Cincinnati Family Digital Camp Guide April 2024

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Summer Camp = Freedom!

All throughout the school year, kids try their best. They really do. They may or may not live up to your expectations about them, but they have a right to be kids and to make all of the mistakes that come along with growing up. Come summer time, they are eager to be free of rules, homework, schedules and yes, expectations.

What we’ve learned since 2020 is that the isolation kids and adults experienced was very hard on us — our kids, especially. We’re still recovering. So it’s a good idea to encourage your kids to get out and have fun. To encourage them to make new friends and try new stuff. Summer camps are the best way to do that.

If your child is lucky enough to go away to camp, even better. It’s high time for them to have fun, fun, fun ... till Daddy takes the T-Bird away!

— Susan Day, editor

Are you a teen artist who is ready to take the next steps in honing your practice? Strengthen your portfolio, prepare for college, or just express your creative voice in an inclusive environment! By sharing your art with a vibrant community of young artists, designers, writers, and instructors, you will forge connections that will impact your future.

JUNE 3 -JULY 26

For Students

Ages 13-18

At the Art Academy of Cincinnati bit.ly/officeofengagement

JUNE 3 -JULY 26

For Students

Ages 5-12

At the Art Academy of Cincinnati bit.ly/officeofengagement

Is your young creative ready to become an artist-in-training? Camp Art Academy at the AAC is an esteemed six-week educational experience for rising first through sixth graders. Each week has a unique theme and students can attend one week, all six, or any number in between. By the end of Camp Art Academy, young artists will have helped build a creative community, practiced many new techniques and methods with their instructors, learned invaluable life skills, and shared their sense of self and imagination through storytelling.

by Tina Pratt

NAVIGATING SUMMER CAMPS

Before summer sets in, here’s how to plan for the best camp experiences for your kids

In February, the warmth of summer seems far away, but it’s really not and now’s the time for making summer plans for your kids. Each winter, you’re faced with the annual quest to find the perfect summer camp for your child — if you delay, it is at your own peril!

Summer camps offer a world of opportunities for kids to learn, grow and make lifelong memories. It is a wonderful opportunity for kids to continue to build and practice using social skills and critical thinking skills.

Many parents send their kids to camp because camps provide enrichment, assists in building relationships, provides kids an opportunity to learn more about themselves and, of course, try new things. It is also a terrific way to learn skills outside of the classroom and reduce the dreaded summer skill loss.

Margo Spurgeon, director of reach marketing at Crossroads Church in Cincinnati, says, “The number one reason kids should go to camp is

to find out who they are. Unplugging from the stresses of school and everyday life, detoxing from scrolling on a screen, and distancing themselves from the social media algorithms, are elements of camp that give kids the margin and opportunity to understand who they are and how they can impact and interact with the world around them.”

Let’s look at different types of camps, appropriate ages for each, essential factors to consider when choosing the ideal camp for your child, and what steps to take to prep your kids for their camp experience.

DAY CAMPS: THE GATEWAY TO ADVENTURE

Day camps provide a fantastic introduction to the summer camp experience. Typically designed for children aged 5 to 12, day camps offer a diverse range of activities, from arts and crafts to sports to outdoor adventures. Elise Solomon, Taft Museum of Art, says that day camps are great for kids of all ages. These camps allow kids to enjoy activities or topics of interest or explore new activities. They also allow kids to

Campers at the Taft Museum of Art enjoy exploring their creative sides.

make new friends while returning home each evening, fostering a sense of independence without the overnight stay.

OVERNIGHT CAMPS: A TASTE OF INDEPENDENCE

Around the age of 8 to 14, children may be ready for the next step –overnight camps. These camps offer a more immersive experience, with a variety of activities, team-building exercises and the opportunity to sleep away from home. Overnight camps provide a unique chance for personal growth, resilience, and self-reliance as children learn to navigate life outside their familiar surroundings.

Joel, 13 years old, says that he enjoyed overnight camp because, “it’s a break from my parents, I make new friends, I get to choose what I want to eat and be responsible for myself. I have made great memories.”

He also shares that his experience with the overnight camp provided him with a new self-confidence.

SLEEPOVER CAMPS: BONDS AND LIFELONG MEMORIES

Typically, suitable for children aged 10 and older, sleepover camps are the pinnacle of summer camp experiences. With longer durations, these camps allow kids to forge deep connections with peers, instructors and nature. Sleepover camps often focus on building life skills, fostering leadership and creating lasting memories that will be cherished for years to come.

