Summer Camp Ideas
July 1, 2008 – 11:27 am by Kim
Summer camps help children gain independence, meet new friends and try new things. They are a great way for children to experience being away from home and get the most out of their summer. There are thousands of options available around the country, so I have selected a few that I found to be most interesting.
If you are looking to fix fun with education, check out a few of these intellectually exciting camps:
Supercamp
Supercamp is a 10-day program for kids in grades 4 through 12 and focuses on improving reading comprehension, improving study skills, sharpening writing skills, note taking skills, memorization skills and test preparation for the SAT, PSAT and ACT.
Digital Media Academy Summer Computer Camp
At DMA there are two programs, one for teens and one for younger children. The teen program includes a glimpse into possible career paths, computer courses, certification programs and you can earn 4 quarter credits from Stanford University.
Acadia Institute of Oceanography
This is an excellent camp for children interested in spending time on the beach. The program includes tidal pool discovery, salt marsh exploration, geology hikes, astronomy lessons and boat trips with lobster fisherman. The program is 6 days and 5 nights.
For children who live and breathe sports, or just have an abundance of energy, here are a few camps to check out:
GO Adventure
This is an outdoor adventure camp for children ages 12 through 18. It focuses around camping and hiking, outdoor survival skills and features a 90% organic menu. All hiking gear is provided by the camp and groups are separated by level of experience.
Surf Camp
The best choice for young surfers of any experience level; even adults are welcome. Learn how to surf from experts while learning about costal ecosystems and hanging out on the beach.
Skyhawks Sports Camp
Whatever sport you are looking for, you will find at Skyhawks. I know this is a good camp because I spent two summers working as a soccer coach here. It is a day camp program with a good coach to player ratio and teaches basic to advanced sports skills with drills, games and scrimmages.
If you are looking for a unique summer camp experience, check out a few of these out of the ordinary options:
CSI Camp
Solve staged mystery cases by practicing forensic skills and working in teams to locate evidence and solve the case. Children can work with camp instructors and college students to learn science concepts and theories and complete student-centered projects.
Spy Camp
Camp Lohikan teaches children how to become spies while training them in martial arts, code breaking, surveillance techniques and undercover maneuvers. Campers have access to ATV 4-wheelers, rocking climbing, ropes courses, paint balling and jet skiing.
Circus Arts Camp
Send your child to the circus for the summer. They can learn to juggle, use the trapeze, ride a unicycle, clown performing and acrobatics.
Additionally, if you are looking for more low-key options or day camp programs, be sure to check out the local YMCA programs in your area or Boys and Girls Clubs of America. Also check out summercamps.com for a complete listing of available summer camps.
