33 minute read
Benefits of Special Needs Summer Camps
AT AGE 6, KIM KELLY PAID HER FIRST VISIT TO A SPECIAL NEEDS RESIDENTIAL CAMP.
It was an experience she and her family will never forget.
Up to this point, Kim had lived a pretty sheltered life, her mother Ruth Kelly explains. “Because she has a hearing loss and an orthopedic problem, it was natural for me to want to hold her close.” By bringing Kim to camp, her mother realized two things: “My daughter needed to learn to do things on
By Denise Morrison Yearian
her own, and I needed to let go a little.” For the Kellys, it was a positive experience.
There’s a host of benefits children derive from attending camp, but for kids with special needs, those benefits are amplified, says Amy Van Huss, administrator and director of Club Kodiak (a program for young adults) at Camp Kodiak in Ontario, Canada, a therapeutic, residential summer camp for children and teens with and without diagnoses like Attention Deficit Disorder, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder and Asperger Syndrome. “ Our goal is to provide all the fun of a traditional camp, but in a safe, supported setting,” Van Huss says. “Campers with special needs typically thrive in a structured, predictable environment with as few changes in schedule as possible.”
Heidi Haldeen, summer program specialist for an Easter Seals Camp, agrees. “At a special needs camp, kids have the same opportunities they have at traditional camps. The only difference is the activities are modified according to the campers’ needs. This gives them a chance to shine.”
That’s what 9-yearold Tiffany Wells found as a camper. During the school year, Tiffany, who has cerebral palsy and asthma, played on a softball team and in a community bowling league; but because none of the children she played with were disabled, the competition wasn’t always equal.
“Attending a special needs camp allowed Tiffany to compete on more even ground because all the other kids were playing with some kind of disabil-
ity,” reports her mother Linda Wells. The result? “Tiffany saw that she could actually win and come out on top.”
According to Van Huss, “Camp Kodiak is a place where you are accepted and supported, and where you have the chance to grow. We offer as many different activities as we possibly can, everything from sailing to high ropes to waterskiing to the theater arts, with the hopes that they will find an activity they can continue at home. Seeing the growth in a camper socially, academically and functionally, as well as the growth in confidence – from the time they arrive at camp to the time they board the bus or climb into their parent’s car to go home – is truly amazing.”
Such was the case with Kim. When she first attended camp, she was afraid of the water. “She cried just getting her face wet,” her mother says, but “by summer’s end, she was jumping in the deep end and had received her first American Red Cross swimming certificate.”
While some parents and caregivers choose a summer camp for their children’s fun and recreation, others use it to continue education and therapy goals, and teach life skills. This is accomplished one step at a time. “It may mean being 10 minutes late for breakfast so Timmy can learn to tie his shoes by himself,” says Haldeen.
Developing new skills isn’t the only thing kids glean at a special needs camp. They learn about friendships, too. Last year when Tiffany went to camp, there was a girl in her cabin with a more severe case of cerebral palsy than Tiffany. Because Tiffany had spent her whole life with people helping her, she naturally wanted a chance to help others. “When we went to the dance, I got to push my new friend around in her chair,” says Tiffany. “I also got to help her eat.”
Van Huss notes, “Many of our campers have trouble making friends and maintaining friendships in their home environments. Just knowing there are other kids out there, just like them, is comforting. With our focus on social skill-building and with our specialized staff helping to guide social interactions, many of our campers leave having made lifelong friendships.”
When camp is over, what do the children take with them? For some, new skills. For others, new friends. And for many more, simply a fond memory of having had a break from their routine at home.
“Our campers look forward to returning year after year,” says Haldeen. “For many, we are their summer vacation. The minute they drive away, they are making plans to return next year.”
Denise Morrison Yearian is the former editor of two parenting magazines and the mother of three children.
Inclusion Camps
Camps designed for specific needs offer very specialized care, but some families make inclusion their goal, preferring a traditional camp that caters to all children. Before enrolling your children in a camp, visit the facility and make sure it meets your expectations and needs. Here are a few things to keep in mind before choosing a traditional camp or special needs camp:
• Is the camp accredited by the American Camping
Association (www.acacamps.org) or the National Camp Association (www.summercamp.org)? Does it meet the organization’s standards for kids with special needs, including facility and staffing requirements? • What training and experience do the directors and counselors have in working with kids with needs similar to your child’s? • Ask for the names of families whose children have attended the camp who might be willing to discuss their experiences with you. • What is the ratio of counselors to campers? For children with severe disabilities, the ratio should be at least one counselor for every three campers. What are the camp’s health and safety procedures? Who is the health care consultant? What emergency arrangements been made with a local hospital? • Can I visit the camp to see the program firsthand? Do they have sessions year-round? If it’s a regular camp, are special efforts or programs in place to integrate a child with special needs? Is it accessible for children with limited mobility? • What about the camp’s registration fee? Keep in mind that expense and quality may not go hand-in- hand because many specialized camps charge only a fraction of actual costs. Find out if scholarships are available. – Denise Yearian
