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There’s still time for parents to enroll their kids in a Punjabi Language and Cultural Camp at Simon Fraser University’s Surrey campus. It runs July 19 to 30.

The camp, launched last year, was so successful that the age range of participants this year has been extended to include 12 and 13 year olds. Children aged 8 to 11 participated in last year’s camp.

The camp is designed to help the children of Punjabi-speaking immigrant families familiarize themselves with their family’s first language and culture. It targets children from Punjabi-speaking families who have beginner to intermediate language skills in their mother tongue but are more comfortable speaking English and with Canadian culture because they were born or raised here.

“Based on last year’s experience and feedback, many parents saw a difference in not only their children’s language usage and comprehension, but also their attitude toward their heritage and culture,” says Joanne Curry, executive director of SFU’s Surrey campus. “The children became very enthusiastic.”

Sarbjit Dhami is the camp’s main teacher and has taught at local Khalsa schools. She and two volunteer assistants run the program, which includes many cultural activities – such as Indian songs, dances and games – in addition to language instruction. Students are also introduced to traditional Indian musical instruments and sports.

“Although some Punjabi-language programs already exist in the community, the parents who come to SFU are looking for a more integrated approach,” says Curry. “They seek something that not only teaches their children the language but also instills in them some understanding of their heritage and culture.”

Parents of children who attended last year’s summer camp were so pleased with the results that many asked SFU to turn the camp into an after-school program.

Sessions run 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Monday to Friday, and the cost is $300. Three full scholarships are available from HSBC’s (Hong Kong and Shanghai Banking Corporation) Panorama branch.

For more information about the scholarships or registration, call 778.782.7597 or e-mail srycamps@sfu.ca.

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