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Parks dept. offers programs for individuals with special needs
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Eighteen-year-old Griffin Jacobson is shown enjoying an armadillo at the Parks and Recreation "Zooriffic" program. (Photo supplied)
MONROE - The Monroe Parks and Recreation Department has several summer programs for individuals with special needs.

Community Connections: This is a new, free program for boys and girls with special needs. Children will learn about fire safety, nutrition, bike safety and more and will meet EMS, fire, police, dental and medical staff from the community who will display their vehicles and equipment. Students in first grade through high school will meet Mondays from June 12 through July 24. They will not meet July 3. High school graduates or older will meet Wednesdays from June 14 through July 26. The times for both age groups are 4:15 to 5 p.m. at the Recreation North shelter.

Special Needs Swimming Lessons: Participants with special needs must be able to handle their own personal care or have a caregiver with them. They need to stand in the pool by themselves and be continent. Swim lessons for children in first grade through high school are from 5:15 to 6 p.m. Mondays, June 12 through July 24. Lessons for high school graduates and older will be from 5:15 to 6 p.m. Wednesdays, June 14 through July 26. The cost for both age groups is $12 for residents and $22 for non-residents.

Mad Science Show: This program is for children in first grade through high school and will be from 3 to 4 p.m. July 28 at the Monroe Public Library. The program is free, but children must register to reserve a spot.

Toadly Wild Show: This program is designed to introduce the world of reptiles to children in first grade through high school. The program includes riddles, sign language and puppets and will be from 10 to 11 a.m. Aug. 10 at Northeast Park. The program is free, but children must register to reserve a spot.

Soda Pups Show: Children in first grade through high school can meet performing dogs named after favorite sodas. The dogs will speed through an agility course, perform amazing tricks and show their best manners. The program is from 3 to 4 p.m. Aug. 16 at the Monroe Public Library. The program is free, but children must register to reserve a spot.

Participants must register for each program at Monroe Parks and Recreation Department's temporary office at 1064 5th Ave. (across from PDC). For more information, call the office at 608-329-2460.