JJ, 12 years old, shares that his favorite part of sleepover camp includes, “getting out of the house and meeting new kids, playing gaga ball, and the massive capture the flag game” he has played the last day of camp. He also shares that he enjoys the independence and the memories he has made.

FIRST THINGS FIRST

Trust your gut when researching camps and keep these all-important aspects in mind:

• Safety First: Ensure the camp has proper safety measures, certified staff and a clean environment.

• Activities and Interests: Consider your child’s hobbies and interests when choosing a camp. Look for a diverse range of activities to keep them actively engaged.

• Staff-to-Child Ratio: A low staff-to-child ratio ensures personalized attention and a safer environment.

• Accommodations: For overnight camps, check the accommodations to ensure they meet your child’s comfort level.

• Communication: Choose a camp that maintains open communication with parents, providing updates and addressing concerns promptly.

SHOULD I FORCE MY KID TO GO TO CAMP?

Most parents do not have to force their kids to go to camp. Kids will often ask to attend a camp or two, however, some kids are not ready or may feel anxious to move beyond a day camp or an overnight camp. Sit down and talk about it with your kids to gauge their comfort levels. Making kids feel comfortable about going to camp involves addressing their concerns, building anticipation and fostering a positive mindset.

INVOLVE YOUR CHILD IN THE DECISION

Discuss the camp options together. Review fliers or websites together. Consider their interests and preferences when choosing a camp. Empower them by making them feel part of the decision-making process.

Tina Pratt is a local freelance writer, educator and mom.

Planning on Camps Together

Visit Camps Ahead of Time:

If possible, arrange a visit to the camp or facility before the actual camp starts. Familiarize your child with the camp surroundings and facilities. In addition, check the camps’ website for videos.

Attend Orientation or Open House:

Many camps organize orientation sessions or open houses. Attend these events to meet camp staff, ask questions and ease any anxieties.

Connect with Future Campmates:

Sign up for camp with a friend; encounter the new experiences with someone you know and feel comfortable with.

Encourage your child to connect with other campers before the camp begins. Knowing someone beforehand can alleviate social anxiety.

Discuss Daily Camp Routines:

Talk about the daily schedule at camp, highlighting activities and the variety of experiences they will have.

Create a Countdown:

Build anticipation by creating a countdown to the camp start date. Use a visual calendar or a simple chart to mark off days.

Emphasize the Positive:

Discuss the positive aspects of camp, such as making new friends, trying new activities, and gaining independence. Share stories of personal growth and memorable camp moments.

Make a Communication Plan:

Discuss how you will stay in touch while they’re at camp. Assure your kids that you will be reachable and that they can share their experiences with you.

Reassure Them:

Reiterate that it is normal to feel a bit nervous before something new. Share stories of your own positive experiences with new and unfamiliar situations.

Build Confidence:

Boost your child’s confidence by highlighting their strengths and reminding them of past achievements. Encourage a positive mindset by emphasizing the exciting opportunities camp offers.

Pack Together:

To ensure that your kids have everything they need. Read all of the emails you receive from camps to be sure you’re following instructions (for sleep-away camps, the size of your trunk, matters, for instance!). Pack stamped postcards for your child so they can just write and pop’em in the mail.

Summer camps play a crucial role in a child’s development, offering a blend of fun, learning, and personal growth. By taking a proactive and supportive approach, you can help your child feel more comfortable and excited about their upcoming camp experience. By considering the appropriate age for several types of camps and evaluating key factors when making your decision, you can ensure your child has a memorable and enriching summer camp experience. Happy camping!

CALLING ALL YOUNG PERFORMERS!

Bring awesome stories to life through creativity and fun with the Playhouse’s summer theatre camps!

This year’s camps feature more performance options than ever for rising first- through 12th-graders. Choose from:

One-week theatre camps to focus on the fundamentals of creating theatre

Performance showcases and intensives to learn theatrical skills with an emphasis on performance and storytelling techniques

Performance Academies to experience the production of a play from beginning to end

Campers gain confidence, get moving, form new friendships and tap into their creativity in an inclusive artistic environment! Locations include Mt. Adams, Mason and Erlanger, Ky.

by Nyketa Gaffney

A PARENT’S GUIDE TO CAMPS

Allow your kids to experience freedom and sign them up for camp — and allow yourself to experience freedom, too!

