MetroKids 0120 PA - CAMP DIRECTORY

JANUARY 2020 PHILLY & THE BURBS

CAMP STORIES What’s the Best Age for Camp?

A Camp Primer 2020 CAMP DIRECTORY

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Camp

What’s the Best Age for Camp?

By Audrey Monke You probably want a number here. If you’re only going to read these first two sentences, then I’ll pick the age of nine.

But the real answer is a bit more complex. When to start sending your child to sleep-away camp is a decision that depends on you, your parenting style, and your child’s temperament. Many kids have fun and successful camp experiences as young as six years old, but that’s too young for most kids. And for some parents the thought of their child ever going to camp (without them) is unimaginable.

Sometimes “he’s not ready for camp” actually means you’re not ready. Realizing that your child can be okay without you is sometimes hard on parents and it’s a big step to let them have the independent experience of summer camp.

These are the guidelines for parents who are ready to send their child to camp but aren’t sure what age is best.

5 or younger

This is too young for overnight camp alone. Go to a family camp together or try a day camp. (You can find local day camps at MetroKids.com/DayCamp.)

6 to 8 years old

For young kids, focus on whether your child is ready. This is not the age to force camp upon a hesitant child.

If they want to go, there are some questions to ask: Is your child a fairly independent kid (not clingy) who can take a shower on his own? If your child

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happily goes to school and is fine at day camps and other activities without you constantly by his side, then he’s probably ready for camp.

9 to 10 years old

If she is excited to go, sign her up.

If not, talk with other families whose kids go to camp to expose her to the idea. Hearing how much other kids like camp might encourage her to want to go.

Attend camp information sessions. (The MetroKids Super Camp Fair is Sunday, Jan. 26 at Plymouth Meeting Mall and is free to attend.)

If she is still hesitant, you have two choices.

The Hard Choice: Explain all the benefits of camp and how you think it will be great for her and an important step in her growth and development. Let her know you think it’s an important experience and you don’t want her to miss out.

This choice requires being able to stand your ground and not give in to whining.

Sign up but don’t talk about it too much, too far in advance if your child is especially anxious.

The Easier Choice: Give your child a one-year “pass,” but follow through.

Know that kids who are hesitant about camp at 9 or 10 are likely to still be hesitant at 13 and possibly at 18 about going to college. Parents need to figure out how to work through those feelings and a week or two at camp is an easy way to start. It’s actually easier to start camp at 9 or 10 and work through those

difficult homesick emotions without also contending with puberty.

11 and older

If they want to go, let them.

I’ve been at camp fairs where a mother with a child taller than she is tells me, in front of her child, “He’s way too young to be away from me for two weeks.” I look at the young person standing next to her and want to say, “He’s not too young. You just don’t want him to be away from you.”

An older child will likely not be the only first-year camper his age. There will be fewer new kids at camp at that age, but camp kids are welcoming, so don’t worry.

I’ve met many families who waited until their child was 12 or 13 years old, only to later be disappointed that they had so few summers to enjoy at camp.

If they are still hesitant, keep in mind that the kids who tend to have the most extreme homesickness are the older ones who’ve never been away. If your child gets extreme homesickness, isn’t it better that it happen during a two-to-threeweek summer program than when he’s a freshman in college?

Give your children the gift of early independence to help them develop the skills they need to thrive as young adults.

Audrey Monke, with her husband Steve, has owned and directed Gold Arrow Camp in Lakeshore, California for 30 years.

Find local day and residential camps online.

Visit Metrokids.com/Camp.

JANUARY 2020

SUMMER CAMP 2020!

3 Day C amps & 4 Over n Campsight

GIVE HER A SUMMER SHE’LL NEVER FORGET GREAT VALUE!

LEADERSHIP SKILLS!

AND OF COURSE, FUN!

Girl Scouts of Eastern Pennsylvania offers day and overnight camp experiences that rival any private camp, for less.

Our girl-led, girl-focused programming teaches leadership to inspire courage, confidence and character.

With adventure courses, swimming, horseback riding, hiking, s’mores(!), archery, and more, she’ll make memories for a lifetime.

NOT ALREADY A GIRL SCOUT? NOT A PROBLEM!

For more information or to register visit gsep.org/camp www.gsep.org

| 215-564-2030 |

@GirlScoutsEPenn

|

@GirlScoutsEPenn

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@GirlScoutsEPenn

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Camp

A Camp Primer Summer camps range from a few hours nearby to international travel. Here’s a rundown of your options and how to find a camp right for your family.

By Cheryl Maguire With so many choices it can be overwhelming to figure out what type of camp would be a good fit for your child. Here’s a primer on the types of camps available to help you narrow your choices.

