We’ve been discovering the variety of kids’ activities they offer, from day camps to building stuffed bears to beading to movie nights, and tennis or swimming lessons.  Grace and Ella have been having a blast and there’s always some artwork or project they’re bringing home with them.  The day camp in particular is great fun and unless things get really rainy, it’s all held outdoors under the shade of trees, so the kids get a full day of fresh air and sunshine without the burn.  And that means – thankfully – they usually get to sleep nice and early at night (my concern here is for the children’s health and well-being, of course).  Most activities are available for a fee to non-residents of the resort, but always check ahead and book for activities, as they fill up fast.

Students over 8 actually live on campus and come from around the world. Our favourite part was seeing kids practicing tap, or bassoon, or their lines, while having lunch or hanging out between classes – the kids really take their arts seriously, while having a lot of fun. The message is “be creative” and our daughter got it loud and clear – she’s booked for next year – but there’s still time to sign up for programs this August.

Our daughter’s 5 – 8 group, called the Leaping Leonardo’s, put on a complete play at the end of their week, in addition to the pottery, paintings, etc. that they created in that time. As well, they did a field trip and went swimming at the Lake.

Now here’s a plan for those of you who aren’t within easy driving distance of Shawnigan lake and you want your youngster in the day camp: get a camping spot or a B&B or a hotel for a week, then the kids have their Arts Academy and you have your days to lounge, take in all the local artisans, or our favourite, head to Merridale Cider and their excellent restaurant.