Summer Programs for Children at Usdan

FOR Michaela Mahon, 15, of Syosset, a yearly summer routine of going to arts camp began back in 2003, when her mother, Joan, got a new job.

Facing the prospect of less time at home, Ms. Mahon and her husband, Larry, looked for something meaningful to occupy their daughter’s time.

“Usdan fit the bill,” said Ms. Mahon, referring to the Usdan Center for the Creative and Performing Arts, a not-for-profit day camp in Wheatley Heights. This summer will be Michaela’s ninth attending Usdan, where she has taken courses like painting, ceramics, life drawing and fashion design.

“I’ve never really been the sportiest type of person,” Michaela said. “Honestly, if I didn’t go to Usdan I don’t know what I would do with myself for the summer.”

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