It’s Time for Summer Camp!

A variety of options for every family

Many kids love going to summer sleepaway camp, which is tons of fun! But sleepover camp may not be the right choice for everyone. Have no fear—there are plenty of camp options that will help children learn, grow, meet new friends and have an epic summer! Read on for ideas.

Traditional Day Camps

Day camp programs vary in length, but are often Monday through Friday, lasting a week at a time. A few programs (such as Outpost Summer Camp) even offer transportation. Activities at traditional day camps vary. They may offer things like swimming, arts and crafts, archery, games and outdoor activities. Meals may be included or kids may bring their own lunches, which can be great for families concerned about food allergies. Camps meal policies vary, so be sure to ask.

Find lots of summer camp ideas in the pages of this magazine and at www.sandiegofamily.com/resources/ summer-camps-and-programs/timefor-camp.

Specialty Programs

Some camp programs offer specialized content and activities, allowing kids to explore a specific topic or interest. These programs may have an all-day schedule or just be a few hours each day. A variety of options include theater, watersports, music, STEM (science, technology, engineering, mathematics), visual art, athletics, dance and more. These camps and classes offer great ways for children and teens to learn and connect with other kids who have similar interests. Some kids thrive in specialty programs because they have opportunities to explore topics in depth.

Neighborhood Programs

Local neighborhood resources such as libraries, museums, churches and recreation centers often have a wealth of shorter, more flexible, one-time opportunities for kids over the summer. Possibilities may include summer book clubs (most start June 1), volunteer opportunities, VBS (Vacation Bible School), writing clubs, park programs, craft time and more. Find SD County library programs at www.sdcl.org and City of San Diego library programs at www.sandiego.gov/public-library.

Family Collaboration

A creative way to foster a week of summer fun with other kids might be in your own backyard. This works when multiple families join forces to create a plan and share responsibilities.

Each family is responsible for a specific day, during which time all the kids involved go to that house and participate in activities (other parents simply drop their kids off and pick them up at the predetermined time). Activities could include playing outside, swimming, crafts, games, science experiments, cooking and more. Consider planning a field trip day with all participating families at the end of the week.

This is a great option for people who have flexibility, but need time during the week to work or run errands. The days you host will be busy, but you’ll have free time on the other days. If you choose to do this, it’s important to collaborate with families who share similar parenting philosophies and to discuss potential safety issues in advance.

Family “Camp”

A fun alternative to a structured program is to assign a certain day (or even a whole week) for your kids to spend with a close family member. Extended family such as grandparents or aunts and uncles often look forward to special time with the kids to go places, bake, play and explore. This is a wonderful way to help children foster relationships with other family members as it provides dedicated oneon-one time.

Mix it up and do a little of everything, if your schedule allows. Decide what works best for your family, and plan an epic summer! v

Rebecca Hastings is a freelance writer.