Splash Zone holds holiday event for children

zsrnis@morningjournal.com @MJ_ZachSrnis on Twitter Splash Zone Aquatic Center, 95 W. Hamilton St. in Oberlin, hosted a Presidents Day Camp with games, swimming and crafts for children who had the day off from school Feb. 18. “We have the kids for the day,” said Rachel Gell, a program coordinator at Splash Zone. “The kids have the day off today from school, so this event is a way for them to come out, have something to do and give parents a break from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.” Gell said she was very pleased with the turnout. “We had a lot of kids show up today,” she said. “That makes it more exciting. There is more we can do with a larger group.” Gell said the event opened with a U.S.-themed craft. “We had each kid make a portion of an American flag which we will later piece together and display,” she said. “We also played a game, ‘Defend the President,’ where we have one kid protect another kid who is playing the role of the president. “The other kids then try and hit the president with a dodgeball.” Gell said the group also played ga-ga ball. “It’s similar to dodgeball,” she said. “It’s played in an enclosed space where players hit the ball with an open hand. “They don’t pick the ball up and throw it, it mostly stays near the ground, so it’s safer for younger kids.” Gell said the group was to go swimming. “We have a good-sized indoor pool for them to enjoy,” she said. “A lot of them get excited about swimming, especially this time of year when the outdoor pools are closed.” Gell said she had hoped the children would enjoy themselves. “I hope the day’s activities tire them out a little; they have a lot of energy,” she said. “I hope they just have a good time and enjoy being here at Splash Zone. It’s always fun when we get to do these kids events.” The next children event at the center is Feb. 28 with “Dr. Seuss Day.” Children are encouraged to come dressed with Dr. Seuss in mind. There will be a reading of a Dr. Seuss book, swimming, crafts and other activities. The program starts at 10 a.m., and it will be $2 per member or $3.50 for non members.

ZACHARY SRNIS — THE MORNING JOURNAL Siblings Ella Feldman, 5, left, and Noah Feldman, 8, right, of Oberlin, collaborate with Christina Fridenstien, 8, also from Oberlin, middle, on piecing together an American flag Feb. 18 at Splash Zone in Oberlin.

ZACHARY SRNIS — THE MORNING JOURNAL Children play ga-ga ball Feb. 18 at Splash Zone in Oberlin.