Northeast Ohio Parent Camp Guide - Spring 2021 by Mitchell Media LLC: Northeast Ohio Parent & Northeast Ohio Thrive/Boomer

Sports Benefits

Multi-Sports Athletes

Moving Forward

Parents Talk Camp

Camp Decisions

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CAMP DECISION

ummer camp decision season is here for parents. Many are conducting research by viewing the programs online or calling camp directors. With the COVID-19 pandemic, it has led to more questions about safety at camp. However, for first-time campers and their parents, they still have to be comfortable with all other aspects of attending. We talked to Bill Champ, the auxiliary programs director and summer programs director at University School about what parents can ask and do to make the most informed choice. “Summer programs are not all the same; (you) really have to look into where you are signing your child up,” Champ says. The first step in the process, he says, is asking your child what they like to do. While you want to gauge their interests, he suggests talking to them about “being open-minded to a new experience, even if it’s out of their comfort zone.” For Champ, the quality of the program is still the most important when making camp decisions. “Try to get a sense of what the camp is all about,” he says. “There are a lot of choices — all shapes, sizes and costs — you want to do a little research before you send them. If the camp has been around a while, that is a good thing.”

CHECKLIST SOME QUESTIONS TO CONSIDER:

• What are your child’s interests? • What’s the quality of the program? • Does it have a good reputation? • What are the program opportunities, daily schedule and activities?

• Where is the facility?

• Safety: What are

the general safety policies?

• What are the COVID-19 safety protocols?

• How do you help kids with special needs?

• What are the policies and protocols for kids with allergies or other medical needs?

• What are the ages of staff members? • What is the camper-to-staff ratio? • Can you take a tour of the facility? • Ask the camp to give you a referral. • Does it meet your family’s schedule? • What is the cost? • Do you have an accrediting body (like American Camp Association) for overnight camps?

Make sure the camp matches the kid, he says, noting, “try not to fit a square peg in a round hole.” With the ongoing pandemic, camp safety is on the minds of parents who will be asking questions about policies for this summer. “I know there are a lot of parents who are nervous,” Champ says. “Everyone is thinking about how to make sure it’s safe. Most camps I am familiar with are well-prepared to do this right. I know we are going to err on the side of caution. We are going to follow whatever the recommendations are of the local health departments and CDC.” He also encourages parents to talk to others who sent their kids to the camp. If you know a son or daughter who attended the camp, they can give feedback,” Champ says. “The reputation of the camp is important. If you know kids that went there and had a good time, you can send (your kids) there with confidence.” After doing your camp research, Champ suggests giving your kids some choices about where to go to camp, so they feel part of the process. “There is a camp for everyone,” he says.

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Explore All

Sports

By Ginny McCabe

here are countless benefits of being a multi-sport athlete, such as improving a player’s physical and mental skills, making new friends, teamwork, and being exposed to new experiences — all while having fun. We spoke with several local experts who talked about some of the important benefits of playing multiple sports.

FINDING THEIR PASSION IN THE MIX

Lyndsey Heffern, camp and youth programming director at the Shaw Jewish Community Center ( JCC) of Akron, says that being involved in multiple sports helps kids find their passion. “Young athletes have the ability to try new things and explore/discover their passions, not getting tied down to one specific activity – whether that be a sport, academics or otherwise – [that] will allow for these young children to develop in more ways than one,” Heffern says. “Many professional athletes were multisport athletes in their development,” she says. “Sports played such a huge role in my life, as a multi-sport athlete myself (basketball and soccer in high school), the discipline, lessons, environments, challenges and socialization that I experienced in each sport differed greatly and taught me a lot of valuable information,” Heffern says. “It is my belief that there are more benefits to being a multi-sport athlete.” She says the best age to gauge a child’s interest in athletics is ideally when that child initiates the desire to participate. “One tip for parents that are guiding their kids in sports play, is to let their child bring their interests to you,” she says. “Expose them to multiple options, have them try (and fail)

but ultimately let them choose. Children are more apt to follow through with something when they have ownership in it. Encourage them to try their best, practice, practice, practice and have fun. At a young age, that is what sports are all about. The socialization and physical activity are wonderful for development.” “Playing multiple sports can help young athletes become more versatile, physically strong, and expose them to other athletes for increased socialization,” Heffern says. TEAMWORK + MAKING NEW FRIENDS = FLOURISHING KIDS

“As far as some of the benefits of playing multiple sports, there’s a teamwork benefit. You learn what it means to be on a team, and you learn that every team you belong to has different positions and different roles, so you learn teamwork,” says Eric Stinehelfer, executive director at French Creek Family YMCA in Avon, a branch of YMCA of Greater Cleveland. “Playing multiple sports, you’ll work on different motor skills, conditioning, and learn about competition. You might be on a team that has a very successful season, so you learn about winning, but the next sport that you try, you might not win a game, so you learn how to humbly lose, what that’s like, and you strive to be better.

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“You never know what sports your child may flourish at,” he adds. “I’ve played basketball all of my life. I’m 6-feet, 6-inches [tall]. I want my kids to be basketball players. My son, Caleb, who is 7, doesn’t really care too much for basketball. He’s playing because we wanted him to try different sports, but his passion right now at age 7 is soccer. He really loves the sport of soccer. As parents, we have to remember it’s not what we want; it’s what they enjoy doing, and he’s out being active in different sports, making different friends.” Playing multiple sports also provides kids with different life experiences. By participating in multiple sports, kids can gain new and diverse circles of friends. Stinehelfer says that there’s also a social aspect of playing different sports, and the sense of being part of something for more than just one season. Multiple sports allow kids to stay physically active year-round, keep them mentally sharp, and give them a chance to learn a new sport. “There could be different ethnicities, different religions, and the first time that a child might see a player with disabilities, and the questions that come of that and the learning that comes of that helps our children become more diverse,” Stinehelfer says. “Kids will also benefit from different coaching and coaching styles.”

