CHOOSING A SUMMER CAMP AMID A PANDEMIC

How to Choose a Summer Camp Your Kids Will Love

and That You Approve – Even Amid a Pandemic

By Kimberly Blaker

Whether you’re looking for enrichment for your child, a way to keep your kids occupied and supervised while you work, or need a short reprieve from parenting, there’s sure to be a summer camp that’s the right fit for your child and family. Even in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, many summer camps will be up and running either offering alternative programs or by following safety protocols to reduce the risk to campers and staff.

The benefits of summer camp

Summer camp offers kids plenty of benefits, and many kids thrill at the idea of going away to summer camp. Still, for some kids, particularly those who are shy, introverted, or homebodies, the thought of going away for a night, let alone a week or more, can cause considerable anxiety. When kids are adamantly opposed, forcing summer camp on them may not be in their best interest.

But for kids who are eager – or at least willing to give it a shot without much fuss – summer camp offers opportunities kids may not have elsewhere. Summer camp provides kids the following benefits: ■ fosters independence ■ a place to develop new and lasting friendships ■ development of new skills ■ discovery of new interests and hobbies ■ the opportunity for creative expression ■ a break from being plugged-in ■ daily exercise ■ improves their self-esteem ■ teaches kids to work with others ■ makes them feel part of a community ■ prevents or reduces summer learning loss

Getting started in your search

Before you begin looking into summer camps, create a list of the criteria you’re looking for. Here are some things you’ll want to consider.

■ What is your budget for summer camp? ■ What is the purpose of sending your child to summer camp? ■ Do you want a resident (overnight) or a day camp?

■ Are you looking for a short-term (week or two) or summer-long program? ■ Do you want a camp that’s very structured or one that provides your child with lots of freedom and choices? ■ What are your child’s passions, such as a particular sport, hobby, or other interest?

Once you’ve narrowed down some of the criteria, you can begin your search. An excellent place to start is your local parenting magazine. Many summer camps advertise in local parenting publications found at newsstands and online. Also, visit http://www. summercamps.com/, where you can search by zip code or category.

The American Camp Association (ACA) accredits summer camps. So this is another excellent place to look. The ACA educates camp owners and directors in health and safety for both staff and campers as well as program quality. It then accredits camps that meet the ACA’s standards.

Next steps to finding the perfect summer camp

Once you’ve selected a few summer camps that meet your primary criteria, and that fit your child’s interests, share the choices with your child to see what excites him or her. Be sure to let your child know upfront that you still need to thoroughly investigate the camp(s) before making a final decision. But do keep your child’s choices in mind to ensure your child gets the most out of summer camp.

Once you and your child have narrowed the list down to a manageable selection, you’ll want to investigate the camps further. There are several things you’ll want to consider.

Is this camp a safe option for my child and family during the pandemic?

Many summer camps are now offering virtual programs so kids can benefit from summer camp without the risk of contracting and spreading COVID-19. Virtual summer camps range from a couple hours a day to all-day camps offering a broad range of virtual activities led by counselors. Virtual summer camp programs range from free to several hundred dollars.

Perhaps you’re considering sending your child to in-person summer camp. If so, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) offers suggestions on how summer camp programs can reduce campers’ risk

CAMP CHAMPIONS

Join us this summer Join us this summer at Camp Champions! at Camp Champions!

CAMP BUILDS CAMP BUILDS STRONG KIDS STRONG KIDS

WATCH THE VIDEO

WE RAN COVID-FREE IN 2020 AND ARE PREPARED TO DO IT AGAIN IN 2021

during the pandemic. Recommendations include promoting behaviors to minimize spread, maintaining a healthy environment, maintaining healthy operations, being prepared for when someone gets sick, and special considerations for overnight camps. When considering an in-person summer camp, review the CDC’s more detailed recommendations found at https:// www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/ schools-childcare/summer-camps.html. Then compile questions to ask the summer camp you’re considering to make sure it adheres to these safety protocols.

What are the staff’s qualifications?

Many summer camps use teens to staff the camps. Teens make excellent mentors and can bring liveliness to summer camp programs. However, the programs themselves should be developed by professionals and have professional oversight to ensure kids are getting the most from their camp experience.

How does the camp ensure your child’s safety?

Find out what kind of safety training the camp provides its staffers. Also, is there staff on hand at all times that knows CPR? What are the camp’s procedures in the event your child becomes ill, has an accident, or an emergency?

