Match a Summer Camp to Your Child
Summer is an exciting season, full of family fun and activity. With no school and kids in need of entertainment and adventure, it can also be a stressful time for parents. Many families take advantage of summer camps to add to their child’s engagement over the summer.
When you begin exploring all the options for summer camp, you’ll be wanting to find the right fit for your child. Camps run the spectrum as far as activities, duration and location are concerned. To help you plan a summer that is both engaging and stress-free, we have rounded up a quick guide to finding the right camp for your kiddos!
Tip: Use KC Parent's Summer Camp Guide to find the best camp for your child!
Art Camps. Does your child love to draw, paint and create? Art camps can vary between all-day programs and half-day programs and offer your child the opportunity to learn new and interesting ways to express creativity. This is also a fantastic way to score some beautiful new art pieces to display on the fridge!
Sports Camps. Does your child have boundless energy and a competitive spirit? A sports camp might be the answer! Many programs focus on a single sport, such as gymnastics, soccer or basketball, while some sports camps provide days dedicated to each sport and cover a variety throughout the duration of the camp. “We love basketball camp during the summer. It lets my boys run around, it helps them learn new skills and it gives us a bit of structure during the long days of summer,” says Gwen Collins, Kansas City, KS, mom.
Theater Camps. Does your child enjoy performing? Give theater camp a try! Singing, dancing and acting are all aspects of most performing arts camps. “Theater camp has been such a blessing,” says Michelle Willis, Kansas City, MO, mom. “Our daughter loves to sing and perform, and trying out the camp was a great way for her to learn about the theater and see if it was something she wanted to explore further.”
Educational Camps. Is your child looking for a new academic challenge? Education focused camps could be a great option. These camps vary widely, so be sure to investigate what options are available in your area. Some educational camps are focused on a single subject, such as math camp. Other types of academic camps cover a variety of subjects and offer a range of academic challenges.
Outdoor Camps. Does your child love the great outdoors? From Scouting camps to wilderness adventure camps, options abound for sleep-away camps that get your kids involved in outdoor activities. “Our kids go to sleep-away camp every summer for two weeks,” Mark Doogan, Shawnee dad, says. “They get to spend time boating, playing games outside and sleeping in bunks with their friends. We get to spend some time finishing house projects and sneaking in a few date nights. It is a win-win for everyone!”
Some additional things to take into account when selecting a camp:
- Consider your child’s age and ensure the activities are appropriate. Not only should you consider how long the sessions last, but also whether your child will be able to keep up with the activities. Kids have the most fun in an environment where they can succeed.
- Find out where your child’s friends are going to camp. Depending on your child’s personality and age, going to camp may be more comfortable with familiar faces. Ask your child whether she prefers to go with friends or strike out on her own and make new friends.
- Cost can vary widely between camps and is based on multiple factors. Make sure to learn the cost of the camps your child is considering and align the choices with your family’s budget. Many camps offer different pricing options based on different camp schedules and different program lengths.
Melissa Bellach is a freelance writer, wife and mom of three living in Overland Park.