FEBRUARY 2022
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4 EASY STEPS TO
Tackle that Pile of Art & School Work
BEAUTIFUL BITES! Healthy and Visually Appealing Snacks Your Little One will Gobble Up
11 AMAZING WAYS TO CELEBRATE VALENTINE’S DAY WITH YOUR FAMILY Discover the Best Summer Camp for Your Child
YEAR-BY-YEAR GUIDE to Prep Your High Schooler for College
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Boston Parents Paper | February 2022
Volume 37 • Number 6
What’s Inside February 2022
25 13 F E AT UR E S . .. TM
Boston Parent 841 Worcester Street Suite 344 Natick, MA 01760 617-522-1515 info@BostonParentsPaper.com Visit us online at BostonParentsPaper.com PUBLISHER Parenting Media, Inc ART DIRECTOR | Debbi Murzyn ASSOCIATE EDITOR | Jean Abernathy ADVERTISING SALES Holly Castro, David Morney Boston Parents Paper is published monthly by Parenting Media Inc. Please note that the advertisements in this magazine are paid for, which allows this magazine to be free to the consumer. ©2022 Copies of Boston Parents Paper are distributed to locations throughout Greater Boston and Eastern Massachusetts. Past issues are available on our website, www. BostonParentsPaper.com Send letters to the editor or article submissions to editor@ bostonparent.com. Submit events to our Family Friendly Calendar at bostonparentspaper.com/event
10 | Countdown to College 13 | Benefits of Healthy Snacks 18 | How do You Teach Your Children to be More Mindful?
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25 | Your Guide on How to Pick the Best Camp 28 | What Do You Envision for Your Child’s Camp Experience? . .. AND TH ER E’S MO R E 6 Family FYI 20 Organizing Kids’ • Looking for a Great School Papers and Summer Camp? Artwork Projects • 11 Valentine’s Day Ideas for Kids • Black History Month
30 Featured Summer Camps
15 Book Club 6 Books for the Eager to Learn
February 2022 | BostonParentsPaper.com
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Black History Month “If there is no struggle there is no progress.” – Frederick Douglass
T
hese words are as relevant today as they were in 1857 when the famous statesman, writer and orator first used them. Black History Month, or National African American History Month, was started in 1926 as a weeklong celebration coinciding with the birthdays of Douglass (Feb. 14, 1818) and Abraham Lincoln (Feb. 12, 1809). See our Calendar for suggestions about things to do to celebrate Black History Month. 6
Boston Parents Paper | February 2022
Celebrating February Holidays
T
he whole world is familiar with Valentine’s Day and Chinese New Year, and in the U.S. we have Groundhog Day, Presidents’ Day, plus a few important birthdays to celebrate, but how many other February holidays are you familiar with? Maybe you celebrate No Brainer Day or Polar Bear Day, both on Feb. 27. Then there is Lost Penny Day on the 12th which was ‘invented’ to encourage people to look around their homes for all of their stray coins (lost pennies), gather them up and donate them to charity. Other honorable mentions are National Margarita Day, World Thinking Day and Be Humble Day all share the 22nd. There are certainly some great holidays to celebrate during February and if you don’t get any chocolates on Valentine’s Day don’t worry as the 15th of February is Gumdrop Day so you can have your fill of sugar then!
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✼ Family F.Y.I. write a saying (Happy Valentine’s Day XOXO, A Valentine’s Day Hug) and let your child decorate the heart and arms with markers, crayons, glitter, stickers and/or stick on gems. Fold the arms over as if they are giving the heart a hug. This makes a great decoration around the house or a great gift for a loved one.
4 Sweets & Treats 5Handmade Valentines 6Valentine Crayons
Head to the kitchen and make cookies or cupcakes to decorate with pink frosting and sprinkles. Make Valentines for your children’s friends and loved ones, or even deliver to a local nursing home!
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Valentine’s Day Ideas FOR KIDS
V
alentine’s Day is all about romance and chocolate. Once you have children, the holiday tends to change a little. It usually includes spending time celebrating with your children – and having to share that box of chocolate with them. Make this year’s Valentine’s Day fun and special for your children. Check out the 11 ways to celebrate below.
1
Get Crafty
Decorate a T-shirt or onesie with your child. They can decorate with hearts and puffy paints, and wear it proudly!
2
Breakfast Surprise
Surprise them with cupcakes for breakfast, surrounded by candy hearts. You can tie a heart balloon on their chairs for an extra surprise.
3Create Hearts
Trace your child’s arms and hands. Cut them out and then attach to each side of a heart. In the center you can
Buy a silicon tray with hearts (you can pick these up at a craft store). Collect all your broken crayons and fill each heart with different colors. Place in a 200 degree oven and watch closely until they melt. Let cool and you now have a great Valentine crayon heart to give out to friends.
7Crafts
Decorate the house with Valentine’s Day crafts. For an easy craft, cut strips of paper and fold them into a heart shape. Great way to make paper chains!
8Valentine’s Day Scavenger Hunt 9 Family Move Night
Write clues on pieces of paper that lead children to a special treat or gift. Get the popcorn ready and snuggle in to watch a cute Valentine’s Day movie like Lady and the Tramp or Mickey and Minnie’s Sweetheart Stories.
10Love Letters 11Game Night
10 “love” notes telling your children something special you love about them. Have a special dinner with the family, then enjoy a night playing their favorite games. These 11 ideas, crafts and treats are the perfect way to celebrate Valentine’s Day with you family.
1822
Valentine’s Day just wouldn’t be the same without a signature heart-
shaped box of chocolates. But do you know who originated the sweet treat? In 1822, John Cadbury, originally a coffee and tea shop owner, began producing chocolates. That very same year his son Richard brainstormed the idea of packing them up in the first-ever heart-shaped box. We’d love to know if recipients back then looted through to find the caramels like we do. 8
Boston Parents Paper | February 2022
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Countdown to College Tips to Help Students Find Their Fit
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he high school road to college may seem like four of the most challenging years families face. There are deadlines, tough financial choices and parents and children don’t always agree on colleges. If that isn’t stressful enough, every year there are tasks that high school students should be checking off their to-do list. How do parents help their high school students navigate all the details and decisions they must make during their countdown to college? Here is some advice from the pros -- a parent who’s been through the process and a college admissions counselor.