Let’s define “camp.” You’ll uncover multiple definitions of the word, from a historical perspective to a modernized viewpoint within diverse cultures, when using any search engine. Though, for the sake of this article, we will refer to a “camp” as a safe space set aside for youth to assemble amongst peers with adults who can inspire constructive change. Moreover, camps are meant to create unforgettable memories and leave lasting impressions on children so that they have a foundation of confidence to refer back on.

Camps provide enrichment. It is, if you will, the fundamental thought by which many parents consider enrolling their children into such programs. As parents, we set out to give our kids a host of quality and positive experiences that will help to develop them into well-rounded and happy individuals. In terms of character building, camps appear to be an easy win for the family! The first documented camp was the “Gunnery Camp,” established in 1861 by Frederick W. Gunn in Washington, Connecticut. This camp was known for serving young boys to engage in outdoor activities and develop physical skills. Over more than 160-years later, camps have come to include a variety of services and offerings for all children at various ages.

A highlight at YMCA Camp Kern is a bonfire on the opening day of each session. Camp Kern is located in Oregonia, Ohio. Photo: Facebook.

Whether the camp is driven by a focus of academics, sports, arts & crafts or is faith-based, parents need to know what to expect for themselves and their children. To minimize anxiety for moms and dads, parents with the camp life experience were interviewed for their insight. Megan Roberson, shares that one of her children had only participated in one camp, but she and her husband were preparing to send them to the same camp for the second time this year.

QUESTION: How can new camp parents prepare for camp?

“For my husband and I, we realized that preparing your child for camp should be a six to 12-month process,” says Roberson. “Many times, spots fill-up fast and there is a good chance you may miss the opportunity for placement if you aren’t aware of the checklist of requirements – such as fees, deadlines, and schedules. Waitlists can be long too if the camp is popular. With that being said, you want to give yourself the flexibility to plan for the calendar your child will follow, as well as save (if necessary) to cover the expense associated with the program.”

“We always like having things for our boys to do during the summer; things that keep their brain’s engaged while out of school are important.”

QUESTION: What is the most challenging thing about enrolling children in camp?

“Navigating schedules, for sure. I would even suggest planning vacations around the camp,” explains Roberson. “This is especially if the enrichment they are receiving is important to both you and your child, so that there are no interruptions in their progress. Also, be mindful of drop-off and pick-up times. Some day camps may begin at 9 a.m. and end at 2:30 p.m. This may obviously impact parents’ work schedules and require some coordination within the family.”

QUESTION: What do you consider to be the best thing about camps for kids?

“Camps provide kids with freedom to have fun,” laughs Roberson. “Not that parents don’t permit it otherwise, but in terms of the independence that is associated with the experience away from their parents. Your child is given the chance to engage, learn and mature in new ways. It is healthy for them to develop these kinds of social skills and individuality in their youth.”

One common concern or roadblock to registering kids for camp activities: Cost. In 2022, the American Camp Association (ACA) reported that the average cost of summer camp in the United States was around $178.49 a day, and for sleep-away camp, it was $448.53 a day. Over the last couple of years, the cost of living has increased and camps are impacted by this reality. According to EconoFact – a non-partisan publication designed to deliver an impartial perspective of the national debate

on economic and social policies, “December 2023 consumers were seeing prices that were on average about 19 percent higher than they were before the pandemic in December 2019.” So it’s within reason to say that fees make a significant difference in the decision-making on extracurricular activities. Camps are no exception. Michael Williams, also a father of two and a resident of Cincinnati, speaks further about his family’s camp experience.

QUESTION: What do you appreciate about camps for kids?

“We always like having things for our boys to do during summer,” says Williams. “Things that keep their brain engaged while off school are important to us.”

QUESTION: Do you believe camps are generally too expensive?

“I think there are lots of well-priced options available to families,” he says. “You just have to explore what those are and how they meet your child’s needs. For instance, I think that if my family had been more into Scouts we would have been doing more of the overnight camps, but some can get really pricey! As a middle class couple (even probably upper middle class with the dual income) $1000/week for an away camp is a big investment. Most of the weekly day camps we have participated in are in the $250-$300/week range.”

QUESTION: Any advice for parents about camps?

“Go for it! I think if you have the funds, it’s probably a great opportunity for kids,” says Williams.

