Your Summer Camp Solutions

Keeping kids entertained in the summer can end up being a hefty undertaking. Hey, we know you’re tons of fun, but even the best of us can run out of steam while chasing kids around in the heat. If your kids are interested in attending a summer camp, or if you’re looking for fun activities to fill their downtime, we’ve got three ideas to consider before verano arrives.

Day Camp

Great for first-time camp goers, kids can have fun during the day, but still be home in time for dinner. Start by making a list of your child’s interests and your budget. Then explore what each day camp has to offer. An art camp, an athletic camp or even a theater camp all have different programs. Also make sure to tour the camps prior to signing up. Check out the facilities with your child and get their input. An important thing to find out is how each day camp handles daily transportation and food. Is lunch included or at an extra cost? If your child has special dietary needs or allergies, learn how each camp plans to work with your child.

Sleep-Away Camp

A sleep-away camp is a great choice to help teach your child independence. While navigating the different programs can be a daunting task, start by gathering sleep-away camp brochures and reviewing them with your child. Make a list of his or her interests and focus on the camps that match what they like. Once you’ve narrowed your list down to two or three places, speak to the parent of a past camper to find out what it is truly like. Did you know that many sleep away camps now cater to specific specialties? You can send your child to circus camp where they can learn acrobatics or science camp where they can do experiments that are not only fun but educational as well. If your kid dreams of being a rock star, you can send them to music camp. Whether or not you pick an unconventional sleep-away camp or a traditional one, remember that your child may get homesick. Sending letters or care packages with your child’s favorite foods or games to share with their bunk will be sure to put a smile on their face.

Weekly Programs

Not ready to send your child away for an entire summer? Choose from a plethora of weekly programs that are offered by community centers, the public library, museums, and local sports clubs or pools. Depending on your child’s interests, you can sign up for an art class, music program or sports clinics that will teach your kids while they have a fun summer!

For those days where there are no programs planned, turn your backyard into a mini summer camp. Set up a small inflatable pool, a table with simple arts and crafts projects, and an obstacle course for your kids and the neighborhood children. You can even serve fun snacks and sing songs together.