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Geauga County Maple Leaf
Thursday, April 27, 2017
Ready or Not, Here Comes Summer Camp Season METROCREATIVE Summer camp season is just around the corner. Each summer, millions of children depart for campsites around the country to swim, hike, craft, and enjoy the companionship of friends. Summer camps in North America were first established in the 1880s and were attended by children without their parents for overnight stays. By the 20th century, summer camps had become an international phenomenon, and various organizations hosted traditional summer camps or camps geared toward religion, sports, music and other subjects and activities. According to the American Camp Association, each year more than 14 million children and adults in the United States attend camp. America is home to more than 14,000 day and resident camps (8,400 are overnight camps and 5,600 are day camps). Nonprofit groups are the largest sponsors of summer camps. Many people put off summer camp planning until it is too late. Parents should keep in mind that camps begin registration early in the year and have specific cut-off dates for enrollment. Parents who want to beat the crowds this year can use this guide to help plan a summer camp agenda. • Attend an orientation seminar. Take the time to visit prospective camps for a tour, and use this open house as an opportunity to learn more about the programs offered. If available, find a camp employee to
Start gearing up now for summer camp plans to guarantee kids attend the camps they prefer.
discuss your child’s eligibility for enrollment. Some camps may offer webinars for convenience. • Fill out the enrollment package completely. Each camp has their own requirements for registration. Expect to submit some personal information, including a
medical background and proof of insurance, names and numbers of emergency contacts, and any other pertinent information as it applies to the camper. This may include allergies, fears, physical or mental disabilities, or even preferences in camp courses.
• Establish payment schedules. Summer camps vary in price. The ACA says camp costs range from $100 to more than $1,500 per week. However, many accredited camps offer some sort of financial assistance for children from families with limited financial means. If cost is a factor, be sure to broach the subject. • Prepare children for the physical challenges a camp may present. Summer camp activities may be rigorous, and campers may need to be cleared by a physician before starting. Be sure to schedule your child a physical and bring along any pertinent forms. Children also can increase their levels of physical activity compared to the often sedentary nature of winter. Such preparation can prevent injuries when engaging in outdoor and physical activities. • Shop for supplies. Camps are likely to provide a list of requirements with regard to clothing and other equipment campers will need. Make sure kids have enough shorts, Tshirts, socks, athletic shoes, swimsuits, toiletries, and other camp necessities before they leave. • Keep children in the loop. Engage children in the planning process to help alleviate their fears and get them excited about summer camp. Summer camp can foster lifelong memories. Parents can help kids prepare in advance for the fun that’s soon to arrive.
Geauga Music Center Camps Have Something for Everyone SUBMITTED This summer, let your child’s musical creativity abound. Geauga Music Center’s teachers have been innovating some fun and challenging
programs designed to not only keep your child playing this summer, but to set them on a path to be ahead of the rest. There will be programs available for students upper elementary, middle, high school and adults. Some programs, like Percussion
Ensemble, will be age specific, while others, like Ukulele Boot Camp, will be multi-generational. The Summer Rock Camp is both age and ability specific, partnering students ages 1117 with other students of similar ability to form rock bands for a three-week experience culminating in a live concert. Private music lessons run all year round and a lot of students make summer an opportunity to hone their skills and/or learn new instruments. The music center’s teachers are actively performing musicians with bachelors and masters degrees in music education, performance and music therapy, with only three exceptions out of 12 teachers. What does that mean for you? That means you are gaining from their experience
and expertise, it means they aren’t guessing if what they’re teaching is correct, and it means the best education for you. Please stop in, call or email Geauga Music Center throughout the month of May for more information and register by June 1. Geauga Music is, and has been for 44 years, located in Chardon now at 215 Cherry Avenue. Call 440-286-8481 or email lessons@ geaugamusiccenter.com. Don’t forget that Director Greg Hillis and the Blizzard Youth Winds are looking for woodwind, brass and percussion students, grades 7-12. Information can be found and registration completed, due May 1, at snowbeltmusical.org. Players are taken on a firstcome basis within each section so get your registration in early.
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Geauga County Maple Leaf
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Register for WGRC Day Camp SUBMITTED
SUBMITTED
There are a variety of experiences available for children and teens interested in the theater at The Fine Arts Association camps.