Starting the Conversation It all starts with a conversation between parent and child. But often the question that starts the conversation is the wrong one, according to Rick Clark, an undergraduate admissions counselor. “Parents ask ‘Where do you want to go to college?’ “Clark says. The biggest question that parents don’t ask or lose sight of is ‘Why do you want to go to college?’ “That why is important, and should be followed up with questions like “What do you hope to get out of this? What do you want to study? What do you want to do long-term?” says Clark.
Freshman Year: The Importance of Academics Rachael Fain, a mom of three, stresses the importance of the GPA during freshman year. Fain’s daughter, Hannah, graduated from college in 2017. Fain also has a son, Matthew, who is a junior in college. “My children started taking high school classes in eighth grade,” Fain says. “A GPA is harder to bring up in
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Boston Parents Paper | February 2022
By Janeen Lewis
junior and senior year, so our goal their eighth and ninth grade years was to keep their GPA high.” The freshman year is also important for getting on a challenging track of classes.“Course choice is important,” Clark says. “Math in particular is something students need to pay attention to.” Taking challenging classes in high school helped Fain’s son Matthew make his college decision. He decided to pursue his degree at the University where he took dual credit courses when he was in high school.
Sophomore Year: Getting to Know You Tenth grade is a good year for self-reflection. Students can take personality tests and the PSAT to figure out their strengths and weaknesses. They can also start thinking about the kind and size of school they want to attend. Understanding what they are good at will help high school students be realistic about the school that is the best fit for them.
Junior Year: Balancing Grades and Activities Grades are crucial during the junior year. Junior year also involves a more challenging track of classes and leadership roles in clubs and activities. It’s hard to do it all, so how important are the extracurricular activities? It depends on the student and the college. “At one of my children’s colleges, extracurricular activities were really important,” Fain said. “At the other one, they didn’t’ matter as much.” Clark says one out of every four students who apply to the school where he works are accepted. Continued on page 12 >>>
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<<< Continued from page 10
“Most students that apply have good test scores, good grades and good courses. Then the review committee asks ‘Is this kid a good fit for us?’” Clark says they look for students who are innovative or who are entrepreneurs, and they ask “How does this student use their time?” “If they are a good student who goes home and plays video games, what will they contribute to the school?” Clark says. But it stands out if students are responsible, if they work a job or if they make an impact some way.
Senior Year: Find Your Fit Clark says the most important thing about making a college decision is finding a good fit. “Fit doesn’t really mean can the student do the work, but are they aligned well to the school.” For example, Clark says two universities can look the same on paper. A student will apply to each with the same grades and same test scores and get accepted to one and not the other. “That is what fit is,” Clark says. “How a student fits with a school, not just from an academic standpoint.” If you and your child do not agree on the same school, Clark says how you approach the topic may resolve a lot of conflict over the situation. “Continue to tell your kids you love them, and that no matter where they go to college, it will be great.” The good news is that there are many schools across the country and probably more than one of them will match your student’s personality and academic standing. “If you or your child feels overwhelmed, take a deep breath and remember there is a school for every student,” says Fain. Janeen Lewis is a writer, teacher and mom to Andrew and Gracie. She has been published in several parenting publications across the country.
Countdown to College Checklist A Timeline That Will Take You Places
Preparing for college can be overwhelming for high school students and their parents because of the many steps it takes to get an acceptance letter. But breaking the college to-do list into manageable steps for each year of high school makes the process less stressful and teaches students responsibility, the very thing they will need for what they want to achieve -- a college education. Follow this step-by-step guide for a smoother countdown to college. FRESHMAN YEAR • Talk to your parents and guidance counselor at the beginning of the year to set goals. • Take the most challenging courses available to you. Make good grades. • Try a variety of activities. • Take advantage of opportunities to visit college campuses when you travel. SOPHOMORE YEAR • Visit college and career fairs. • Build your resume. Make a list of awards, accomplishments, and activities. • Take the PSAT for practice (you can take it your sophomore and junior year, but it won’t count until you are a junior). • Start studying for the ACT and SAT. There are many test prep guides available online and in book form. • Assess your strengths and weaknesses and take a personality inventory. • Research possible careers. • During the summer begin researching colleges that might be a good fit. JUNIOR YEAR • Take the PSAT. • Accept leadership roles in the activities that suit you best. • Narrow your list of possible careers. • Narrow your list of possible colleges. • Take the ACT and SAT. • During the summer volunteer or find an internship or job related to your future career. • Write a college entrance essay draft. Have it critiqued by a guidance counselor or teacher. SENIOR YEAR • Narrow your college search to six to eight schools. • Post all important deadline dates on a wall calendar. • Retake the ACT or SAT if needed. • Polish your resume. • Ask for teacher recommendations. • Visit the colleges you are applying to. • Send out all your college applications. • After you receive your acceptance letters, compare scholarship and financial aid packages and make your final decision. • Notify all the schools you were accepted to of your decision. • Celebrate the beginning of a new timeline at college!
Benefits of Making Healthy Snacks Visually Appealing to Kids
By Sarah Lyons
A
healthy and well balanced diet is important for kids to maintain healthy growth and development. Snack time is a great way to incorporate fruits and vegetables into a child’s daily diet. Children have smaller sized stomachs than adults and therefore are less likely to eat enough at meals to keep them full and energized until the next mealtime which makes snack time a great way for parents to get in those extra nutrients. They also offer a variety of benefits.
Continued on page 14 >>>
February 2022 | BostonParentsPaper.com
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<<< Continued from page 13
Snacking helps kids develop healthy habits Including three meals and two healthy snacks into your child’s daily diet helps kids learn healthy eating habits that will stick with them for a lifetime. Providing a well balanced and healthy diet helps kids learn appropriate portion control, to eat (and enjoy) a variety of foods including fruits and vegetables, and develop a healthy relationship with food. Kids who learn these valuable habits early are less likely to form unhealthy eating habits such as eating out of boredom or based on emotional factors. They also learn to eat when they are hungry and stop eating when they are full, a skill many adults struggle with.