PLAYING FLAG FOOTBALL.

PHOTO SUBMITTED BY YMCA OF GREATER CLEVELAND

CROSSOVER BENEFITS

Kids who play single sports could have more overuse injuries and experience a greater emotional burnout. “When you’re a multi-sport athlete, you get fewer what are called overuse injuries, because when you do the same thing over and over again without rest in between, what happens is you get these overuse injuries,” says Rhonda Rickelman, director of auxiliary programming at Gilmour Academy in Gates Mills. “Different roles are important, too,” she says. “You can be a star, but sometimes, it’s good not to be a star, and to be a good team player, or to understand what it means to be a bench player. It broadens your experience, socially and developmentally.” Playing multiple sports broadens you as a person and as an athlete, especially at a young age. According to a UCLA sports specialization study surveying 296 NCAA Division I male and female athletes (age 19 on average), 88 percent participated in two to three sports as children and 70 percent did not specialize in a single sport until after the age of 12. “Unless you have a goal in mind that says, ‘I’m going to make it to Little League World Series, or when I’m 12, I’m going to play at Cooperstown,’ well, there’s a different thing

BASKETBALL AT GILMOUR ACADEMY.

PHOTO SUBMITTED BY GILMOUR ACADEMY

there when you’re getting ready to play for something like that, but for most kids, they play to have fun, they play to learn about who they are, and how they fit into a team. That’s why they play,” Rickelman says. Other benefits of playing multiple sports are some of the crossover skills, such as eyehand coordination, balance, and endurance, she says. “I think the ability to be a good teammate, and to communicate as a teammate and with your coach, those things carry over between sports. And I think those are very big skills that will help them grow to become a better athlete,” Rickelman says. DIVERSIFICATION DIVIDENDS

Dave Devey, director/owner at Falcon Camp, says that playing multiple sports allows kids to explore different things, so they can find out what they like or don’t like. “The benefits of playing multiple sports at a young age are countless, frankly. It gives children an opportunity to try a variety of things to see what they like the most, because maybe you do like playing hockey, but have you ever played lacrosse?,” he says. “Have you ever played baseball? Have you ever played basketball? Let’s go try it. You might like that sport, too. If you stick with a single sport, you tend to not learn how to play other things.”

A small percentage of youth may want to start specializing in their early teens, but for most kids, playing multiple sports is key when it comes to traits like building confidence and developing leadership skills. “As they get older, and they do grow, maybe they are more confident in one sport than another, and that is a sport where they spend more time, concentrate more and specialize in, to a larger degree,” Devey says. “But every sport has some different learning skills, mentally as well as physically.” “Playing multiple sports can help young athletes grow, and they’re able to have fun participating,” Devey adds. “If you have fun playing a sport, why wouldn’t you want to play more than one? Why wouldn’t you want to play a couple of them? Each sport offers a little different thought process, a little bit different kind of enjoyment, and a little bit different way of looking at things. It’s just like, if you’re playing a video game, do you only play one video game, or do you play several? You don’t read the same books all the time; you find new books to read. I think that some of that is the same with sports. It’s just plain fun to play different kinds of sports in different ways.”

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Moving Camps and Parents Look to Summer By Michèle L. Bailey

amilies across Northeast Ohio, with the help of summer camps, are taking a step toward normalcy after a year of lockdown. Many summer camps are opening up this year and some parents say their children are absolutely thrilled. “My kids said they don’t care if they have to wear a mask 24/7 and take a shot every day. They want to go to camp,” Laura Loebl of Pepper Pike says. “It’s been quite a year. Thank God we have all been safe this year and we have been able to be there for each other. It’s been a lot of time together as a family and we all could use a break. They are 15 and I am sure they are ready to be away from their dad and me. They need exercise and movement. They need to be outside in

their happy place with their friends.” Parents like Laura and her husband have already enrolled their kids in summer camp, taking advantage of the fact that many camps across Northeast Ohio are planning for a more normal summer. Sharon Jenkins, Chief of Marketing Services at Lake MetroParks, said last year that they offered only about a third of their camps to a very limited number of children; but this summer, they plan to return to pre-COVID levels. While parents are expressing concerns about COVID protocol, they also have other questions. “Last year, people were scared and wanted to know what precautions we are taking. This

year, the tone is more [about] how much back to normal will you be,” says Cara Robson, Assistant Childcare Director at Green Family YMCA, a branch of the Akron Area YMCA. Jessica Hornyak of Barberton plans to send her 7-year-old to the Green Family YMCA. She confirms that her biggest concern is, “Will the children have an opportunity to do more this year?” “Pre-pandemic, they were going on field trips, but they were not allowed last year,” she says. “Before COVID, the kids would go to the movies, bowling and other field trips. They did the best they could last year, but I am hoping to hear they will do more. I am just hoping that the kids will have a more normal summer. I just feel so bad for them

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Forward

and hope that their summer is less restrictive this year.” Robson said that the Green Family YMCA is planning for field trips this year, although it’s focusing mostly on outdoor activities. The campers will visit waterparks, zoos, playgrounds and parks. As for the preschoolers who do not participate in field trips, they will once again welcome presenters from places like the Akron Zoo. They will also take walks to a nearby ice cream shop a few times during their camp experience. Overnight camps are also moving forward. Camp Wise, the overnight camp of the Mandel Jewish Community Center of Cleveland, is ready to offer its campers a summer filled with excitement.

