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Boston Parents Paper | March 2021
Volume 36 • Number 3
Contents
March 2021
14 Benefits of Special Needs Summer Camps
For kids with special needs, the host of benefits are amplified.
20 Overnight Camp
What causes campers to walk a little taller when they get home?
24 Summer
Camp Listings
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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. 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
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7 How to Foster Healthy Sibling Relationships
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• VOTE!!! 2021 Family Favorite Awards • Virtual Camp & Summer Expo Event • Evacuation Day
Working towards a common goal.
10 How to Prepare for Your Child’s IEP Meeting
A key component of your child’s special education plan.
the Emergency Room 10 16 Visiting It can be challenging for parents of a special needs child.
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18 Ten Reasons Your Teen Should Be a Camp Counselor
Camp is an ideal place to build accountability. March 2021 | BostonParentsPaper.com
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Our 2021 Family Favorite Awards ballot is here, and we need your input! Each year, we poll our readers for their top picks of places to shop, dine and play – everything from preschools and schools to kids’ classes, camps, museums and attractions. Head online to BostonParentsPaper.com to vote for your favorites today. We’ll publish the winners in our annual Best of the Best publication this summer. And you’ll be automatically entered to win a $100 Visa gift certificate.
2021 Northeast Camp Guide he 2021 digital edition T of Northeast Camp Guide features helpful
articles on picking the right camp, specialty programs, preparing for camp and more. Read it on BostonParentsPaper.com – just click on the Magazine tab then on the image of the Northeast Camp Guide.
Evacuation Day
O
bserved on March 17th annually in Suffolk County, Massachusetts and the public schools in Somerville, Massachusetts, Evacuation Day is a holiday which commemorates the evacuation of British forces from the city of Boston after the Siege of Boston. Some of the cities in Suffolk County include Boston, Chelsea, Winthrop, and Revere. Since Evacuation Day also falls on St. Patrick’s Day, many people combine the two holidays into one big holiday. However, there are some Boston residents, especially those who live in Suffolk County, who celebrate Evacuation Day as a holiday in its own right. These people may attend re-enactments of the Siege of Boston, visit historically significant sites in the area or participate in essay contests.
SUMMER IS ON FOR 2021!
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oston Parent has redesigned the Summer Camp Fair into a Camp Expo Flip Book complete with information and video for over 45 camp and summer programs. Information in the flip book is sorted to fit your needs. Register today to receive the next Camp Expo Flip Book on March 20.
https://bostonparentspaper.com/summer-camp-expo.html
IRISH SODA BREAD SCIENCE
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raditional Irish Soda Bread contains only four ingredients: flour, salt, buttermilk and soda. Soda is the key ingredient that led to the birth of this particular type of bread (hence the name) because until its introduction in the 1840’s, it was difficult to create a loaf bread that would “rise” with the wheat found in Ireland. Making soda bread is a great way to share the science of soda with your lads and lasses.
Don’t Forget to Spring Forward on March 14th! 4
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Applied Behavioral Applied Behavioral Learning Services Learning S
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Boston Parents Paper | March 2021
How to Foster Healthy Sibling Relationships
By Sarah Lyons
A
s a mom of six kids, I have witnessed my fair share of sibling disagreements. I have also had the pleasure of witnessing the heartmelting moments when siblings stick up for each other, cheer each other on, and generally love being together. While sibling fights are normal, and even healthy, as kids learn to work through disagreements in an appropriate way, most parents want to foster strong sibling relationships that will stand the test of time. Here are some tips to help your kids build healthy, lasting friendships with one another.
Encourage teamwork
Working towards a common goal can help people feel connected and build stronger relationships. This is why companies spend time doing team building exercises with their staff. The same is true in families. Give the kids a project, like cleaning the toy room or freshening up the landscaping in the yard and have them work on it as a team. You can even try making it a competition such as challenging the kids to clean a room faster than their parents. Playing board games or backyard sports with teams can also have the same team building effects.
PHOTO BY ANNIE SPRATT, UNSPL ASH
Have fun together
Spending time together as a family doing things that you enjoy is a simple way to build sibling bonds. Pick something that everyone can participate in such as a bike ride, a movie night, or a fun outing that builds memories and relationships. “My kids love having sleepovers in each other’s rooms each weekend.” says Stephanie Loux, mom of three. “It makes a mess and it’s not always convenient for us as parents, but we love and encourage their excitement for spending time together.”