DAY CAMP

A traditional day camp is six hours (half-day options may be available) and offers a variety of activities such as sports, swimming, art and music. These camps are located at YMCAs, public schools, or private settings.

(Check out MetroKids.com/DayCamp for local camps.)

Is this a good fit?

Most of the activities are outside so if your child loves the outdoors and sports or team-building activities, this is a good choice. Since the activities are varied this would also be a good fit for a child that likes variety.

SPORTS

Specialty sports camps usually are one sport such as baseball or soccer that the child plays for 3 or 6 hours. There may be an option for tennis, golf, surfing or sailing camp. This type of camp is typically owned by private organizations although some towns may run sports camps.

(Find a variety of sports camps at MetroKids.com/SportsCamp) Is this a good fit?

If your child loves a specific sport and would like to improve skills, this would be a great option. It could even be a way for your child to try a new sport, such as surfing, that might be new to her.

ART/MUSICAL THEATER

Specialty art or musical theater camps focus solely on the arts. Musical theater camps typically showcase a production such as Beauty and the Beast. At an art camp a child would use a variety of art forms, like painting or drawing.

(Go to MetroKids.com/Camps, where you can sort camps by arts or theater and drama, as well as by location.)

Is this a good fit?

Is your child creative and prefers the indoors? Then these types of camps would be worth looking into. It may be a good way to introduce the arts, since many of these camps are for just one week.

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EDUCATIONAL

An educational camp focuses on learning a new skill or subject matter. Since it is camp and not school, these types of camps tend to be hands-on with an emphasis on fun.

(At MetroKids.com/Camps you can search for camps that specialize in academics generally or specifically in areas such as STEM.) Is this a good fit?

If your child is curious and always asking questions about how/why things work, this may be a good match for her. If a child is interested in learning a new skill such as computer programming or speaking Spanish some educational camps offer that as well.

SLEEPAWAY

Overnight camp is when your child lives at the camp for a week or longer. These camps tend to offer options such as sailing, boating, archery, horseback riding and other activities that may not be available close to your home.

(Go to MetroKids.com/ResidentialCamp to find options from across the state and country.)

Is this a good fit?

An overnight camp gives your child the chance to meet other kids from different states and countries. There is also more time to do activities and foster independence compared to traditional day camps.

TRAVEL

There are two types of travel camps. One type is when your child goes on day trips and the other, sometimes referred to as “teen tours,” is when she travels with a group for an extended period, usually a few weeks or a month.

Is this a good fit?

Some of these camps travel to places by plane so it would give your child the chance to travel to a place that you might not have gone as a family. If your child enjoys experiencing new destinations, then this would be a great fit for him.

Cheryl Maguire is a freelance writer.

JANUARY 2020

JANUARY 2020

MetroKids.com 19

Thrilling adventures are in store for children at summer camps throughout the Delaware Valley in 2020! This camp directory includes an ample array of choices for all abilities, ages and interests.

Navigate the directory by focusing on your preferences for: • Geographic area: Camps are grouped by county & outlying areas.

• Category: Each description is prefaced by camp type — day, program, residential, special needs or travel.

• Special features: See the key below.

Find a searchable version at MetroKids.com/camps.

Contact camps to express interest and mention you saw their listing in MetroKids.

MULTIPLE LOCATIONS 76ers Camps

Multiple Locations; 610-668-7676 director@sixerscamps.com • 76erscamps.com DAY The #1 Basketball Camp in the NBA celebrates our 36th Year! Learn the drills the pros use to take your game to the next level. Age-specific and skill-specific fundamentals and skill development for beginners to advanced. Meet players, coaches and other NBA Stars. Youth basketball player development at its finest. Half-day, full-day and overnight camps available for 5–17 year olds.

Arsenal USA Premier Soccer Camps

Multiple Locations; 610-922-8255 rjacobs@esfcamps.com • Arsenalsoccercampsusa.com DAY Arsenal USA premier soccer camps, for boys and girls from ages 6–14, provides players of all skill levels an opportunity to improve their game and be immersed in the same philosophy as the professional academies in London. The Arsenal Way is taught to campers as they are immersed in a curriculum that has helped develop some of the world’s best players. Learn from Arsenal coaches who direct and help you combine techniques, tactics and that winning spirit.

Engineering for Kids

Multiple Locations; 215-559-9233 greaterphila@engineeringforkids.com Engineeringforkids.com/greater-philadelphia DAY Engineering For Kids brings science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) to kids in a fun and challenging way through camps, classes and parties. We are proud to inspire children to build on their natural curiosity by teaching engineering concepts through hands-on learning.