Snacking gives kids the boost they need Without snacking, kids are less likely to meet the suggested nutritional intake to maintain a healthy diet because their stomachs are smaller and become full with a smaller meal. Adding two small snacks a day that provide fruit, veggies, low fat dairy, or whole grain helps kids fill in the nutritional gaps they may have been missing from breakfast, lunch, and dinner. In addition, snacks provide a boost of energy to get kids through the rest of the day.
Snacking benefits a child’s overall health The development of healthy eating habits at a young age decreases the likelihood of children developing diseases like cancer, diabetes, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, and heart disease. Kids who eat more fruits and vegetables and less “junk food” that contain high quantities of sugar are also more likely to have better dental hygiene. Kids who maintain a healthy diet, including smart snack choices, are less likely to binge on foods high in calories and carbohydrates and are more likely to maintain a healthy weight throughout their lives.
Snacking helps power brain development Kids who eat healthy snacks are, generally, more prepared to listen and learn at school because their bellies are full. They have more energy and are more attentive in class. Hungry kids become irritable, tired, and less alert. A healthy snack can do a lot to help kids grow and develop properly. Now that we understand the great benefits to healthy snacking, how can we get our kids to eat the fruits and vegetables their bodies need? Preparing snacks that are fun encourages kids to try new foods and may even help them to forget they are eating healthy food at all. Here are some great snacks that kids will have fun eating.
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Boston Parents Paper | February 2022
The development of healthy eating habits at a young age decreases the likelihood of children developing diseases like cancer, diabetes, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, and heart disease.
Healthy and Visually Appealing Snacks for Kids FROZEN BANANA “ICE CREAM” For a tasty sweet treat that is also healthy, simply slice a banana and freeze overnight. The next day put the bananas in a blender or food processor and you will have a creamy, healthy snack that tastes similar to ice cream. APPLE SLICES Slices of apple can be more appetizing for kids and are fun to eat. Add a side of peanut butter for dipping to make them even more appealing. FRUIT KABOBS Fun fruit kabobs are visually appealing and fun to eat. Create “caterpillars” out of grapes for a snack that is cute and healthy. Another way to make fruit appealing is to use cookie cutters to cut interesting shapes. ANTS ON A LOG This cute snack is great for an afternoon snack or a fun surprise in the lunchbox. Simply fill celery with peanut butter and top with raisins to make “ants on a log”. DINOSAUR BROCCOLI TREES To a kid, broccoli resembles a tree. Why not make it fun and bring the dinosaur toys to the table to “share the trees”. Add some fun dip like ranch, blue cheese, or cottage cheese to the side to make it more appealing. ZUCCHINI SPAGHETTI Kids love spaghetti. This healthier alternative is just as tasty as traditional spaghetti noodles. Sarah Lyons is a freelance writer and stay at home mom to six children, including 7-yearold triplets.
Book Club
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OR THE KID WHO WANTS TO KNOW IT ALL!
Cover topics from amazing rivers to bacteria to Cleopatra. These impressively detailed books will keep the kids engaged and entertained as well as expand their minds.
LISTIFIED Ever wondered which 10 dinosaurs were the largest, and what they weighed… in cats? Or how much of your DNA you share with other animals…and bananas? Enter the listiverse and get ready to see the world in a whole new way. Listified! takes the best and most amazing parts of the universe-erupting volcanoes, medieval machines, jumping spiders, exploding stars and everything in between and organizes them into quirky list form for curious kids and their friends and family to enjoy. Age: 8-12
BRITANNICA’S FIRST BIG BOOK OF WHY Britannica’s huge, authoritative, and lavishly illustrated question and answer book will satisfy even the most curious kids, with over 100 questions verified by Britannica experts. Spanning a range of topics including animals, the body, machines, space, and more, this book provides clear and accessible explanations and even explores some of the mysteries that experts are still trying to solve! Age: 4-8
EARTH IS BIG: A BOOK OF COMPARISONS Get to know our planet in a whole new way by comparing it to a huge variety of other incredible things—from tiny particles to giant star clusters. Did you know soap bubbles are some of the roundest objects in the universe? Or that we humans are totally outnumbered by chickens? Or that the driest desert on Earth isn’t scorching but freezing? Tour some of the most extreme places on the planet and beyond it, take a look at life forms from bacteria to elephants to redwood trees, and explore what makes our planet the perfect home for us. Age: 6-11
FACTOPIA! Hop from topic to topic in unexpected and delightful ways, and discover what connects a giraffe with the Eiffel tower, or a slice of pizza with Cleopatra. On your aweinspiring journey, you will find out extraordinary facts about space, bones, dinosaurs and more. Age: 8-12 Continued on page 16 >>> February 2022 | BostonParentsPaper.com
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<<< Continued from page 15
ALL NEW KIDS’ ENCYCLOPEDIA Telling the story of the world from the beginning of time to the present day, this book is a must-have addition to every family bookshelf and library collection! This beautifully illustrated, 424-page compendium of amazing facts you can trust provides hundreds of hours of fun learning for curious children and their families. Age: 8-12
AMAZING RIVERS Learn about incredible wildlife, from brown bears catching salmon that swim upstream to anacondas large enough to eat a pig. Explore astounding natural wonders, from a boiling river so hot you can cook an egg in it to a multicolored river that flows like a liquid rainbow. And discover awesome river traditions, from ritual baths to rubber duck racing to barefoot waterskiing! Age: 7-11
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Boston Parents Paper | February 2022
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How do You Teach Your Children to be More Mindful? By Carole Kramer Arsenault
W
e often hear the challenges in teaching mindfulness—how do you teach your children to be more mindful? One of the most popular questions we get asked is can mindfulness even be taught? The short answer, yes. There are many techniques parents and childcare providers can teach children how to
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Boston Parents Paper | February 2022
be more self-aware in the present moment. Mindfulness is a powerful tool that can have a positive impact on a child’s development, mental health and wellbeing. For example, children who are taught mindfulness at a young age are more likely to be confident, patient, stress resilient, and have healthy coping mechanisms.
