Brookhaven Recreation Department has a summer lineup thatincludes something for children of all ages, whether they enjoykickball, basketball, tennis, gymnastics, art or cooking.

Recreation Department Program Director Karen Harveston saidactivities are all aimed at keeping children involved and activeduring the summer months when it might be their inclination to stayindoors.

“It gives them something to do besides sitting inside looking atthe TV,” she said. “It’s also a good babysitter.”

Activities at the main recreation department building, therewill be activities beginning as early as May 31 and running as lateas July 26. There are also classes like Adult Yoga and Martial Artsthat go on throughout the year, Harveston said.

In addition, with the lack of participation in the A.L. LottBaseball Program, there will be a new summer program beginningThursday, called “Summer Fun Days.”

The “Fun Days” will convene at the Dr. A.L. Lott Sportsplex, andwill be free to the public on Mondays and Thursdays from 5 p.m. to8 p.m. Parents are encouraged to attend with their children, and tovolunteer if they have extra time. Concessions will be available,and children can look forward to activities such as basketball,kickball, volleyball and softball.

In addition to organized activities, Harveston said, the sprayparks at City and Bicentennial parks have been open since May 1 andare starting to draw a crowd.

“When they get out of school, sometimes they’re even walkinghome and they’ll walk through it just to get wet,” she said.

The spray parks are open from 10 a.m. until 7 p.m.

Summer activities can be important for children in a worldfixated with both electronics that keep children indoors, andchildhood obesity, which is a concern at the national forefrontright now.

“Just get them some exercise,” she said. “When we were children,we got up and went out, and we stayed out all day long. I don’tthink kids do that today, and that can be a lot of help.”

Meanwhile, there is also a yoga class for adults that meets onMonday and Wednesday morning from 8 – 9:15 a.m., and then onTuesdays and Thursdays from 6 – 7:15 p.m.

Anyone with further questions about the summer activities forthe Brookhaven Recreation Department is encouraged to call BRD at601-833-3791.