Age 3-6

LITTLE PEOPLE’S (AGES 3-5)

This is a developmental program for 3-5 year olds to learn skills through parallel and cooperative play. Children will have freeplay, snack, outdoor play and activity time such as art, song, and stories related to weekly themes. Must be potty trained.

POLAR BEAR PLAY (AGES 3-5)

Come and spend some time with Mrs. Gerry! A special week with special cial arts and crafts project and more!

GINGER BREAD HOLIDAY HOUSES (AGES 3-6)

Gingerbread, frosting, candy, cookies say no more! A parent and child fun filled afternoon! Registration ongoing.

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Preschool: Age 4-6

PEE WEE P.E. (AGES 4-5)

Children will learn fitness skills, body awareness and movement exploration. They will play light organizational games, introducing them to fitness in a positive setting.

CUPCAKE CREATIONS (AGE 4-5)

Join Mrs. Kathy as we enjoy the hottest new trend in food. Using cupcakes as our easel to create yummy edible art. Each week we will decorate using a different theme. We’ll make some to eat and some to share!

SMALL FRY COOKING (AGES 4-5)

Children will enjoy making non-bake culinary delights and doing hands on creative activities. A children’s cookbook will be developed throughout the session as a keepsake with all new recipes. Parents/Guardians: Certain allergies may require parents/guardians to provide food substitutions.

KIDS IN SPACE (AGES 4-5)

Come zoom through outer space with Mrs. Kathy as we explore outer space. Each week we learn something new about the sky above us, read a story and create something wonderful

KITCHEN SCIENCE (AGE 4-6)

This program will explore all the new and wonderful ooey and gooey projects that can be made with basic kitchen items. We will create new and innovative projects each week.

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Preschool & Youth Programs: Age 3 - 6

PEE WEE TENNIS( AGE 3-5)

A playful introduction to the game of tennis. Simple games will have your little one ready for Wimbeldon in no time!

SPANISH (AGES 4-5)

Spanish made easy with songs, games, dances and puppets. Children stay actively engaged with a multi-sensory learning experience. Designed for early age when language learning is easiest.

PEANUT BASKETBALL (AGES 4-5)

Participants will be introduced to basic offensive skills (dribbling, passing, shooting) and defense. Emphasis will be on sportsmanship and fun. Mini basketball included.

SPORTS R FUN (AGES 4-6)

Always popular, this program will include an introduction to various sports such as soccer, hockey, baseball and more. Basic drills will be learned with a recreational and fun focus.

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Preschool & Youth Programs: Age 6 - Grade 2

BASKETBALL CLINIC (AGES 6-7)

This 8 week clinic will coach fundamental basketball skills including dribbling, passing, shooting and defense. Games will emphasize sports- manship and fun.

CUPCAKE TIME WITH MRS. KATHY (GRADE 1-2)

Who doesn’t love cupcakes? Come spend some time with Mrs.
$15 Some fun time for kids who are too grown up for Mrs.Kathy’s regular
Kathy, decorating some spring cupcakes. (And maybe sneak a bite, here and there). Great class for all the kids who are too old for Mrs. Kathy’s regular classes.

MRS. KATHY’S VALENTINE CRAFT TIME(GRADE 1-2)

Remember all the fun we used to have? Let’s get together and talk about all our good times together while we make a treasure for Valentines Day. I can’t wait to see how you have all grown!

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Junior Tae Kwon Do

Classes available for white belt - ages 4-11. Yellow, green, blue, red & black belt classes also available for ages 11-adult.

Our 5th degree black belt instructor with extensive teaching experience will introduce techniques and strategies of tae kwon do and karate, aikido, kung fu and other martial arts. This multi-faceted program will also introduce kick boxing and self-defense. Advanced program is for red and black belts only.

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Gymnastics Program

The gymnastics program is a combination of fun and learning, fostering the benefits of being strong and the appreciation to learn to become flexible and fit. All classes are co-ed.

