Summer for children is a time to unwind from the pressures of the school year and to explore things they might never get to do during the rest of the year. The summer camp at the Waterfront Center in Oyster Bay helps children try things that are not typical to an inland summer camp. Campers get to open their minds by learning things not traditionally taught in school about our local ecology.

Through qualified naturalists, certified sailing instructors and other skilled staff the Waterfront Center offers various discovery courses, swimming, and adventure-based programs during the summer months. The goal is to have fun through experimental learning. Subject matter varies from marine and environmental science to maritime and local history. Most groups also participate in dinghy sailing, fishing off the Senator Carl Marcellino Pier, kayaking, and trips aboard the historic Christeen oyster sloop.

The following are two poems that were written by campers from the Sound Swashbucklers group for those entering grades 3 and 4 and the Skippers group for grades 7, 8 and 9. These poems were created as part of one of many exercises to help children explore the marine environment through a variety of participatory activities. At the camp children also perform science experiments, play games, listen to stories, collect and identify local marine creatures, and explore the nearby beach and marsh area habitats.

Poem by Silvana Morra from the Skippers group

I have a waterfront view of the most beautiful things, some I have never recognized.

I begin to notice the glistening water ahead, of gleaming ripples and tranquil boats.

I take a breath, and the scent of marine life overpowers me.

I look beyond and something angelic catches my eye.

Something fierce, thriving, strong, bold, swift, graceful, fast, and exquisite.

I watch as it passes me by, leaving behind thoughts of strength and courage.

I think about the visual power and security it possesses, but also the calm and flowing gestures it portrays.

A boat cruising along the water can count as beautiful, and this definitely is one of the most beautiful things I've ever seen.

I watch the sun glimmer on the boat, as if it were the brightest candle that would light the whole world.

I admire the smiling children aboard as they work together to raise the sail.

How lucky these children must be, to sail on such a legend, to sail on such elegance, to sail on such a vigorous vessel, and to be part of a blissful crew, alongside Pete.

I now realize how lucky and grateful I am to be attending the Waterfront Center.

And most of all, to be sailing on the Christeen.

Poem by Caroline Cosgrove from the Sound Swashbucklers group

I sit on the Christeen just dreaming away

about the water and about the bay

I wonder why mussels squeeze tight so the stars go away

I wonder why minnows swim fast, fast away

I wonder why beach grass is ever so tall

or if you dig deep you shall just fall

I wonder, I wonder, I wonder

about things that can make my heart sing

The 2007 summer camp schedule will be available in December 2006. It is suggested that you sign your child up early because sessions fill up fast. All 2006 sessions sold out and this is anticipated again for next summer. There are partial scholarships available for all Junior Summer Programs to help make exploring Oyster Bay accessible to kids of all backgrounds. Take a look at the Waterfront Center's website for more information about the summer camp and other programs for people of all ages throughout the year. The website address is www.TheWaterfrontCenter.org.

For more information about boating, environmental matters and other water-related activities throughout the Oyster Bay area you can email the author at Jaime.VanDyke@gmail.com or reach her at 946-9464.