Mindfulness starts at home— you must be present, calm, stress savvy to help raise a mindful and self-aware child, and be willing to practice along with them! Taking part in mindfulness activities with your child will help in your own practice, as well as further advance your family’s learnings. Here are five techniques that can help raise more mindful children:
Positive affirmation, physical affection, friendly talk and sympathetic body language help to develop your children into a more self-compassionate human being. Children’s Yoga Yoga is a great way for children to calm their bodies, transition between activities, or settle down before bed. Consider leveraging children’s books to help teach your children about yoga, mindfulness, and movement. Sleepy Little Yoga, by Rebecca Whitford and Goodnight Yoga, by Mariam Gates are great books to read together. You can also find great resources on YouTube such as the Cosmic Kids Yoga stories. Responsive, Loving Care Studies show that infants and toddlers exposed to lots of nurturing touch are more likely to develop into stress-resilient adults. Positive affirmation, physical affection, friendly talk and sympathetic body language help to develop your children into
a more self-compassionate human being. This allows children to view themselves from a place of self love and acceptance, rather than a place of judgement. All of these tactics teach children to cope with their negative emotions, as well as develop secure, healthy attachment relationships. Meditation Jar A meditation jar is a great way to relax a child’s mind from stress and/or anxiety-provoking thoughts, and creates an easy-to-understand way to teach children about meditation. The visualization of glitter in the jar and what it represents teaches children to be still in these moments of “chaos”. Visualization is great for kids. Even if they cannot articulate the concept in words, their brain absorbs this information and learns that eventually their mind and body will calm and settle as well. Ready Moody Cow Meditates, by Kerry MacLean is a great book to teach meditation as well. Breathing Practices Teaching breathing is a way to practice mindfulness in children and allows them to focus their attention solely on breathing. Over time this will help them learn how to concentrate on one thing at a time. Breathing techniques can help children redirect their focus away from an upsetting situation, such as a scraped knee or lost toy. Long deep breaths supply oxygen to the brain which signals your parasympathetic nervous system to relax and calm your body.
Yoga is a great way for children to calm their bodies, transition between activities, or settle down before bed.
Emotional Mindfulness with Children Emotional regulation is enhanced through mindfulness. Being mindful allows you to be present and therefore aware of your emotions so you are able to process your feelings. Self-regulation, or the ability to intentionally manage one’s emotional resources to accomplish goals, is crucial in everyday life. Parents and caregivers should always model sharing feelings, so children can feel comfortable talking about them as well. In addition, parents and nannies should model appropriate ways to handle their emotions with coping techniques that children can use and learn from. Children’s minds are like sponges, so it’s essential to model a behavior that promotes positive influences. Carole Kramer Arsenault is an RN, author of Newborn 101. As a parent educator and founder of a childcare staffing agency, Carole has more than a decade of experience working with thousands of families to help them source childcare and match them with top-notch providers that best fits their family’s needs. February 2022 | BostonParentsPaper.com
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ORGANIZING Kids’ School Papers and Art Projects If you have school-age children, you are most likely dealing with an ever-growing stack of school papers and artwork. Some of the papers may go straight to the recycle bin but what do you do with the important papers and special artwork you would like to keep? By Sarah Lyons
Start by Sorting
B
efore you can start organizing your child’s paperwork and art projects you need to decide what to discard and what to keep. “I keep things that reveal his personality,” says Kara Thomas, mom to a ten-year-old son. Set aside papers that show your child’s writing skills and artwork that you feel is unique to your child’s personality. Discard worksheets or daily papers.
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Boston Parents Paper | February 2022
Make another stack of papers that have information you need such as calendars, directories, or spelling lists. Try to sort items at least once a week so the paper stack does not get out of control. “Parents may want to feature their child’s artwork by hanging it in frames on the wall. This gives them the opportunity to enjoy it, then change the pictures over time.” says Stephanie Davis, a Certified Professional Organizer.
Start a Keepsake Box
A keepsake box is a space for you to save items that mean something to you or your child. Davis, suggests using a file box. “A keepsake box causes you to constantly purge and evaluate what you really want to keep,” says Davis. Some parents may have a file for each grade level but Stephanie suggests sorting items by type, such as artwork, invitations, pictures, projects, and adventures. This will give the file box a more defined purpose and is easier for the parent to maintain. “The keepsake boxes should be stored where they are easy to get to. If it is stored on a closet shelf, it is less likely to be used than if it is stored somewhere that is easily accessed.”
Create a Family Binder
As a mom of six, our family has our fair share of paperwork. Creating a family binder for important information has helped me stay organized. Each family member has a tab and their sports calendars, school directories, and medical information are stored there. When I need something in a hurry, I know right where to look. “I encourage families to go digital. They can use one family calendar app so everyone knows what is going on and important papers can be scanned and computerized as well.” says Davis. “I try to be flexible and figure out what works for each family.”
Go Digital
Some parents may find it easier to go digital when it comes to storing their child’s artwork and school papers. Joanna Cline, mother of three, says “I use the Artkive app to store my kids’ art. At the end of the year, I will make a photobook of their artwork.” Other apps that help save artwork are DearMuse or Keepy. Many of these apps have family sharing available. The main thing to remember is the items we want to keep will develop and change over time. As you add to your keepsake box, you may find that some items don’t seem as important a few years later and it is okay to discard them to make room for the things that you value now. Parents should never feel guilty about not keeping every single paper, painting, and essay. Realistically it’s only important to keep the items that mean the most. Sarah Lyons is a freelance writer and stay at home mom to six children, including 7-year-old triplets. She loves reading, cooking, and spending time outdoors. With six children in three schools, she is very familiar with the need to organize school papers and art projects.
February 2022 | BostonParentsPaper.com
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Visit our website at BostonParentsPaper.com to explore our comprehensive online resources for schools in the area. Discover private schools, enrichment programs, after-school programs and more!
DISCOVER A SCHOOL AS
UNIQUE
AS YOUR CHILD
the Wolf School
Private K-8 Special Education School | Financial Aid Available | thewolfschool.org Join us for our Virtual Winter Open House on February 10, 2022! February 2022 | BostonParentsPaper.com
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Boston Parents Paper | February 2022
HOW TO PICK THE BEST CAMP FOR YOUR CHILD.