What is the daily schedule for campers?

Ask for a daily itinerary, so you know your child will be getting everything you and your child anticipate from the program.

What are the rules?

Each camp has its own set of rules. So, find out whether your child is allowed to call you. If it’s a summer-long residential camp, can parents come and visit? Can kids bring along a cell phone or electronics? Also, how much money can they bring, and how is it managed?

Don’t sweat it

Keep in mind, although there are many great camps, no camp is likely to offer everything precisely the way you want it. Just choose the one that best fits your child and satisfies your most important criteria. Remember, your child will have many summers to come and plenty more opportunities to work in more exciting camp experiences.

Kimberly Blaker is a freelance family writer. She’s also founder and director of KB Creative Digital Services, an internet marketing agency, at kbcreativedigital.com

EST. 1963

• 15 months – Kindergarten • Afterschool Care 1st through 5th grades • Summer Camp 5 through 10 year olds • Located on six wooded acres with pool (210) 696-0213

www.suburbanschool.com

5409 Encino Park Rd. San Antonio, Tx 78240

Advertise in Our Next Camp Issue Call 210-305-4181

Abby’s Attic Sewing & Crafting Studio #1 9815 Culebra Suite 112 78251 2250 Thousand Oaks Suite 208 78232 210.541.5088 http://www.AbbysAtticSewingSchool. com

Abby’s Attic Sewing Studio offers beginner sewing camps for ages 8 and up! We teach your child all the fundamentals of learning to use a sewing machine safely and proficiently, while also emphasizing math and reading skills, manners, self-patience, fine motor skills, and so much more. Half days or full days; before and after care available too. All materials and snacks provided. Two convenient locations. AbbysAtticSewingSchool.com

The Clowvazar Academy 12746 Cimarron Path #120 SA, TX 78249210-690-4800 www.clowvazar.com

The Clowvazar Academy is hosting summer camps in June, July & August for kids in Kinder12th grade. We specialize in education for kids with Anxiety, Autism, ADD, ADHD et cetera. The Clowvazar Academy is a year-round, K-12, private school for kids with Anxiety, Autism, ADD, ADHD, Dyslexia, et cetera.

Camp Champions 775 Camp Road, Marble Falls, TX, 78654 830-598-2571 info@campchampions.com www.campchampions.com

Camp Champions has created a tradition of excellence since 1967. With the facility and staff expected from a premier overnight camp, Champions is distinguished by its developmental focus on building strong kids. Camp Champions specializes in two and three-week sessions where each camper will be challenged, make friends, and have fun. We operated COVID-free in 2020. Reach us at www.campchampions.com, and find a link to our COVID preparation plan on the home page.

Camp Invention

Multiple San Antonio locations 800-968-4332 Invent.org/camp

Energize your child’s creativity with our new Camp Invention® program, Recharge! Campers in will team up to take on fun, hands-on STEM challenges. From taking apart their own microphone to exploring solar-powered crickets and creating duck-launching devices, each activity is designed to give your innovator an unforgettable summer experience. This year, local camps are being offered in person and at home so your child can experience the fun no matter where they are! Register and save at invent.org/local!

Camp Einstein Various Locations in San Antonio 972-333-7371 www.CampEinstein.org

STEMulating Enrichment! We believe you learn the best when having fun! Our exciting STEM classes are designed to spark creativity and learning through hands-on activities! From CSI Forensics to Lego Engineering, we offer many enriching camps for all ages. Come join the fun this summer.

Country Home Learning Center 8 locations in San Antonio 210-687-1002

www.countryhomelearningcenter.com Join us for an INCREDIBLE Summer Camp Experience! *Kinder – 13 years *Child Approved Special Events *Fun-filled days with activities every child enjoys *Kids’ Choice Special Interest Clubs *Exciting Weekly Field Trips.

Dorothy Keck Dancers 1532 Austin Hwy. SATX 78218 210-829-8489 www.dorothykeckdancers.com

Join us for a fun-filled summer dance camp! Learn different dance styles and create themed crafts in each two or three day camp. Each camp has a unique theme such as Moana, Mermaid, Olaf, Trolls or Diva; find one to fit your child’s interests! Camps range from 4-10 years old.

Are You Ready Are You Ready For An Adventure? For An Adventure?

EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS . . . We offer a nationally

accredited, innovative educational program in a beautiful state-of-the-art facility, where a warm and caring staff utilizes an exclusive curriculum and the very best in educational toys and equipment! • Full & Part Time: Infants – Age 13 • Drop-Ins Accepted • Exciting, Theme-Based Educational Units • Includes All of Our "On-Campus" Enrichment Destinations • Hours: 6:30am - 6:30pm SUMMER CAMP . . . Join us for an incredible Summer

Camp experience! • Kinder – 13 Years • Fabulous Weekly Field Trips to Exciting Destinations • In-House, Special Events • Splash Days in Our Waterpark • Kids’ Choice Special Interest Clubs OUR “ON-CAMPUS” ENRICHMENT DESTINATIONS

• Country Home Waterpark • Adventure Jungle Indoor Playground • 1950’s-Style Soda Shop for Cooking & Science Projects • Country Home Movie Theater • Putt-Putt Golf Course • Arts/Crafts Lab & Computer Lab • Large Indoor Gym & Basketball Court • Student ABCMouse.com Accounts • iPad Station & Interactive Whiteboard NOW ENROLLING . . .

Full & Part Time for Preschool & After School!

Call & Enroll Today! Call & Enroll Today! 210-687-1002 210-687-1002

View All 10 of Our Locations at www.countryhomelearningcenter.com

Jump Rope Express 210-269-0725 coachbobby7755@gmail.com www.coachbobbysports.com

Throughout its 19 year existence, JR Express has trained thousands of kids all across the U.S. The “fun factor” is the foundation of all the games, activities, drills and challenges that are taught. It is what makes the classes so appealing to kids and keeps them looking forward to every class. The program emphasizes progressive mastery of specific jump rope skills that will get your kids in top form. It increases speed, agility, strength, endurance, stamina, balance, timing and hand-eye-foot coordination. It is also a great tool to help boost your child’s confidence while encouraging self-expression, self-discipline, diligence, and fulfillment. In addition, working together as a group helps foster teamwork, sportsmanship, and the spirit of camaraderie.

Mad Science & Crayola Imagine Arts Academy

Multiple Locations Including Online 210-651-1143 http://SanAntonio.MadScience.org

Mad Science & Crayola Imagine Arts Academy programs are designed with exciting, fun and hands-on science and art activities for children . Your child will become a junior scientist or artist, having the opportunity to experience a variety of hands-on adventures. Programs starting now and through the Summer $18-325. Locations Include Virtual with Supplies delivered to your door!

Martin Swim School 210-240-7974 www.MartinSwimSchool.com

Swim lessons for children aged 18 months to 10 years. 98% of children learn in 2 weeks. Only 3 students per

St. Monica Catholic School 515 North Street, Converse, TX 78109 https://saintmonica.net/summer-funprogram (210)658-6701

Blast into the Summer will be a daily field trip, Summer camp, where students are able to learn, love and enjoy several themed weeks of FUN! Session 1 is June 7th thru July 2nd and Session 2 is July 6th thru July 30th, $400 for each session. All field trips are an affordable additional cost to attend (optional as well). It is promised to be Out of this World!

YMCA of Greater San Antonio Summer Day Camp Multiple Locations 210-924-2277 ymcasatx.org/summer

YMCA day camp programs offer youth ages 5 - 13 an opportunity to meet new friends and discover new interests. Activities vary by location but include STEM, crafts, swimming, sports, and more. Day Camp is an excellent way to ensure kids stay engaged socially, physically, and academically throughout the summer. Financial assistance is available.

SPECIAL NEEDS

The Clowvazar Academy (210) 690-4800 12746 Cimarron Path, #120 www.clowvazar.com

Each summer The Clowvazar Academy opens three summer sessions in June, July and August for students with Anxiety, High Functioning Autism or other related learning differences. We accept students from Kindergarten to High School. Limited seats are available. Visit us online for tuition information and requirements.

Children’s Association for Maximum Potential (CAMP) 515 Skyline Drive Center Point, Texas 78010 (210) 671-5411 campmail@campcamp.org https://campcamp.org/

Since 1979, Camp CAMP has provided safe, fun-filled recreational experiences for individuals with special needs at its 55-acre summer camp along the Guadalupe River, in Center Point, TX. Camp CAMP serves individuals (aged 5 – 50) with mild to severe disabilities from diagnosis with Autism Spectrum Disorder, Intellectual Disability, Down Syndrome, Cerebral Palsy, Traumatic Brain Injury, Spina Bifida, visual impairment and/or hearing impairment. It is a certified Texas Youth Camp and accredited by the American Camp Association. Campers’ siblings are welcome to attend camp with them. In 2020, the six-day camps begin May 24 and run through August 7. Summer 2020 applications are now available at www.campcamp. org. Camp CAMP strives to be affordable to all families through our Scholarship Tier program or through Respite funding for campers who have Medicaid Waiver and General Revenue service programs in Texas.