Girl Scouts of Eastern Pennsylvania

Headquarters: 330 Manor Rd., Miquon, PA Gsep.org/camp DAY, PROGRAM, RESIDENTIAL Nobody does camp like Girl Scouts!

Want to build exploding volcanoes, learn survival techniques like Katniss or whip up new recipes over a campfire? GSEP has you covered. We’ve got four resident and three day camps that are open to all girls — let camp be your first Girl Scouts experience!

ACA SN

Paris Saint-Germain Academy Soccer Camps USA

Multiple Locations; 610-922-8255 rjacobs@esfcamps.com • Psgacademysoccercampsusa.com DAY The Paris Saint-Germain Academy USA soccer camps, for boys and girls ages 6–14, provide players of all skill levels an opportunity to improve their game and be immersed in the same philosophy as the professional academies in Paris. Individual skill development and team play is incorporated with the character traits necessary to be the best you can be. European coaches help direct each day’s action.

Phillies Baseball Academy

Multiple Locations; 610-520-3400 campmail@philliescamps.com • Philliesacademy.com DAY Phillies Baseball Academy is the premier baseball camp experience for boys and girls, ages 6–14, featured at numerous great locations in Pennsylvania, New Jersey and Delaware. Only Phillies Baseball Academy offers top-notch instruction with the unique opportunity to go on a behindthe-scenes tour of Citizens Bank Park and the chance to meet a Phillies player and coach.

Temple University Summer Education Camps

580 Meetinghouse Rd., Temple University Ambler; Ambler, Center City, Main Campus; 267-468-8500 • Temple.edu/summer/youthcamps DAY Temple University offers Summer Education Camps for rising 2nd graders to rising 12th graders. June, July and August at Ambler and Main campus. Camps include: Robotics, Art and Drawing, Forensic Science, Theater, Virtual Reality and more.

YMCA of Greater Brandywine

Multiple Locations Ymcagbw.org/camp DAY Make it the best summer ever with friends, fun and the discovery of new and hidden talents. Day camps feature weekly themes like Wild West Frontier, Power of the Force, School of Wizardry, Summer Olympics and more. Specialty camps focus on building skills and nurturing talents in specific areas of interest, like environmental science, animal care, performing arts, theater, fishing, fashion and more! And don’t forget, YMCA camp counselor programs build great leadership skills for the future! From preschoolers through teens, Y camps offer something for everyone!

Financial assistance is available.

BUCKS COUNTY Camp Onas

609 Geigel Hill Rd., Ottsville, PA 610-847-5858 • Camponas.org RESIDENTIAL Camp Onas, the Quaker camp in Bucks County, PA, is for all kids ages 8–13. Campers live and play in a friendly, diverse community and choose their own activities from a complete camp program. Includes 2- and 4-week sessions and a special 1-week session for first-time campers ages 7 and 8. ACA

George School Day Camp

1690 Newtown Langhorne Rd., Newtown, PA 215-579-6689 • Gsdaycamp.org DAY Summer is better with Friends! Voted Best Day Camp in Bucks County three years in a row, GSDC is open to boys and girls ages 4–14. From archery to arts, swimming to ziplining and everything in between, GSDC gives campers experiences and opportunities like none other. Lunch is provided daily!

CIT

Key: Extended hours Offers financial aid Part-day or part-week sessions Provides transportation ACA: ACA-accredited CIT: Counselor-in-training program SN: Some special needs may be accommodated

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JANUARY 2020

Camp Lee Mar Est. 1981

Camp for Creative Arts, Technology, Sports, Swimming and more!

1405 Twining Road • Dresher, PA 19025 • 215-657-3388 •2 – 11 Week Sessions

• Door to Door Transportation • Extended Hours Available

• Non-consecutive wks avail. • Certified Teaching Staff & Nurse • Pre-School Enrichment Camp • Air Conditioned Buildings • Great Camper/Staff Ratio • Teen Quest Program

ACTIVITIES INCLUDE: Instruments, Rock and Jazz Bands, Theater, Art, Ceramics, Yoga, Robotics, Dance, Fashion Design, Voice , Photography, Pastry Arts, Creative Writing, Computer Animation, Film Making, Strategy Games, Science, Rocketry, Nature, Swim, Archery, Sports and More!

mper New Ca nt!

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OPEN HOUSES/TOURS FOR SUMMER 2020: (RAIN OR SHINE) Monday, Jan. 20th (School Holiday) 10am - 4pm Saturday, Jan. 25th • 10am - 4pm

info@burnbraedaycamp.com

Saturday, Feb. 1st • 10am - 4pm Sunday, Feb. 9th • 1pm - 4pm

Celebrating 39 Years!

burnbraedaycamp.com

Camp Lee Mar 2017 Dates:

June 24-August 11

th 8 6 ason!