It is important to denote here that many camps are supported by grants, sponsors and financial aid programs that can assist parents in enrolling their child in the camp of their choice. Be sure to inquire about these opportunities in the registration process for your child, or, as a reference point for any family who can benefit from funds made available for enrichment. The priority, in most cases, is to reach as many children as possible and do good work in our community!

It was important to obtain the encouragement of a professional who knows both in practice and outcomes the value camp programs provide.

“If your child has never been to a specific camp, or day camp in general, contacting the camp director to get a tour of the camp grounds is a good way to see in person what camp looks like, where they will eat lunch, where they will change for swim, etc.,” says Nikki Downey, director of operations at the Clippard Family YMCA, YMCA of Greater Cincinnati. “Seeing these places in-person before camp starts helps alleviate some of the fears in the child and parent.”

Camps are awesome places to practice social skills, team build and think outside the box. They even give children a technology break!

The most important thing you can do is to visit camps in advance, plan ahead in terms of aligning the family schedule, use available resources to cover costs and allow your children to appreciate their freedom. And, allow yourself to do the same in their absence because you deserve it.

Nyketa Gaffney is an award-winning writer and parent. She lives in Cincinnati with her family.

Celebrating camping excellence since 1959.

Fun for now. Skills for life.

Falcon creates opportunities for young people to grow and learn in a healthy, safe environment – all while having a great time.

Horseback Riding • Sailing • Archery • Riflery Drama • Mountain Bikes • Nature • Fishing • Sports and much more!

Special One-Week Program for First Time Campers Ages 6-10 2,4,6 or 8-week sessions • Boys & Girls • Ages 6 - 16

The coolest camp in Ohio – philly.com

One of the Top 10 camps in the country – earlychildhoodeducationzone.com

OHIO’S PREMIER SUMMER CAMP EXPERIENCE!

330-627-4269

www.falconcamp.com

THE BOY IN THE BOAT: Life Lessons Learned at Camp

Steering kids away from dependence on you and more upon themselves becomes a rite of passage every summer when kids go to camp.

by Stephen Wallace with Ben Seifer

As summer nears, parents are finalizing postschool plans for their children. Often, those schedules will include camp for a week, a month or more. Some kids will attend day programs, while others will enjoy overnight experiences. Their activities may be specialized or include a little bit of most anything. Regardless of the exact ingredients, these children will learn the true meaning of what summer camp is all about.

Among other things, camp provides kids with the opportunity to connect with nature, to participate in human- powered activities and to benefit from personal relationships. Many young people who attend camp experience an increase in self-esteem (independent research has found 92 percent of them say that the people at camp helped them feel good about themselves) and are able to establish a true sense of inde-

pendence. Kids also say that they’ve “developed lasting friendships,” “became a team player” or “learned how to care” because of camp.

One Boy’s Journey Through Camp

Ben was the boy in the boat (not to be confused with the boy in the above photo). A gregarious go-getter whose journey through camp was inextricably linked to sailboats on the water. The lessons he learned at camp originated from, or were reinforced by, the challenges he faced as a skipper, navigating the uncertain and constantly shifting conditions of wind, tide, crew and competition. Learning lessons about self-reliance, self-confidence, exploration and responsibility — all important metrics of a successful summer camp experience and harbingers of what follows.

Here, Ben (BS) and I (SW) take turns talking about what those metrics meant to each of us.

SELF-RELIANCE

BS: When my parents’ SUV moved out of sight, I was, for the first time in my nine years of life, on my own. It didn’t hit me right away that the next morning my mom wouldn’t be there to wake me up, my dad to help me sail or even that I wouldn’t come home at the end of the day to find my bed nicely made. My camp counselors introduced me to something new: adults who would show me the way but not hold my hand the entire time. I did a lot of active learning. I would always try something the first time and if I couldn’t figure it out on my own, my counselors would be there for guidance.

SW: Development dictates young people eventually steer away from dependence on their parents and toward independence and selfreliance. In psychological terms, it’s called developing an “internal” as opposed to “external” focus of control — meaning that what formerly was other-directed (“Do this;” “Don’t do that”) is now self-directed (“I

should do this” and “I shouldn’t do that”). Short of long-established support systems, kids at camp must identify the resources that can help them meet personal and group goals, resolve conflicts and find success.

