Cochranites can be slow to commit and summer camp registrations are feeling it.

While registrations are trickling in, Doug Chapman, Owner/Operator, 4Cats Art Studio, says they are seeing more last minute registrants. Chapman says in talking with customers, people seem to be less committal this year.

"I think way more people are doing stay-cations this year.  I haven't talked to a whole lot of people that are going places. Even when I ask adult classes, 'What are you doing this summer?', most hadn't made any plans yet; which is really weird."

Chapman is unsure whether lower registrations have to do with a down turned economy or the reduction of the children's arts tax credit.

"The biggest change that we can think of from this year to last year was the tax credit, the one that was specifically for arts."

The tax credit for 2016 will see a reduction in credit from $500 to $250, and in 2017 the credit will be eliminated all together.

Chapman is hoping the reduction of the tax does not discourage parents from looking towards the arts for extracurriculars.

"If kids aren't exposed to things, you're not going to have your next great Canadian artist if they aren't actually starting it when they are younger learning about other artists or other techniques."

Chapman says they have a variety of day camps available for both girls and boys, lasting anywhere from a day break to 4 half days.

Deb Maxwell, Recreation Programmer for the Town of Cochrane says they have lower numbers in their camps as well this year.

"Every year we see fluctuations in camp numbers. Last year we were sold out, this year we still have spots available. The economy could be a factor this year but there is not a sure way to tell."

The Town of Cochrane offers up camps for both 3-5 and 6-12 year olds.

The good news for those late bookers, is that this year, you may still be in luck.

The following organizations/ businesses may still have openings.

 

  • 4Cats Art Studio 403-981-4228
  • Town of Cochrane 403-851-2534
  • Boys and Girls Club of Cochrane & Area 403-981-2020
  • Christopher Robin's 403-462-7870
  • Cochrane and Area Humane Society 403-932-2072
  • Spray Lake Sawmills Family Sports Centre 403-932-1635
  • Wish I May Parties wishimayparties@gmail.com
  • TLC 403-981-8521
  • Snap Dance Studios 403-932-1330
  • Bragg Creek (Camp in the Creek) 403-949-4277 ext 2
  • Mountains Reach Educators 403-700-8144