Camp Wise Director Rachel Felber says they have a plan in place to offer camp as well as move toward this summer in a very safe, fun and welcoming environment. “We have been very proactive in holding forums on what to expect when camp reopens,” she says. “Some have asked about mask-wearing policies; but how campers will deal and interact with each other tends to be the most common question.” Camp Wise and other camps across the region plan to follow safety protocols as outlined by the state and local governments in order to keep all attendees safe. Nicci Chojnavki of Green is very excited for the summer of 2021. She is raising a 5and 7-year-old. After some deliberation, she

believes that she and her husband made the right choice regarding their kids’ planned summer activities. “We both work at home so we can’t entertain the kids through the day,” she says. “They get outside a little bit. Now that the camps are moving toward more normalcy, we are looking forward to the summer program. I am excited about our oldest getting to swim several times a week and my youngest playing with bubbles and chalk outdoors. I think it’s great that my husband and I made the decision to send them back to camp.”

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Ways to Save & Pay for Summer Camp By Kathryn Bryan

For kids, this time is precious and for many, summer camp is a big part of their summer. Families typically choose to enroll kids in summer camp for many different reasons, such as experience, social time, education, or the need for childcare. The smiles on their faces are priceless when they get home each day, right? Well, they can be, but the cost of summer camp is something that can be a struggle for families. There are some things you can do to be sure you are emotionally and financially ready to make the camp experience a good one.

PLAN EARLY

Most camps come out with their schedules at the end of the prior year or in January/February each year. They provide the list of all camps available, the cost, and most importantly, many offer an early registration discount per child. This will also give you time to save monthly towards the camp cost and any supplies or extras that may be needed.

BUILD THE ANNUAL COST INTO YOUR FINANCIAL PLAN

Busy parents tend to think about finances from month to month; as in monthly income and expenses. This is the trap that typically catches up to them around the holidays and planning for summer camp/vacations. Working with a financial planner that can help you determine your annual costs and break them down into monthly savings needed for holidays and camps/ vacations will help ease the “surprising” stress you may feel when it is time to sign up for camp.

ASK IF THE CAMP PROVIDES FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE OR SCHOLARSHIPS

The earlier you do this, the better. Most camps and/or organizations only have so much money set aside to provide families with financial assistance or scholarship. So, the earlier you apply, the better. Remember the squeaky wheel gets the grease, so be the squeaky wheel. Ask.

RESEARCH

There are so many different opportunities for types of camps these days. Camps that cater to specific themes, education, experiences, social activities and fun are all around. However, finding ones that fit your schedule and pocketbook may be a challenge. Do your research to see what free camps may be available. Yes, I said it: free! Many community centers, universities, libraries and some museums offer free 1-2 hour camps or full-day camps. These may be a perfect fit for a few hours to yourself.

SHARE RIDES

Sometimes affording camps is the easy part, but the gas and miles on your car may be an extra expense that is draining your pocketbook. If this is the case, see if there are ways to share a ride with another family and take turns.

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CONSIDER USING YOUR DEPENDENT CARE FLEXIBLE SPENDING ACCOUNTS (FSAS) AT WORK

You can put up to $5000 per calendar year ($2,500 per calendar year if married and filing taxes separately) into account. If you are sending a child to day camp as a work-related expense, then you can utilize this type of account. Please note that there are rules and regulations on using this account to reimburse you for day camp. The child must be under the age of 13 and it cannot be an overnight camp

GRANDPARENTS/FAMILY

Sometimes asking for help is the hardest thing, but many grandparents are looking for ways to give presents or money to their grandchildren for birthdays and holidays. A camp experience is a perfect way for grandparents to give their grandchildren a gift of a lifetime. Each grandparent can gift up to $15,000 a year (for 2021) to EACH grandchild without having to report the gift on their taxes. Always work with a tax professional or CPA to determine if this is a good fit for your family.

TEACH YOUR KIDS TO SAVE FOR THEMSELVES

So much is learned at camp, however, saving for camp can also provide your children with lessons on how to save for themselves. Help them do the math. Use a specific goal amount that they can save towards. Keep track with charts/ graphs and have them count their money each week/month. For younger kids, keep it simple and use jars to save. For the older ones, give them more responsibility to save for more of the camp cost and also for any extras they may want. Also, consider using prepaid credit cards to teach kids about plastic. Kids aren’t seeing their parents use cash, like we often teach them with their piggy banks. Allowing them to understand how credit cards work between the ages of 11-17 will help them be more successful when they turn 18, which is when they often begin receiving offers from the credit card companies.

Kathryn Bryan is a registered representative of and offers securities and investment advisory services through MML Investors Services, LLC. Member SIPC (sipc.org), 2012 W. 25th St., Suite 900, Cleveland, OH 44113; phone 216-621-680. The views and opinions expressed are those of Kathryn Bryan. Kathryn Bryan’s views are not necessarily those of MML Investors Services, LLC or its subsidiaries.

