To open or not to open? That was the question just a few weeks ago, when it seemed unclear if the virulent spread of the COVID-19 pandemic would allow for the opening of Connecticut day camps. Eventually, we’re happy to report, the question was answered with a resounding – and carefully considered – “Yes!” The opening of day camps would be delayed, but not cancelled on account of coronavirus. 

Now, summer is in full swing … and Connecticut campers are enjoying lots of fun in the sun – with social distancing and other health safety rules in place.

Here are some scenes from JCC day camps around the state!

In Woodbridge

The JCC Day Camp is located in Woodbridge, on the magnificent 54-acre campus of the Jewish Community Center of Greater New Haven. For more than 20 years it has been offering children of all backgrounds a summer filled with sports, arts, outdoor adventure, swimming and specialty programs. 

Pictured here: Campers get a good workout playing the popular Israeli game of Gaga; and a coach – protecting his campers by wearing a mask – gives a young camper tips on how to hit that t-ball. 

IN STAMFORD

At “Day Camps@The J,” the Stamford Jewish Community Center’ summer programs for kids, campers learn life skills (and hone their social skills) while playing sports, creating art projects and testing the limits on our adventure course.

Pictured here: Day Camps@The J director Jason Samuel greets campers Rose and Adele Forman on the first day of what promises to be a summer of fun. And, one young camper practices his kicks for a game of soccer – just one of many fun activities to look forward to! (Photos by Nicolas Mancheno). 

IN WINDSOR

Camp Shalom,the summer day camp of the Mandell JCC of Greater Hartford, is located on more than 100 acres of woods and waterfront in Windsor. 

Pictured here: Campers flex their creative muscles in Maplewoodshop, the camp’s  new woodworking program; while on the waterfront, campers get ready to hit the Rainbow River Reservoir using their individual kayaks (aka “funyaks”).