Summer Camp Listings Your Child’s Best summer ever starts here
ACERA SUMMER STEAM CAMP (WINCHESTER) 781-729-3489 Age or Grade Range: Ages 5-17
The Acera Summer STEAM Camp is a creativity-based arts and sciences day camp where children ages 5-17 can nurture their natural desire to inquire, create, and innovate. https://aceraschool.org/ summer-camp ALLANDALE FARM OUTDOOR SUMMER PROGRAM (CHESTNUT HILL) 617-524-1531 Age or Grade Range: Ages 4-10
Allandale Farm Outdoor Summer Program gives children ages 4-10 a comprehensive exposure to outdoor fun and learning on a working farm in the city. Kids enjoy gardening, composting, bird and plant identification, walking, and farm animals. https://www.allandalefarm.com/ summer-camp/ ALPHA BENCH CODING AND ROBOTICS STEM PROGRAM (WALTHAM) 978-590-5803 Age or Grade Range: Ages 10-15
STEM focused program in Coding and Robotics based on Python Programming language and Raspberry Pi controlled Robots. http://alphabench.com ALPHA’S NINJA CAMP (CHELMSFORD, MA) 978-251-1331 Age or Grade Range: Age: 5 - 17
Alpha’s Ninja Camp is a Martial-Arts themed day camp for girls and boys ages 5 to 17. Everyday is filled with activities, games, projects, friends, and fun! At Alpha we provide each camper with a unique, memorable experience, set apart from other camps because campers will learn real values -- respect, discipline and confidence -- things that will last your child a lifetime. http://alphatkd..com BEACON HILL NURSERY SCHOOL (BOSTON) Age or Grade Range: Ages 2-6
Beacon Hill Nursery School announces its annual summer programming for 2019, packed with creative learning adventures for children ages 2 to 6. This unique summer program is staffed largely with the school’s own EEC qualified teachers and offers a stimulating and nurturing environment. Children enjoy spending their days exploring our two natural playscapes, discovering science and nature, participating in music, art, and yoga, and engaging in water play and outdoor activities. https:// www.bhns.net/ summer-program BELMONT DAY SUMMER CAMP (BELMONT) 617-484-3078 Age or Grade Range: Ages 3-15
Experienced and creative counselors establish a supportive environment for exciting summer adventures with many opportunities for exploration and play. Daily swim lessons. Specialty and sports camps available. https://www.belmontday.org/ summer-discoveries
BERKLEE SUMMER PROGRAMS (BOSTON) 617-747-2245 Age or Grade Range: Ages 12-18+
Each year Berklee presents more than 25 weekend and week-long summer programs. From music production and dance to stage performance and songwriting, you’ll hone your skills in the world’s premier learning lab for music and the performing arts. https://www.berklee.edu/ summer/programs?utm_ medium=referral&utm_ source=boston_parents_paper BINA FARM CENTER (NATICK)
(508) 651-2462 Age or Grade Range: Ages 6-14
Horsing Around at BINA Farm Center is a fun summer program welcoming children of all abilities and skill levels. Participants will take part in group horseback riding and horsemanship classes daily, as well as other activities like arts & crafts. http://www.binafarm.org BOSTON UNIVERSITY-CAMP TERRIER (BOSTON) 617-353-CAMP Age or Grade Range: Ages 5-15
Camp Terrier offers campers a variety of options for an exciting summer for ages 5-15. http://www.bu.edu/fitrec/camp BRANDEIS PRECOLLEGE PROGRAMS (WALTHAM) Age or Grade Range: Ages 13+
Connect with motivated students from around the globe and learn with professionals in their fields for a life changing summer of intensive study, experiential learning and vibrant Jewish community. http://www.brandeis.edu/ precollege/ BRIMMER & MAY SUMMER CAMP (CHESTNUT HILL, MA) 617-566-7462 Age or Grade Range: Age: 3 - 10
Team Field Sports, Nature/ Environmental Studies, Drawing/ Painting, Arts and Crafts www. brimmerandmaycamp.org BROAD MEADOW BROOK NATURE DAY CAMP (WORCESTER) 508-753-6087 Age or Grade Range: Ages 5-16
We are a nature day camp located minutes from downtown Worcester. Campers spend their days hiking and exploring over 400 acres of wildlife sanctuary - learning about the world around them through hands-on exploration! http://www.massaudubon.org/ broadmeadow
BUCK’S ROCK PERFORMING AND CREATIVE ARTS CAMP (NEW MILFORD, CT) 860-354-5030 Age or Grade Range: Ages 9-17 Buck’s Rock is a sleep away camp, where young artists ages 9-17 can make their own choices, follow their own passions, and create their own incredible summer experience. There are over 30 fully equipped and professionally staffed studios. http://www.bucksrockcamp.com BUCKINGHAM BROWNE & NICHOLS SUMMER CAMP (CAMBRIDGE) 617-800-2200 Age or Grade Range: Ages4-16
Established in 1949 and continuing a proud tradition of providing enjoyable and memorable summer learning experiences for both boys and girls from 4 years old to rising 10th grade. Where 98% of our camp families would recommend us to a friend... 98%! http://www.bbns.org/about/ summer-bbn
CAMP AKEELA (THETFORD CENTER, VT) 866-680-4744 Age or Grade Range: Ages 9-17
Co-ed, overnight camp in Vermont where “quirky” kids thrive! We focus on the social growth of campers. http://www.campakeela.com CAMP ALSING (UNITY, ME) 207-805-4155 Age or Grade Range: Ages 9-17
