SYBENE — The Sybene Head Start Center has always aimed to provide quality care for working families in Lawrence County, but this summer they have added a new program that will reach children that they may not have been able to serve before.

For the first time, the center will offer a summer enrichment program for school-aged children up to 11 years old.

“We looked at what the families in this area needed and that’s what seemed to be needed the most,” said Diane Larsen, Head Start childcare manager.

In the past, she said, desperate parents have called to find care for their children during summer break. Larsen hopes that this will fulfill their wishes.

The program, which runs from 6:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Sybene, will feature a number of age-appropriate educational activities, Larsen said. Activities will include science demonstrations, computer activities and field trips to parks and to museums such as the Highland Museum and Discovery Center in Ashland, Ky., she said. Staff will put an emphasis on reading and the boosting of children’s literacy skills, she said.

The program will not be all work and no play, Larsen said. There will be sports and an exercise program, as well, and a “splash day” each week that will feature water activities.

Meals will be served.

Larsen said a similar program was started at the head start center in Proctorville in 2004 and it has proven to be successful.

Children can come on days and hours that are based on their parent’s schedule; they do not have to come full time, five days a week to be enrolled, Larsen said. The program is paid out of parents’ pockets or can be covered through state childcare subsidy for those who meet the income guidelines.

For more information about the program call Larsen at (740) 377-4710, the Sybene center at (740) 894-4100 or the Ironton Head Start Administration Office at (740) 533-9077.