Continued on pg. 8 >>>
March 2021 | BostonParentsPaper.com
7
<<<Continued from pg. 7
Our siblings are our first friends. They have a unique perspective and relationship to us because they have experienced nearly everything we have during childhood. through it as a family. When kids feel like their parents Settling disagreements in a healthy and respectful are comparing them, it can cause jealousy, competition, way is a tool that all of us need to learn to be successful. and resentment. Alternatively, when they feel like their A sibling is usually gifts are cultivated the first person in our and appreciated, they lives that we disagree feel loved, valued, and with on a regular basis. secure. It also helps This gives parents an kids to understand opportunity to teach that all of us are kids how to handle different and that is conflict. “We teach okay. them to tell each The other when they are importance hurting emotionally or physically.” says of family Abby Vanden Hull, Our siblings are our mom of four. “In the first friends. They have beginning that means a unique perspective helping them find the and relationship to words and talk to each us because they have other kindly. It also experienced nearly means stepping back everything we have and letting them sort during childhood. out their problems This often leads whenever possible.” to a relationship Teach your kids to that includes deep listen, take turns understanding speaking, use kind and support for words, refrain from challenges we may criticism or physical face in the future. This violence, and come to a concept is difficult compromise whenever to explain to small possible. These skills children, however the will serve them well in importance of family all areas of their lives. is something that can be shown through actions rather than Do not compare explained using words. As parents, it can Do you have a good be difficult not to relationship with your compare children. own siblings? Do you Each child has their support them in times own unique gifts to of need and enjoy foster and challenges spending time with to face as they them? Your kids will grow. Try to focus on notice. Over time, they will realize that there is nothing acknowledging and appreciating their gifts and like a sibling who is also a friend. r encouraging everyone in the family to do so. When they are struggling with behaviors that other kids may not Sarah Lyons and her husband, Justin, have been married for 14 years and have six children together. have found challenging, be patient and help them work
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Boston Parents Paper | March 2021
PHOTO BY ANNIE SPRATT, UNSPL ASH
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HOW TO PREPARE
FOR YOUR CHILD’S IEP MEETING
A
By Sarah Lyons
n individualized education plan (IEP) is a key component of your child’s special education plan. By law, schools are required to provide services to kids who qualify. An IEP meeting is where goals will be set and which services will be provided are decided on by both educators and the child’s guardians. This can be very intimidating for parents. With preparation and research prior to the meeting, parents will feel more informed and confident during the meeting. The time spent before will lead them to be better advocates for their child while developing a plan that will help the child have more success in school while keeping everyone happy. Below you will find 6 steps to help best prepare you for your child’s IEP meeting.
TALK TO THE TEACHER It is important to talk to your child’s teacher to determine how things are going at school. The teacher can help identify your child’s strengths and challenges and may suggest what services would be helpful to them. If possible, observe your child in the classroom to get a feel for how social interactions and classroom learning are going. Knowing this information, as well as their current math and reading levels, will help you assist in setting goals during the IEP meeting.
READ UP The school should send home a notice of meeting that states who will attend the IEP meeting, the reason for meeting, and, if applicable, goals set in the previous IEP meetings. Carefully read the information sent home so
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Boston Parents Paper | March 2021
With preparation and research prior to the meeting, parents will feel more informed and confident during the meeting. you understand what to expect. You may also consider studying special education laws that pertain to your child’s needs so you know what services you can legally ask for. There are many websites and books available to help parents prepare for IEP meetings as well. The more knowledge you have, the more confident and comfortable you will feel during the meeting.
SET GOALS Prior to the meeting, write down questions you would like to ask at the meeting. This is also a great time to consider what visions and goals you have for your child and make note of them. Bring your notes with you to the meeting so you can refer to them throughout the process. Having a list of questions and an idea of goals you would like to see your child reach will help you make sure that you cover everything you had hoped even if the emotions of the meeting make it more difficult to remember your questions and concerns. Don’t be afraid to ask for additional services for your child. The school may not provide everything you had in mind but it never hurts to ask.
GET ORGANIZED Collect any paperwork you need or would like to bring to the meeting and gather it in one place so it is neat and organized for the meeting. Bring your notes from your Continued on pg. 12 >>>
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<<< Continued from pg. 10
observation, your list of questions and goals you would like to set, and any medical paperwork that pertains to the IEP meeting. If you have had any private evaluations done, bring copies of those as well.
BRING AN ADVOCATE Because IEP meetings can be intimidating, it can be helpful to bring an advocate to the meeting with you. This could be a lawyer or, simply, a spouse or co-parent. Having a person there both for support and to be another advocate for your child can be a good boost of confidence for the parent to help ensure you meet the goals you would like for your child. Be sure to let your school know, in advance, who will be attending the meeting with you.
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You know your child best and are the best person to represent their needs, challenges, and successes. While it can be emotional and overwhelming to address issues your child is facing when it comes to learning, setting goals and ensuring the proper services are provided is the best thing you can do for your child’s success in school. Dress appropriately for the meeting, bring the documents and notes you prepared, and speak confidently and lovingly about your child. Your preparation and concerns will be apparent to everyone at the meeting and you will have the reassurance that you were prepared and did your best to help your child be successful in school. r Sarah Lyons and her husband, Justin, have been married for 14 years and have six children together.
