Parents of children in grades 3-6 have a new option this summer to keep their children focused on learning while having some fun when school is not in session-Kids College 2006.

HACC, Central Pennsylvania's Community College, will offer this education-focused enrichment program at both its Lancaster and Harrisburg campuses. The Lancaster Campus will offer a full-day camp from 8 a.m. to 3:15 p.m., June 19-22 and June 26-29, while the Harrisburg Campus will conduct a half-day camp from 8 a.m. to noon, July 10-13.

"We have planned this program to be very similar to our college concept," said Lori Smith-Mitchell, community education coordinator for HACC's Lancaster Campus. Participants in the program will fill their days with varied courses, engaging instruction and, most importantly, a whole lot of fun."

Kids College offers a variety of study topics, providing a captivating learning experience in the areas of art, history, language, math, reading, science and writing.

"Studies have shown that students who participate in quality enrichment programs ultimately do better in school," added Smith-Mitchell. "This extended learning opportunity will enhance the childrens knowledge and understanding of various subjects and provide organized learning opportunities that can help boost their self-esteem and self-confidence."

Tuition for a full-day program is $185 per week, which includes five courses. If a participant registers for two weeks, the tuition is $320. Tuition for the half-day program is $95, which includes three courses. Most of the activity fees are included in the tuition; however some of the arts, crafts and science courses have a very low cost materials fee. This fee is not included in the tuition and must be paid on the first day of camp.

All courses are on a first-come basis and seats are limited in each class. The student teacher ratio is 12 to 1. If the course is filled, the child can be placed in another course offered during the same period within his or her age group.

The deadline to register for Kids College 2006 at the Lancaster Campus is June 15. The deadline for the Harrisburg Campus is July 1. To register, call the Lancaster Campus at 717-358-2901 or the Harrisburg Campus at 717-780-2414.

For more information, email Smith-Mitchell by clicking on the email address below or visit the Website listed below, and go to Noncredit for a complete list of courses offered and an enrollment form.