Se

2019 Dates: Dates:June June24 22- -August August11 9 2020

Winter Office: Camp Lee Mar Ph: 215-658-1708 Fax: 215-658-1710 Please visit us on

On YouTube you can view parents and campers talking about their experiences at Lee Mar.

JANUARY 2020

MetroKids.com 21

Camp Directory CHESTER COUNTY

Bala House Montessori Summer Camp

410 West Seven Stars Rd. Phoenixville, PA 19460 admissions@kimberton.org • Kimberton.org DAY Summer days filled with creek adventures, arts, crafts, creative play, picnics, woodland explorations, games, water play and fun. Our beautiful campus provides a wholesome environment where children can experience the wonders of nature and create memories to last a lifetime.

27 Conshohocken State Rd., Bala Cynwyd, PA 610-664-6767• admissions@balahouse.org • Balahouse.org DAY, PROGRAM Fun, yet stimulating experience for first-time campers.

Flexible schedules and convenient hours (8am–5:45pm) for ages 3–6.

Choose individual weeks as needed. Weekly art, gymnastics and Soccer Shots classes complement our small, nurturing environment. Storytellers, petting zoos and museums visit camp. Our beautiful wooded campus and well-equipped playground are the perfect backdrop for summer fun.

DELAWARE COUNTY

Burn Brae Day Camp of Creative Arts

Kimberton Waldorf School Summer Camp

Benchmark School Summer Camp

2107 N. Providence Rd., Media, PA; 610-565-3741 Admissions@benchmarkschool.org • Benchmarkschool.org DAY This transformative five-week program for students in grades 1–6 includes Benchmark’s internationally recognized language arts program, executive function skills instruction and design thinking activities in our Innovation Lab, as well as art, science, sports and zipline.

Math tutoring available for grades 1–9. June 29–July 31. Voted Best of Philly 2016 and 2017.

SN

Community Arts Center — Summer Spree

414 Plush Mill Rd., Wallingford, PA 610-566-1713 • CommunityArtsCenter.org DAY Summer Spree is an arts camp for ages 4–17 that offers visual art, music, outdoor fun, and special activities. Half- or full-day options during one-week sessions from June–Aug. Experience the power of art in a magical place.

Main Line Art Center

746 Panmure Rd., Haverford, PA; 610-525-0272 info@mainlineart.org • Mainlineart.org DAY At the 2020 Main Line Art Center Summer Art Camp, Pre-teen and Teen studios, get ready for an artistic adventure and discover your inner explorer. Journey through the steamy jungles of the Amazon, traverse the desert dunes, and dive into the deep blue sea to discover the wonders of the coral reefs. Throw away the map and let creativity be your guide!

The Grayson School

211 Matsonford Rd., Radnor, PA enrichment@thegraysonschool.org • TheGraysonSchool.org/camp DAY Project-based learning adventures for grades K-12 that include time outside everyday. Our Grayson teachers understand the intellectual curiosity of all gifted children, and challenge high-ability learners to think critically, ask and answer difficult questions, solve problems to stretch their minds, have fun, and make new friends!

(Camp for the Arts, Technology, Swim, Sports and More!)

1405 Twining Rd., Dresher, PA; 215-657-3388 info@burnbraedaycamp.com • Burnbraedaycamp.com DAY Celebrating 39 years of friendships, confidence-building, fun and exploration for boys and girls ages 3–15. We have a huge variety of indoor and outdoor activities on our beautiful, spacious setting with A/C buildings centrally located. We are a nurturing, non-competitive environment and no-bully zone. Campers ages 7–15 create their own schedules according to their interests. Ages 3–6 can try everything in a well-rounded schedule. Pick and choose from two, 11-week sessions with non-consecutive weeks available. Experienced, caring and professional certified teaching staff with a 5-to-1 camper/staff ratio. Academic tutoring, door-todoor transportation and early and late care available. Registered Nurse on site.