SELF-CONFIDENCE

BS: At my summer camp, awards were handed out at assemblies. Campers’ names were read aloud as they walked onstage to the sound of applause. In retrospect, I realize this simple act served a much greater purpose than just handing out certificates. Publicly recognizing a camper for accomplishments builds self-confidence.

SW: For campers, becoming self-reliant is predicated on having the self-confidence to succeed educationally and socially. In turn, selfconfidence is born of a positive sense of oneself: the experiences one has and how closely one’s achievements match one’s expectations. Campers gain self-confidence when they find meaningful, fulfilling educational and social experiences at camp, interpret those experiences correctly and have reasonable, achievable expectations for success.

EXPLORATION

BS: My counselors were always pushing me. Pushing me during unit games, pushing me in the cabin towards new activities, pushing me to be a better sailor and pushing me towards girls at dances. In their own ways they encouraged me to step outside of my comfort zone and take a risk. I developed a trust with them and, in turn, with the entire camp community. Whether I was on the water, on a field or in my cabin, I always knew that my counselors and the camp would “have my back.”

SW: Camp is about learning about oneself, learning about others and learning about new ways to approach the world. Self-confidence leads to learning through exploration of one’s interests, abilities and relationships. To maximize exploration, young people need to feel safe — free from fear of ridicule, sarcasm or insult. Creating a community of caring where young people feel comfortable moving beyond their “comfort zone” to the “challenge zone” promotes exploration.

RESPONSIBILITY

BS: I met some of the greatest people in the world at camp. In fact, I made such real friendships that the time I spent at camp each summer was enough to make me feel good the entire year. One of many lifelong things I learned at camp is a conscious responsibility to always be there for my friends and for others. Away from camp, I have volunteered as a peer leader, facilitating discussions about alcohol and drug use with middle and high school students and their parents, and I have joined fellow athletes in performing community service.

SW: Beyond the buddies, baseballs and bonfires lies the true value of the summer camp experience: a heightened sense of personal responsibility for the well-being of others. That “other orientation” manifests itself in many ways, including a strong sense of connectedness and a commitment to give of oneself. Research from SADD (Students Against Destructive Decisions) points out that young people who have attended summer camp are significantly more likely than those who have not to feel good about their relationships and to take positive risks, such as volunteering for community service.

The benefits to young people of a summer at camp have long been discussed. What are they? They are opportunities. Opportunities not exclusive to camps but rather concentrated at camp, where under the direction, supervision and influence of caring counselors, kids can learn to become more independent, more confident, more self-aware and more giving toward others. These are just some of the life lessons learned at camp.

Stephen Wallace, M.S. Ed., is the author of the book, Reality Gap — Alcohol, Drugs, and Sex: What Parents Don’t Know and Teens Aren’t Telling. This story is reprinted with permission from the American Camp Association.

CCM Prep

CCM Prep provides fun music, dance and theatre arts classes and workshops where students of all ages and abilities can learn from leading national artists and teachers – including CCM’s acclaimed collegiate faculty members. Browse program offerings and find the perfect performing arts opportunity for your family.

513-556-2595 | ccm.uc.edu/prep-family 290 CCM Blvd., Cincinnati

Abrakadoodle

Campers look forward to our summer programs year after year! Whether they will be exploring a variety of art techniques while making connections with STEAM concepts, going on an arty Treasure Hunt or making marvelous Movie Art, campers will be immersed in activities specifically designed for them by experienced educators.

513-297-5655 | abrakadoodle.com

Camp Chabad

From morning line-up of songs and cheers, through each day packed with fun activities, campers savor every minute of every day at Camp Chabad. Children are placed in groups by age and grade level. This ensures each child gets individualized attention and participates in programming suited to their level of development. Ages 5 - 13.

513-731-5111 | campchabad.com

Koenig Park, Cincinnati

Cincinnati Reds Summer Camps

Cincinnati Reds camps are back for their 13th season! The Reds will have 16 week-long summer camps throughout Reds Country in 2024. Camp runs Mon. - Fri., 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. for players ages 6 - 14. Campers receive 30 hours of instruction, a full Reds uniform, four tickets to a Reds game, and VIP trip to Great American Ball Park. Sign up now!

reds.com/camps

Falcon Camp

Widely recognized as Ohio’s premier summer camp since 1959. Beautiful lakefront setting with wide range of activities. Boys and girls ages 6 - 16 choose their own schedule within general framework, separate activities with planned co-ed events. 1:4 staff/camper ratio. Most of all, it’s a great time! ACA accredited, many references.