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CaMPAND Summer Programs GUIDE ADRENALINE MONKEY

Kick off your child’s summer adventure at Adrenaline Monkey. The facility is equipped with four ninja warrior-style obstacle courses, various rock climbing features, an aerial ropes course with more than 20 obstacles, and an arcade — all to quench the thirst for adventure. The camps include programming designed to develop the campers’ physical and mental attributes through empowering experiences on adventure courses and climbing walls. adrenalinemonkeyfun.com

AKRON ARTWORKS

Akron ArtWorks, family-owned art studio, offers fine art instruction for children, teenagers and adults. This summer, half-day and full-day art-themed camps are being offered. Need extended care? That’s available, too. Camp themes include painting, 3D sculpture, upcycling, fantasy, and art exploration. The studio’s teaching philosophy emphasizes the artistic process, teaching students to focus on exploration and skill development, so that the final product can be a true expression of their unique point of view. 330-983-9983, akronartworks.com

BALDWIN WALLACE UNIVERSITY COMMUNITY ARTS SCHOOL bw.edu/cas

BECK CENTER FOR THE ARTS

Beck Center offers classes at the Lakewood campus and online in dance, theater and visual arts, and private music lessons. Students of all ages and abilities learn as they create unique works of art, discover hidden talents and have fun. They have something for every interest and every skill level. Looking for entertainment? Beck Center is streaming virtual productions. Call 216-521-2540 x10 or visit beckcenter.org/ education-programs

BUSY BEES SUMMER ART CAMP

Busy Bees Summer Art Camp Registration is open. Sign your child up for a summer of pottery, clay, glass, mosaics, canvas and more. All materials and supplies for projects are provided. Class sizes are small. Full-week, full-day camp is 9 a.m.-4 p.m., $299. Full-week, half-day 9 a.m.-noon or 1-4 p.m., $199. Early Bird Discount: Register by April 30 for $35 off per session. Use code CAMP35 when registering at mentor.busybeesart.com/kids-camp/

CAMP ASBURY

For 63 years, Camp Asbury has been forming faith and connecting people to nature. Resident camp is available for kids in first grade through 12th, June 20-July 30. Summer 2021 explores life-giving soil as a means of God’s grace. Camp Asbury’s priority is to keep campers and staff safe and healthy. Recommended COVID-19 practices and precautions will be in place. Register online for one-week sessions at eocsummercamps.org. This ministry of the United Methodist Church welcomes all. Learn more at 330-569-3171 or campasbury.org

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CAMP CURIOSITY: SUMMER SCIENCE CAMPS

CAVS ACADEMY SUMMER TOUR

Join the Cleveland Cavaliers for the Cavs Academy Summer Tour, the only official youth basketball program of the Cavaliers. The Summer Tour includes camps, clinics, trainings and more.Options available for youth ages 3-16, and all skill levels are welcome. Visit cavsyouth.com/summercamps to enroll.

greatscience.com

CAMP FITCH YMCA campfitchymca.org

CAMP HO MITA KODA camphomitakoda.org

CAMP INVENTION

Energize your kid’s creativity and confidence with the new Camp Invention program, Recharge! During this program, campers in grades kindergarten through sixth will collaborate with friends in hands-on, open-ended STEM challenges. They’ll take apart a microphone to explore its inner workings, build and test a device to launch rubber ducks and design morphing vehicles for the super road rally. Each activity is designed to inspire curiosity, spark imaginations and give your young innovator the best summer ever. invent.org

CAMP JCC

Sign up for as many camp programs and weeks as you wish. Different weekly experiences allow campers to discover new hobbies and explore favorite interests. Specialty camp offerings include a variety of sports, creative arts and STEM activities. Whether you choose a specialty or traditional camp, all campers attend from 8 a.m.-3 p.m. daily (aftercare available). Daily activities include swimming, art and games. Available for ages 6-13. June 7-Aug 13. shawjcc.org/camp-j

CLEVELAND CITY DANCE clevelandcitydance.com

CLEVELAND METROPARKS

Cleveland Metroparks Summer Nature Camps connect children with the natural world. From hikes in the woods, kayaking, crafts and games, a variety of Summer Nature Camps offer compelling outdoor adventures. Cleveland Metroparks Zoo Summer Day Camps connect campers with wildlife and inspire the next generation of conservationists. Campers can spend their summer days at the zoo, participating in special activities like giraffe feeding, carousel rides, educational games and crafts. Cleveland Metroparks Golf Junior Day Camps offer activities and instruction for junior golfers of several ages and skill levels. Learn more at clevelandmetroparks.com/camps

CODE NINJAS CAMPS

Unleash your child’s inner ninja. Code Ninja camps offer an immersive environment for kids to explore and develop new skills, gain confidence and have fun with friends. Transform your child’s love for technology into an exciting learning adventure. Guided by their team of Code Senseis, Code Ninjas Camps empower kids to gain valuable tech skills and make new friends. From coding and game building, to STEM and 3D printing — it’s an unforgettable experience. codeninjas.com/oh-avon/camps

CORNERSTONE OF HOPE

Cornerstone of Hope offers two camps for grieving children and teens where they will participate in age-appropriate grief activities led by professionals, play fun, high-energy games and experience challenging activities in a safe environment. Campers are encouraged to explore their grief, learn essential coping skills and make friends with peers who are also grieving. Camp Cornerstone (ages 6-12): July 12-16. Camp Erin (ages 8-17): Aug. 6-8. cornerstoneofhope.org/cleveland