Books to Help Prepare for Your Child’s IEP Meeting Here are a few books to help you understand and prepare for your child’s IEP meeting. The Art of Advocacy: A Parent’s Guide to a Collaborative IEP Process by Charmaine Thaner Better IEP Meetings Everyone Wins by Cynthia M. Herr and Barbara D. Bateman Wrightslaw: All About IEPs by Peter W. D. Wright and Pamela Darr Wright Wrightslaw: From Emotions to Advocacy: The Special Education Survival Guide by Peter W.D. Wright and Pamela Darr Wright Your Special Education Rights: What Your School District Isn’t Telling You by Jennifer Laviano and Julia Swanson
commlearn.com 12
Boston Parents Paper | March 2021
The IEP from A to Z: How to Create Meaningful and Measurable Goals and Objectives by Diane Twachtman-Cullen and Jennifer Twachtman-Bassett
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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 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
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Boston Parents Paper | March 2021
PHOTO BY ARTEM KNIAZ, UNSPLASH
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.
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-year-old Tiffany Wells found as a camper. During the school year, Tiffany, who has cerebral palsy and asthma, played on a soft ball 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 disability,” 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.”
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.
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.” r
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Visiting the Emergency Room
with Your Special Needs or Behaviorally Challenged Child
By Suzanne Niro, BSN, CPEN
V
isiting the ER with a sick child is stressful for any parent. It can be even more challenging for parents of a special needs child or one with behavioral issues. Many of these families have navigated through the ER multiple times for various reasons but each visit can be quite unique. These patients are often dealt with by staff unfamiliar with their extensive histories and complex medical and emotional needs. In addition, prolonged waiting times expose them to other sick children, which can be very problematic.
some med changes may not even be updated in the patient’s medical history. In addition, some meds may not be immediately available in hospitals, in which cases exceptions can be made and families may give meds from home. • Be sure to bring any personal items such as blankets for comfort, or security items such as teddy bears, etc. Although one may anticipate a quick visit, some may last hours, depending on wait time, even if admission is not needed. Having a security item can help the child feel more secure in a stressful situation. In addition, SOME TIPS FOR PARENTS BEFORE COMING TO THE ER many hospitals offer Child Life services. These clinicians • Check in with your child’s primary health care are highly trained individuals who specialize in helping provider before heading to hospital. Often an ER visit families cope with the visit. They can provide valuable is unavoidable and children with chronic conditions distraction during unpleasant procedures as well as subsequently require admission to the hospital at high explain to the child and family what to expect during rates (24% to 38% of the time). Consulting with their their stay and how the staff can best accommodate their primary care provider may save the child a trip to the unique needs. ER, depending on the severity of the complaint. The • If your child requires special formula or is on a primary caregiver may be able to arrange an outpatient special diet be sure and bring these with you. specialty visit or even see the child themselves to Although many hospitals can accommodate these needs determine if an ER visit is absolutely necessary. on inpatient units, they may not be readily available in • If an ER visit is unavoidable, make sure to bring the the Emergency room. child’s medications or, at minimum, an updated Given these challenges, improving the delivery of patient medication list including doses and times given. and family centered care in the ER requires collaboration A quick summary of the child’s complex history between the parents and health care clinicians. Being a is also valuable, including names and numbers of strong advocate for you child is essential for an ER visit. clinicians who are involved in the child’s care. Patients Clinicians are trained to “listen” to your valuable advice with complex medical needs are often on multiple and expertise regarding your child’s unique and individual medications, doses are frequently being changed and needs. r
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Boston Parents Paper | March 2021
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10 Reasons
By Janeen Lewis
Your Teen Should Be a Camp Counselor
D
id your teenager love summer camp as a child? Does he or she need a job but can’t work during the school year because of homework and activities? Maybe you’re ready for your teen to get employment experience but still have some carefree time outdoors away from electronics. Day or sleepaway camp is the perfect place for teens to transition to the world of the employed. The paycheck is nice, but being a camp counselor has other rewards, too.
Gift of 1 The Responsibility
As much a teens sometimes protest about it, learning responsibility is the gateway to more independence as they grow into adults. Camp is an ideal place to build accountability because teens are in charge of other kids or activities, but they are still being supervised. If they work at a sleepaway camp, they must keep their cabin quarters neat and guide younger children to do the same. If they work at a day camp, they must show up on time, care for children and lead activities. Working at camp is fun, but it also gives teens a glimpse into the adult world with the guidance they still need.
2
The Opportunity to Be a Role Model
Do you remember a teen you looked up to when you were a kid at summer camp? Maybe he or she helped you perfect your back stroke, taught you how to throw a curve ball or gave the perfect advice for dealing with disagreements between friends. Teens can connect to kids in ways that adults sometimes can’t, and when teens work at camp, they experience the fulfillment of helping younger kids meet their goals and develop new skills.
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Boston Parents Paper | March 2021
3
Refined Relationship Skills
time-management lessons will benefit them as they enter college and the work place.
From fun-centered sports competitions between rival teams to getting chores done for inspection, counselors and campers have to work together. Being able to do this teaches teens to hone their communication and interpersonal relationship skills. Some camps even offer staff communication trainings and morale building activities before camp starts to increase awareness and create discussion about how to get along with others.
