While the Playground Program ended on August 15th, be sure to subscribe to our e-newsletter for announcements about the 2025 Playground Program!
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Playground Program FAQ's:
- What is the Playground Program? The Playground Program is a 5-week, hands-on, interactive program that happens in the Summer. The program typically runs Monday-Thursday 9am-12pm.
- 5 Weeks? I thought I read it was 8-weeks? In 2024, each location was open for 5-weeks, however, other locations ran different weeks to maximize the opportunities kids have to experience the Playground Program. If a Phillipsburg child went to the Delaware Heights Playground June 24-July 25, they can then could have also gone to Green Street or Firth for July 29-August 15. This helped accommodate for children who enroll in the Summer Learning Academy, go on vacation, or split time in different households throughout the summer. 2025 dates are to be determined.
- Where WAS the Playground Program in 2024? In Phillipsburg, the locations are: Walter's Park, Delaware Heights, Firth (Corner of Bates/Marshall St.), and Green Street (behind the Primary Schoo)l. Additionally, the Phillipsburg Housing Authority will host the program at their playground for residents. The Borough of Alpha will bring back the Playground Program again to their Pavilion/Park for children of residents in Alpha. 2025 locations are to be determined.
- 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 much more! Each week also features a theme! When the calendar of activities are available, they'll be published on our Website, Social Media, and copies at the park.
- What was new in 2024? Along with many new activities, awesome mentors, and special visitors, the FYC Team partnered with Norwescap Food Bank to bring the Summer Lunch Program to Walter's Park, Delaware Heights, and Alpha. Children who attended the PHA location had access to lunch at the EnVision Center all 9-weeks of summer! In total 791 free lunches were served in just 5-weeks of the Playground Program at the 3 locations.
- What ages can participate? 6-12 year olds
- 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. Copies are available at the FYC, linked below to download/print, and at the Playgrounds during program hours. Staff can also mail a copy upon request. Just call the FYC Office at 908-454-7281.
- Is there a cost? No. The program is free for residents of Phillipsburg and Alpha..
- 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.
- 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 2-hour 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.
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Weekly Activity Calendars feature the highlights, but more activities are planned each day!
Check out some highlights from Summer 2024 Playground Program...