I
N NEW ENGLAND WE’RE INCREDIBLY FORTUNATE BECAUSE WE HAVE AN ABUNDANCE of summer camps to choose from for our children. Whether you’re looking for a day or sleepaway camp, one that focuses on the performing arts, science, or whatever else your child is passionate about, it more than likely exists in our region. In fact, the only downside to having so many Continued on page 26 >>> February 2022 | BostonParentsPaper.com
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Which Type of Camp Would Best Suit the Needs and Interests of Your Child?
T
he opportunities that summer camp provides are endless: the ability to try new things, the chance to make new friends, and the prospect of gaining independence are just a few.
Consider the possibilities: DAY CAMPS typically serve children ages 3-15. Session lengths typically vary from one to eight weeks. Some camps offer up to ten weeks of programming. Before camp and after camp programs are offered for an additional fee at some day camps. OVERNIGHT (also referred to as Resident or Sleepaway) Camps usually serve children ages 6-18. Campers stay at camp for one to eight weeks, depending on the camp’s session length. GENERAL CAMPS offer a broad range of activities. Many provide campers with the opportunity to focus on one or a few areas while encouraging them to try a variety of others. It is sometimes possible to explore an activity or interest in depth within the context of the whole program. TRIP & TRAVEL CAMPS involve outdoor exploration through active sports like biking, hiking, climbing and canoeing. Campers spend most of their time traveling and preparing to travel. SPECIALTY CAMPS are based in day or resident settings. Popular options for specialization may include horseback riding, the arts, sports, computers, or travel. Programming revolves around intensive exposure to the specialty area. CAMPS FOR SPECIAL POPULATIONS serve specific clientele like children or adults with particular medical conditions, disabilities, or special needs. Some camps focus on campers who share very specific diagnoses, while others are geared to meet a broader array of needs at any one time. RELIGIOUSLY-AFFILIATED CAMPS offer religious education formally and informally. Review materials carefully for explanations of how religion influences a camp’s culture to find one with the balance that best matches your family’s own values and beliefs. FAMILY CAMP SESSIONS include family members of all ages from grandparents to infants. Accommodations vary, as do program options and session length. The focus is on being together as a family—to learn, to relax, and to enjoy new experiences and adventures.
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Boston Parents Paper | February 2022
options is that it can truly feel like an exhausting search to find exactly the right fit for your kids. We want them to be happy. We want them to feel comfortable. And, most of all, we want them to be safe. But how does a parent really know he or she is making the right choice? Read on to find a wide range of information that will answer your checklist of questions in terms of how to best decipher the information in all of those brochures and how to make the most of an informational visit. You’ll have better peace of mind and, chances are, your kids will have one incredible summer.
BE PREPARED Before you start scheduling camp interviews, research all of the options that appeal most to your family, then weigh the pros and cons of each (you can even grade them on a points system if you like). After you’ve compiled a list in order of interest, start eliminating some. You don’t want to drive yourself crazy going on interviews for camps that aren’t really all that appealing to you. It’s a waste of your time and theirs. Once you’ve ruled out camps that don’t meet your essential search criteria or expectations, begin exploring the details of each option you like. Sometimes the filtering process yields too many camps to interview personally; sometimes it doesn’t yield enough. Adjust key variables, such as location and session length, to narrow or expand the number of options on the results page. Use the results page to go directly to camp websites.
GET ORGANIZED Camp interviews may feel a bit tedious at times, especially depending on how many you plan on talking to, but they are so necessary in determining how your child might fit into the environment. Go into each interview armed with knowledge of your pros and cons so that you have your questions firmly planted in your mind. How does the camp convey who they really are and reflect the world they’ve created exclusively for a
child’s benefit? Camp seekers can learn so much from a close look at camp websites, brochures, photos, videos, FAQs, newsletters, social media and camper or parent testimonials. In fact, many camp websites are a gateway to most pieces of camp information on this list, from video content to downloadable brochures and forms, all reflecting the camp’s culture. Camps are much more than lists of activities they offer; they are vibrant educational communities – and no two are exactly alike. There is probably not just one perfect camp for your child. More than one camp may turn out to be a great fit, given your search criteria, so the interviewing stage will most likely factor into your final decision and help you to pinpoint the camp. So, how do you decide between two (or a few camps) with comparable activities, location, schedules, amenities and price? Enough research will provide answers to your questions without you having to utter a single word. Camps try to anticipate what families need to know and provide this information online. You’ll want to use interview time to ask questions that haven’t already been answered – questions that explore the fit for your child. Running low on time? Interviews with some camp head honchos may already be available online. You can also consult with friends who’ve previously met with the camp for information you never even realized you might want. Look for an interview with the example, you might see photos on the website or on Facebook showing the salad bar or a cabin group sitting around the table with food served family-style. This might spark a question about camp food and how your child’s dietary needs can be met. Or, combing through the part of a website developed exclusively for parents of overnight campers might enable you to understand the camp’s plan and suggestions for communicating with your camper. Perhaps reading the director’s blog from last summer or looking at newsletters might give you some insight into the camp’s philosophy and culture.
2022 Session Dates:
2020 Session Dates:
2 Week Sessions June28 26 – July July 9, 2022 June 11, 2020 July 12 10 – July – July July23, 25,2022 2020 July 26 24 –– August July August6,8,2022 2020 4 Week Sessions June 26 – July 23, 2022 July 10 – August 6, 2022 6 Week Sessions June 26 – August 6, 2022
BE YOUR CHILD’S BEST ADVOCATE You’re the expert on your child! What aspects of his personality might affect the camp fit? (Your child is shy and cautious in new situations, for instance. Or your child needs to have a certain amount of time to practice music, sports or academics.) Submitted by American Camp Association, New England. February 2022 | BostonParentsPaper.com
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What Do You Envision for Your Child’s Camp
Experience?
Selecting a camp for your child can be exciting. You know that camp is a wonderful way for your child to develop independence, new skills and new friends. But now you need to figure out which camp is the right choice. Consider these questions as you go through your search: 28
Boston Parents Paper | February 2022
What is driving your camp search? Fun and learning? New experiences and skills? A need for child care? Family tradition? Encouragement from friends?