5
4
If your teen works at a sleep away camp, he or she may get a taste of what college life is like. He or she will be responsible for meals, getting up on time or using a coin laundry. These are all valuable lessons that will prepare him or her for college. Also being away from home for an extended period of time for the first time can take some adjusting to and it can create some homesickness. Teen camp counselors have experienced these feelings and dealt with them before they go to college.
Improved Time Management Skills
Teen counselors have to be on time to meals, the morning meeting at the flag pole, and the activities they lead. They’re also responsible for gently prodding their campers to be punctual. If they are in charge of a lesson, craft or game, they must plan ahead and make sure they have all the supplies ready and set up on time. These
Time Away from Technology
Most day camps and sleep away camps either have a no device policy or have only short scheduled times with technology. Camp is the perfect place to do a “digital detox” and get back to nature, sports and face-to-face socialization.
for Be6 Preparation ing Away at College
7
A Chance to Share Talents and Skills
Is your teen an athlete? An artist? A nature enthusiast? Can he or she dance, write or program computers? Camp is an ideal place for teens to share strengths. I served as a camp counselor when I was in college, and it was the first time I realized I had a knack for teaching kids. It was the gateway to me becoming a teacher, even though I was a journalism student at the time. Camp introduces teens to opportunities that maybe they hadn’t considered. It builds confidence and opens doors to future careers.
on Summer 8 Saving Expenses
One of the advantages of working at an overnight camp is that in addition to a pay check, meals and lodging are usually provided by the camp. Staffers’ work and life all happen at the camp, so gas use is minimal. Teen counselors chaperone camp trips to amusement parks and museums which are usually covered by the camp. Granted, these covered expenses do require responsibility and work, and are not solely carefree outings, but they are positive perks for a summer job.
9
Resume Building
Working at camp is great experience to put on a resume when your teen is ready to enter the adult world of work. Camp experience is beneficial if your teen wants to teach or coach, but working at camp also builds communication, collaboration and problem-solving skills, all worthy resume additions that may catch a future employer’s interest.
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Our mission is to create an early childhood program that fulfills the cognitive, emotional, social and physical needs of what is known to be the most significant period of human development. Friends Childcare offers an exciting, creative curriculum, as well as fun and stimulating learning activities for all age groups. Tailor-made schedule 7AM-6PM, 5 days a week. Regular in-house enrichment programs such as nature exploration, music, gross motor program, and baby massage are included in the tuition.
• Infants
(Birth to 15 Months)
• Toddlers
(15 Months to 33 Months)
• Preschool/ Pre-Kindergarten (33 Months to 5 Years)
Brookline • 617-731-1008 • 617-739-0854
Call or email us to schedule a tour • friendschildcare.brookline@gmail.com www.friendschildcare.net
A New Appreciation for You
Being a teen counselor is indeed hard work. It involves stamina, patience and responsibility. Oh, and teen counselors must also teach, guide and care for children younger than themselves. It sounds a tiny bit like parenting, right? Teens who are camp counselors may begin to recognize how hard parenting is. With that recognition, they may have a new appreciation for all their parents do by the end of the summer. Being a camp counselor is a great start for teens who want to join the world of work. If your teen is interested in beginning the adventure that comes with being a camp counselor, you can find more information at the American Camp Association website at https://www.acacamps.org/staff-professionals/jobcenter. r Janeen Lewis is a freelance writer with a degree in journalism and elementary education from Eastern Kentucky University. She also served as a camp counselor when she was in college.
Little People’s Playhouse
Educating and caring for your child like their own!
15 mos. to 6 yrs. • Pre K • Kindergarten Before & After School Ages 6-12 • 7am - 6pm Part-time Preschool • 7am - 1pm ♦ Literacy based academic program focusing on the whole child ♦ Tutoring available ♦ Catered hot meals included
ONGOING ENROLLMENT
www.peopleplayhouse.net 32 South Fairview Street ♦ W. Roxbury/Roslindale Line ♦ 617-323-2566 4019 Washington Street ♦ Roslindale/Jamaica Plain ♦ 617-323-6144 March 2021 | BostonParentsPaper.com
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It is a universal thing, this overall boost in confidence and greater sense of self that children gain from being away from home. How does such individual growth happen in such a group-focused environment? And how does living, working and playing so closely with other campers in groups benefit children as individuals? The answer in short: Camps excel at providing optimal environments; everything about camp from the staff who are hired to teach children to the activities available to the physical environment sets the stage for children to grow and develop. SUMMER CAMP WORLDS ARE DEDICATED EXCLUSIVELY TO CHILD DEVELOPMENT. In fact, it’s so exciting and inspirational to help children learn in the unique setting of summer camp, many educators dedicate their careers to teaching there because of its experiential education focus and natural setting.
