Everyone knows the old adage: You can’t teach an old dog new tricks. Many people assume that as they grow older it’s not possible to master a new skill or refresh a once-beloved hobby. Yet adults are perfectly capable of learning – whether it’s art, music or a sport.
Known for its youth-oriented programs, the Mount Pleasant Recreation Department also offers several classes and lessons for adults – giving grownups a chance to get in on the fun.
April Adams, Marketing and PR Coordinator for the Recreation Department, is a self-proclaimed “lifetime learner” and she encourages other adults to explore lessons in everything from piano to swimming.
“People think if they didn’t pick up piano lessons as a kid they can’t learn it now, but that’s not true,” she says.
Music lessons available this summer include:
- Piano for ages 7 and up
- Drums and percussion (congas, bongos, etc.)
- Voice lessons for students of any age or skill level
- Both beginner and intermediate guitar lessons are available for ages 7 and up
Here on the South Carolina coast, swimming is a part of any Lowcountry summer. Whether it’s the neighborhood pool or a trip to the beach, residents have easy access to water activities – perfect for battling the sweltering heat and humidity.
The Mount Pleasant Recreation Aquatics Program provides a safe and inviting environment that is accessible to the community. The R. L. Jones Center Pool off Long Point Road and the Park West Pool in the northern part of town are available for recreational swimming, lessons and youth summer swim leagues.
According to a survey by the American Red Cross, only 56 percent of Americans can perform five core swimming skills, which include “jumping or stepping into water over one's head,
returning to the surface to tread water or float for one minute, circling around and identifying an exit, swimming 25 yards to that point and then exiting the water.”
Adams says adults are sometimes hesitant to admit they can’t swim or just aren’t comfortable in the water, so one-on-one lessons are available for adults. Advanced lessons are also available for those ages 18 and up interested in improving their skills or competing.
Tennis is another popular sport here in the Lowcountry. Players can grab their rackets almost year-round – whether in a competitive league or just for fun. Adams says the adult tennis program is probably the most popular with clinics for beginner and seasoned players as well as programs for seniors.
Wondering if this is the summer you can learn something new? Here are 4 great reasons to consider signing up:
- Book lessons for you and your children and make it a memorable summer as you both master a new skill or engage in a fresh hobby. It’s a great way to spend quality time with your children and get them off the screens and at the piano or on the tennis court for fresh air and exercise.
- The Recreation Department offers lower rates to town residents so the cost of lessons can be more affordable than the private sector.
- The instructors are highly qualified and community focused. Adams says, “Our instructors are so great at their jobs, and they create a reputation for themselves in the community.”
- Whether you’re 8 years old or 38 years old, commit to lifelong learning. It’s never too late to pursue a passion.
“It simply makes you a well-rounded adult or individual,” Adams says.
For more information on summer programs through the Mount Pleasant Recreation Department, view their online summer brochure, InMotion Magazine.
