They may not be able to dunk yet, but Bow first- and second-graders are learning how to play basketball, as well as lessons that will stay with them when they step off the floor.

The Bow Youth Basketball program teaches aspiring athletes the basics of the sport, teamwork and good sportsmanship.

“I think it’s important that kids start at a young age. Now you see youth sports with kids starting at 3 and 4,” said Lisa Sileau, one of the coaches in the program. “Not only is it important for them physically, but socially. When they’re in school everything is structured. This is structured, but fun. It isn’t the competition, but socializing as well.”

At the youngest level of Bow Youth Basketball, there are no games. Teams practice for one hour twice a week working on basic skills.

“It’s a lot of helping each other and being positive. It takes practice and it’s like some other things in school, too,” said Dee Treybig, who has been coaching her husband, Phillip’s, team while he’s away on business. “It’s like, how do you get better in math or writing? You have to practice. It’s OK to not get it right now. It’ll come over time.”

With the age of the children and only an hour to practice, Sileau said the practices are fast moving.

“You have to make everything you’re doing quick. You don’t want to drag it out and lose their attention,” said Sileau. “We try to make it as fun as possible so they want to go further and keep them continuing to come.”

Due to snow, some of the teams have lost practice times since the program began about two weeks ago, but, Sileau said, there has already been a noticeable difference in her young athletes.

“Surprisingly, we noticed a difference on our second practice,” she said. “The kids are extremely enthusiastic about it. The second night they were already doing what we did the first day. It was amazing what they learned in just that one practice. They soak in so much and learn so much.”

Learning the new skills is not only beneficial for the children, but also for the coaches.

“I really enjoy seeing the kids when they figure out a new skill, when they just get it,” said Treybig.

“They’re so eager and honest at this age that they don’t try to ‘act cool’ or anything. They’re open and honest about their expressions. Watching them and being part of their new experience is great.”

Bow offers a variety of programs for youth and adults, including: a American Red Cross babysitting course beginning Feb. 4.

“Kinder Karate” class for children 4 to 6, which runs Mondays from 10:55 to 11:35 a.m. The town skating rink has opened, but users should call to check that the ice is solid before visiting.

For information on any of the department’s programs or to register, call 228-2222.