Children can learn about everything from the solar system to basic sewing at 4-H Summer Fun classes.

Thursday marks the last day of open registration. All youth ages five to 13 are eligible to enroll.

“It gives the kids something to do in the summer and something to look forward to,” said Michelle Stumbo an extension agent with 4-H and Youth Development for Richmond County. “They’re actively learning and involved, they’re physically active - and they’re having fun and meeting new people.”

Carol Chambers of Rockingham helped her 10-year-old daughter Maggi sign up for a zoology tour, a farm tour and a healthy living class at the extension office Monday afternoon.

“She’s done it before and have a good time,” said Chambers. “It’s fun and educational.”

In-person registration is required. While some programs are free, others may require a fee to cover class expenses and supplies.

According to Stumbo, they’ve changed around a few of the programs and are following more of a day camp style this year, with most days starting at 9 a.m. and ending around 3:30 p.m.

Field trip destinations include the North Carolina Zoo, the Wadesboro Rotary planetarium, an alpaca farm and a precious gem and gold business. When they aren’t on the road, children will be around town visiting places like the fire department, or receiving in-house instruction from a variety of local volunteers.

“The Crime Scene Investigation class is going to be really cool,” said Stumbo. “Major Clemmens is going to teach the kids about investigative techniques, and about what a crime is and what it looks like. Glen Harris is going to bring the police dogs over and do a demonstration.”

Two one-night camping trips are also available - one for ages five to eight, another for ages nine to 13.

“If one week of camp is too long, they can test it out for $25,” said Stumbo.

Two classes are already full: Cloverbud Adventures in Natural Resources and Holiday Adventures.

For more information, contact Richmond County 4-H at 997-8255 or visit richmond.ces.ncsu.edu.