Camp Alsing is a premier, co-ed sleep away camp in Maine for kids ages 9-17 with high-functioning autism or other social challenges. http://www.campalsing.com CAMP ARCADIA (CASCO, ME) 203-956-0939 Age or Grade Range: Ages 7-17
Camp Arcadia has been teaching 21st Century skills since the early 20th century. We offer 2, 4 and 7 week sessions for girls currently in 2nd grade through 11th grade. We also have 2 different Family Camp weeks in August. http://www.camparcadia.com CAMP BIRCH HILL (NEW DURHAM, NH) 603-859-4525 Age or Grade Range: Age: 6 - 16
Nestled in the Lakes Region of New Hampshire, Camp Birch Hill offers a fun, elective based program where boys and girls aged 6-16 can participate in over 50 diverse activities of their choice. Each summer they welcome campers to their grounds in New Durham, NH. This traditional, overnight summer camp sits on a 100 acre piece of private, lakeside land where kids can come for two, four or six weeks of their summer. It is a home away from home where kids have the time of their lives for two, four or six weeks
while making lasting friendships and memories. campbirchhill.com CAMP CLARK - OLD COLONY YMCA (PLYMOUTH) 508-888-2290 ext. 204 Age or Grade Range: Ages 4-15
Old Colony YMCA Summer Day Camps teach self-reliance, foster a love for nature and the outdoors, and encourage the development of attitudes and practices that build character and leadership...all amidst a fun and creative learning environment. http://bit.ly/CampClarkBPP CAMP CODY (FREEDOM, NH)
954-803-8655 We strive to maintain an environment that both encourages personal growth and creates an unforgettable summer experience. Regardless of what age a camper joins us, we work hard to make them feel like part of the Cody family. http://www.campcody.com CAMP INVENTION (MULTIPLE LOCATIONS) 800-968-4332 Age or Grade Range: Ages 5-11
A nonprofit program of the National Inventors Hall of Fame, Camp Invention allows children in kindergarten through 6th grade to experience real-world problem solving, creative thinking, invention, and teamwork – all while having FUN! http://campinvention.org CAMP KODIAK (MCKELLER, ONTARIO) 877-569-7595 Age or Grade Range: Ages 6-18
Looking for an integrated, noncompetitive summer camp for children & teens with & without ADHD, LD & high-functioning ASD? We provide social skills and academic programs along with 50+ activities, 2:1 camper-to-staff ratio, and professional staff. http://www.campkodiak.com CAMP PINEHURST- A TRADITIONAL COED OVERNIGHT SUMMER CAMP IN MAINE (RAYMOND, ME) 603-880-6287 Age or Grade Range: Ages 6-14
Facing the sunset on the sandy shore of Crescent Lake, Camp Pinehurst is a traditional summer camp for boys and girls that emphasizes skill development, outdoor adventure and teamwork. http://www.camppinehurst.com CAMP QUAIL RIDGE (ACTON) 877-671-2267 Age or Grade Range: Ages 5-11
Our camp offers the unique balance of a traditional day camp experience in the convenient and familiar setting of the country club. http://www.kecamps.com/camps/ quail-ridge-country-club CAMP RAMAPO (RHINEBECK, NY) 845-876-8407 Age or Grade Range: Ages 6-16
Residential summer camp for children with social, learning and emotional challenges. http://www.ramapoforchildren.org CAMP SATUCKET - OLD COLONY YMCA (EAST BRIDGEWATER) 508-378-3913 Age or Grade Range: Ages 5-15
Old Colony YMCA Summer Day Camps teach self-reliance, foster a love for nature and the outdoors, and encourage the development of attitudes and practices that build character and leadership...all amidst a fun and creative learning environment. http://bit.ly/CampSatucketBPP CAMP STOUGHTON - OLD COLONY YMCA (STOUGHTON) 781-341-2016
Old Colony YMCA Summer Day Camps teach self-reliance, foster a love for nature and the outdoors, and encourage the development of attitudes and practices that build character and leadership...all amidst a fun and creative learning environment. http://bit.ly/CampStoughtonBPP CAMP WEKEELA (HARTFORD, ME) 201-612-5125 Age or Grade Range: Ages 7-16
Camp Wekeela is a premiere summer camp on a bucolic setting in the beautiful state of Maine. http://www.campwekeela.com CAMP WINGATE*KIRKLAND (YARMOUTH PORT) 508-362-3798 Age or Grade Range: Ages 7-15
Located on Cape Cod, Camp Wingate*Kirkland is a traditional overnight and day camp offering a daily choice program which allows campers to choose their own schedule and design their perfect summer. Camp is completely peanut, tree-nut and sesame free. http://www.campwk.com CAMP YOMECHAS - OLD COLONY YMCA (MIDDLEBORO) 508-947-1390 Age or Grade Range: Ages 5-15
Old Colony YMCA Summer Day Camps teach self-reliance, foster a love for nature and the outdoors, and encourage the development of attitudes and practices that build character and leadership...all amidst a fun and creative learning environment. http://bit.ly/CampYomechasBPP CAPE COD SEA CAMPS (BREWSTER) 508-896-3451 Age or Grade Range: Ages 4-15
SUMMER AT THE BEACH. CCSC is a traditional camp boasting one of the finest sailing programs in a camp setting. Also, exceptional programs in all other camp activities including
Archery, Riflery, Tennis, Arts, Land Sports, Drama, Woodworking, Swim http://www.capecodseacamps.com CHARLES RIVER CREATIVE ARTS (DOVER) 508-785-8250 Age or Grade Range: Age: 5 - 15
Charles River Creative Arts Program, located in Dover, MA, has been a pioneer in multi-arts education since 1970. Here, young people take risks, learn new skills, and discover new talents within a nurturing and diverse community of experienced and dedicated artists. Two 4-week sessions are offered every summer. Students may enroll in one or both sessions. Creative Starts provides an opportunity for children ages 5 – 8 to begin exploring and developing their artistic talents in an encouraging, stimulating environment. Each two-week session runs 9am – 4pm, Monday through Friday and features a unique theme, tying together creative projects with diverse art forms. We offer an age-appropriate balance of choice and structure to encourage experimentation, independence, and creative confidence. http://www.crcap.org CHESTNUT HILL CREATIVE ARTS & SPORTS CAMP (CHESTNUT HILL) Age or Grade Range: Age 3 - Grade 8