Camp Pegasus

Sacred Heart Academy, 480 S. Bryn Mawr Ave., Bryn Mawr, PA 610-649-1080 ext. 3 • info@camppegasus.com Camppegasus.com DAY Camp Pegasus, in Bryn Mawr, PA, is a coed day camp for 6- to 16-year-olds struggling with social-cognitive deficits. By weaving together social skills techniques, creative-art therapies and traditional camp activities, kids with/without diagnoses like ADHD, Asperger’s and HFA, improve social competency and increase self-esteem. SN

Center School’s Summer Program 2020

2450 Hamilton Ave., Abington, PA; 215-657-2200 mstalker@centerschoolpa.org • Centerschoolpa.org PROGRAM Center School’s Summer Learning and Enrichment Program provides students with academic and recreational opportunities to develop and maintain skills, practice effective learning strategies, and increase abilities. Help your child realize their potential this summer! For students in grades 1–8. July 6–July 31. SN

Cheltenham Center for the Arts

439 Ashbourne Rd., Cheltenham, PA; 215-379-4660 education@cheltenhamarts.org • Cheltenhamarts.org DAY Summer Art Camp is the best place to explore your creativity. Kids ages 5–12 will experience the fun of drawing, painting, theatre and clay Young People’s Theatre Workshop (YPTW): Theatre Arts Summer every day! Weekly swimming trips are included as well as guest artists Overnight Camp at Eastern University • 363 Radford Ct., Glen Mills, PA throughout the summer. Teens ages 13–16 are offered a more in-depth Youngpeoplestheatreworkshop@gmail.com; Yptw.org art experience focusing on ceramics, painting/drawing printmaking and RESIDENTIAL Overnight camp for ages 11–18 at Eastern University, other special topics in our Teen Summer Studio. Sessions June 15–Aug. June 21–26. Classes include musical comedy, Shakespeare, improv, monologues, dance, characterization, auditions, showtunes. Air-conditioned 21. Come for one week or for the whole summer! Call today for details! dorms, good food, and an experienced staff of professional educators.

MONTGOMERY COUNTY AIM Academy Summer Enrichment Program

1200 River Rd., Conshohocken, PA; 215-483-2461 summer@aimpa.org; Aimpa.org/summerataim DAY Explore STEAM activities and reinforce essential skills in reading, writing, math and college prep in a creative and dynamic enrichment environment for children entering grades 1–12. Campers enjoy a chance to imagine, invent and play along with three hours of daily literacy and academic instruction tied to AIM’s research and arts-based curriculum.

SN

Elmwood Park Zoo Camp

1661 Harding Blvd., Norristown, PA; 610-277-3825 ext. 234 camp@elmwoodparkzoo.org • Epzcamps.com DAY, PROGRAM Children ages 3–12 will enjoy a fun and educational experience learning about and interacting with many of the zoo’s resident collection. Each weeklong camp includes crafts, stories, snacks, animal visitors, and in-depth tours of the zoo. Regular summer zoo events and shows are incorporated into camp. In 2020 we are introducing advanced workshops for teens ages 13–15 who are interested in wildlife conservation.

Key: Extended hours Offers financial aid Part-day or part-week sessions Provides transportation ACA: ACA-accredited CIT: Counselor-in-training program SN: Some special needs may be accommodated

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JANUARY 2020

George School Day Camp

Open to children ages 4-14.

Lunch is provided daily.

Three-time best of bucks winner!

www.gsdaycamp.org French for Fun

Summer Camp!

150 North Highland Avenue • Bala Cynwyd, PA 19004 (610) 667-1284 • www.frenchschoolphila.org

For children from 4 to 12 years old—no prior knowledge of French needed!

CALL TO ATTEND AN OPEN HOUSE! Wed., Feb. 12 8:45 - 9:15am

Find a location and save today at

invent.org/save

multiple locations throughout the area!

Songs, games, art, science, sports, cooking... en français!

Ecole Française Internationale de Philadelphie

French International School of Philadelphia

JANUARY 2020

Weekly sessions held from 6/24 to 7/26!

MetroKids.com 23

Camp Directory Flourtown Swim Club & Day Camp

1528 Bethlehem Pk., Flourtown, PA; 215-836-1429 dcollins@flourtownswimclub.net • Flourtownswimclub.net DAY The Flourtown Summer Day Camp is a traditional summer day camp offering daily swim lessons with many varied activities. With a mature and experienced staff, we look forward to creating a wonderful experience and a lifetime of positive memories for your child. June 15–August 21.

CIT

French for Fun c/o French International School of Philadelphia

150 N. Highland Ave., Bala Cynwyd, PA; 610-667-1284 info@efiponline.com • Frenchschoolphila.org/summer-camp DAY French for Fun Summer Camp teaches children, ages 4–12, French language skills in a fun environment through games and fun activities. No prior knowledge of French is required! The camp runs six individual weeks starting on June 22nd. Counselors are native French speakers and/or are members of the faculty at the French International School. Weekly field trips and parents welcome for Friday camp presentations.

Frog Hollow Racquet Club

2115 Weber Rd., Lansdale, PA 610-584-5502 • Frogcamps.com DAY Frog Hollow’s Tennis Camp is an exceptional place for children to learn tennis, meet friends and make memories! Frog Hollow has a camp for all levels and all ages starting at age 5. Whether you’re just learning to play or have extensive tennis experience, Frog Hollow has something for you! Invitational camp is available for sectionally and nationally ranked tournament players. Sign up for a week or the entire summer, for full day or half day. Camp runs June–September; weekly sign ups and extended day are available. Visit Frogcamps.com to learn more.