LLC

• Ages 18 months - 10 years • Three Students per Class • Private Lessons Available • Heated backyard pool, classes till September

SEWING CLASSES

Ages 4 to adult

North Central at 281/Thousand Oaks 210-375-5241

98% Learn in 2 weeks Register Now Far West Side at Culebra 210-541-5088 Space Limited Instructor Marguerite Martin-Bozeman www.MartinSwimSchool.com (210) 240-7974 mswimschool@gmail.com Phonics - Reading - Writing Composition Math - Handwriting - STAAR Prep. ADD - ADHD - Dyslexia - ESL - Autism Exp. 1:1 - Pre-K to 8th Grade “Inspiring students to excel and do their best!” inspiringexcellencetutoring.com Call or Text 210-722-4947 Phonics - Reading - Writing Composition Math - Handwriting - STAAR Prep. ADD - ADHD - Dyslexia - ESL - Autism Exp. 1:1 - Pre-K to 8th Grade “Inspiring students to excel and do their best!” inspiringexcellencetutoring.com Call or Text 210-722-4947 Phonics - Reading - Writing Composition Math - Handwriting - STAAR Prep. ADD - ADHD - Dyslexia - ESL - Autism Exp. 1:1 - Pre-K to 8th Grade “Inspiring students to excel and do their best!” inspiringexcellencetutoring.com Call or Text 210-722-4947 Phonics - Reading - Writing Composition Math - Handwriting - STAAR Prep. ADD - ADHD - Dyslexia - ESL - Autism Exp. 1:1 - Pre-K to 8th Grade “Inspiring students to excel and do their best!” inspiringexcellencetutoring.com Call or Text 210-722-4947 Phonics - Reading - Writing Composition Math - Handwriting - STAAR Prep. ADD - ADHD - Dyslexia - ESL - Autism Exp. 1:1 - Pre-K to 8th Grade “Inspiring students to excel and do their best!” inspiringexcellencetutoring.com Call or Text 210-722-4947 Phonics - Reading - Writing Composition Math - Handwriting - STAAR Prep. ADD - ADHD - Dyslexia - ESL - Autism Exp. 1:1 - Pre-K to 8th Grade “Inspiring students to excel and do their best!” inspiringexcellencetutoring.com Call or Text 210-722-4947 Phonics - Reading - Writing Composition Math - Handwriting - STAAR Prep. ADD - ADHD - Dyslexia - ESL - Autism Exp. 1:1 - Pre-K to 8th Grade “Inspiring students to excel and do their best!” inspiringexcellencetutoring.com Call or Text 210-722-4947 Phonics - Reading - Writing Composition Math - Handwriting - STAAR Prep. ADD - ADHD - Dyslexia - ESL - Autism Exp. 1:1 - Pre-K to 8th Grade “Inspiring students to excel and do their best!” inspiringexcellencetutoring.com Call or Text 210-722-4947 Phonics - Reading - Writing Composition Math - Handwriting - STAAR Prep. ADD - ADHD - Dyslexia - ESL - Autism Exp. 1:1 - Pre-K to 8th Grade “Inspiring students to excel and do their best!” inspiringexcellencetutoring.com Call or Text 210-722-4947 Phonics - Reading - Writing Composition Math - Handwriting - STAAR Prep. ADD - ADHD - Dyslexia - ESL - Autism Exp. 1:1 - Pre-K to 8th Grade “Inspiring students to excel and do their best!” inspiringexcellencetutoring.com Call or Text 210-722-4947 Phonics - Reading - Writing Composition Math - Handwriting - STAAR Prep. ADD - ADHD - Dyslexia - ESL - Autism Exp. 1:1 - Pre-K to 8th Grade “Inspiring students to excel and do their best!” inspiringexcellencetutoring.com Call or Text 210-722-4947 In Person and Online Classes! www.AbbysAtticSewingSchool.com