Fine Arts Association Offers Camps For Aspiring Actors and Artists SUBMITTED The Fine Arts Association has camps for everyone who loves the arts. From the littlest campers at age 3 through high school grads, The Fine Arts Association offers arts camps perfect for creative kids and teens. Camps range from one week to six weeks long. For theatrical kids in grades K3, there is Theatre Arts Camp Jr. where campers will be working on Disney’s “The Jungle Book” Kids. Campers in grades 3-12 can attend the “School for Superheroes!” during Theatre Arts Camp. And those in grades 9 through high school grads will find
the Young Actors Intensives interesting with Scene Study, Character Development, Acting 101 and The Monologue Audition. For kids who love to create art, there are Paper, Scissors, Rock camps for grades K-3 and 4-8, and the Textile Design camp for grades 4-6. There is also a Summer Dance Intensive for grades 3-12, one week multi-arts camps for grades K-5 and Preschool Arts Camps for ages 3-5. Fine Arts camps are perfect for all ability levels whether your camper is a beginner or seasoned arts participant. Art and Music Therapy camps are also available for ages 4 through 16.
This year’s camps also include before and after care for parents who need a longer day for their camper. Some camps begin as early as May 30 and many camps fill early. Secure your camper’s spot with a refundable deposit by calling 440-951-7500. Camp registration began Feb. 24. The Fine Arts Association is located at 38660 Mentor Avenue in Willoughby. Check out all of FAA’s summer camps, classes and workshops. To receive a camp brochure and a summer class catalog with complete offerings in music, visual art, theatre, dance and music and art therapies, call 440-951-7500 ext. 104.
West Geauga Recreation Council Day Camp is available for children entering kindergarten through eighth grade. It is located adjacent to the West Geauga Middle School in Chester Township. Sarah Drewlo is the new director and Bret Katz the new assistant camp director for WGRC Summer Day Camp. The campground is 15 wooded acres and offers covered pavilions, heated swimming pool, volleyball court, soccer field, basketball courts, an arts and crafts pavilion, stage and playgrounds. Daily activities include arts and crafts, sports, hiking, swimming, special guests and entertainment. Day camp opens June 5 and runs through Aug. 18. The camp is registered with the Ohio Department of Human Services as required by the Ohio Revised Code and maintains a 610:1 ratio of children to counselors. Camp hours are 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., with before care available from 7–9 a.m. and after care available from 3–6 p.m. New this year is WGRC’s simple, online registration and payment system for camp. In person registration is still available and will be at the West Geauga Recreation Council Day Camp on April 29th from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. There is a 5 percent early bird discount for registrations of eight weeks or more paid in full by May 13. For more information, please visit www.wgrc.org. Open interviews for camp counselors and lifeguards takes place on April 27. Interviews will be at the WGRC Day Camp from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. More information can be found at www.wgrc.org.
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Geauga County Maple Leaf
Thursday, April 27, 2017
Keep Skin Healthy by Knowing Sunscreen Facts METROCREATIVE The best way to care for skin is to be smart about sun exposure. Too much unprotected exposure to the sun can cause a host of problems, from premature wrinkling to skin cancer. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, millions of cases of skin cancer are reported each year, and many more may go undetected. The best way to protect skin from the sun is to stay out of the sun. When that is not feasible, using a broad-spectrum sunscreen can guard against damage from ultraviolet radiation. Although sunscreen is an enormous help, it is not foolproof. Sunburns and skin damage can occur even when using sunscreen, and user error accounts for much of that damage. To get the best results from any sunscreen product, consumers can educate themselves about proper application and avoid certain information inaccuracies. Myth: The best sunscreen is the one with the highest SPF. Actually, the best sunscreen is the one you will use regularly. Make sure you like the scent and the feel of the sunscreen. Decide if you prefer a sunscreen that is grouped together with a moisturizer or a makeup foundation. Try sunscreens that are lotions or sticks to figure out which application works best for you. Once you’ve found a product you like, stick with it. But make sure the sunscreen has an adequate sun protection factor, or SPF. Myth: I only need sunscreen on sunny days. The sun can prove harmful even on cloudy days. You may not be safe indoors, either, particularly if you spend a good deal of time next to an open window. Window glass will only block certain types of UV