What are your leading camp search criteria? Which ones are “nonnegotiable” and which are “preferences”?
Which of your family’s values should be reflected in the camp philosophy? How religious should it be? How competitive? How diverse? How much camper choice should be given?
What activities or programs interest you and your child? What
level of intensity are you looking for? Are you looking for opportunities for your child to try new activities, to play, to advance current skills, to practice, to compete or to specialize?
What kind of facilities will your camper consider? Discuss electricity, bathrooms and dining.
What session length, from eight weeks to a few days, is comfortable for you, for your child, and for your family’s summer schedule? The most common session lengths
are: full season (seven to eight weeks), half season (three to four), two weeks and one week.
What camp clientele do you want to consider? There are camps for boys only,
girls only, coed, brother/sister, religious groups, underserved populations and children with special needs.
How far are you willing to commute you child? Is there a good local source or is it worth driving to a destination camp?
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Summer Camp Listings Your Child’s Best summer ever starts here
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CARDIGAN
SUMMER SESSION
THE PERFECT BALANCE OF ACADEMIC ENRICHMENT AND SUMMERTIME FUN FOR GIRLS AND BOYS AGES 8-15!
CARDIGAN MOUNTAIN SCHOOL • CANAAN, NH • (603)523.3526 • WWW.CARDIGAN.ORG/SUMMER
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ACERA SUMMER STEAM CAMP (WINCHESTER)
BRANCHES AT MEADOWBROOK (WESTON)
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
Day Camp 781-647-0546 Age or Grade Range: Ages 4-15 With traditional camp programs, enrichment offerings, academic discovery classes, trips, and teen leadership options coming together under one umbrella, we are excited to introduce Branches at Meadowbrook: a collection of summer and year-round programs launching in 2022. Branches is intended to represent our summer programs as an extension of the The Meadowbrook School’s mission and values, the opportunity to reach higher, and the goal for children and young adults to “branch out” exploring new interests and ideas. http://www.branchesmeadowbrook.org/
BELMONT DAY SUMMER CAMP (BELMONT) Day Camp 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
Summer fun for campers 3 to 15 years old
• Traditional Day Camp • Leader in Training (LIT) • Counselor in Training (CIT)
www.dedhamcountryday.org/camp
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ies!
NOW ENROLLIN CAMPERSG !
ivit t c +A
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FIND YOUR ADVENTURE. FIND YOUR Y. YMCA OF GREATER BOSTON
ymcaboston.org/camps
A traditional, co-ed, Catholic-based, overnight camp on Lake Ossipee, NH, serving ages 6-16. CampMarist.org
2022 College for Kids & Teens Have a fun and productive summer at MCC
July 11 – August 18
Engaging and interactive summer programs include MCC’s summer programs help STEM children and youth ages 8 to 17: Arts Writing Explore careers Meet new friends Theater Boost self-confidence Learn new skills And More! Online registration begins February 11 For more information, visit www.middlesex.mass.edu/collegeforkids/ or contact collegeforkids @ middlesex.mass.edu.
Check out New Art Center’s Summer Art Camp!
10 weeks of art making for children grades 1-7 & teens grades 7-12 of all levels.
Don’t take our word for it.
SUMMER PROGRAMS
College for Kids_Teens 2022 3.132x3.094.indd 1
Our bui updated lding is w fresh ai ith indoor r exch and out ange door classro om spac es.
Read parent testimonials and learn more at newartcenter.org/summer-camp
Tuition assistance is available! We strongly believe art is for all. We offer need-based partial & full tuition assistance so students can attend our programs. Learn more at newartcenter.org/tuition-assistance. newartcenter.org | 617.964.3424 | info@newartcenter.org | 61 Washington Park | Newton, MA Instagram: @newartcenter Facebook: New Art Center Twitter: @newart1977
12/1/21 12:22
Math • Science • SAT Test Prep • English • Technology • Art
Baseball • Basketball • Field Hockey • Flag Football Lacrosse • Multi-Sports • Soccer 350 Prospect St. Belmont, MA 617-993-5215 www.belmonthill.org/summerprograms February 2022 | BostonParentsPaper.com
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CAMP BIRCH HILL (NEW DURHAM, NH) Overnight Camp 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 MARIST (EFFINGHAM, NH) Overnight Camp 603-539-4552 Age or Grade Range: Ages 6-16 Camp Marist is an international, co-ed Catholic overnight camp for
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campers ages 6-16 years old on Ossipee Lake in New Hampshire. From horseback riding to waterskiing, go-karts, sports, and drama…we offer everything a kid would want! https://www.campmarist.org/
CARDIGAN MOUNTAIN SUMMER SESSION (CANAAN, NH) Day and Overnight Camp 603-523-3526 Age or Grade Range: Ages 8-15 The perfect balance between academic enrichment and summertime fun for boys and girls ages 8-15! https://www.cardigan.org/summer
CHARLES RIVER SCHOOL (DOVER) Day Camp 508-785-8250 Age or Grade Range: Age: 5 - 15 CRS Summer provides fun and exciting programs for kids between the ages of 4 and 17 on our beautiful 16-acre campus. In addition to our renowned multi arts program, featuring dance, music, visual art, and theater, we have camp options in STEAM, innovation, nature,
entrepreneurship and more. Campers will also spend time in our outdoor Wetlands lab, on the fields playing sports and other games and in our swimming pool. We pride ourselves on creating a warm, inclusive, and supportive environment for all of our campers. http://www.charlesriverschool.org/
CHRISTIAN YOUTH CONFERENCE AT OCEAN PARK (OCEAN PARK, ME) Overnight Camp 781-245-9984 Age Range: Ages 14-18 For over 100 years, the Christian Youth Conference at Ocean Park (CYC) has provided a place where teens can begin or renew their walk with Christ. Catering exclusively to high school youths, CYC challenges kids to grow in their relationship to God within a safe, loving community. CYC helps kids build faith and discipleship. Students make lifelong friends and return summer after summer, often becoming part of the staff after graduation.. http://cycop.org