SN

Germantown Academy Day Camp and Summer Programs

Penn Museum Anthropologists in the Making and Junior Anthropologists Summer Camps

3260 South St., Philadelphia, PA 19104 summercamp@pennmuseum.org • Penn.museum/camp DAY Journey through time and across continents without leaving Philadelphia! During summer 2020, Penn Museum will offer two distinct summer camp programs that will encourage children to discover world cultures — both past and present — through gallery tours, art-making, games and theatrics, as well as music and dance guest performances.

Penn Tennis Camp / Wilson Collegiate Tennis Camps

240 S. 31st St., Philadelphia, PA 19104 Wilsontenniscamps.com/penn DAY Long regarded as one one of the most popular tennis camps in the nation, the Penn Tennis Camp, in partnership with the The Wilson Collegiate Tennis Camps, will host 10 weeks of camp this summer. By offering full- and half-day options, there is an appropriate camp option for all levels of boys and girls ages 3–18. Most of our camp weeks sell out, so we recommend signing up as soon as possible.

Society Hill Synagogue Playschool

418 Spruce St., Philadelphia, PA 19106 Sara@societyhillsynagogue.org • Societyhillsynagogue.org/playschool DAY Our camp wonderfully blends hands-on exploration, literacy and language acquisition, thematic art projects, music and movement, outdoor play, and splash zone thrills for children ages 2–5. Flexible 11-week program June 1–August 14, with enrollment by day, week, or entire summer.

OUTLYING AREAS - PENNSYLVANIA Adventure Camp at Roundtop Mountain Resort

925 Roundtop Rd., Lewisberry, PA 717-432-9631 • skiroundtop@skiroundtop.com Roundtopmountainresort.com/camps/summer-adventure-camps DAY, RESIDENTIAL Book your child’s best week of the summer at South Central PA’s favorite ski resort where campers enjoy a multitude of adventure-based activities including zip lines, rock climbing, canoeing, kayaking, archery, paintball, OGO balls, high and low ropes courses, the Hideaway Day Camp super slide, chairlift rides and much more. All right here on our beautiful 3471 Arcola Rd., Collegeville, PA 1,200 acre mountain property. Day and residential camps available.

610-489-2191 • Hideawaydaycamp.com DAY The true camp experience. Coed program for ages 4–14 on 72 beautiful Residential housing is in air-conditioned mountain chalets CIT acres near Valley Forge. Fishing, canoeing, archery, swimming, equestrian, Camp Lee Mar sports, arts and crafts and ropes adventure course with rock wall.

450 Rte. 590, Lackawaxen, PA; 215-658-1708 ari@leemar.com • Leemar.com Pathway School, The 162 Egypt Rd., Jeffersonville, PA; 610-277-0660 RESIDENTIAL Camp for children and teenagers with mild to moderate dphifer@pathwayschool.org • Pathwayschool.org developmental challenges. A structured environment, individual attention DAY Have fun at our 6-week summer program which provides authentic and guidance are emphasized at all times. Traditional camp activities plus learning experiences through hands-on activities and exciting field trips. SN academics, speech and language therapy, music, arts and crafts, daily living skills and much more. We also have therapeutic horseback riding PHILADELPHIA COUNTY and overnight trips. Heated pool, modern facilities and air-conditioned buildings (including bunks). ACA SN Discovery Camp at The Franklin Institute

340 Morris Rd., Ft. Washington, PA; 267-405-7321 summer@gacamp.org • Gacamp.org DAY, PROGRAM Germantown Academy offers children ages 3–16 an amazing all-around day-camp experience, instructional sports camps with GA coaches, and specialized camps in the arts, sciences, and technology at the school’s beautiful campus in Fort Washington.

CIT

222 North 20th St., Philadelphia PA 19103 Discovery.camp@fi.edu • fi.edu/summer-camp/ DAY Discovery Camp combines the best of your favorite visit to The Franklin Institute with the adventures of summer camp. Campers get to explore exhibits and take part in hands-on activities, all while fostering a community of young people who love science.

