The FYC, Town of Phillipsburg, Borough of Alpha, Pohatcong Township, and the Phillipsburg Housing Authority are excited to present...the 2026 Playground Program!
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Playground Program FAQ's:
- What is the Playground Program? The Playground Program is a hands-on, interactive program that runs throughout the summer. The program runs Monday-Thursday 9am-12pm. The Alpha/Pohat location is 5-weeks while the P'burg and PHA locations are 7-weeks.
- 7-Weeks? I thought I read it was 5-weeks? New this year, all P'burg and PHA Locations will expand to be open for 7-weeks! This will help maximize enrichment opportunities for children who enroll in the Summer Learning Academy, go on vacation, or split time in different households throughout the summer.
- Where is the 2026 Playground Program? In Phillipsburg, the locations are: Walters Park, Delaware Heights, and Bentley Field (next to the Phillipsburg Free Public Library). Additionally, the Phillipsburg Housing Authority will host the program at Heckman Terrace (Anderson St.) and expand to include Heckman Terrace Annex (Elm/Green Sts.) for their residents. The Borough of Alpha and Pohatcong Township are bringing back the Playground Program again to Alpha Park & Pavilion for their residents.
- What is the daily schedule like? A typical day includes large group activities, craft kits, games, and competitions. Special visitors are planned throughout the summer to enrich the program. Past visitors included Police Officers, Fire Departments, EMS Responders, Therapy Dogs, Cultural and Diversity Experiences, Sports groups, and so much more! Each week also features a special theme. Check out the weekly activity calendars from the 2025 Program below!
- What is new in 2026? The FYC and Phillipsburg Authority are partnering to expand the Summer Playground Program to TWO locations for their residents! Plus, all P'burg and PHA locations will be open for 7-weeks, rather than just 5!
- Will lunch be provided at the Playground Program? Yes! The FYC is once again partnering with Norwescap Food Bank to bring the Summer Lunch Program to Walters Park, Delaware Heights, Bentley Field, and Alpha Playgrounds! Plus, children who attend the PHA locations have access to lunch at the EnVision Center. In 2025, a total of 791 free lunches were served in just 5-weeks of the Playground Program!
- What ages can participate? 6-12 year olds. Children must be 6-years-old by the start of their community's program. Children who turn 13 during the program will "age out" and can no longer attend.
- How do I sign up? The only form required is the FYC Waiver/Emergency Contact Form. Once this is complete, your child can show up at the program to check-in for the daily activities. No fees apply. Copies are available at the FYC, linked above to download/print, and at the Playgrounds during program hours.
- Is there a cost? No. The program is free for residents of the Phillipsburg Housing Authority, Phillipsburg, Alpha, and Pohatcong.
- Do I have to send my child to every day? No, you can pick and choose which days your child attends. Attendance is not mandatory and pre-registration is not required. Children will sign-in each day they attend.
- How are staff trained? All FYC staff are listed with the Department of Children and Families, Office of Licensing. Staff are First Aid/CPR certified and take a series of required Child Health & Safety Classes. Staff also have a Mandated Reporting Training, as well as Orientation. All Staff are required to have a Criminal History Record and Child Abuse Clearance on file, per regulations.
Check out activity calendars and photos from the 2025 Playground Program...
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