CREATIVE ARTS AT PARK AT THE PARK SCHOOL (BROOKLINE)
DEDHAM COUNTRY DAY CAMP (DEDHAM)
EDGE ON SCIENCE (NEWTON, BEVERLY)
Day Camp 781-942-9600 Age or Grade Range: Ages 7-15 Creative Arts at Park is a five-week program that provides young people with an opportunity to explore the full range of visual and performing arts and sports. For five exciting weeks, campers select their own schedules from over 130 classes in computer animation, visual art, dance, music, photography, theatre, video, writing, and sports. Under the guidance of professional artists, participants discover talents and develop skills that will provide them with life-long enjoyment. http://www.creativeartsatpark.org/
Day Camp 781-320-1832 Age or Grade Range: Ages 3-15 Dedham Country Day Camp has programs for children ages 3-15. We offer a Traditional Day Camp (rising 3-7th grade), Sports Camp (rising 2-7th grades), Leader in Training Program (rising 8th grade)and a Counselor in Training Program (rising 9-10th). http://www.dedhamcountryday.org/ camp
Day Camp (315) 773-5673 Grade Range: Rising 3rd to 12th grade Immerse your child in one or more week-long STEM experiences, exploring applied science and engineering. Individual and team projects make it hands-on. Choose from ten different topics and 43 sessions. Easy to find a week that works! https://www.edgeonscience.com/ summer-camps/
DEBATE CAMP (DANVERS, WEST ROXBURY) Day Camp 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
DERBY SUMMER PROGRAMS (HINGHAM) Day Camp 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. http://derbyacademy.org/summer
EF LANGUAGES ABROAD (INTERNATIONAL) Overnight Camp (617) 619-1949 Age or Grade Range: Ages 12-18 Accredited language programs. Take your first steps towards fluency with our specially designed courses, just for younger learners. You’ll advance your language skills thanks to our innovative teaching methods, which include interactive lessons and fun-filled activities
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and excursions. Flexible programs run from 2-10 weeks with start dates in June, July, and August. EF’s allinclusive package features flights, accommodations, excursions, meals, and a language certificate. Join a group or travel individually to meet your new friends at the EF campus of your choice. https://www.ef.edu/ils/
EMPOW STUDIOS (MULTIPLE LOCATIONS) Day Camp 617-395-7527 Age or Grade Range: Ages 7-15 Empow Studios offers weekly STEM Summer Camps for kids ages 7-15. Campers have fun learning coding, robotics, movie-making, Minecraft, Roblox, 3D printing, and more! Full-day and half-day camps available throughout Massachusetts and online. http://www.empow.me
Summer 2022 Programs
LEGO Robotics and Coding with Stop Motion Animation!
www.LetGoYourMind.com
EVERWOOD DAY CAMP (SHARON) Day Camp 781-694-5829 Age or Grade Range: Ages 4-15 Everwood provides an unparalleled summer camp experience in the great outdoors and are proven leaders in COVID-19 safety. We are committed to supporting the social and emotional health of our campers through real opportunities for connection. http://www.EverwoodDayCamp.com
FALMOUTH ACADEMY FA SUMMER (FALMOUTH) Day Camp 508-457-9696 Age or Grade Range: Ages 7-Adult Falmouth Academy sits on 34 acres abutting conservation land just minutes from the ocean and in the heart of the Upper Cape’s vibrant art and science community. Full-day and half-day programs for children and teens are offered. Activities include lacrosse, basketball, soccer, tennis, arts and crafts, computer programming, photography, animation, fort building, theater, robotics, cooking, nature and science exploration, and outdoor adventure. Specialty programs include outdoor survival skills, computer programming and robotics. http://www.falmouthacademy.org/Summer-programs
JOIN US FOR SUMMER CAMP Full Scale Productions & One Week Theatre Arts Camps Grades 2-8
Grades 2-12
Grades 8-12
Space Is Limited - Enroll Today!
781- 235-1550 www.wellesleytheatreproject.org
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FLEUR DE LIS CAMP (FITZWILLIAM, NH)
GROTONWOOD CAMP & CONFERENCE CENTER (GROTON)
Overnight Camp 603-585-7751 Age or Grade Range: Ages 8-17 For a best summer ever come to Fleur de Lis - a girl’s camp filled with great fun, great learning, and great adventures in beautiful southwestern NH. Girls come for the summer and leave with a new second home, forever friends, and life-long memories. https://www.fleurdeliscamp.org/
Day and Overnight Camp 978-448-5763 Age or Grade Range: Ages 5-18+ Grotonwood is a traditional co-ed Christian summer camp serving kids in age 5-17 through day camp and overnight camping experiences. This non-profit is situated in the heart of beautiful Groton Massachusetts amongst 247 acres of private woodlands. http://www.grotonwood.org
FUSION ACADEMY (BURLINGTON/ HOPKINTON CENTER FOR THE ARTS LEXINGTON, HINGHAM, NEWTON) (HOPKINTON) Day and Virtual Camp 781-512-0505 Age or Grade Range: Ages 12-18 A completely Customizable Summer Experience using our Unique 1:1 program. The summer focuses on Academic Engagement, Creative Enrichment and College Preparation. Enrolling students entering grades 5-12. In-person or Virtually. https://www.fusionacademy.com/ summer-programs/
Day Camp 508-435-9222 Age or Grade Range: Ages 4-17 Summer programs at the HCA are the perfect creative outlet for students who love the arts. Our artist-instructors make learning fun as they help students find their voice in a variety of different artistic mediums, from art to movie-making. http://www.hopartscenter.org/
ICODE OF WELLESLEY STEAM SUMMER PROGRAMS (WELLESLEY) Day and Virtual Camp Programs 781-291-3131 Age or Grade Range: Ages 6-18+ iCode of Wellesley is a premier STEAM afterschool and summer camp program that teaches life skills alongside a diverse set of technologies. Using these fun and engaging activities we help children build resilience, problem solving, and team work. https://icodeschool.com/ wellesley107/