[
Still undecided on whether to send your child off to sleepaway camp? Take a look at the benefits of residential camps below:
]
Separation from their children changes the perspective of parents/guardians. Going off to an overnight camp is often the first long-term independent experience outside the family for a child, even if it’s for a short session of a week or two and the child is accompanied by a friend. It’s that separation that influences the child to grow up in several important ways and provides the family with the chance to notice and appreciate that growth. Children grow and change daily; when you don’t see them
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for multiple weeks, change is easier to see and appreciate. While they may look taller or larger, physically, most campers also look fitter from all the walking and exercise, not to mention the fresh air and sunshine. Physical growth is just one way that overnight camp can change a child. Social/ emotional growth happens, too, and it’s just as apparent. Camp staff and professionals expect children to strive and achieve when skill building. Campers rise to those expectations, generally speaking, and give their best. It’s the pervasive growth mind-set of the camp culture that creates an environment that is so conducive to learning. The power of strong role models. Watching the adults in the community as they constantly learn inspires campers to want to keep improving and learning, too. Learning happens everywhere at camp! And, there is no shortage of people to cheer your child on as they advance program skills and social/emotional competencies. Resolving a conflict and showing leadership on a project are celebrated as much as learning to water ski or swimming across the lake. Camp staff expect children to do as much as possible for themselves. Camp environments and programs are engineered for optimal child development through life-skill building. Systems and practices for living in the cabins, bunks, tents or other dwellings help children to be independent. The counseling staff backs them up, but this happens differently than at home. Whether it’s gathering the necessary equipment for an activity (swimsuit, beach towels and sunscreen) or keeping things organized in the cabin, counselors do less for children than parents tend to do. There are reminders and help when needed, but counselors don’t do for children what they can (and should) do for themselves. Continued on pg. 22 >>>
SUMMER PROGRAMS
Join us for an unforgettable summer by the sea full of friends, sports, adventures, and learning
TABOR SUMMER CAMP
2021 Session Dates:
Day, Residential, LIT ~ Coed ~ Ages 6-17 ~ Marion, MA taborsummer.org
REGISTER EARLY
2020 Session Dates: 2 Week Session June28 27–– July July 10, June 11,2021 2020 4 Week Session July 12 – July 25, 2020 July 11 – August 7, 2021 July 266 Week – August 8, 2020 Session June 27 – August 7, 2021
March 2021 | BostonParentsPaper.com
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<<< Continued from pg. 20
Other campers can be a big inspiration and influence. Living so closely with other children has some great advantages. Your child might see a cabin mate who is doing independently what you’ve been doing for him/her or nagging your child to do – like hanging up a wet towel on the clothesline or folding sweatshirts on a shelf. At camp, people of all ages can be leaders, children included. Role-modeling is a powerful way of leading and other campers will inspire yours. There is a context for doing chores and taking care of tasks that children often rely on adults to do at home. For instance, if a group is planning to go on an overnight camping trip, there’s a lot of work to do. Even though the project is childsized, adults are supervising and supporting it. Once children understand what tasks are individual (like packing their own gear) and which are group tasks (like planning, shopping for and packing meals and equipment), they can understand how both individual and group tasks fit together. While on the trip, campers discover how they can contribute to the group. Maybe they’re cooking or cleaning up. Perhaps they are tasked with running the talent show or the story slam during the night’s campfire. Parents can be shocked to learn the complexity of tasks and challenges children are encouraged to undertake at camp. Campers are willing to work hard for group and individual goals that they buy into. The chores and jobs they are asked to do at camp are not random. Rather, they are connected to the activity, adventure or experience and campers can see why they must be done. Time, space and safety to try out new skills and behaviors. The stakes can be high at home and time can be limited for trying new things. Camps specialize in providing appropriate challenges for campers and a safe culture where campers take risks. With the backup of the staff and the support of other campers, it’s amazing how campers will push themselves out of their comfort zone to take a risk – physical or emotional. Not only can they go down the zip line or challenge themselves physically with the support of their camp “family,” a camper can also try other new things, from public speaking to speaking up for themselves during a conflict or disagreement with a peer. Children make more choices and decisions at camp than they are used to making at home. Campers have the chance to make small and large decisions as appropriate. Some of these decisions are individual while
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Boston Parents Paper | March 2021
others are group decisions, like what dinner to cook over the fire on that campout, what to wear, whether to try out for the play, reach out to a new friend or go to an activity with a friend or independently. Deciding alone, with others and with adult guidance helps build solid decisionmaking skills that come in handy at school and college, around the neighborhood and in the future. Success! Pure and simple, succeeding at challenging tasks, multi-step processes and group challenges is thrilling. Camp invites children to approach challenges with grit and it rewards them mightily when they master something. Imagine hundreds of people clapping and whistling for the canoers who have just returned from white water rafting on the Allagash River or at the end of a carefully rehearsed play or musical! In both tiny and enormous ways, camps provide the experiences that boost children’s competence. “I did it!” moments abound here. Skill mastery and competence builds confidence. Campers benefit from coaching, receiving authentic, honest feedback and from the power of the debrief (processing and evaluating how the group has performed). Camps excel at getting groups to work together. It requires trained facilitators who can help discover, process, discuss and understand why a group succeeded at an initiative or task and/or why they may have failed. Debriefs happen formally on ropes courses, but they happen informally through the course of the camp day in many areas of programming and cabin living. Debriefing delivers the chance to ponder unique ways that campers fit and contribute to the group and their success. It highlights campers’ unique attributes. Because of debriefing, campers often leave with specific knowledge of what they bring/offer to a group and they can use this knowledge with family or school groups. Group experiences at camp give children key information about themselves within the context of a group. Immersion in the unique group experience of camp builds selfesteem, enhances self-discipline, increases self-advocacy skills and helps children work toward self-efficacy, which is critically important to a successful adulthood. Consider sending your child to overnight camp for a life-changing group experience that will contribute mightily to an emerging sense of self. r Article provided by the American Camp Association, New England, a 501(c)3 organization that accredits summer camps and serves as the region’s resource for families and camps; acaneweng.org.