light, making sunburn possible even if you are indoors or riding in a car. It’s a good habit to apply sunscreen daily regardless of if you will be out in the sun. Myth: Spray sunscreens are as effective as the rest. Spray products may not deliver enough sunscreen to the skin because droplets are dispersed unevenly. Furthermore, the propellents used in spray sunscreens could be harmful if inhaled. Opt for sunscreens that are applied by hand and can be adequately coated over all areas of the skin. Myth: Sunscreen does not need to be reapplied, especially if it’s water-resistant. There is no such thing as a waterproof sunscreen. The Food and Drug Administration recently prohibited the use of the term “waterproof” because consumers falsely believed their sunscreen products would not wash off. Water-resistant sunscreens will be effective for a certain number of minutes before they need to be reapplied, usually between 40 to 90 minutes. If you have been sweating profusely or have been in the pool or ocean for awhile, play it safe and reapply often. Myth: A little drop of sunscreen is all that’s needed. Many people are applying far too little sunscreen to protect themselves from the sun. The average person needs about an ounce of lotion to cover his or her entire body. Think about the size of a shot glass and use that amount. Myth: Spending more money on SPF 50 will get me superior protection. The rate of protection from SPF 30 to SPF 50 is marginal. SPF 30 (when applied correctly) can protect against 97 percent of UVB rays. That’s adequate for many people. It’s most important to choose a sunscreen that protects against UVA and UVB rays.
Pick out the mistakes these campers are making regarding campfire safety.
Emphasize Safety when Swapping Stories around the Campfire METROCREATIVE Camping is a popular and fun way to enjoy the great outdoors. For families vacationing on a budget, camping provides an affordable alternative to costly resorts and hotels. No camping trip is complete without spending some time around a campfire. But as fun as swapping stories around the campfire can be, campfires can also pose a safety risk. When building a campfire, campers can employ the following approach to ensure everyone enjoys a safe night around the fire. • Choose the right spot. Select a location that is on level ground and clear any obstructions or flammable items from the area before starting the fire. Be sure to look above you to make sure there are no lowhanging branches that may fall into the fire and ignite, putting campers at risk of injury. • Check the fire danger level. Many parks and campsites will post a warning level on signage indicating whether dry conditions can contribute to fast-expanding fires. When a high fire warning has been issued, it may be wise to avoid campfires altogether. • Ensure water is nearby. Have bottled water available or choose a campsite that is in close proximity to a water source. This ensures you can douse the fire or cool coals
if need be. • Use existing fire pit rings. Many campsites have fire rings in place. This serves to keep the fire contained in a safe manner. The best place to build a fire is within an existing fire ring in a well-placed campsite. If there is no ring, create your own barrier with rocks, stones and sand. Keep flammable material outside of a 10-foot diameter circle. • Stay close to the fire so long as it is burning. Never walk away from a lit fire. Even a small breeze can cause the fire to spread quickly, so stay near until it dissipates or you extinguish it. • Do not use accelerants. Light wood or coals with matches or a lighter or use a flint fire starter kit. Never douse the materials in lighter fluid or gasoline to get the blaze going. • Make sure the fire is out. When breaking down the campsite, completely extinguish the fire before leaving. Move stones and spread out embers and ash so that all heat can dissipate. Do not leave until the remains of the campfire are cool to the touch. Campfires can be both fun and practical when camping out. But always keep safety in mind and exercise considerable caution when choosing where and when to light fires.