YMCA Camp Conrad Weiser

201 Cushion Peak Rd., Reinholds, PA 610-670-2267 • SMYMCA.org RESIDENTIAL, OVERNIGHT We welcome you to our 600 mountain top acres in Berks County, Pennsylvania. While we offer a variety of session lengths, most campers come for 2- or 4-week sessions. We are a coed Penn Charter Summer Camps program for campers 6–17 years old. Traditional camp programs includ3000 W. School House Ln., Philadelphia, PA 19144; 215-844-3460 ing horseback riding, swimming, boating, athletics, target sports, mounsummercamps@penncharter.com • Penncharter.com/summercamp tain biking, creative arts, nature, adventure and teen leadership. We also DAY Mix and match more than 20 camps. Day, Sports, Performing Arts, Science, Digital Music Design, Rock Climbing, Drone, Robotics, Rocketry, Hand- offer a variety of specialty theme camps, adventure trips and international ACA work Studio, Dance, Pottery, Chess, Minecraft, Girls Empowerment, Tennis, trips. We can’t wait to see you on the mountain!

Squash, Baseball, Basketball, Soccer, Wrestling. Experience everything!

Ages 3–16. Lunch, transportation, extended-day available.

CIT

Key: Extended hours Offers financial aid Part-day or part-week sessions Provides transportation ACA: ACA-accredited CIT: Counselor-in-training program SN: Some special needs may be accommodated

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JANUARY 2020

Flourtown Swim Club and Flourtown

Summer Day Swim ClubCamp and Flourtown Summer Swim Day ClubCamp and

Traditional Summer Day Camp Boys and Girls Ages 4-14

Summer Day Camp

Spaces fill up quickly, register today!

CIT Program Extended care both AM and PM CIT Program Extended care both AM and PM

Observe whales, Atlantic puffins, seals, porpoises, and other marine life up-close.

OPEN HOUSE DATES: Saturdays, Feb. 15th & March 14th • 10am-2pm

Explore a unique island ecosystem.

Make connections that will last a lifetime!

Traditional Summer Day Camp Boys and Girls Ages 4-14

10-Week Program 21 Traditional Summer Day Camp • June CIT15-Aug. Program Boys and Girls Ages 4-14 Extended care both AM and PM

Swim Lessons • Recreational Swimming • Archery • Golf ACTIVITIES •• Daily Baseball/Softball • Soccer • Tennis • Basketball • Lacrosse INCLUDE.... • Field Hockey • Volleyball • Arts & Crafts • Music • Dance For more info. contact Danny Collins, Day Camp Director For more info. contact Danny Collins, Day Camp Director • Culinary Arts • GaGa Pit • Sustainable Gardening • Tutoring Services dcollins@flourtownswimclub.net dcollins@flourtownswimclub.net For more info. contact Danny Collins, Day Camp Director

Hands-on programs p in marine science on beautiful Grand Manan Island.

dcollins@flourtownswimclub.net Bethlehem Pike,Flourtown, Flourtown, PA • 215-836-1429 15281528 Bethlehem Pike, PA • 215-836-1429

1528 Bethlehem Pike, Flourtown, PA •Co.) 215-836-1429 (behind the Flourtown Fire (behind the Flourtown Fire Co.) (behind the Flourtown Fire Co.) www.flourtownswimclub.net www.flourtownswimclub.net

www.flourtownswimclub.net

FIND US ONLINE

College credit and $40 000 college scholarships available for students.

For more information & a free brochure, visit: www.whalecamp.com

Topics • To Do • Connect

MetroKids.com JANUARY 2020

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Win It!

Get in the

Check out the area’s best esports and tabletop-gaming venues on p. 29, then round up the crew for a family game night with these titles.

The popular card game Flinch, originally created in 1905, has been revamped by Hasbro with two ways to play: try the classic style, or quicken the pace with Fast Flinch (7+; $7.99)

Also revived by Hasbro, ‘90s game Pretty Pretty Princess lets kids play dress-up as they race to gather a matching set of jewelry including necklace, bracelet, ring, earrings and, of course, a crown (5+; $16.99)

Camp Directory OUTLYING AREAS - OTHER CCArts Fine & Performing Arts Camp

410 Upper Snuff Mill Row, Yorklyn, DE; 302-239-2434 jhartz@ccarts.org; Ccarts.org DAY Come gather, connect, and create this summer at CCArts! Half-or full-day camps with before and after care offer flexibility for busy summer schedules. Professional teaching artists offer painting, drawing, ceramics, fibers, photography, printmaking, mixed media, theater and music.

Centreville Layton School Summer Program

6201 Kennett Pk., Centreville, DE; 302-571-0230 djarrell@centrevillelayton.org • Centrevillelayton.org DAY Centreville Layton School offers a summer program to reinforce academic skills and organizational strategies. Additionally, our afternoon program, offered to ages 3–13, provides a nurturing environment where children can focus on building social skills and having fun. Our program is offered to students ages 3–18. Camp runs from June 22–July 24.