ADVANCE IN MATH
this Summer
WITH COURSES ONLINE OR IN-PERSON
Academics & Adventure! Rising grades 6-12 July 24 - August 21
www.RussianSchool.com 855.MATH.855
ThorntonAcademy.org/Summer
SUMMER ART PROGRAM
GRADES 1-12 // IN-PERSON // NEWTON, MA Spend your Summer Vacation immersed in painting, drawing, ceramics & more! Learn more & register at newartcenter.org
NEWARTCENTER.ORG INFO@NEWARTCENTER.ORG // 617.964.3424
Summer Programs for equestrians,
performing artists, debaters & public speakers sbschool.org/summer
March 2021 | BostonParentsPaper.com
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Summer Camp Listings Your Child’s Best summer ever starts here
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Boston Parents Paper | March 2021
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/summercamp
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/
BC HIGH SUMMER PROGRAMS (BOSTON) 617-474-5181 Age or Grade Range: Ages 10-17 All camps and courses happen on the beautiful BC High campus and is open to girls and boys grades 5th12th grade. http://www.bchigh.edu/summer
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
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/
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 BELMONT DAY SUMMER CAMP wildlife sanctuary - learning about (BELMONT) the world around them through 617-484-3078 hands-on exploration! Age or Grade Range: Ages 3-15 http://www.massaudubon.org/ Experienced and creative counselors broadmeadow establish a supportive environment CAMP AKEELA (THETFORD for exciting summer adventures CENTER, VT) with many opportunities for exploration and play. Daily swim 866-680-4744 lessons. Specialty and sports camps Age or Grade Range: Ages 9-17 available. Co-ed, overnight camp in Vermont https://www.belmontday.org/ where “quirky” kids thrive! We focus summer-discoveries on the social growth of campers. http://www.campakeela.com 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
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 Age or Grade Range: Ages 6-18 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
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CAMP HALE/CLUB 48 (SANDWICH, NH) 617-375-8110 Age or Grade Range: Ages 6-15 Located on Squam Lake in Sandwich, NH, Camp Hale offers youth the opportunity to experience sleepaway camp in the natural beauty of the White Mountains. By taking youth out of their comfort zone and exposing them to new possibilities. https://www.uses.org/programs/ camphale/about/
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 MARIST (EFFINGHAM, NH) 603-539-4552 Age or Grade Range: Ages 6-16 Camp Marist is an international, co-ed Catholic overnight camp for 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/
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
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Pinehurst is a traditional summer camp for boys and girls that emphasizes skill development, outdoor adventure and teamwork. http://www.camppinehurst.com
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 CHRISTINA - 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 WAZIYATAH (WATERFORD, ME) 207-583-2267 Age or Grade Range: Ages 6-16 Camp Waziyatah is a coed overnight camp in Maine’s beautiful lakes region. With 130 acres on a 3.5 mile private lake, Wazi has a unique kid’s choice program where campers always get the activities they choose and are encouraged to try new things. http://wazi.com/
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
CARDIGAN MOUNTAIN SUMMER SESSION (CANAAN, NH) 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 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
Get Back Onstage This Summer!
FUN FRIENDSHIP SWIMMING ADVENTURES PLAY SURPRISES TRAIL BLAZING SUNSHINE ROLE MODELS FUN FRIENDSHIP SWIMMING ADVENTURES PLAY SURPRISES TRAIL BLAZING SUNSHINE ROLE MODELS FUN ROLE MODELS FUN SWIMMING ADVENTURES FRIENDSHIP
Y CAMP AWAITS ymcaboston.org
YMCA OF GREATER BOSTON
FOR GIRLS & BOYS GRADES 5-12
✺ ✺ ✺
Specialty Programs GRADES 5–8
Sports Clinics GRADES 6–12
Academic Courses GRADES 6–12
SUMMER PROGRAMS
www.campghostlight.com info@campghostlight.com
FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO REGISTER:
bchigh.edu/summer
REGISTRATION BEGINS FEBRUARY REGISTRATION BEGINS FEBRUARY 11, 2020!8, 2021
s-
40+
ie ivit act
s age
6!
6-1
An overnight, co-ed, catholic summer camp on Ossipee Lake, NH!