LINX CAMPS (WELLESLEY) Day Camp 781-235-3210 Age or Grade Range: Ages 3-17 LINX Camps provides fun-filled, enriching and innovative summer programs that are rich with traditions and choices. Our expert staff recognizes each campers’ strengths to support the growth of our younger campers while building character in our older ones. http://www.linxcamps.com/
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NEOC - NEW ENGLAND OUTDOOR CAMP (FROM THE LINX COMPANIES) (WELLESLEY) Day Camp 781-235-8765 Age or Grade Range: Ages 3-15 New England Outdoor Camp — NEOC, for short, and pronounced ne-äk — is a new, premier, day camp created by the LINX Companies, the parent company of LINX Camps. Set in Nature. Rooted in Wonder. Bursting with Fun! https://www.campneoc.com
MIDDLESEX COMMUNITY COLLEGE (BEDFORD, LOWELL) Day Camp 800-818-3434 Age or Grade Range: Ages 8-17 MCC’s engaging camp program allows children and youth to have a productive and fun summer with unique opportunities to explore careers, learn new skills, meet new friends and boost self-confidence with half- and full-day options. https://www.middlesex.mass.edu/collegeforkids/ summer-locations
MONTSERRAT COLLEGE OF ART SUMMER YOUTH STEAM ACADEMY (NEWTON) Day Camp 978-921-4242 Age or Grade Range: Ages 8-15
Montserrat College of Art’s Youth S.T.E.A.M. Academy offers summer courses for youth ages 8-15 to experience hands-on learning in a safe, supervised environment led by professional faculty from educational institutions on the North Shore and beyond. https://www.montserrat.edu/youth
NEW ART CENTER SUMMER YOUTH ART PROGRAM (NEWTON) Day Camp 617-964-3424 Age or Grade Range: Grades 1-12 Students entering grades 1-12 can spend their school vacation immersed in the arts! New Art’s Summer Camp is designed for students to develop skills, creativity, and self expression at any ability level. Join us for several weeks this summer. https://newartcenter.org/summer-camp/
NIGHT EAGLE WILDERNESS ADVENTURES (WALLINGFORD, VT) Overnight Camp (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
PENGUIN CODING SUMMER PROGRAMS (NEWTON) Day and Virtual Summer Programs 781-277-2755 Age or Grade Range: Ages 6-14 Learn to code this summer! Join us in-person in Lexington & Newton or online as we explore the fun of coding and hands on science experiments. We are offering one week day camps from June 27th - Sept 2nd 2022 for children ages 6-14. For our in-person camp, we split the time 50-50 between screen time and non-screen time. Class sizes are small (around 4-6 kids per camp) and students explore coding, 3-D printing, robotics, and outdoor hands on science. Teachers are all fully vaccinated and classrooms are all well-ventilated. Limited spots available! https://penguincodingschool.com/summer
POWERS MUSIC SCHOOL (BELMONT)
EDGE SCIENCE on
™
• summer STEM programs •
Visit edgeonscience.com 38
Boston Parents Paper | February 2022
Call (315) 773-5673
Day Camp 617-484-4696 Age or Grade Range: Ages 5-11 (CIT 13-15) We believe the combination of high-quality music instruction your child will receive and the experience of presenting a fully-staged theatrical performance using those newly-gained musical skills makes the Pow-Wow program different from other summer programs that specialize in either solely music or theatre. Our trained music instructors teach students the basics of violin and piano, instruments that may be new to many participants and help them develop a love of
music. Arts and crafts time is often spent on creating sets or props, as well as other fun activities. Music, singing, acting, movement, and creativity are taught in small and large group settings. As the session winds down and the excitement builds, students use the skills they gained in music, art, singing, and movement in the final performance on Friday for friends and family - a unique presentation of instruments, story, and song adapted by the faculty specifically for Pow-Wow. http://www.powersmusic.org/pow-wow
TABOR SUMMER CAMP (MARION) Day Camp 508-291-8342 Age or Grade Range: Ages 6-17 Join us for an unforgettable summer by the sea full of friends, sports, adventures, and learning at the Tabor Summer Camp. We offer a variety of engaging activities and enrichment courses for young people ages 6-17 on our beautiful seaside campus. http://taborsummer.org/
UNITED NATIONS ASSOCIATION OF GREATER BOSTON SUMMER INSTITUTE IN GLOBAL LEADERSHIP (BOSTON) Day and Virtual Camp 617-482-4587 Age or Grade Range: Ages 11-18 Step into the role of a diplomat to address current global issues during the United Nations Association of Greater Boston’s Institute in Global Leadership Model UN programs! https://unagb.org/model-un/vacation-institutes/
JUNE 27 AUGUST 19 half & full days
6+
WALNUT HILL SCHOOL FOR THE ARTS SUMMER PROGRAMS (NATICK) Day nd Overnight Camp 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
FA SUMMER 2022 Falmouth Academy | falmouthacademy.org/summer 508-457-9696 | 7 Highfield Dr. Falmouth, MA 02540
WELLESLEY THEATRE PROJECT (WELLESLEY) Day Camp 781-235-1550 Age or Grade Range: Ages 5-18 Join WTP for some great camps this summer! WTP is offering Full Scale Production Camps and One Week Theatre Camps for five year olds through 12th Grade https://www.wellesleytheatreproject.org/
YMCA OF GREATER BOSTON (BOSTON, WALTHAM, WOBURN, READING, DEDHAM, NEEDHAM) Day and Overnight Camp 617-927-8060 Age or Grade Range: Ages 3-16 Y Day Camp keeps kids engaged, safe, healthy and learning. At the Y, we focus on your child as a whole, including top-notch sports and swimming instruction, exploration of the community, and developing life-long friendships. https://ymcaboston.org/active-programs/#Day%20Camp February 2022 | BostonParentsPaper.com
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GREAT SCHOOLS
GREAT WORK Start or advance your career at an approved special education school! Now hiring: ABA and behavior professionals Classroom assistants Residential program staff Teachers Licensed counselors OT, PT, SLP, BCBA Building support staff Find a school, find a job. Resources and information at maaps.org
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Boston Parents Paper | February 2022
SAT. JAN. 22 AT 1 & 5PM
SAT. FEB. 5 AT 2 & 6PM
GET YOUR TICKETS AT:
EMERSONCOLONIALTHEATRE.COM 888.616.0272
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