Elementary school children in west Sparks are invited to join a new and improved drop-in playground program this summer offered through the Sparks Parks and Recreation Department. The program takes place from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Monday through Friday at Ardmore Park, 1200 12th St.

Those attending the playground program can take part in organized outdoor games, arts and crafts, sports and other special activities. A free lunch is provided on a daily basis by the Northern Nevada Food Bank.

The program is not a day care alternative, according to parks and recreation officials, but a recreation option designed for children who benefit from participation in an organized group setting. It’s operated on a drop-in basis, so children are free to come and go. Thanks to grant funding provided by the Nell J. Redfield Foundation, the program is free to children in Kindergarten through the sixth grade.

Registration requirements include the completion of an emergency information form prior to participation. For more information, call 353-7780 or e-mail recinfo@cityofsparks.us.