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Geauga County Maple Leaf
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How to Hike Safely METROCREATIVE National parks are great places for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy some of their favorite activities. Many such parks allow visitors to camp out after a day spent rafting or kayaking on the water, making these locales the ideal vacation spots for families or groups of friends who share a love of the great outdoors. Hiking is among the more popular activities enjoyed at parks across the globe. Hikers of all ages and skill levels can enjoy trails of varying degrees of difficulty, all the while taking in picturesque landscapes that often cannot be found in developed urban and suburban areas. But as much as hiking can be enjoyed even by novice outdoor enthusiasts, this rewarding activity also can be dangerous. Hikers often find themselves in remote locations where cellular phone signals tend to be weak, which can be troublesome, even when hiking in relatively crowded parks. That’s why it’s important to take the following precautionary measures when hiking. • Never hike alone. Many outdoor enthusiasts enjoy escaping from the daily grind and getting some alone time with Mother Nature. While some outdoor activities can be safely enjoyed alone, others, including hiking, should never be done without a friend in tow. There are numerous benefits to hiking in pairs or groups, not the least of which is having someone there to go for help should anyone suffer an injury on the trails. When hiking with a group or even with only a friend, make sure no one hikes faster than the slowest hiker. This ensures that no one will get lost and that each hiker has someone there to seek help should an accident or injury occur. • Share your itinerary with someone staying behind. Even if you are hiking with others, it’s best to share your itinerary with someone who is not joining you on your trip. This way someone can alert authorities to you, and your fellow hikers’ direction if you get lost on a trail and cannot find your way out. When sharing your itinerary, share your schedule as well, telling friends who are staying behind to alert the authorities if you do not return or make direct contact with them by a given time. • Start early. Embarking on a hike early is beneficial in a variety of ways. Nature is beautiful at all times of the day, but part of the joy of hiking is taking in all of the beautiful landscapes, which are easier to see during daylight hours than at night. Hiking during the day is also safer, as it’s easier for hikers to make their way on trails when they can see where they’re going than at
night, when many hiking trails are cloaked in darkness. Scavenging animals also may be more prevalent after sundown. Finally, hiking also is legal during daylight hours, whereas many parks ban hiking once the sun goes down. • Know the weather forecast. When planning a hiking trip, know the weather forecast for the day or days you plan to hike. Expect cooler temperatures, even if the forecast is calling for a beautiful warm day. Hiking trails are often surrounded by tall trees, which makes it difficult for warm sunlight to illuminate trails and warm up hikers. So pack an extra jacket or coat, ideally a rain coat that can serve double duty should it start to rain. • Carr y water and snacks. Staying hydrated can make a long or challenging hike easier on your muscles, so be sure to bring plenty of water, which also can quench your thirst throughout your hike. Bring some snacks along as well. Snacks should provide you with energy to continue your hike, so leave behind snacks like potato chips or pretzels and pack your bags with fresh fruit, granola, protein bars, or trail mix. Hiking is a great way to enjoy the great outdoors. But even veteran hikers must take safety precautions to ensure their trips are as safe as they are enjoyable.
METROCREATIVE
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Geauga County Maple Leaf
Thursday, April 27, 2017
JFS Offers Summer Camp SUBMITTED Geauga County Job and Family Service’s Summer Camp and Enrichment Program offers foster children and lowincome children in Geauga County an opportunity to enjoy a summer camp or enrichment activity. Geauga JFS collaborates with various area camps including Hiram House, Camp Whitewood, Camp Burton, Geauga YMCA and the Geauga Park District’s Chip Henry Institute for Outdoor Adventure as well as other regional camps. Many camps offer discounts to the Summer Camp and Enrichment Program allowing donations to go further to serve more kids. Because of its collaboration with these camps, a donation of $100 can provide a child with a week of camp. In addition to camps, the program
assists children with fees for enrichment activities such as music lessons, art lessons, school field trips, gymnastic lessons, swimming lessons and pay to participate fees for after school sports. The program is funded solely by community members who recognize the importance of providing kids with structured, meaningful activities. Last year, the program served over 120 children. To learn more about the program, please contact Sara Shininger at 440-2859141, ext. 1263. People wishing to make a tax deductible donation to the summer camp and enrichment program should make their check payable to “Special Services of Geauga County.” Checks can be mailed to Geauga County Job and Family Services, P.O. Box 309, Chardon, OH 44024.
PHOTO COURTESY OF ALIENNA ARNOLD
Protect and Enjoy Public Parks METROCREATIVE Millions of people visit public parks across North America every year. Nature preserves and natural parks are home to picturesque landscapes, monuments, natural wonders, and abundant wildlife. Visiting parks is a great way to enjoy the beauty of nature and learn something along the way, but such visits also come with a great degree of responsibility. The National Parks Service and The British Columbia Ministry of Environment provide these guidelines to remain good environmental stewards when visiting popular parks and preserves.
mals from several feet away. Stay even further away from animals that are breeding, nesting or raising young, as parents can become particularly protective of their children and turn aggressive.