Preschool Classes - Tumbling Tots w/Parent and Tumbling and Stumbling are semistructured classes of exploration into climbing, balancing, jump- ing, interacting with other children and most of all focusing on fun.

Gymbugs and Kindergym Classes - Classes are based on a structured design to understand the basics of gymnastics. Level I, II, III, IV/Pre-Team - This USGF Jr. Olympics program is designed to improve skills and work up to competition level. Gymnastics Notes: Attire for Class - Girls must wear leotards, no skirts. Shorts and a tee shirt may be worn over a leotard. Long hair must be pulled back. Footless tights may be worn. Boys must wear tee shirts and shorts. Requirement is bare feet. No clothing with zippers, buttons or buckles. No baggy clothing or jeans.

Observation of Classes - Parents are welcome to observe classes in progress from the outside of the classroom only to ensure that there are no disrup- tions. No siblings or spectators allowed in room for safety. Must be registered to participate in class.

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Neighborhood Music School - Early Childhood Music and Movement & Dance Classes

Different classes available for birth - 6 years old.

Class descriptions and NMS registration form are available at www.nmsmusicschool.org or Guilford Parks & Rec. To register, submit registra- tion form directly to NMS with full payment (class fee plus annual registration fee as indicated below) by fax (203-772-3566), mail, or in person at 100 Audubon St., New Haven, CT 06510. For questions about classes, contact: Pam Welch (Early Childhood) at 203-624-5189 ext. 18 or pam@nmsmusicschool.org; or Laura Richling (Dance) at 203-624-5189 ext. 49 or lauraclaire@nmsmusicschool.org.

Financial Aid is available. Call for info: 203-624-5189.

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Youth Programs: Ages 3-10

WHO’S COOKING? GRADES(3-6)

Introduce your child to kitchen basics. Your child will learn basic cooking skills while preparing healthy and delicious items that can be enjoyed. Focusing on breakfast, lunch, dinner and dessert.

ACTING (GRADES 3-6)

Theater games, concentration exercises, voice and speech, im- prov, acting terminology, sense memory, subtext, stage skills and script work. For more information call (860)432-9890 or visit the website performingartsprograms.biz.

PARENTS NIGHT OUT (AGES 3-10)

Safe and comfortable baby-sitting for your convenience. Enjoy this time alone to have dinner, shop or take in a show while your child is supervised. Have peace of mind that they are safe and well taken care of by our professional staff. Must be potty trained (no pull ups, no excep- tions).

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Youth Programs: Ages 7 -16

FAMILY YOGA (AGE 8 AND UP PLUS ADULT)

Get your weekend off to a stress-free start with this fun and relaxing exploration of yoga for the whole family. From energizing warm-ups, to working in pairs, to taking time in stillness: if you can breathe you can do this practice. Everyone is welcome, with or without kids!

NERF FRENZY (AGES 7-9)

Participants will play nerf hockey, nerf football, nerf baseball and more. This is a great opportunity for this age group to be involved in a sport with emphasis on team building skills, sportsmanship and recreation.

GUITAR LESSONS (AGES 7-14)

Basic guitar lessons to get you started and on your way to knowing how to play! This beginner instructional program is affordable but awesome. Must bring your own guitar.

IRISH STEP DANCE (AGES 7-16)

In the beginner class, participants will learn both steps and group dancing with a traditional style passed down through many generations. Advanced class will be continued work in Irish step dancing with emphasis on more intricate movements with their feet and focus on hornpipe. Beginners start by learning the Jig. Those who participate in this session of Irish Dance, will be offered the opportunity to dance in the Mulkerin School of Irish Dance’s West Ha- ven recital. You do not have to participate in this but it a fun afternoon and all of the dancers are welcome to perform if they would like. The recital is Sunday, March 7th at 2:00 p.m.