SN

Easterseals Camp Fairlee

22242 Bay Shore Rd., Chestertown, MD; 410-778-0566 fairlee@esdel.org • Easterseals.com/de/fairlee RESIDENTIAL, TRAVEL Camp Fairlee provides a traditional summer camp experience for children (age 6+) and adults with various disabilities including developmental, CP, MD, MS, orthopedic impairments and other disabilities. Special Autism weeks with 1:1 counseling. Wall climbing, high ropes, zip-lining, pool, canoeing and kayaking, horseback riding plus other activities. Nurses on staff 24/7. We also have off-season respite weekends for children and adults. In addition we also have travel trips for adults over age 18. All facilities are new, including our 12,000-squarefoot activity center, new health center, expanded dining hall, and four new cabins. ACA SN

Liberty Lake Day Camp

Bouncing Bingo provides a fresh twist on an old favorite, all while helping players develop hand-eye coordination, small motor skills, animal & name picture recognition and turn-taking skills (4+; $13.95) Log on to MetroKids.com/winit and enter to win your favorite prize, beginning Jan. 1. Prizes will be mailed by the provider to the address given on the entry form.

mk smart. local. parenting.

Montessori Summer Camp

Register Now! 610-664-6767

Convenient Hours (8am - 5:45pm)

www.balahouse.org

Bala Cynwyd, PA

Weekly Themes, Outdoor Activities, Art, Music, Gymnastics and Soccer Shots

Licensed by the Departments of Education and Office of Child Development - Early Learning. Bala House is an equal opportunity care provider.

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Tomato Patch @ Kelsey Theatre

1200 Old Trenton Rd., West Windsor, NJ; 609-570-3566 projects@mccc.edu • Tomatopatch.org DAY Multidisciplinary Summer Arts Workshops for grades 4–12. Theater, dance, vocal music, visual art. Each session culminates in a Festival Performance and Gallery Exhibit. The longest running, most successful summer arts program in Central New Jersey, now in its 47th year. Session I for grades 8–12; Session II for grades 4–7.

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Whale Camp at the Fundy Marine Institute

Grand Manan Island, New Brunswick, Canada; 888-54-WHALE info@whalecamp.com • WhaleCamp.com RESIDENTIAL No other marine science camp offers as many face-to-face encounters to closely observe and study whales, dolphins, porpoises, seals and puffins in their own natural habitat. Board our research vessel for unmatched opportunities to observe marine life. Explore beaches, coastal trails and fishing villages on beautiful Grand Manan Island. Ask about our $40,000 college scholarships, STEM projects & college credits.

MetroKids.com/Camps

FUN, STIMULATING, FIRST TIME CAMP EXPERIENCE! Flexible Schedules for Children Ages 3 through 6 years

1195 Florence-Columbus Rd., Bordentown, NJ, 08505 609-499-7820 • Libertylakedaycamp.com DAY Liberty Lake Day Camp is a transformative experience, teaching life skills to inspire young people to change the world. Campers enjoy 60 magnificent shady acres, outdoors and screen free. Kids can customize their day with the Freedom of Choice elective program with 60+ activities. Open Houses: Jan. 26, Feb. 9, March 1 & 22, April 5 & 26, May 17.

ACA

MetroKids.com

Key: Extended hours Offers financial aid Part-day or part-week sessions Provides transportation ACA: ACA-accredited CIT: Counselor-in-training progra SN: Some special needs may be accommodated

JANUARY 2020

r u o y d n e p S summerside out

BEING A KID

425 acres of fun 2 years to 6th grade Register for summer camp at

Kimberton.org/camp 410 W SEVEN STARS RD | PHOENIXVILLE, PA | 610.933.3635, EXT 108

Tomato Patch 2020 Summer Arts Workshops

Theater • Dance • Music • Video • Visual Art

Visual and Performing Arts Camps

Session I June 22 - July 16 Grades 8-12 4-week session $ 875 Session II July 20 - Aug. 6 Grades 4-7 3-week session $ 795 Master Class in Acting Session I Session II June 22 - July 10 July 20 - Aug. 7 Grades 8-12 Grades 8-12 3-week session 3-week session $ $ 725 725

Taught by professional artists, on the West Windsor Campus of Mercer County Community College.

Tomato Patch, now in its 47th year, is the longest running, most successful multidisciplinary summer arts program in central New Jersey.

Call 609-570-3566 or visit www.kelseytheatre.org MCCC • 1200 Old Trenton Road • West Windsor, NJ 08550

JANUARY 2020

June 15 - August 21, 2020 Summer Camps for ages 5-14 in Yorklyn, DE

302-239-2434 www.ccarts.org MetroKids.com 27