800-837-2267 | falconcamp.com

4251 Delta Road SW, Carrollton

Academy of Cinematic Arts

Explore the magic of the movies! Experience a week of creativity, collaboration, and fun. Camps collaborate to create a short, narrative film. Screenwriting campers brainstorm, write, and storyboard the script. Acting campers learn to create powerful, on-screen performances. Filmmaking campers direct and create the short film.

513-221-4888 | acafilm.org

6049 Yankee Road, Liberty Township

Camp Invention

Inspire your child’s creativity and watch their confidence soar with our Camp Invention® program, Wonder! Campers in grades K - 6 will team up with friends for hands-on, open-ended STEM fun. They’ll build their own mini skate park, become an imaginative event planner, launch their own pop-up business and transform a robot into a stuffie!

800-968-4332 | invent.org/camp

3701 Highland Park, North Canton

Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park

Summer camp options include one-week theatre camps that focus on fun and theatre skills, oneweek performance showcases and intensives, and two-week performance academies that produce a play or musical from start to finish. Camps are held at the Playhouse in Mt. Adams and locations in Mason and near Erlanger, Ky.

513-421-3888 | cincyplay.com

962 Mt. Adams Circle, Cincinnati

2024 GUIDE TO CAMPS & SUMMER PROGRAMS

Planning for the best summer ever starts here!

Camp Art Academy

2024 Summer Youth Programs – Camp Art Academy (ages 5 - 12) and Teen Academy (ages 13 - 18). Programs run Jun. 3 - Jul. 26. The theme for 2024 Camp Art Academy is Artists in Training. All classes held on our Jackson Street campus in Over-the-Rhine. For more information and registration, please visit our website.

513-562-8762 | artacademy.edu

1212 Jackson St., Cincinnati

Cincinnati Nature Center

We provide a fun, safe, and inclusive environment to explore the natural world. Campers discover different habitats, create nature-inspired crafts, play games, and sing songs. Our trained counselors instill a love for nature as they guide campers. Fresh air, hands-on activities, close encounters with animals and plants, and increased knowledge of the natural world help build confidence, passion, and knowledge about the environment

513-831-1711 | cincynature.org

4949 Tealtown Road, Milford

Class 101

Students grade 9 -12 will ignite their path to college with dedicated support and guidance from our college advisors. Students receive 1-on-1 help from our college planning experts. Grade 12 focus on essays/college applications in summer, and grades 9 - 11 work on exploring career and major, developing college list, resume, ACT/SAT Prep and more.

513-296-7770 | class101.com/northeastcincinnati

7967 Cincinnati Dayton Road K1, Cincinnati

Kids First Sports Center

Campers get the very best! 108,000 sq. ft. of everything kids love: basketball, karate, gymnastics, dance, cheer, swimming, volleyball, and more. Field trips every week outside and in-house entertainment throughout week. Leaders in Training course for teens covers topics like leadership, communication, and group dynamics. Teens also go on excursions, service opportunities, and more.

513-489-7575 | kidsfirstsports.com

7900 E. Kemper Road, Cincinnati

Code Ninjas of Green Township

Elevate your child’s summer with an exciting tech experience! Introducing a variety of new camps designed to ignite your child’s curiosity. Our camps include: Creating in Roblox, Minecraft, and YouTube, or hands-on tech like Micro:bits, MakeyMakey, Creative Design Studio, E-Sports Design, and more.

513-878-1388 | codeninjas.com/oh-green-township/camps

6507 Harrison Ave, Cincinnati

Great Parks of Hamilton County

Exciting adventures for children and teens, promising a summer filled with exploration, enrichment, and inspiration. Outdoor adventure camps for thrillseekers ages 10 - 14, hands-on farm experiences nurturing toddlers to pre-teens, fishing excursions at Lake Isabella, horseback riding camps, and nature camps.

greatparks.org/discovery/children/day-camps

Multiple Park Locations

Kidstrong Mason and Kenwood

When school is out, KidStrong Camp is in! Curriculum includes activities to enhance your child’s character, physical and brain development along age-specific milestones. Your child will have a blast while learning with their peers and getting tons of physical activity. We reinforce important skills like confidence, teamwork and physical fitness.