CREATIVE PLAYROOMS creativeplayrooms.com

CUYAHOGA COMMUNITY COLLEGE (TRI-C) Cuyahoga Community College (Tri-C) summer camps are designed for children ages 4-18. Whether your child is a young performer or a budding engineer, Tri-C summer camps will help them discover their passions and talents. Choose from a variety of in-person and virtual camps focused on culinary, coding, game design, music, performing arts, and STEM. View camp descriptions and register at tri-c.edu/summercamps

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CaMP AND Summer Programs GUIDE CUYAHOGA VALLEY CHRISTIAN ACADEMY Cvcaroyals.org

ETIQUETTE KINDNESS SPECIALITY CAMPS

This summer at Beachwood Recreation, Orange Continuing Ed and Westlake Recreation, young ladies and young men will get expert training from etiquette guru Catherine Holloway, who has been teaching Clevelanders the in and outs of social graces since 1994. Participants will work on their confidence and character-building during the camp. Learn the tricks of first impressions, become a dining expert and discover the art of a well-written thank-you note plus many more skills. Please contact each recreation center’s website for their dates and to register for the summer camp.

FAIRMOUNT CENTER FOR THE ARTS

Jump into a summer of fun with Fairmount Center for the Arts. Dance, theatre, art and music. From June 1 through July 30, camps will be offered for preschoolers through eighth grade. Camps will be offered both on-site and online and consist of both half-day and full-day options. Camps include offerings exploring all art forms. Additionally, multiarts-themed camps will provide a sampling of art forms for children looking to explore a variety of interests through hands-on activities offered in a supportive, caring and fun environment. 440-338-3171, info@ fairmountcenter.org, fairmountcenter.org

FAIRMOUNT EARLY CHILDHOOD CENTER

beachwoodschools.org/SummerCamp. aspx

FALCON CAMP

Recognized throughout the Midwest as Ohio’s premier summer camp since 1959, Falcon Camp offers a beautiful lakefront setting, talented, experienced staff and variety of activities. Campers choose their own schedules within the general framework. Most of all, it’s great fun. Special introductory camp for ages 6-9. ACA accredited. At Falcon, good things happen by design. 800-837-CAMP, falconcamp.com

GEAUGA PARK DISTRICT

Geauga Park District’s ninth annual adventure camps come in week-long forms for youth entering fifth through seventh grades, the weeks of June 7, 21 and 28, July 12 and 26 and August 1. Youth entering eighth through 10th grades may attend the weeks of June 14 and July 19. Single-day “X-Treme Adventures” for the older kids are also June 30, July 14 and July 28. bit.ly/gpdcamps - CONTINUED ON C-18 -

Visit NortheastOhioParent.com to find more camp listings and articles!

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- SPONSORED CONTENT -

Kids Find Healing in Nature at Grief Support Camps

re you looking for a way to help a grieving child or teen? Western Reserve Grief Services is hosting grief support camps this summer to help children coping with the death of loved ones. Led by trained bereavement professionals from Hospice of the Western Reserve, they combine art, music, play and nature exploration to help with the healing process. The camps bring together children, all of whom have experienced the death of a loved one, in a safe, supportive environment. All camps are open to the community and offered at a nominal cost (scholarships available). “In an atmosphere of comfort and trust, the camps offer children a chance to learn about grief and new ways of expressing feelings, and to honor their special person,” said Karen Hatfield, Director of Western

Reserve Grief Services. “We start as strangers and leave as friends.” To register or request an information packet, call 216-486-6838. For a comprehensive list of community bereavement resources, visit www.hospicewr.org/griefandloss. AUGUST 10-12

Camp Red Oak (ages 6-13).

This day camp is for children ages 6-13 who have experienced the death of a loved one.

9 a.m. - 3 p.m, 9057 KirtlandChardon Rd., Kirtland. JUNE 21- 25

Riding Through Grief (ages 8-12). Through fun horseback riding

lessons and un-mounted activities with horses, children campers will explore grief issues.9 a.m. - noon.

$75 per camper. Scholarships available. Fieldstone Farm, 16497 Snyder Rd., Chagrin Falls.

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GELFAND STEM CENTER

Applications now available for Case Western Reserve University Gelfand STEM Center Programs 2021-2022. Environmental Heroes: free, field research program for middle and high school students. Two-year commitment meeting Wednesdays, 4:30-6:30 p.m., two-week summer session July 27-August 6, Doan Brook Watershed. Shipwreck Camp 2021: weekdays July 12-23, 2021, for ages 2-16. Fee $535. Engage in the work of explorers and researchers to find Lake Erie shipwrecks. Discover SCUBA. Build a remotely operated vehicle. Explore a wreck. Learn the history of lake commerce and lake science. Have fun. 216-368-5075, gelfand.case.edu

GILMOUR ACADEMY

Camp Gilmour is back and safer than ever. Join us for Preschool Camp (ages 3-5); Day Camp (ages 5-12); sports camps; and experiential camps exploring nature, fun with drones, Funtastic STEM workshops and more. Camps offered June 7-Aug. 6. Optional complimentary math and reading enrichment offered each morning for day campers. Before-care available beginning at 7:15 a.m. and after-care available until 6 p.m. Call 440-4738000 ext. 2267, email summercamp@gilmour.org or visit gilmour.org/summercamp

GIRL SCOUTS OF NORTHEAST OHIO gsneo.org/camplife

HAWKEN

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Hawken Summer Programs offer a variety of activities led by experienced professionals for boys and girls, ages 4-18. Camps run from June to August, including day camps, passport camps, athletic camps, and summer studies. These opportunities enable children to develop existing passions and discover new ones; they also provide exposure to new people and new skills, building self-esteem, independence and confidence. Contact summerprograms@hawken.edu, 440-423-2940, or visit summer.hawken. edu for more information. Visit hawken. edu/healthy-hawken-restart to learn more about Hawken’s COVID-19 protocols.