Summer at Chestnut Hill caters to campers by providing four age group divisions: Lower (ages 3-5), Intermediate (grades 1-3), Upper (grades 4-6), and Senior (grades 7-8), which implement traditional and innovative programming led by experienced adult http://www.tchs.org CHINESE SUMMER CAMP FOR YOUTH (SMITHFIELD, RI) 401-232-6883 Age or Grade Range: Ages 11-18
This two-week program is designed for local middle and high school students to learn Chinese language and experience its culture in a university campus. There is No previous Chinese learning experience required. https://china.bryant.edu CREATIVE ARTS: THEATER, MUSIC & ART VACATION WEEKS AND SUMMER PROGRAMS (READING) 781-942-9600
A multi-disciplinary community arts school, based in Reading, MA, that offers private lessons and group classes in Theater, Music and Visual Art all year long for all ages and abilities. http://www.weteachcreativearts.org DEBATE CAMP (WEST ROXBURY) 888-512-8154 Age or Grade Range: Ages 10-16
Debate Camp provides summer training programs in public speaking, debate and Model UN for students in grades 5 to 11 http://www.debatecamp.com/boston
DEDHAM COMMUNITY HOUSE SUMMER CAMP (DEDHAM) 781-329-5740 Age or Grade Range: Ages <3-14
Since the 1920’s, the Dedham Community House Summer Camp has helped create lifelong childhood memories of summers filled with fun in the sun! http://www.dedhamcommunity house.org DELPHI ACADEMY (MILTON) 617-333-9610
Private day school and summer camp in a beautiful Milton setting. http://delphiboston.org/ DERBY SUMMER ARTS (HINGHAM) 781-740-4766 Age or Grade Range: Ages 8-15
Summer Arts is a 5 week comprehensive program for ages 8 to 15. Campers choose their own schedules from over 100 choices. There are also programs for ages 3 to 7. Campers may attend less weeks. DIANE K. TRUST CENTER FOR EARLY EDUCATION OF TEMPLE OHABEI SHALOM (BROOKLINE) 617-264-2801
Join our amazing TCEE staff for a variety of innovative, educational, developmentally appropriate, exciting indoor and outdoor activities for children ages 18 months through 5 years. DIGITAL MEDIA ACADEMY (CAMBRIDGE) (866) 656-3342 Age or Grade Range: Ages 6-17
Digital Media Academy is a STEM summer camp experience designed for kids and teens to get their start as designers, developers, engineers, animators, musicians, and filmmakers. Learn from industry professionals and passionate educators as you complet https://www.digitalmediaacademy. org/massachusetts-tech-camps/ cambridge/ EXPLO (NORTON, WELLESLEY, NEW HAVEN, CT) 781-762-7400 Age or Grade Range: Ages 7-17
For more than 40 years, EXPLO has brought together bright, curious, and interesting young people from around the globe. EXPLO provides a range of one-, two-, and three-week summer programs for students ages 7 to 17 on the campuses of Yale University. https://www.explo.org EAGLE HILL SCHOOL (HARDWICK) 413-477-6000 Age or Grade Range: Ages 10-16
Eagle Hill’s Summer Session blends the experience of a classic summer camp with our unique approach to educating diverse learners. The course offerings are designed to help students have a fun-filled summer while building confidence. https://www.eaglehill.school EDGE ON SCIENCE (PLYMOUTH, WESTIN) (315) 773-5673 Age or Grade Range: Ages 8-14
Edge on Science offers week-long, project based, day programs in applied science and engineering. A back-to-basics approach is taken where children get to work independently and in teams to problem solve, all while having fun and making new friends! https://edgeonscience.com EMAGINATION TECH CAMPS (NEWTON CENTER) 781-933-8795 Age or Grade Range: Ages 8-17
It’s Technically Fun! For over 30 years kids & teens who are inspired by technology come from near and far to experience two weeks of high quality technology education balanced with fun summer camp activities. Located at BC’s Newton Campus. http://www.computercamps.com EMPOW STUDIOS TECH & DESIGN AND MINECRAFT CAMPS (MULTIPLE LOCATIONS) 617-395-7527 Age or Grade Range: Ages 7-13
Empow Studios brings technology, arts, and play together to help young learners discover and build on their creative talents. http://www.empow.me ENERGY FITNESS AND GYMNASTICS (NEWTON) 617-795-7177 Age or Grade Range: Ages 3-14
Gymnastics, outdoor play, and creative arts & crafts will make for an action-packed and memorable camp experience for children ages 3 to 14 this summer. http://www.energyfitnessgym.com EPIIC SOLUTIONS - TEEN ENTREPRENEURSHIP CAMPS (BOSTON) 617-410-8602 Age or Grade Range: Ages 13-17
The coolest way for middle/ high school teens to explore entrepreneurship, innovation and design in Boston! 1-week summer programs for teens to develop their own startup ideas and meet Boston’s most influential and creative business leaders. http://www.epiicsolutions.org EVERWOOD DAY CAMP (SHARON) 781-694-5829 Age or Grade Range: Ages 4-15
An authentic New England Summer Day Camp experience, where summer lasts a lifetime. http://www.EverwoodDayCamp.com EXXCEL GYMNASTICS & CLIMBING (NEWTON) 617-244-3300 Age or Grade Range: Ages 3+
Gymnastics, climbing, water slides, field trips, swimming, trapeze, bungee, zip line, skits, arts & crafts, games…what more could a kid want? http://www.exxcel.net/ FALMOUTH ACADEMY SUMMER 2019 (FALMOUTH) 508-457-9696 Age or Grade Range: Ages 3-18+