513-398-1315 | 513-401-9070 | kidstrong.com

Mason and Kenwood Locations

Rockwern Academy STEAM Camps

Keep them curious this summer! In partnership with iSPACE and Strive Academy, Rockwern is offering exciting new STEAM adventures for grades K - 6. Campers will get to explore and utilize Rockwern’s new makerspace, The Curiosity Center. They can save space civilizations, build robots with LEGOs, or use creativity to problem-solve.

513-984-3770 | rockwernacademy.org/steamcamps 8401 Montgomery Road, Cincinnati

Crossroads Church Summer Camp

Five-day camp at Bowling Green State University in Bowling Green, Ohio. Includes all the things that make camp awesome: rock climbing, swimming, high-energy worship, and more. Camp includes the modern conveniences – running water, air conditioned dorms and hot meals. High School camp, grades 8 - 12. Middle School camp, grades 5 - 7. crossroads.net/summercamp

3500 Madison Road, Cincinnati

Gym Skills

We are now taking enrollments for our full- and half-day summer camps! Camps are jam-packed with gymnastics, games, crafts, obstacle courses, and other various activities that will get your child learning and having FUN!

513-319-1512 | gymskills.com/cincinnati 5639 Creek Road, Cincinnati

Mason Dance Center

We provide an opportunity for anyone ages 3adult to discover the joys of dance. Ballet, tap, jazz, hip-hop, modern, pre-professional ballet, predance combos, adult classes. Register now for our 2024 school year classes. Spring mini sessions open soon. We also offer summer camps.

513-398-0353 | masondance.com

600-B Reading Road, Mason

School of Rock, Cincinnati & Northern Kentucky

Do you want to learn how to play in a rock band?

We offer a variety of summer music camps perfect for musicians of any skill level who want to play guitar, bass, drums, keys and vocals. Camps run Mon. - Fri., 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. Campers learn what it takes to rock then showcase what they’ve learned for friends and family on Friday. Camp themes include Metal, Punk, 90s and more.

513-586-ROCK | cincinnati.schoolofrock.com

859-999-ROCK | nky.schoolofrock.com

6710 Madison Road, Cincinnati | 6415 Dixie Hwy., NKY

Dino Buddies

Dino Buddies is a fun, exciting and educational way to spice up any event, program, classroom, scout program, birthday party, or camp! We bring the ZOO to YOU by providing unique and up-close encounters with reptiles. Dino Buddies specializes in getting kids and adults excited about wildlife and taking care of the environment during our worthwhile award-winning encounters!

513-460-2737 | facebook.com/dinobuddiesllc

Heritage Village Museum

Discover the past! Explore the art of museum creation with Museum Makers camp. Solve intriguing puzzles with History’s Mysteries camp. Little Village in the Big Woods camp transports campers into Laura Ingalls Wilder’s tales of pioneer life. Past Professions camp helps discover 19th-century trades. Spy camp unveils the secrets of espionage.

513-563-9484 | heritagevillagecincinnati.org 11500 Lebanon Road, Sharonville

Mayerson JCC Camp at the J

An outdoor summer day camp for kids in grades K - 10. Camps run on a weekly basis, so families choose which and how many weeks to attend. Offering a variety of fun and educational programming taught by expert specialists. Enrichment activities include archery, arts and crafts, sports, drama, and much more.

mayersonjcc.org/programs/camp-at-the-j

8485 Ridge Road, Cincinnati

YMCA Day Camps

Week-long camps are offered Jun. - Aug. for campers ages 5 - 15. Your child will grow confident, make friends and create amazing memories by being included in all the fun. Campers rotate with a small group visiting the swimming pool, S.T.E.M. activities, group games and more. 11 camp sites serving Greater Cincinnati. Registration opens Mar. 1. Visit our website for camp dates and more info.

myy.org/programs/camp

Multiple Cincinnati Locations

Perfection Gymnastics

Our 12 weeks of summer camp explore themes each week that are full of fun and adventure while participating in games, crafts, activities and, of course, gymnastics — it’s what we do best! Come for one day or the whole summer — it’s up to you!

Half- and full-day camps.

513-860-3351 | perfectiongymnastics.com

5637 Union Centre Drive, West Chester

Swift Movement

Camps offer a highly engaging and physically active experience with an abundance of parkourbased activities and games. Coaches introduce new movement skills and safety techniques, which are then applied in obstacle courses and parkour games. Camps include dodgeball, tag, nerf wars, and more. A thrilling experience for all participants.