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Northeast Ohio Camp and Summer Programs S SPORT

CAMP FINDE

Camp/Summer Program Name

Location

Contact Information

Description

Blue Streaks Athletic Camps

Cleveland Heights, Ohio

(216) 321-2954 beaumontschool.org/ summercamps

Skills development camps for basketball, track & field, strength and conditioning and volleyball.

Camp Gilmour

Gates Mills, Ohio

(440) 473-8007 gilmour.org/summercamp

Camp Gilmour offers sports camps for students in grades 2-10. Camps offered June 7-Aug. 6.

Camp JCC

Akron, Ohio

(330) 835-0064 shawjcc.org/camp-j

Various sports camp experiences are provided on a weekly basis.

Cavs Academy

Cleveland, Ohio

(216) 420-2486 cavsyouth.com/summertour

The Cavs Academy Summer Tour features half-day, two- and three-day camps around the area. A uniform and ticket to a future Cavaliers home game are included.

Cleveland Monsters Youth Hockey Clinic

Strongsville, Ohio

(216) 420-0000 clevelandmonsters.com

The Monsters annual youth hockey clinic teaches players the fundamentals of the game with professional instruction and includes a jersey and a water bottle. Skaters and goalie sessions are available.

Country Life Kids Camp

Medina, Ohio

(330) 723-5532 countrylifekidscamp.com

Core activities revolve around young naturalist, STREAM lab, life skills/character development, hands-on activities, hiking/fishing and young engineers programs.

D-BAT Middleburg

Middleburg Heights, Ohio

(216) 810-3228 dbatmiddleburg.com

Summer camp is broken down into week-long sessions in June, July and August. It is designed to improve baseball and softball fundamentals, and to have fun at the same time!

Goldfish Swim School Summer Jump Start Clinics

Fairview Park & Warrensville Heights, Ohio

(440) 333-5393 (216) 364-9090 goldfishswimschool.com

One month of progress in one week! Jump Start Clinics are a great way to solidify skills or kickstart the learn-toswim process. Five consecutive days of 30-minute swim lessons.

Hawken Summer Programs

Lyndhurst, Ohio

(440) 423-2930 summer.hawken.edu

Hawken Summer Programs offer a variety of activities for boys and girls ages 4-18, including athletics camps.

i9 Sports Camps

Copley, Ohio

(330) 208-6463 i9sports.com

Multisport focus introducing kids to various sports in a noncompetitive, fun atmosphere with games and sportsmanship values. Participants receive an i9 Sports T-shirt and participation medal.

Lake Ridge Academy Summer Programs

North Ridgeville, Ohio

(440) 327-1175 lakeridgeacademy.org/ school-life/summer-programs

Lake Ridge Academy offers various athletic camp experiences.

Liquid Lifestyles Learn To Swim Camps

Westlake, Ohio

(216) 543-4181 liquidlifestyles.com

Camps meet Monday through Thursday for two consecutive weeks at the Sontesta Suites outdoor heated pool.

Lutheran West Summer Camps

Rocky River, Ohio

(440) 799-9919 lutheranwest.com/camps

Lutheran West offers half-day camps in athletics, among other interest areas.

Saint Joseph Academy Camps

Cleveland, Ohio

(216) 251-6788 sja1890.org

Campers will learn skill development and have fun! Camps are available for 10 sports: basketball, crew, cross country, golf, lacrosse, rugby, soccer, softball, tennis and volleyball.

Shaker Rocks Rock Climbing Camp

Shaker Heights, Ohio

(216) 848-0460 shakerrocksclimbing.com

Days are packed with indoor bouldering, roped climbing, team-building games and outdoor fun. Make new friends and develop confidence with adventure activities that challenge the mind and body.

Summer Wind Stables Horseback Riding Camp

Chesterland, Ohio

(440) 463-0258 summerwindstables.com

Learn all about horses with two riding sessions and ground lessons. Horseback riding and swimming from 9 to 3, Monday-Friday. June through August for beginners to advanced riders.

YMCA of Greater Cleveland

Avon, Ohio

(440) 934-9622 clevelandymca.org/sportscamp

Whether you’re looking to up your play or learn a whole new sport, summer at the Y is where you get in the game.

Summer Enrichment Program at Saint Ignatius High School

Cleveland, Ohio

(216) 651-0222 ignatius.edu/SEP

The Summer Enrichment Program offers athletic enrichment opportunities for young men who are entering the eighth grade.