HOT SHOT BASKETBALL CONTEST (AGES 9-15)

The Connecticut Recreation and Parks Association Hotshot Contest is a statewide event. Each player will have one minute to shoot from “hotspots” placed on one half of the court. Starting at the center of half-court, the player dribbles into shooting range. The contest challenges a player’s speed, shooting, dribbling, and rebounding ability. Three one-minute rounds constitute the du- ration of play for each player. The top scorer in each division will move on to the next level of the contest. Open to boys and girls.

RED CROSS BABYSITTING (AGES 11-15)

Participants will learn how to interview for a job, generate clients, choose safe and age appropriate toys and games, perform first aid, safety, diapering, bedtime and more.

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Youth Programs: Grades K-6

CREATIVE EXPRESSIONS (GRADES K-2)

This is a multi-faceted program for young children. Theatre games, concentration games, basic voice and speech, improv, exercises, creative movement, imagination play, sense work and basic stage skills. The workshop will focus on developing each child’s creativity and self-confidence. For more information call (860)432-9890 or performingartsprograms.biz.

1/2 DAY - RECREATION TIME (GRADES K-5)

School is out early! Come and spend the rest of the day at the Community Center. Play games, Wii, play pool, make a craft and more! Includes snack and special entertainment.

VACATION CAMP (GRADES K-6)

Join us for daily trips, arts, crafts, games, music and more fun. Flyer will be sent through schools when trips are setup.

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Youth Programs: Grades 5 and Up

WII AFTERNOONS (GRADES 5 + UP)

Come hang out with your friends and play Wii. Weekly tournaments will be set up and a final championship will be set up with prizes!

COOKING (GRADES 5-8)

Enjoy this afternoon cooking class with your friends. Participants will learn nutrition, reading recipes, how to use basic cooking utensils and table set-up all while making delicious meals, snacks and desserts.

CRAZY FEET - SPEED TRAINING (GRADES 5-8)

This program will focus on increasing agility, foot-work and speed training for all sports. Exercises will include: jump rope, agility ladder, speed hurdles, and core workout. All fitness levels welcome.

Mount Southington Ski Program Grades: 5 - 8

Registration Information: Please register online at www.guilfordparkrec. com OR fill out the Parks & Recreation registration form, Mt. South- ington waiver and Mt. Southington rental form (if needed). Rentals: Mount Southington Agreement must be completely and accurately filled out. Please note that there are NO REFUNDS for equipment rental through Mount Southington for any reason. Plan accordingly.
The Parks and Recreation Department reserves the right to cancel scheduled ski trips due to inclement weather. Canceled trips will be made up at the end of the scheduled program dates and there will be no refunds due to rescheduling. For more information call the office at 453-8068.

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Adult Programs

PILOTING AND CHARTING

The Piloting and Charting course is the first of three courses on navigation, covering the basics of coastal and inland navigation. This course focuses on traditional techniques so the student will be able to find his/her way even if their GPS fails. The course includes many in-class exercises, developing the student’s skills through hands-on practice and learning. Topics covered include but not limited to Charts and their interpretation, Navigation aids and how they point to safe water, Plotting courses and determining direction and distance, the mariner’s compass and converting between True and Magnetic, Pre-planning safe courses, The Seaman’s Eye. Simple skills for checking that one is on course.

CPR / FIRST AID BASICS (AGE 16 AND UP)

Infant, child and adult CPR will be included in the CPR course. aid basics will be covered in first aid course. Emergency Care and Safety Institute certification is good for 2 years.

COOKING WITH CAFE GROUNDED (AGE 16 AND UP)

The Advanced program will teach you the execution of dishes, sides and garnishes beyond the basics (Beef Wellington, Tempura, Rissotto’s and Sauce Hollendaise to name a few). The Comfort Foods will include macaroni and cheese, chicken pot pie, homemade corn beef hash, and more. All will be things to keep you warm from the inside out! Andrew will teach you how to make dinners from the stove to the table!

