Winter Break Camps Keep Kids Engaged

Dec. 6, 2022

Tomorrow, December 7, registration will open for winter break camps across the city. The departments of Arts and Culture, Parks and Recreation, and Family & Community Services all have free or low-cost offerings to keep children engaged during the APS winter break. Providing quality children’s programming is a priority of Mayor Keller’s Administration.

Family & Community Services’ annual Community Center camps provide enriching activities and field trips, making them an excellent option for parents who work during the day. While schedules vary across community centers, special activities this year include collaborations with the Juan Tabo library, ice skating, and decorating gingerbread houses. Camp runs from 7:30 A.M to 5:30 P.M every weekday of winter break and provides lunch and snack to all participants. Registration is only $10.

“Our Community Center is a great option for after school and during the school breaks. Our kids enjoy going to the community center to play in the game room, make arts and crafts, and run at the new playground,” said parents George and Malissa Lyons. “During school breaks they enjoy going on field trips, being around other kids and having something fun to do while they are out of school.” “As parents we appreciate having a safe space for our kids to go, the convenient location and hours, and the helpful staff who welcome our kids.”

The three-day School Break Explorer Camp at the Open Space Visitor Center takes kids hiking and exploring in Albuquerque’s abundant open space, as well as doing hands-on science, literacy, and art activities.

“Outdoor education benefits children’s physical and mental health, improves academic performance, and helps kids develop a commitment to the environment,” said Parks and Recreation Director Dave Simon, “An Open Space camp can turn Winter Break into a Winner Break.”   

Weekly Stories in the Sky and Music in the Sky programs at the Balloon Museum also offer free early childhood education featuring stories, music, movement, and art for children aged preschool to first grade and their parents/caretakers. Programming happens every Wednesday at 9:30 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. December themes involve creating usable art: mobiles and wind chimes, photo frames, wreaths, and hats.

Registration for the camps is first come, first served and spaces are limited. Visit play.cabq.gov to sign up.