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Silver Sponsors:

Sponsored by:

Ages Served

Religious, Cultural or Health-Related Affliations

Genders Served

Cost per Week

Financial Aid

Virtual Option

Early-Bird Sign-Up Deadline

Session Length

Specializes in Special Needs

Hours

Before/ After Care

Grades 5-8

Girls only

Varies

Grades 2-10

Catholic

Co-ed

Weekly

Yes

Varies

Jewish

Co-ed

Weekly

3-16

Co-ed

Yes

05/12/2021

Varies

5-13

Co-ed

$150

7/1/21

Daily

6-13

Nonprofit Christian

Co-ed

$170

Yes

5/1/21

Weekly

8-5

Yes

5-12

Co-ed

$175

Daily/Weekly/ Varies

9-2

2-12

Co-ed

Varies

Weekly

9-12

Varies

Co-ed

Weekly/ Varies

5-14

Co-ed

3/24/21

Daily

Varies

Co-ed

Weekly

2.5 and up

Co-ed

$239 (two weeks)

Yes

Varies

Christian

Co-ed

Weekly

Grades 3-9; varies by sport

Girls only

$75-$200

Daily

Varies

6-13

Co-ed

Half day: $195; full day: $345+

Weekly

9-12, 9-3 or 9-5

7-16

Co-ed

$400

2/28/21

Weekly

9-3

Yes

5-12 (must have completed K)

Co-ed

$105-$142

Yes

Weekly

9-4

Yes

Grade 8

Catholic

Boys only

$100

3/1/21

Varies

Do you have athletes in your family? If you’re looking to keep them busy this summer while they learn or improve their skills, check out our list of summer sports camps available around the region. Use this Sports Camp Finder to compare your options side by side, and be sure to check back next month for our roundup of Academic Camps, or see the February and March issues of Northeast Ohio Parent online for Overnight and Day Camp Finders. To have your camp listed in future Northeast Ohio Parent Camp Finders, please contact Brad Mitchell at brad@northeastohioparent.com.

NR = NOT REPORTED

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LAKE ERIE NATURE & SCIENCE CENTER

Spend your summer at Lake Erie Nature & Science Center. Explore the outdoors, meet resident animals, make new friends and discover the night sky in Schuele Planetarium. Lake Erie Nature & Science Center offers free general admission to indoor and outdoor exhibits on Tuesday through Saturday. Nature-based programming, including summer camps, wildlife encounters and planetarium shows, will be offered for children and families throughout summer. View offerings, read COVID-19 protocols, and complete registration at lensc.org/ summer-camps

LAKE RIDGE ACADEMY

Open to all area students in first through 12th grades, the summer program includes full- and half-day experiences from June 7-July 16. Camps and classes include themed discovery camps, fine arts, technology/STEAM, environmental and experiential, academic, athletics and chess. Most programs are taught by experienced Lake Ridge Academy faculty. Call 440-327-1175 ext. 9141 or visit lakeridgeacademy.org/summer

LIBERTY CAMP FOR KIDS

Where kids experience the founding of America. July 19-23, 9 a.m.-noon, for kids entering first through sixth grades in the fall. Located at Portage County Historical Society in Ravenna, activities include reenacting the Boston Tea Party, Washington crossing the Delaware, signing the Declaration of Independence and more. Time to explore colonial games and crafts, and a real Indian village. Cost per child: $30. Deadline June 30 or until spots are filled. For more info, videos, and to sign up, call 330-548-3305, email: info@LibertyCampForKids.com or visit libertycampforkids.com

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LIFECENTER PLUS Lifecenterplus.com

THE LITTLE GYM OF SHAKER HEIGHTS

Flexibility at The Little Gym’s Summer Camp will wake you flip. Rain or shine, The Little Gym of Shaker Heights offers a summer full of fun and excitement. Your child will participate in gymnastics, imaginative play and build friendships. Parents love their flexible schedule. Choose the days and weeks that work for you. Half and full-day options available Monday through Friday, June 14 -August 20 for ages 3-9 years. Call 216-752-9049 or visit tlgshakerheightsoh.com.

LORAIN COUNTY METRO PARKS

The park district offers summer camps for a variety of interests, including fishing, sports, outdoor adventure, boating, birding and more. Camps serve kids of all ages. For more information on the plan for camps in 2021, stay tuned to the website. Registration for Lorain County residents opens March 1 via phone at 440-458-5121. Registration for everyone is open at loraincountymetroparks.com

Thank you to all the families who attended the 2021 Northeast Ohio Parent Camp and Summer Programs Fairs in March! We would also like to thank all our silver sponsors and exhibitors who participated!

LUTHERAN WEST

This summer, Go West. Lutheran High School West in Rocky River offers youth half-day camps in the arts (fine arts, cooking, drama), in athletics (basketball, football, soccer, track & field), and in STEM (Camp Invention through the National Inventors Hall of Fame). COVID safety protocols will be followed for all camps. Register online at LutheranWest.com/Camps

MANDEL JEWISH COMMUNITY CENTER mandeljcc.org/daycamps or campwise.org

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CaMP AND Summer Programs GUIDE MAD SCIENCE

Join Mad Science and Crayola Imagine Arts Academy, they are offering eight unique science themes (engineering, secret agents, inventions, rockets, space, robots, chemistry, bricks) and two art camps (wild animals and conservationists, and artists who changed the world) for ages 4-12. Half day and full day options with before/after care at some. Camps in Beachwood, multiple Tri-C campuses, Hudson, Westlake, Jackson Township, Youngstown, Aurora and more to come. Put some STEAM in your summer. northeastohio.madscience.org northeastohio.imaginearts academy.com teri@madscienceneohio.com 330-498-0033

MEDINA RECREATION CENTER CAMPS

Medina Community Recreation Center offers camps to keep kids active all summer. Discover Camp, a day camp for ages 6-11, engages kids with swimming, reading, enrichment, crafts and games. Medina Rec will also offer special camps in chess, art, volleyball, basketball and tennis. Details at medinarec.org or call 330-721-6901.

