LATER gets children outdoors and active during summer vacation

David and Nicolle Byrgiel, Naomi Sommerville and Nick Gajdos always enjoy summer evenings at Schaumburg parks.

Schaumburg Park District’s free LATER program at Brandenburg Park, 600 N. Knollwood Drive, and Timbercrest Park, 120 W. Beech Drive, allows area children to spend time outdoors in two beautiful park spaces during the summer. Schaumburg Park Foundation funds the drop-in program’s daily supplies and games, staff and special Theme Friday activities.

Camp counselors lead youth ages 6 to 17 in a variety of group games, sports and crafts from 5:30 to 9 p.m. on weeknights during the program.

“It gets me away from the television and video games,” said David Byrgiel, 13. “I’ve become obsessed with playing the card game, Speed.”

David’s 10-year-old sister, Nicolle, also enjoys trading the couch for a park. She loves to play card games and a few games of dodgeball at LATER.

While dodgeball may be a LATER favorite among all of the children, many participants like 11-year-old Sommerville improve their offensive basketball skills during the off season.

“I’ve come to LATER for a few years,” said Sommerville. “I like playing basketball with friends outside and the park is a great place to practice.”

Along with structured card and board games, children also enjoy playground favorites including tag as well as new games and activities.

Every Friday evening LATER session has special themes and activities including crazy games, science experiments, superhero cape making and pizza parties.

“LATER is a good way to get out of the house during the summer,” said Gajdos, 10. “The greatest part is making new friends through fun activities.”

For more information, call 847/985-2115.

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