513-549-4660 | swift-movement.com/camps

4460 W Mitchell Ave. #6, Cincinnati

West Chester Academy Music, Dance, Acting and Gymnastics

From a child’s very first lesson to the experienced adult, West Chester Academy has something for everyone in music, dance, acting, and gymnastics. We specialize in beginners of all ages and offer training through pre-professional levels. We also have camps for all ages.

513-829-2345 | westchesteracademy.com

8107 Market Place Drive, West Chester

2024 GUIDE TO CAMPS & SUMMER PROGRAMS

A SPECIAL ADVERTISING DIRECTORY

Musicologie Anderson

At our summer music camps, your child will embark on a musical adventure like no other! From exploration of rock history to collaborative band sessions, show poster crafting, band photoshoots, and engaging workshops on stage presence and performance - our camps offer a wide range of activities to ignite their creativity and love for music.

513-620-4923 | musicologie.com

7120 Dunn Road, Cincinnati

Snapology

Our camps are curated to be fun, educational and inclusive. Programs promote creativity, teamwork, social skills and making new friends! Camp offerings include LEGO® build camps incorporating themes like Minecraft, Pokemon and Harry Potter; robotics, science and engineering, and competitive Core STEM camps. Ages 4 - 14.

513-988-7363 | westchestertwp.snapology.com

Taft Museum of Art

Whether your child is thinking about becoming an artist or just likes to have fun making art, our small camp classes and hands-on activities with experienced teachers will make this a summer of fun. Early Bird pricing ends Feb. 29.

taftmuseum.org/families-children/summer-camp 316 Pike St., Cincinnati

Wyoming Fine Arts Center

Registration now open for full- and half-day camps. New, expanded camp options for Pre-K and Tweens. Camps include animation, Barbie and Ken, clay, drawing, guitar, sewing, keyboard, School of Rock, and more. Our Mural Camp is back by popular demand!

513-948-1900 | musicartdance.org

322 Wyoming Ave., Wyoming

My Nose Turns Red Circus Camps

Let your child run away and join the circus – without leaving home. 9 weeks of incredibly fun camps full of challenges and satisfaction. Campers will walk on tightwire, roll in German wheel (looks like human size hamster wheel), ride unicycles or pedal goes, walk on rolling globe, and more. Half-day camp for ages 5 - 7. Full-day camp for ages 7 - 13. Camps run Jun. 3 - Aug. 9

859-581-7100 | mynoseturnsred.org

Spooky Nook Sports Champion Mill

Register now for summer camps! Sports-based, skill-building, and recreational day camps for ages 4 - 17. Recreational camps include Nook Kids Camp presented by Kettering Health, Jump Start PreSchool and Future Leaders along with basketball, soccer, field hockey, volleyball, lacrosse and sports performance camps. Camps start Jun. 3 - Aug. 9.

513-273-8200 | spookynooksports.com/hamilton

601 N B St., Hamilton

TriHealth Fitness and Health Pavilion

Great prices. Great camps. Great fun. This summer, bring your kids out to the TriHealth Fitness & Health Pavilion to play. We’ll keep them active all summer with camps (including swim lessons) of all kinds, from STEAM to cooking to multi-sports for kids ages 5 and up. Take advantage of our latest offers to give your child a great camp experience.

513-246-2647 | trihealth.com

6200 Pfeiffer Road, Cincinnati

YMCA Camp Kern

Spend a week in the outdoors overcoming challenges, making new friends, and growing your character. Each program is designed with specific age groups in mind, so each campers’ interests are met. Experience the magic of our fully immersive camp, the thrill of our teen programs, or the endless adventures of our traditional camp. Scholarship opportunities and more details available on our website.

800-255-KERN | 513-932-3756 | campkern.org

5291 State Route 350, Oregonia

TOGETHER MAKE SUMMMER GREAT

Day Camp Counselor

Ages 18+

Energetic, enthusiastic, and creative counselors promote positive character values in a caring environment while leading youth activities such as arts & crafts, games, sports, and swimming!

Lifeguard

Ages 15+

Build relationships with members, be a positive role model for kids, keep guests safe, maintain skills to be ready to act quickly, and respond during emergency situations.

YMCA Camp Ernst

Ages 18+

Overnight & Day Camp Counselors

Cabin counselors are responsible for leading the group of campers through a successful camp week. Stay at camp from Sunday-Saturday or work as a day camp counselor.

Lifeguard interest form