Keep a clean camp Camping and parks often go hand-inhand. Keep a clean camp so you are not attracting bears and other food scavengers. Use trash receptacles and store garbage and food out of reach. Cook and clean away from your tent and immediately clean any cooking supplies after you have finished your meal. Only wood and paper should be burned, and try not to prepare food or fishing bait in close proximity to your campsite.
Know the laws Prepare for weather
National parks may be protected by federal law that may prohibit or restrict hunting and trapping animals to specific times of year. Wildlife living in parks may become less fearsome of people over time, especially when they grow accustomed to being fed or handled. Many parks prohibit feeding and close interacting with wildlife. Otherwise the animals may lose their hunting or foraging ability, or pose threats to people when the animals rapidly approach for an easy handout. Learn park rules so you’ll know what is acceptable behavior within its borders.
Weather can change on a dime when you’re in the wilderness. Pack accordingly, dressing in layers so you can change clothes as the weather demands. Have a flashlight and other emergency supplies available in case you get stuck in a storm. Higher elevations and exposure to the sunlight can cause severe sunburn. Always apply and reapply sunscreen. High elevations also can increase the chance of dehydration, mountain sickness (headaches, nausea and dizziness) and the aggravation of preexisting medical conditions.
Keep wild animals wild
Avoid damaging vegetation
Feeding animals is perhaps one of the more dangerous things park visitors can do. In recent years, the National Park Service has had to euthanize deer, coyotes, rock squirrels, and other animals that have become too aggressive toward humans because they grew accustomed to receiving food from people. Keep your distance from wildlife. Use proper equipment to view or photograph ani-
Animals are not the only natural wonders to protect. Use caution when hiking so you do not trample vegetation. Keep pets on leashes so they do not disturb sensitive habitats. Do not pick flowers or berries and take them away from the park. Respecting local wildlife and taking steps to keep parks clean can make your hiking and camping experiences that much more enjoyable.
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Geauga County Maple Leaf
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X-TREME Days Offer More In-Depth Exploration Teens spend single days with ravines, navigation, science or kayaking BY SANDY WARD GEAUGA PARK DISTRICT Go in search of wildlife and history on a rugged backcountry adventure. Learn outdoor navigation, survival skills and plan off-trail routes using map and compass. Do wildlife research including bird banding, trail camera checks, butterfly monitoring and stream exploration. Take a 10-mile adventure paddling through the wilds of the Upper Cuyahoga River. The above describes a week in the life of a Geauga Park District summer camp naturalist — and any of these could also be a day, or days, in the life of your out-of-school teen. Tailored for teens entering grades eighth through 10th, Geauga Park District’s XTREME Days are single days the week of July 3, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., and cost $30 each. The Park District’s complete summer camp line-up, entering year five, also offers week-long experiences for this age group the weeks of June 19 and 24, and for youth entering grades 5 through 7 the weeks of June 12 and 26, July 10, 17 and 31, and Aug. 7. All week-long camps cost $150. Fun camp activities include exploring, biking, kayaking, fishing and sending rockets and kites high into the sky. And most importantly,
PHOTO COURTESY OF ALIENNA ARNOLD
PHOTO COURTESY OF JILL AKUCEWICH
they’re outside in the fresh air, in nature. Also, new this year, before-care is available at an additional fee for registered the weeks of July 17, 24 and 31. Details on all of Geauga Park District’s summer camp opportunities can be found online at http://bit.ly/gpdcamps. Sources are available for camp scholarships; for details,
PHOTO COURTESY OF ABBY SMITH
please call 440-286-9516. Space on all camps fills quickly, so Geauga Park District naturalists recommend signing up as soon as possible. Feedback on last year’s camps was mostly positive, while constructive criticisms have been considered in developing this year’s activities. “This was the best camp for my child ... he will be coming back,” wrote one parent in a survey. “The social interaction, games and
laughter is what my daughters loves,” wrote another. “She had a great time. Thank you!” Organizers know it’s important for young people to have fun in nature in order to help them learn about and appreciate it. Geauga Park District’s summer camps are sponsored by the Chip Henry Institute for Outdoor Adventure, established in memor y of the late Geauga County Probate/Juvenile Court Judge Charles “Chip” Henry, who had a great passion for Nature and youth.
