Daddy-daughter time

Josh Bledsoe’s new picture book “Hammer and Nails” is required reading for Father’s Day. Recommended for kids ages 4-8, “Hammer and Nails” tells the story of how Daddy and his daughter, Darcy, combine his list of chores with her plans for a scuttled play date to make a lovely day together. Each of them ventures beyond their comfort zones as Darcy wields a hammer, and Daddy plays nail salon. (Of course, Dad also makes sure they squeeze in a nap!)

Jessica Warwick’s illustrations bring depth and humor to the charming story. It’s easy for parents to get caught up in tackling to-do lists, but Bledsoe gently reminds his adult readers that slowing down to teach our kids how to accomplish tasks — and opening our hearts so we can learn from them — is time well spent.

“Hammer and Nails” book by Josh Bledsoe, $17.95, www.amazon.com.

ESF Summer Camp

This camp season promises many exciting opportunities for children to learn new skills, form and nurture friendships and create lifelong memories. &nbsp; Our goal for our 41st&nbsp;camp season, through best-in-class curriculum, is for boys and girls, ages 3-15, to grow up ESF - whether it&rsquo;s sports, science, technology, the arts, or all of the above. Our experienced, all-adult staff knows that the most important role we play in our campers&rsquo; lives is to provide a safe place where they can develop the tools to become independent, confident, lifelong learners. Our 2022 program line-up includes 60+ award-winning activities, uniquely designed to encourage exploration and personal growth.&nbsp; &nbsp; Friends Happen at ESF! We guarantee that your camper will enjoy a summer with no-limits, where they can be themselves and try new things while their friends cheer them on. The memories they will make and the feeling of having a summer home to call their own is all part of the ESF experience. Enroll now, spots are limited. &nbsp; Locations: Riverdale Country School in Bronx, NY and Greenwich Catholic School in Greenwich, CT

Kents Hill Sports Camp

A premier 3 week overnight sports camp, providing girls ages 8-15 an opportunity to excel in the sport of their choice, plus all the activities, spirit, &amp; values of a traditional summer camp. &nbsp;Girls will select a major (ice hockey, field hockey, soccer, basketball, dance)&nbsp;which they will participate in and receive a high level of instruction in each day.&nbsp; They will then choose all of the other activities they would like to try, which will round out their weekly schedule. We also have fun special events, cookouts, campfires, carnival, out of camp trips, and color war to end the session.