gmhTODAY 03 gmhToday July Aug 2015 | Page 55

Summer Fun

Summer can be a great opportunity to relax and spend quality time with your kids . With so many free hours , however , it can rapidly descend into chaos , with your kids constantly whining that they ’ re bored and getting into mischief to entertain themselves . Instead of battling your children all summer , here are a few local activities that will make the most of these bright sunny days .

Gilroy
GILROY GARDENS FAMILY THEME PARK Surrounded by beautiful gardens and exotic trees , this theme park is a great escape for the entire family . The park features dozens of rides and attractions , such as its splash garden , Pinnacles Rock Makes , and Water Play Area for the smaller children . While your children enjoy the rides , they will also be learning about horticulture and the importance of plant and wildlife .
PREDATOR ’ S ARCHERY If your kids are fans of the Hunger Games , then they ’ ll love this archery shop ! Predator ’ s Archery provides archery lessons for individuals and families of all skill levels . Their staff are very friendly , patient , and supportive of kids . They take great care in teaching every individual and giving helpful tips so that your child has a very safe , fun experience . The shop provides equipment for those who don ’ t have their own , so there ’ s no reason not to visit !
JOHNNY 6 STABLES Learning to ride a horse is a great way to enjoy the outdoors and get some exercise . Johnny 6 Stables teaches a very safe , traditional type of English Riding called Saddleseat , which is the basis for all types of riding styles . Children as young as 3 can learn to ride in the Mommy or Daddy and Me classes . Grandparents can even join in and learn to ride or drive a buggy . Most of the lessons are private , one-on-one format so that your kids can learn at a speed that they ’ re comfortable with .
Morgan Hill
THE LITTLE GYM OF MORGAN HILL This gym is perfect for children ages 4 months to 12 years of age . It offers a diverse line- up of summer programs that emphasize focus and the development of fine motor skills . There are parent / child classes for infants through 3 years old . For preschoolers up to grade school , the gym offers gymnastics , dance class , sports development , and karate . There is also a very helpful Parent Survival Night , where kids have a place to burn off energy while their parents get some much deserved quiet time .
THE MORGAN HILL AQUATICS CENTER On hot summer days , the Aquatics Center is an ideal place to cool off and have a great time . The center features two large waterslides , a water play feature , a splash pad , a full size competition pool , and a warm instructional pool . Parents can pull up a lawn chair either in the sun or beneath an umbrella and watch their kids for hours . There are plenty of lifeguards keeping a watchful eye on the kids so that everyone has a safe , fun time .
LANA ’ S DANCE STUDIO Not only is this a great place to learn to dance , it ’ s also a wonderful way to burn off excess energy . Lana ’ s Dance Studio provides a positive , nurturing environment for dancers 2 years and up . Their recreational program offers classes in Tap , Jazz , Ballet , Hip Hop , and Lyrical , meaning there ’ s plenty for your child to explore !
San Martin
CLIP CLOP KIDS Clip Clop Kids offers non-competitive horse riding lessons for preschool kids and older . Lessons are tailored to each individual and include learning how to groom and care for a horse , ground activities , horseback riding , and fun horse games . Horses are chosen to fit their rider and the teacher , Ms . Tabatha , always ensures that the lesson is a fun and safe experience . Your child will gain confidence and security and have a great time doing it !
HARVEY BEAR COUNTY PARK Sometimes all you need is a fun frolic in the outdoors . Harvey Bear County Park is great for hiking , horse riding , biking , and picnics . It has over 35 miles of trails that run through shady oak forests and along breezy ridgelines with scenic views of the country . Their visitor center has exhibits of local wildlife , including live reptiles , amphibians , and fish native to the park . Be sure to check out their Play Here Guide , which lists the dates of fun activities like Ranger Story Time , Birding for Kids , and In the Park After Dark Movie Nights .
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GILROY • MORGAN HILL • SAN MARTIN JULY / AUGUST 2015 gmhtoday . com
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