FA SUMMER has activities for every age and interest (child, teen & adult) half and full day from June 24-Aug 16. Activities include: animation, dark room photography, fencing, ecology, lacrosse, soccer, basketball, French, music, and many more. http://www.falmouthacademy.org/ Summer-Programs FESSENDEN SUMMER CAMPS (WEST NEWTON)
617-630-2373 Age or Grade Range: Ages 3-15 Whether in the Day Camp, the Summer ELL program, or one of the many Sports or Specialty Camps, campers participate in fun and exciting activities, build their selfconfidence, and learn core life skills such as collaboration and creativity. http://www.fessendensummercamps. org GIRL SCOUTS OF EASTERN MASSACHUSETTS CAMPS (MULTIPLE LOCATIONS) 617-350-8335 Age or Grade Range: Ages 5-17
Girl Scouts of Eastern Massachusetts offers resident and day camps in Massachusetts and New Hampshire. Every girl is invited! From our youngest campers in preKindergarten programs, to our 12th graders becoming CIT’s, and every girl in between. http://www.hercamp.org GROTONWOOD CAMP & CONFERENCE CENTER (GROTON) (978) 448 5763 Age or Grade Range: Ages 5-18+
40 minutes from Boston, Grotonwood has been providing life changing experiences for over 60 years. Situated in 250 acres of woodlands with a 1.5 mile waterfront & boat dock. We are an inclusive Christian sleep-away & Day camp for kids in grades K-12. http://www.grotonwood.org HALE DAY CAMP (WESTWOOD) 781-326-1770 Age or Grade Range: Age: 4 - 13
Hale offers a wide variety of summer camp experiences. From our Traditional Camp to our Specialty Camps, including Outdoor Adventures, Mountain Biking, and
our Leaders in Training (LIT) program for teens, Hale has a summer of fun waiting for you! We believe in continuing camping traditions such as being outdoors with your friends all day, getting plenty of exercise and swimming in our natural ponds. Here at Hale Day Camp we also provide a hands-on experience that recognizes the campers’ need for a nurturing environment where they can mature socially, emotionally and intellectually. www.halereservation.org HIDDEN VALLEY CAMP (FREEDOM, ME) 800-922-6737 Age or Grade Range: Ages 8-14
For over 65 years, Hidden Valley Camp (HVC) has been a leader in progressive international sleepaway camping, featuring the finest in visual and performing arts and exciting outdoor adventures. https://www.hiddenvalleycamp.com/ HILL HOUSE (BOSTON) 617-227-5838 Age or Grade Range: Ages 3-12
Hill House summer staff kicks off the organization’s 20th summer of camp for children ages 3 to 12. Weekly themes, a balance between structure and play, field trips, and age-appropriate activities promise a well-rounded experience. http://www.hillhouseboston.org HUNTERS HAVEN FARM HORSEBACK RIDING CAMP (GROVELAND) 978-373-1300 Age or Grade Range: Ages 6-18+
Full Day Weekly Horseback Riding Camp at beautiful Hunters Haven Farm in Groveland MA. http://www.huntershavenfarm.com ID TECH CAMPS (MULTIPLE LOCATIONS) 888-709-8324 Age or Grade Range: Ages 7-18
iD Tech is the world’s #1 summer STEM program for ages 7-18 held at 150 prestigious universities including Harvard Law School, Lasell, Bentley, Olin College of Engineering, Simmons and Eastern Nazarene College. With world-class instructors and innovative courses in coding, game development, robotics, and design, our programs instill in-demand skills that embolden students to shape the future. Learn more at iDTech.com. http://www.idtech.com INCARNATION CAMP (IVORYTON, CT) 860-767-0848 Age or Grade Range: Ages 7-15
Incarnation Camp is the oldest Coed Summer Camp in America! Located on a 700 acre wooded property with a mile-long lake, providing 130 summers of fun to campers from all over the world! Our age range is for campers 7 to 15 years old. https://www.incarnationcamp.org/ KIDS 4 CODING | SUMMER TECH PROGRAM-AGES 7-16 (CAMBRIDGE & WALTHAM) 770-642-0004 Age or Grade Range: Ages 7-16
Nationally Recognized KIDS 4 CODING Two area locations: CAMBRIDGE at Lesley University & WALTHAM at Bentley University. Quality tech programs at an affordable price. https://www.kids4coding.com KIDSTOCK! CREATIVE THEATER (WINCHESTER) 781-729-5543 Age or Grade Range: Ages 4-15
Kidstock! Creative Theater offers a performance arts summer camp opportunity for children ages 4-15. http://www.kidstocktheater.com KROKA EXPEDITIONS (KEENE, NH) 603-835-9087 Age or Grade Range: Ages 9-19
Kroka is a wilderness expedition school based on a year-round organic farm in Marlow, NH. Our summer adventure expeditions include sailing, rock climbing, mountain biking, whitewater paddling, wilderness skills, and rites of passage for ages 9-19. http://www.kroka.org LETGO YOUR MIND STEM PROGRAMS (MULTIPLE LOCATIONS) 603-731-8047 Age or Grade Range: Age: 4 - 14
LETGO Your Mind programs offer a safe, educationally enriching STEM Program experience that is fun and challenging using LEGO bricks, motors, elements in the areas of simple machines, robotics, stop motion animation and programming Minecraft. The programs focus on the vital STEM subjects (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) and challenge the kids to think while having fun. Our programs are for students between the ages of 4 and 14. http://www.letgoyourmind.com
LEXINGTON PREP SCHOOL (WELLESLEY) 781-860-7550 Age or Grade Range: Ages 12-20
Lexington Prep School offers test prep classes and intensive language classes both for boarding students and day students. We give students access to intensive instruction by experienced teachers, supervised study time, and recreational activities http://www.lexingtonprep.com
LINX CAMPS (WELLESLEY) 781-235-3210 Age or Grade Range: Ages 3-17
LINX Camps offers award-winning full and half day camps for kids 3 years - 10th grade. We provide a traditional day camp experience that builds community and character while allowing kids to explore their interests.