CampMarist.org March 2021 | BostonParentsPaper.com
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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
CHRISTIAN YOUTH CONFERENCE AT OCEAN PARK (OCEAN PARK, ME) 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: 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)
HOPKINTON CENTER FOR THE ARTS
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)
Theater I Dance I Visual Arts I Film I Ceramics I Music
June 28–August 27 | Ages 4 to 17
www.HopArtsCenter.org 98 Hayden Rowe Street | Hopkinton, MA | 508.435.9222 28
Boston Parents Paper | March 2021
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/
CARDIGAN SUMMER SESSION
The perfect balance between academic enrichment and summertime fun for girls and boys ages 8-15!
EXPLORING NEW WORLDS Come & Explore with us this summer
maplewoodyearround.com 508-238-2387 or 508-238-6758
Cardigan Mountain School Canaan, NH • (603)523-3526 • www.cardigan.org/summer
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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. http://derbyacademy.org/summer
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/
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Boston Parents Paper | March 2021
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 (NEWTON, BEVERLY) (315) 773-5673 Grade Range: Rising 3rd to 12th grade At Edge on Science your child has the freedom to explore applied science and engineering. Individual and team projects make it a handson experience. Join us this summer for one or more, of ten different, week-long day programs! https://www.edgeonscience.com/ summer-camps/
EMPOW STUDIOS (MULTIPLE LOCATIONS) 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! Fullday and half-day camps available throughout Massachusetts and online. http://www.empow.me
EVERWOOD DAY CAMP (SHARON) 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
EXXCEL GYMNASTICS & CLIMBING (NEWTON) 617-244-3300 Age or Grade Range: Ages 5+ 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/
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 self-confidence, and learn core life skills such as collaboration and creativity. http://www. fessendensummercamps.org
FLEUR DE LIS CAMP (FITZWILLIAM, NH) 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/
FUSION ACADEMY (BURLINGTON/ LEXINGTON, HINGHAM, NEWTON) 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/
bilingual environment. For students ages 4 - 12. German is not required. https://www.gisbos.org/
Camp at beautiful Hunters Haven Farm in Groveland MA. http://www.huntershavenfarm.com
GHOSTLIGHT THEATER CAMP (OAKLAND, ME)
ICODE OF WELLESLEY STEAM SUMMER PROGRAMS (WELLESLEY)
207-358-0641 Age or Grade Range: Ages 9-17 Ghostlight Theater Camp offers campers the opportunity to create incredible theater, studying with Broadway-caliber artists, while experiencing the best traditional summer camp experience Maine has to offer. http://www.ghostlighttheatercamp. com/
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 pre-Kindergarten programs, to our 12th graders becoming CIT’s, and every girl in between. http://www.hercamp.org
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
HOPKINTON CENTER FOR THE ARTS (HOPKINTON)
ID TECH CAMPS (MULTIPLE LOCATIONS) 888-709-8324 Age or Grade Range: Ages 7-18 Summer 2021 programs are in the works! Check back in February for updates.In the meantime, we invite you to join us for 1-on-1 or smallgroup online learning. http://www.idtech.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
LINX CAMPS (WELLESLEY)
781-235-3210 Age or Grade Range: Ages 3-17 508-435-9222 LINX Camps provides fun-filled, enriching and innovative summer Age or Grade Range: Ages 4-17 programs that are rich with Summer programs at the HCA traditions and choices. Our expert are the perfect creative outlet for staff recognizes each campers’ students who love the arts. Our strengths to support the growth of artist-instructors make learning our younger campers while building fun as they help students find their voice in a variety of different artistic character in our older ones. mediums, from art to movie-making. http://www.linxcamps.com/ http://www.hopartscenter.org/ MAPLEWOOD COUNTRY DAY
GERMAN INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL BOSTON SUMMER CAMP (BOSTON, MA) HUNTERS HAVEN FARM 617-783-2600 HORSEBACK RIDING CAMP Age or Grade Range: Ages 4-12 (GROVELAND) German International School Boston Summer Camp offers four weeks of summer camp adventures in a
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. http://www.icodeschool.com/icodewellesley/
978-373-1300 Age or Grade Range: Ages 6-18+ Full Day Weekly Horseback Riding
CAMP (SOUTH EASTON)
508-238-2387 Age or Grade Range: Ages 3-14 Maplewood is family owned and operated. We serve children ages 3 to 14. We are accredited March 2021 | BostonParentsPaper.com
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by the American Camping Association. Children are taught the fundamental concepts of discovery, community, teamwork and fitness in a secure, fun environment. http://www.maplewoodyearround. com/
are grouped by grade with a high teacher-to-student ratio. Register for one or more weeks with new activities and a variety of mediums each day. All experience levels, with materials provided. https://newartcenter.org/