MCC TECH KEY KIDS KAMP

MCC Tech Key Kids Kamp has seven one-week, half-day tech sessions to choose from. Kids will learn LEGOs, Arduino board programming, video game design, robotics and 3D printing. Sessions meet from 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m and 1:30-5 p.m. Hands-on learning for children ages 7-12 and 13-17. For registration, call 216-587-4343 or visit mosscard.com/techkeyregistration

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CaMP AND Summer Programs GUIDE THE MUSIC SETTLEMENT

The Music Settlement Summer Camps are a creative experience for kids, teens and adults of all ages and skill levels. Through music and the arts, TMS provides opportunities at the Center for Music, music therapy, Center for Early Childhood, for all to discover new talents and interests, build confidence, explore self-expression and improve skills and techniques. Camps are offered at the Ohio City and University Circle campuses. For further details of class offerings, visit themusicsettlement.org/camps

NATURE CENTER AT SHAKER LAKES

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Swap screen time for nature as your child learns and explores in the outdoor classroom. Your child will love one-of-a-kind, week-long camp experiences taught by teachers and highly trained naturalists. Find an outdoor adventure to inspire an appreciation for the natural world, unlocking a summer full of learning, reflection, friends and fun. Choose from nine week-long camp experiences. Limited group sizes with virtual and limited contact options available. Shaker Heights, 216-321-5935, shakerlakes.org/camp

THE ODYSSEY PROGRAM

The Odyssey Program at Cleveland State University’s School of Film & Media Arts offers a variety of immersive summer camps for teens of all skill levels interested in filmmaking. The summer includes an experiential three-week camp from June 14-July 2, followed by three one-week intensive camps that focus on acting and directing (July 12-18), documentary production (July 19-25), and postproduction (July 26-August 1). Day camp and residential options are available. Learn more at csufilmodyssey.com

OHIO TUITION TRUST

Summer camps can open new worlds for your child. The same is true for a higher education. For more than 30 years, Ohio’s 529 Plan, CollegeAdvantage, has helped families nationwide save tax-free for education after high school. To learn more, explore Ohio’s 529 Plan — The Plan That Can. collegeadvantage.com

RESCUE VILLAGE SUMMER CAMP give.rescuevillage.org/SummerCamps

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CaMP AND Summer Programs GUIDE SPRING GARDEN WALDORF

Spring Garden Waldorf School Summer Camps offer a glimpse into the Waldorf philosophy of education through nature-based, hands-on, thought-provoking experiences. Have you been curious about Waldorf education? The summer camps are a perfect way to learn more. Camps include: nature-based playgroup for ages 3-6 and cyber civics for ages 12-14. Contact Amy Hecky at 330-666-0574 or admissions@sgws.org. sgws.org

SUMMER RUFFING IT!

Get social! @NEOhioParent

All camps are Monday through Friday, with six-week and three-week enrollment options, as well as full- and half-day options for the youngest campers. Camp dates: June 21-July 30. Little Explorers (18 months-age 3): 9 a.m.-noon. Summer to Grow Half-Day (ages 3-6): 9 a.m.-noon. Summer to Grow Full Day (ages 3-6): 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Creative Arts & Sciences (first grade through sixth): 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Extreme! (rising seventh grade through rising ninth) 9 a.m.-3 p.m. ruffingmontessori.net/summercamp

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SYLVAN WESTLAKE DAY CAMP When you think Sylvan, you think personalized learning. Sylvan Westlake Day Camp is no different. Build your child’s custom day camp experience by choosing an emphasis on math, reading or writing along with robotics or coding. All programs are grade appropriate, hands on, and fun. They’re flexible. Choose 10, 20, or 30 hour packages for use anytime during Summer 2021. Siblings may share hours. Virtual options available. Complete registration by May 2021 for early-bird savings. 440-550-4183, locations. sylvanlearning.com/us/Westlake-oh

TUTU CAMP

tutuschool.com/akron/camp

Look for the 2021 Summer Fun Guide in Northeast Ohio Parent Magazine’s May Issue! Visit NortheastOhioParent.com for more summer adventure planning!

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CaMP AND Summer Programs GUIDE

YMCA CAMP Y-NOAH Gotcamp.org

UNIVERSITY SCHOOL

University School’s Summer of Adventures combines fun activities with a truly educational experience. Summer programs include on-campus co-ed enrichment camps, sports clinics and boys’ day camps, all led by experienced University School teachers and coaches. Preschool boys’ camp consists of one, two or three weeks of hands-on activities for a unique journey of discovery. They also offer virtual co-ed enrichment camps and virtual and in-person academic courses. Learn more at us.edu/summer

YMCA SUMMER CAMPS

There’s no place like the YMCA Summer Camp… a home away from home where kids laugh, learn, explore and grow, all while creating memories and friendships that last a lifetime. The YMCA knows that every kid is different. That’s why they offer camps for your child’s needs. Financial assistance is available for those who qualify. Learn about sites, curriculum and COVID-19 safety precautions at neoymcas.org

YOUNG CHEF’S ACADEMY OF NORTHEAST OHIO

Young Chef’s Academy offers cooking classes to children in a safe environment that encourages discovery and creativity. While learning food preparation skills is the main ingredient at YCA, each class adds a heap of kitchen safety, a scoop of etiquette, a handful of table settings, a pinch of menu planning, and laughter to taste. Locations in Solon and Strongsville, 440-853-5004, ycasolon.com

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