MAC SUMMER CAMPS (MANCHESTER) 978.526.8900 x 257 Age or Grade Range: Ages 3-16 MAC Camps offer a diversity of activities for youth ages 3-16. Our programs range from engaging day camps to full week adventure camps – we even offer Tennis and Sailing camps! All of our camps encourage learning, growth, and FUN - spend your at MAC! http://www.macathletics.com/ summer-camp/ MASS AUDUBON SUMMER CAMPS (MULTIPLE CITIES) 781-259-9500 Age or Grade Range: Ages 3-15
Have fun, make friends, and experience nature this summer! Mass Audubon campers enjoy outdoor exploration, habitat hikes, wildlife observation, hands-on activities, interactive games, imaginative free play, creative crafts, and more. Small group sizes ensure camper safety and engagement with positive role models who are enthusiastic about sharing their knowledge of the outdoors. Sign up for hands-on, outdoor fun this summer. With 19 day camps and one overnight camp, there’s something for everyone. https://www.massaudubon.org/ MEADOWBROOK SUMMER PROGRAMS (WESTON) 781-647-0546 Age or Grade Range: Grades K-8
Meadowbrook Summer Programs all share the philosophy of The Meadowbrook School of Weston: nurturing a child’s personality, encouraging his or her special interests, and embracing the whole child. Meadowbrook campers agree – summer is FUN! . http://daycamp.meadowbrook-ma. org/ MOSESIAN CENTER FOR THE ARTS SUMMER STAGES & STUDIOS (WATERTOWN)
617-923-0100 x8309 Age or Grade Range: Ages 5+
Mosesian Arts Ed and Watertown Children’s Theatre Summer Stages & Studios provide a variety of affordable, educational programs for students of all ages and abilities in visual and performing arts. http://www.mosesianarts.org/ education
NECIR PRE-COLLEGE SUMMER JOURNALISM INSTITUTE (BOSTON) 617-531-1685 Age or Grade Range: Ages 15-18
Pre-college summer journalism program for high school students (ages 15-18, graduating seniors included) with little to advance experience. http://www.necir.org/summer NATICK COMMUNITY ORGANIC FARM SUMMER PROGRAMS (NATICK) 508.655.2204 Age or Grade Range: Ages 3-12 The Natick Farm offers 4 day, half day sessions for kids 3-12 to work with animals, grow in the garden, and learn about food and where it comes from. http://www.natickfarm.org NICOLE’S ART SPOT -- ART AND CRAFTS CLASSES & SUMMER PROGRAM (NEEDHAM) (781) 343-1250 Age or Grade Range: Ages 5-15
Nicole’s Art Spot Summer Program offers children a hands-on opportunity to delve into week-long intensive arts and crafts classes
that interests them the most. In each class children can explore and expand their love of art and craft media. http://www.nicolesartspot.com NIGHT EAGLE WILDERNESS ADVENTURES (WALLINGFORD, VT) (802) 446-6100 Age or Grade Range: Ages 10-14
Located in the heart of Vermont’s Green Mountains, Night Eagle Wilderness Adventures is a unique primitive summer camp where boys live in tipis and do things that boys did hundreds of years ago. http://www.nighteaglewilderness. com
NOBLES DAY CAMP (DEDHAM) 781-320-1320 Age or Grade Range: Ages 3-14
Nobles Day Camp was founded in 1948 by Grandin Wise and George K. Bird III with a staff of five and 48 boys and girls. We have been providing a high quality camp program ever since (63 summers). Although we have grown to a staff of over 275 and 500. https://www.noblesdaycamp.org/ NORTH COUNTRY CAMPS- LINCOLN AND WHIPPOORWILL (KEESVILLE, NY) 518-796-5874 Age or Grade Range: Ages 7-15
The North Country camps - Lincoln for boys, Whippoorwill for girls, offer children real adventure in a safe, outdoor environment. http://www.northcountrycamps. com/
NORTH EAST RHYTHMICS SCHOOL OF GYMNASTICS (MIDDLETON) 978-548-7559 Age or Grade Range: Ages 4-18
Rhythmic gymnastics and contemporary dance performing and competitive program.Stretching flexibility and conditioning clinics,adult fitness. http://www.northeastrhythmics.com PASSPORT DAY CAMP (CAMBRIDGE)
617-206-4662 ext 2 Day Camp featuring Sports & Games, Arts & Crafts, Science & Nature, Music & Movement, Swimming and Field Trips. Speciality Clubs for Preschool and Elementary age campers. Outdoor Adventures for our older campers. http://www. cambridgemontessori.org PCC ASP - RESIDENTIAL SUMMER PROGRAM AT STONEHILL COLLEGE (EASTON) 508-565-5202
A 6 week residential Advanced Studies Program at Stonehill College. Stay Monday through Fridays, live on campus, take 2 classes based on interest, academics, sports or the arts! Meet friends from all over and have the “Summer of a Lifetime at PCC”! http://pccasp.org POMPOSITTICUT FARM DAY CAMP (HUDSON) 978-562-0968 Age or Grade Range: Ages 4-15