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Thursday, April 27, 2017
History Comes to Life at Liberty Camp Geauga SUBMITTED Liberty Camp Geauga is a week-long day camp designed to teach elementary-aged children about the history of the founding of America in a fun, memorable and participative approach. History will come alive as it is re-enacted allowing campers to experience life as a Colonist in the late 1700s. They will learn who the men and women visionaries were that played key roles in forging our new country, why the colonists wanted independence from the oppressive British rule under King George lll, when the appointed time came for this, where the War for Independence was fought and what form of government would be established in God’s name. The cost of freedom will become real
Dates: Monday-Friday, July 24-28, 2017 Time: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Location: Geauga Park District’s “Chickagami Park” 17957 Tavern Road (Rt. 168 S), Burton, OH 44021 Fees: $50 per camper; $20 per Teen Patriot Registration: www.libertycampgeauga.com as the story of the battles is told and hardships experienced. Founding Fathers, including George Washington, John Hancock, Patrick Henr y and Benjamin Franklin will explain the Declaration of Independence, t he United St ates Constitution and the Bill of Rights of our Great Republic. The 18th century will be experienced in all events of the day — from the 200-year-old
games they’ll play, to the colonial type snacks they’ll eat, to the hands-on crafts of the times. Campers will be grouped with children of similar age and will rotate through stations geared toward the life and experiences of the American Colonist. The leaders present information in an entertaining and interactive way so the campers experience history rather than
memorize history. They will enjoy learning about what makes America exceptional and they will retain what they learn. Teen volunteers (13-19) serve as Teen Patriots performing a variety of duties to assist Group Leaders, helping out at the stations, keeping the “troops” marching along to the day’s particular cadence, and playing roles as needed. Camp comes to an end at 1 p.m. on Friday with a closing ceremony and a family “Potluck Picnic” following. Liberty Camp Geauga fills up very rapidly. Only after a complete registration or application packet is received will a place be secured for your child as a Camper or Teen Patriot For further information or to volunteer, please contact: Linda J. O’Brien, director, at 440-338-1582.
Begin Planning Your Kids’ Summer Recreation Now METROCREATIVE Many families spend winter figuring out how to chase away cabin fever and endure frigid temperatures until spring and summer mercifully return. Parents thinking ahead to swimming pools and days lounging on the beach can put their daydreams to practical use by planning ahead for their youngsters’ summer vacations. Youth recreational programs and summer camps can bridge the gap in care between the end of school and the day when classes resume. Due in part to high demand, parents who want to place their kids in summer rec programs or summer camps should being vetting such programs and camps well in advance of summer. The following are a handful of tips for moms and dads who want their kids to have fun
and fulfilling summers. • Ask for recommendations. Speak with fellow parents and trusted friends about where they send their children. Personal recommendations can be very helpful, providing firsthand insight into a particular camp or program. Schedule appointments to visit camps that fall within your budget. Take your son or daughter along so he or she can get a sense of what camp will be like. • Explore all options. Camps come in more flavors than ever before. Certain camps may be faith-based ministries while others may focus on particular sports. Band camps and art camps may appeal to creative kids. Also, there are plenty of general-interest camps that offer various activities without narrowing in on any particular one. Parents may need to choose between a
sleepaway camp or day camps, depending on which camp experience they want for their children. • Inquire about camp schedules. While many camps are flexible, day camps do not have the same level of flexibility as afterschool programs. Arrangements will need to be made if care is required after regular camp hours. Speak with camp staff to see which types of after-hours programs, if any, are available. • Determine your camp budget. As varied as program offerings may be, camps also can var y greatly with regard to cost. Government-run camps may be less expensive than those offered by private companies. Day camps typically cost less than those that provide room and board. Find out if a particular organization subsidizes a portion of camp costs. Scouting programs often
have a dedicated camp and may offer affordable options for scouts. Martial arts schools and dance centers frequently offer camp schedules. If camp seems out of reach, look into local summer recreation programs at parks or schools. Such programs may not be as extensive as t hose of fered by camps, but they can quell kids’ boredom and keep children occupied during the day. In addition to camp, remember to plan for some free days so children can just enjoy some downtime. Such days can break up the monotony of a routine and provide kids and families time to relax together. Summer recreation may be far off, but it is never too early to start making summer plans, including finding camps and other activities for kids.