SHALL WE DANCE? BALLROOM DANCING

Getting ready for a special event? Want to learn to dance? Then we’ve got the class for you set-up and ready to go. Covers basic patterns of Tango, Salsa, Merengo and Latin dances with an emphasis on learning to move comfortably on the dance floor. Couples are suggested to attend. If you don’t have a partner, go ahead, ask a friend! Instructor Karen Pfrommer is the owner of Let’s Dance in Rhythm.

ADULT MEN’S BASKETBALL

Join other Guilford residents for pickup basketball at Baldwin school. Must pre-register and reside in Guilford. Program does not meet on days that school is not scheduled according to the school 2010 calendar.

BALLROOM CARDIO (AGES 16+)

Cardio workout while dancing! Learn all the dances and get a great cardio workout. Dances include: Samba, Salsa, Cha-Cha, Foxtrot, Merengo, Swing and more. No partner necessary!

FRENCH COOKING AT ITS BEST (AGE 16 AND UP)

The 1st session will cover some of the basics of sauce making and cre- ate fun hors d’oeuvres. The 2nd session will focus on entrees (main courses), drawing from sauce making in class one.

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Tae Kwon Do

Our 5th degree black belt instructor with extensive teaching experience will introduce techniques and strategies of tae kwon do and karate, aikido, kung fu and other martial arts. This multi-faceted program will also introduce kickboxing and self-defense. Advanced program is for red and black belts only.

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Fitness Programs

Body Sculpting:

This class is just what your muscles need to wake up and get going. Body shaping workout to strengthen and tone. All fitness levels welcome.


Pilates Mat:

This class will focus on the pilates method of conditioning by using a series of movements designed to build core strength, provide increased flexibility and balance as well as improve posture. All fitness levels welcome.


Cardio Lite:

This is a low impact aerobic class, a step up from floor work with a soft low impact approach. This moderate level class is just what you are looking for to begin fitness again or to maintain your workout. All fitness levels (except advanced).


Cardio Combo:

This intense class is designed to meet all your fitness needs. High and low impact choices with an intense format. Includes strength segment as well using body bars, weights or bands, and floorwork for a total body workout. Very popular class. All fitness levels (must have previous experience in aerobics)

Cardio Mix:

This program is designed to meet all your fitness needs. Low impact cardio class with a specially developed strength segment which will change each class to keep your interest. All fitness levels welcome.


Step Mania:

This program will instruct basic and proper skills in step as well as low impact segments and weight training. This class offers the variety you may be looking for in a cardio class. All fitness levels welcome (should have previous step experience).


Yoga:

Three incredible yoga instructors offer instruction on postures, breathing and relaxation, each with their own flair, energy and expertise. As we learn to reconnect with our natural state of health and well-being, we become stronger, more balanced and
flexible. If you can breathe, you can do yoga. All fitness levels welcome! Fitness instructors are currently CPR certified.

Strength and Stretch:

This class is an intense strength training workout using balls, weights, bands and body bars. Designed to focus on strength- ing and toning. All fitness levels welcome.

Core and More:

A mix of cardio step, strength/abs, and a focus on core strecth. Some step experience preferred.

Rise n’ Shine Mix:

Participants engage in low-impact aerobics and strength/stretch training to awaken the body and spirit! Resistance equipment utilized. All fitness levels welcome!

Aerobics PM:

This class includes both High and Low Impact Aerobic combinations that can be easily modified either way to meet your fitness needs. Class ends with weight and core work, followed by a well deserved stretch. All levels welcome.

Stability Ball:

This class will improve your overall well being by strengthening muscles and increasing postural awareness. Targets core muscula- ture and improves balance and coordination. Participants must provide their own body ball for this class.

Kickboxing:

Combining punching and kicking combinations this class is designed to enhance your coordination, flexibility and cardio endur- ance. All fitness levels.

Tai Chi:

Participants will learn to use this gentle form of exercise to improve strength, balance, endurance, flexibility and coordination.

Family Yoga:

Get your weekend off to a stress-free start with this fun and relaxing exploration of yoga for the whole family.

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