A summer Day Camp offering adventurous, out of the norm activities that entice, excite, and encourage campers to enjoy outdoor interactions peers ages 4-15! http://www.pompositticutfarm.com PUDDLESTOMPERS NATURE EXPLORATION (NEWTON) 617-527-2000
Science Camp, Enrichment Classes & Programs, Day Camp https://www.puddlestompers.com/ summer-locations
REVELS SUMMER VAUDEVILLE WORKSHOP (WATERTOWN, MA) 617-972-8300 Age or Grade Range: Age: 8 - 13
A Revels Summer Theater Workshop is a complete theater experience. In the mornings young people will participate in theater games, acting, singing and traditional dance. In the afternoons we will be participating in “Production Time;” making the printed program; designing and building sets, costumes, props; and creating a slide show. Along with creating the show, we will have electives, where young people can choose areas to learn more about theater including; play and song writing, creating a mummers’ play, audition techniques, writing and performing a monologue, clowning, and the art of improv. Everyone will have a part and auditions for the parts are held on the first day of the workshop. There will be a performance at the end of the workshop. www.revels.org/summer SCHOOL’S OUT SUMMER PROGRAM (ANDOVER) 978-857-2687 Age or Grade Range: Ages 3-15
The School’s Out Summer Program (S.O.S) is a day camp held at the Greater Lawrence Technical School in Andover, MA. S.O.S. is designed for children ages 3 to 15 and runs for 6 theme-based weeks. http://www.getyouthmoving.net STEVE AND KATE’S CAMP (BOSTON, CAMBRIDGE) 617-315-4387 Age or Grade Range: Ages 4-16
At Steve & Kate’s, our camp philosophy is pretty simple: We believe that you need to trust kids with the freedom to make their own choices driven by their natural curiosity, to experiment with their own decision-making and develop the confidence to try, fail, and learn on their own. Designed for kids entering Pre-K through 7th graders, we offer a massive choice of activities that cater to pretty much anything. http://steveandkatescamp.com/ locations/boston
SUMMER AT MFA (BOSTON) 617-369-3295 Age or Grade Range: Ages 5-11
Register your young artist for fun weekly summer art classes at the Museum of Fine Arts. Half and whole days available, with supervised lunches for children taking both morning and afternoon classes. http://www.mfa.org/programs/ studio-art-classes/catalogue/kids/ summer
SUMMER AT TOBIN (NATICK) 508-650-1561 Age or Grade Range: Ages 4-10
Our summer program is designed for families looking for a reliable, nurturing place for their kids to spend time in the summer – with a lot of fun field trips and activities! http://www.tobinafterschool.org/ learning/summer-at-tobin/ SUMMER IN FRENCH AT THE FRENCH CULTURAL CENTER/ ALLIANCE FRANÇAISE OF BOSTON (BOSTON, MA) 617-912-0400 Age or Grade Range: Age: 3 - 17 Language Studies www. frenchculturalcenter.org TABOR ACADEMY (MARION) 508-291-8342 Age or Grade Range: Ages 6-17
Established in 1917, the Tabor Academy Summer Program gives young people ages 6-17 the opportunity to develop their full potential as individuals, athletes, and students. http://taborsummer.org/ THE BARTON CENTER FOR DIABETES EDUCATION, INC. (MULTIPLE CITIES) 508-987-2056 Age or Grade Range: Ages 6-18
The Barton Center is dedicated to children who live with type 1 diabetes and the people who care for them. Barton programs offer fun, recreation, diabetes education, and support. Please visit our website for a complete list of programs. http://www.bartoncenter.org THE EXPERIMENTORY AT DEERFIELD ACADEMY (DEERFIELD) 413-774-1436 Age or Grade Range: Ages 11-14
The Experimentory is a projectbased, creative learning middle school summer program. We learn to collaborate and communicate, foster creativity, and explore new ways of looking at the world. It’s also a chance to experience boarding school life. http://www.deerfield.edu/ experimentory THE PUTNEY SCHOOL SUMMER ARTS (PUTNEY, VT)
802-387-6297 Age or Grade Range: Ages 4-17 The Putney School Summer Arts offer students age 14-17 the opportunity for in-depth exploration in the visual arts, performing arts, and creative writing, as well as sustainability through our farm program. http://summer.putneyschool.org/ THE SKATING CLUB OF BOSTON SKATING ACADEMY (WELLESLEY) 617-787-5283 Age or Grade Range: Ages 6-17
Summer Camp at Babson College is staffed by certified coaches, a licensed registered nurse, and coaching assistants from The Skating Club of Boston. Campers take to the ice, make friends, learn new skills and techniques, and have tons of fun!
