Explore a sampling of summer programs for children of all ages. Contact family.care@nyu.edu with additional suggestions.
The summer months provide children with the opportunity to experience and discover new or emerging interests or to focus on special skills and interests that may be set aside or even neglected during the academic year. Joan Bergstrom, ED.D., consultant on school-age children and author, writes in A Parent's Guide, The Best Summer Ever that out-of-school activities provide children with "a range of opportunities for developing 'the other Rs' - resourcefulness and risk taking, responsibility, and relationships - while still providing ample time to play."
Plan for Your Child's Summer Care During the Winter Months
It may be a surprise but winter is the best time to begin thinking about how your child will spend the warm summer months. Registration time for camp varies. While many camps are just beginning their registration process in March, others are almost fully enrolled by that time. Therefore to avoid disappointment, it is best to begin researching options early. Some experts suggest exploring summer camp options the summer before you wish to enroll your child so that you can visit the camp in action. Another perk of early registration is that families who register early often realize preferred tuition rates.
Plenty of options to consider
There are a wide range of options for summer camps, programs, and experiences. Whether you're looking for a largely recreational program or for a program that is specially designed to reinforce academic skills, you can expect to have several from which to choose. Summer options range from day camp to overnight camp, from visiting with a relative in another community or country to hiring a college student to care for your children. Older children may be interested in travel or adventure programs or exploring the world of work through volunteer or paid employment. Deciding which option is right for you, your child and family will depend on your child's age, interests and temperament, your budget, and other resources.
Summer day camps
Day camps can vary widely in their hours, program offerings, and location. A typical day camp is designed to provide their campers with the opportunity to experience a variety of activities including sports, arts & crafts, drama, computer, and orienteering. Some provide campers with a chance to concentrate in one area of interest (sports or art, for example).
Day camps are generally offered for the full day (8 a.m. - 6 p.m.) however shorter programs are available. As children grow older many camps begin to offer an overnight or two and/or trips away from camp. Programs are available locally, or a bus ride away in surrounding suburban or rural communities. They are housed in schools, community organizations, day care centers, recreational facilities, at Y programs, or in churches or synagogues. Transportation to and from camp is often included.
Overnight or sleep-away camps
Sleep-away camps generally provide program options of two, four and eight weeks. They do tend to be more expensive than day camps, but if you and your child have your hearts set on overnight camp this summer, explore whether scholarships are available. Like day camps, some residential camps focus on a specific theme, and others are more varied and offer a range of activities.
Visits to relatives or friends
An extended visit to a relative in another state or country can provide your child with a special experience. Spending time with family members and living in a different community can enrich your child's life. It is important that your relative is excited about your child's visit - talk with them about how your child will spend their days and about any special outings or activities that might interest your child. Be sure to alert them to your child's special needs and to send along enough spending money for any special treats or excursions.
Hiring a neighbor, college student, or older teen
Sometimes the perfect summer is spent in the neighborhood, going on day trips to the local playground, pool or beach, and taking tennis or swimming lessons. If you're interested in a less structured summer for your child, consider hiring a college student, older teen, or a neighbor to care for your child during the summer. However, because it is unstructured, be prepared to be involved in planning how your child is spending his/her days and weeks.
Opportunities for older children
As children mature they may begin to feel too old for summer camp. Although you might think otherwise it is important to listen to their feelings and reasons. Strategize with them about productive and enjoyable ways they might spend the summer. Explore new and different summer camp programs. Summer camps and youth programs usually provide counselor-in-training programs; and, volunteer or intern programs do exist in many non-profit organizations, including hospitals. With adolescents, after considering health and safety issues, try to be as flexible and creative as possible to make their summer a happy one.
Plan ahead - and don't forget to have some
fun yourself
Summer can be an enjoyable time for everyone. As you plan for your child's summer don't forget to consider scheduling some vacation time away from work for yourself. By thinking ahead, talking with your child, and doing some research, the words "School's Out!" will bring a smile to your face.