In the small but lively community of MacGregor, summer has taken on a creative twist thanks to Heartland Recreation's Day camp, a program that's giving local kids a chance to get off the couch, have some fun, explore their creativity, and connect with their peers.
From tie-dye and scavenger hunts to library visits and trips to Splash Island, the day camp offers children more than just childcare. It's a hub of excitement, learning, and friendship, all packed into well thought-out and planned theme days.
"It's going really well," said Emma Hill, the Summer Day Camp Assistant Coordinator.
"We started with smaller groups earlier in the summer, but our numbers are growing. Yesterday we had 11 kids. The themed days have been a big hit, especially the field trips and Splash Island."
The program is designed to provide kids of all ages, especially those between 7 and 12, with a fun and structured summer experience. Hill, who is currently in the education program at Brandon University, said her background working with children and passion for teaching led her to join the Heartland Rec team for the first time this summer.
"It offers another option besides daycare, something more fun and 'summery' for kids, especially the older ones," she explained. "We're filling the days with crafts, visits to the spray park, and lots of themed activities that keep them engaged."
Themes have included everything from 'Storybook Day' to 'Winter in July,' with creative planning behind each. On tie-dye day, for instance, both staff and kids ended up splattered in colour, a mark of a successful and memorable activity.
Behind much of the camp's planning of the different theme days is Jewell Thompson, a four-year veteran of the program and the Theme Days Coordinator.
"I just keep coming back," Thompson said with a smile. "The kids are great, it’s a fun summer job, and shout out to Karla, she's a great boss."
A MacGregor local and former camper herself, Thompson brings a unique perspective to the camp's value.
"I loved coming here as a kid," she said. "It's so important to have programs like this in smaller communities. It gives kids a place to go, be active, and hang out with kids their age."
Thompson says she draws inspiration for daily themes from previous years, Pinterest, and a good deal of Googling.
"I plan the crafts and activities for both age groups. It’s fun seeing what works and making small improvements each summer."
And while the staff bring structure and leadership, the kids bring the energy, and their own strong opinions on what makes the camp special.
"It's really fun," said Madeline Manastyr, "We do field trips and crafts. My favourite was Fun Time Pottery. We went to Brandon and got to paint our own pottery."
Isabelle Perkins another camper said the same, "Day camp is just an opportunity for kids to get out of the house and play with other kids," she said. "My favourite part is playing with friends, and Fun Time Pottery too."
Perkins also praised the leaders. "Jewell and Miss. Hill plan fun things for us," she said. "They’re awesome."
For parents, the program provides a reliable, local option to keep their kids busy during the long summer days. For the kids, it's a way to beat boredom, make memories, and try new things. And for the organizers, it's a meaningful way to give back to the community.
"I think it's really important," said Hill. "Not just because it's fun, but because it gives kids a chance to socialize, explore, and enjoy summer in a safe environment."
Registration for the remaining weeks is still open, and spots are limited. Families can reach out via email at hrcthemedays@gmail.com.
Whether it's crafts, water parks, or painting pottery, MacGregor's Theme Days are giving kids something they'll be talking about long after summers over.
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