offer children real adventure in a safe, outdoor environment. http://www.northcountrycamps. com/
MASS AUDUBON SUMMER CAMPS (MULTIPLE CITIES)
NIGHT EAGLE WILDERNESS ADVENTURES (WALLINGFORD, VT)
518-963-7656 Age or Grade Range: Ages 6-16 POK-O-MacCREADY combines traditional camp with a modern child-centered approach that cultivates independence, lifelong friendships, growth through challenge, and appreciation for the natural world. http://www.pokomac.com/
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, handson 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/
MAZEMAKERS (WESTON) 781-314-9230 Age or Grade Range: Grades 2-8 Mazemakers is not your typical summer camp! Mazemakers is a dynamic learning community for campers grades 2-8. With an experienced and enthusiastic staff, we create a flourishing atmosphere of respect, intellectual vitality, and imagination. http://www.mazemakers.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/
NEW ART CENTER SUMMER YOUTH ART PROGRAM (NEWTON) 617-964-3424 Age or Grade Range: Grades 1-12 Spend your summer vacation immersed in the arts! Students
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(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
NORTH COUNTRY CAMPSLINCOLN AND WHIPPOORWILL (KEESVILLE, NY) 518-796-5874 Age or Grade Range: Ages 7-15 The North Country camps - Lincoln for boys, Whippoorwill for girls,
POK-O-MACCREADY CAMPS (WILLSBORO, NY)
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
RUSSIAN SCHOOL OF MATHEMATICS (MULTIPLE LOCATIONS) 774-312-3806 Age or Grade Range: Grades K-12 The Russian School of Mathematics is now enrolling students for the spring and summer semesters! https://www.russianschool.com/ spring-enrollment-ma
SPRING & SUMMER INSTITUTE IN GLOBAL LEADERSHIP (VIRTUAL WITH POSSIBLE IN PERSON IN THE GREATER BOSTON AREA) 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/
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 STONELEIGHBURNHAM SCHOOL (GREENFIELD) 413-695-6619 Age or Grade Range: Ages 8-18 Speak up I & II: debate and public speaking for novice and experienced speakers. Girls ages 10-18.
Performing Arts: dance, voice, & theater ages 10-16. Bonnie Castle Equestrian Camp: Premiere riding camp for riders from novice to experienced ages 8-18 https://sbschool.org/summer/
SUMMER IN FRENCH FOR KIDS & TEENS (ONLINE, BASED IN BOSTON, MA) 617-912-0400 Age or Grade Range: Ages 5-17 Our virtual summer program is the perfect way to improve your child’s skills and confidence in the French language. We have fun and creative French immersion classes for children ages 5-17. https://frenchculturalcenter.org/ summer-in-french/
SUMMER SAGE (FOXBORO) 508-543-9619 Age or Grade Range: Age: 4-13 Summer Sage delves into exciting club topics that will spark your child’s curiosity and encourage a love of learning. Participants work with same-aged peers and are immersed in experiential learning that enhances the weekly theme. https://sageschool.org/summersage/
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TABOR SUMMER CAMP (MARION) THE ULTIMATE DAY CAMP AT DEDHAM HEALTH & ATHLETIC 508-291-8342 Age or Grade Range: Ages 6-17 (DEDHAM) 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/
THE BARTON CENTER FOR DIABETES EDUCATION, INC. (MULTIPLE CITIES)
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. https://summer.dedhamhealth.com/ the-ultimate-day-camp/
THORNTON ACADEMY (SACO, ME)
207-602-4448 Age or Grade Range: Ages 12-17 Join us at Thornton Academy’s 508-987-2056 summer programs for adventure Age or Grade Range: Ages 6-18 & academics. Day and boarding programs for students entering The Barton Center is dedicated grades 6-11. Located in Saco, Maine, to children who live with type 1 only 90 minutes from Boston. Be diabetes and the people who care for them. Barton programs offer fun, Who You Are this summer at Maine’s Best Private School! recreation, diabetes education, and http://.www.thorntonacademy.org/ support. Please visit our website summer for a complete list of programs. http://www.bartoncenter.org
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YMCA OF GREATER BOSTON (BOSTON, WALTHAM, WOBURN, READING, DEDHAM, NEEDHAM) 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/activeprograms/#Day%20Camp
Enjoy the best christian camping experience Sometimes it feels like being Christian is driving down a one way street in the wrong direction during rush hour traffic. And when I’m here I don’t feel that way. I feel like I’m with people who understand me and I can talk to and it’s like having a second family.
Mia Maxwell
Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.
3rd Year Camper
C o lo s s i a n s 3 : 2
August 8–21, 2021 Oceanwood, Ocean Park, ME Ages 14–18
Off-Campus Day Trips
Faith Building
Inspiring Worship
Sense of Family
Scan here to watch a video of what CYC is all about!
March 2021 | BostonParentsPaper.com 35 For more information, visit us at www.cycop.org
TM
2019 TOP 5
TM
2020 TOP 5
“We LOVE Tender Loving Care. The teachers are like family. They care for each child like their own family. They are knowledgeable in early childhood education as well as the gentle care for infants, toddlers and preschoolers!!” Woburn - 781-281-2983 | Weston - 781-703-5088 www.tenderlovingcarechildcarecenters.com 36
Boston Parents Paper | March 2021