THE ULTIMATE DAY CAMP AT DEDHAM HEALTH & ATHLETIC (DEDHAM) 781-326-2900
At the Ultimate Day Camp we aim to make each day the “BEST DAY EVER”. We pack all that DHAC has to offer into every week! Campers love the water park. http://www.dedhamhealthsummer. com/camp/ TSONGAS INDUSTRIAL HISTORY CENTER SUMMER CAMPS (LOWELL) 978-970-5000 Age or Grade Range: Ages 8-14
The Tsongas Industrial History Center’s summer day camps are your answer to summer fun. Dreamers, doers, movers, and makers - we let them “mill around” with us and explore history http://www.uml.edu/tsongas TUFTS UNIVERSITY DESIGN AND ENGINEERING WORKSHOPS (MEDFORD, MA) Age or Grade Range: Age: 4 - 18
Join us as we explore robotics and engineering in fun week-long summer workshops! Kids will learn about the Engineering Design Process through hands-on activities. Grades: K - 12. Learn more and register at tiny.cc/ceeowksps UNIVERSITY OF NEW HAMPSHIRE PROJECT SMART SUMMER INSTITUTE (DURHAM, NH) 603-862-3840 Age or Grade Range: Ages 15+
UNH Project SMART Summer Institute (www.smart.unh.edu) is a 4-week summer program for talented high school sophomores and juniors interested in sciences - Biotechnology, nanotechnology, space science, marine and environmental science. http://www.smart.unh.edu URJ CRANE LAKE CAMP (MULTIPLE CITIES) 201-722-0400 Age or Grade Range: Ages 8-15
Located in West Stockbridge, MA, URJ Crane Lake Camp serves the Reform Jewish Community of the Northeast with over 100 acres on an active waterfront in a traditional New England style intimate setting. http://www.urjnortheastcamps.org VALLEY HILL SUMMER CAMP (SOUTH KENT, CT) 508-572-5152 Age or Grade Range: Ages 8-15
Valley Hill Summer Camp is a co-ed sleepaway camp that provides the very best of both worlds – elite instruction in the specialized morning academies and traditional camp fun for the rest of the day. http://valleyhillsummercamp.com W. ALTON JONES CAMP (WEST GREENWICH, RI) 401-874-8127 Age or Grade Range: Ages 5-16
W. Alton Jones offers a big backyard for learning, exploration, adventure and fun. Explore our lake, a historical farm, 10 miles of hiking trails, wildflower meadows, streams and ponds. Here you get outdoors, learn new skills and make new friends! https://web.uri.edu/ alton-jones-camp/camp/ WALNUT HILL SCHOOL FOR THE ARTS SUMMER PROGRAMS (NATICK) 508-650-5020 Age or Grade Range: Ages 10-17
Summer Camp programs in Dance (Ballet), Musical Theater, and Visual Art. http://www.walnuthillarts.org/ summer
WATER MONKEY SUMMER CAMP (NEW DURHAM, NH) 617-855-9253 Age or Grade Range: Ages 10-17
Water Monkey Camp is the ultimate watersports summer camp! Super small enrollment of 20 campers per week allows each camper unrivaled access to our top notch coaches to improve wakeboarding, waterskiing and wakesurfing skills! https://www.watermonkeycamp. com/
WEST END HOUSE CAMP (PARSONSFIELD, ME) 617-783-2267 Age or Grade Range: Ages 7-15
West End House Camp is a positive experience that lasts a lifetime! Overnight camp for boys ages 7-15. Selected by the Boston Globe as a “Best Value in New England!” Chosen by Boston Parents Paper as ”One of Top Five Overnight Camps in New England” http://www.westendhousecamp.org WINDRIDGE TENNIS AND SPORTS CAMPS (ROXBURY, VT) 802-860-2005 Age or Grade Range: Ages 7-15
Located in Vermont’s Green Mountains, Windridge Tennis and Sports Camps stand unique among camps in that we incorporate sports-specialty camps within the traditional framework of a rural New England camp setting. http://www.windridgecamps.com
Too Young for a Job? Too Old for Camp?
CIT Programs to the Rescue!
YOUR TEEN IS TOO YOUNG TO GET A SUMMER JOB AT A LOCAL RETAIL STORE, yet she considers herself too mature to spend the summer frolicking in the pool, playing games and making crafts. With a roll of the eyes, she has declared, quite to your dismay, that she’s too old to attend camp this summer
You, on the other hand, have a different idea. Summer camp still seems very much a worthwhile venture considering the alternative – just hanging out all day.
There is a solution to this dilemma: Young teens can participate in a Counselor-in-Training (CIT) program. CIT programs offer a perfect happy medium for those kids who feel they’ve “outgrown” summer camp but aren’t yet old enough for employment. And, for many kids, they offer a chance to extend the summer camp experience a few more years.
What Are CIT Programs?
CIT programs are for young teens who are serious about assuming some of the responsibility and effort it takes to work with younger children in a camp setting. There are usually a limited number of openings, and some camps only consider teens who have been “campers” in previous years.
CIT programs are intended to train teens to become future counselors, leaders and mentors. There are a variety of responsibilities given to these trainees, and the scope of their duties can vary enormously from camp to camp. Some of their assigned tasks might include organizing and planning activities, leading teams in various projects, helping out with camp maintenance, assisting counselors with office work and assisting at various athletic activities.
At most camps, CITs are usually still
