Begin Your Summer Camp Search Now
An Early Search for Summer Programs can Eliminate Parental Stress
Once the final bell rings on that anticipated June day, children will gleefully run out to the school yard for a last hurrah with friends, making promises to KIT (keep in touch) over the summer; that is if summer school is not already the plan.
The last thing most kids want is to know that their care-free days of summer will be planned and scheduled, but the predictability for parents will bring peace of mind. The earlier you start the search, the more likely a space will be reserved, plus centers may offer early enrollment discounts, and multi-sibling discounts. Also your child’s school office might have camp resources available.
Depending on a child’s age and interests, there are numerous activities and camps to keep her busy and engaged during summer vacation. Here’s to (hopefully) not hearing that dreaded line: “Mom, dad, I’m boooored!”
Find Age-Appropriate Camps
Consider your children's age and maturity level. If they have never spent a night away from you, sending them away to over-night camp might be too much for them. Check the parks and recreation department in your city for any local day camps. Most cities offer free or low-cost daily activities at parks, such as arts and crafts and sports. Check if snacks or lunch will be provided or if you’ll have to supply food.
Go to Trusted Establishments
Visit a Boys and Girls Club of America or a YMCA/YWCA, organizations known for their camp programs. They offer sleep-away camps and day camps. Some locations may offer a theme to the week, such as sports or science. An organized game may be scheduled each week for the kids to participate in, including an outing to see a local city or college team play. Other excursions, at possibly additional cost, may be to museums, aquariums or zoos.
Specialized Camps
More pricey camps are those that specialize in specific subjects: science, dramatic arts, music, sport, robotics, computers, cheerleading, even college prep camps. The point of such camps is to become more absorbed in the subject the child chooses, and dedicate more time and energy developing skills relevant to their interests.
Such camps could awaken a passion for something that your child didn’t even know he would enjoy. Other things to consider are co-ed, single gender camps, religious affiliated camps, and camps through programs such as Girls Scouts or Boy Scouts. Check out Kidscamps.com for specialized camps in your city.
Special Needs Children
Camps are also available for the special needs child, whether the handicap is physical or emotional. Children with physical handicaps or even autism, and ADHD should never be prohibited from enjoying the outdoors and experiencing the memories that can only be made through summer camps. Check that the facility is properly equipped and the members in charge are familiar with taking care of special needs kids.
The Joys of Summer Vacation
However, when finances do not allow for such "luxuries" don’t dismiss the prospect of a weekend family get-away to a local campground, a day-trip to the beach or mountains, or even take a look at the backyard. Dig through the garage for those sleeping bags and flashlights. Summer is not all about the kids. Summer is for the memories.
Every child should have the opportunity to attend a summer camp program, whether for a few hours a day or for several nights away. Reminiscences of camp fire cook-outs, ’smores and sing-alongs bring back the simplicity of childhood and endless summers. The earlier you begin researching possible summer activities, the higher the likelihood your children – and you – will find the right one, and at the right price.
Begin Your Summer Camp Search Now
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