Boston Parent March 2023

CAMPS

& SUMMER PROGRAMS CAMPS & SUMMER PROGRAMS

Listings start on page 23

Talking to Kids About Disabilities

Talking to Kids About Disabilities

10

10

What Kind of Assessment is Right for Your Child?

What Kind of Assessment is Right for Your Child?

Easy Steps to Raising World Citizens

Easy Steps to Raising World Citizens

March, April, May & June

Receive camp information and learn about more than 75 day and overnight camps as well as summer programs for all ages and interests. and receive access to regularly updated online camp expo materials

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Send letters to the editor or article submissions to editor@ bostonparent.com. Submit events to our Family Friendly Calendar at bostonparentspaper.com/event

Family F.Y.I.

VOTE for your Favs!

Our 2023

Family Favorite Awards ballot is here,

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, docs and dentists, camps, museums and attractions and so much more. Head online to www.BostonParentsPaper.com to vote for your favorites today. We’ll publish the winners in our annual Family Favorites publication this summer.

2023 Northeast Camp & Summer Program Guide

The 2023 digital edition of Northeast Camp & Summer Program Guide features helpful articles on picking the right camp for your child, 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.

I Love a Parade

Break out your lucky green shirt and head to one of these St. Patrick’s parades throughout the region.

MARCH 11 • 11AM

Cape Cod, Shamrocks & Shenanigans

Starts at the corner of Long Pond Drive and Route 28 in South Yarmouth. info@capecodstpatricksparade.org, www.capecodstpatricksparade.com

MARCH 12 • NOON

Worcester County St. Patrick’s Parade

Runs down Park Ave. from Mill St. to Highland St. info@stpatsparade.com, www.stpatsparade.com

MARCH 19 • 1PM

South Boston St. Patrick’s Day Parade

Starts at the Broadway T station, runs through South Boston and ends at Andrew Square. 844-478-7287; staff@southbostonparade.org, www.southbostonparade.org

MARCH 19 • 1PM

Scituate St. Patrick’s Day Parade

Starts at Gates Middle School on First Parish Road. 781-545-6671; www.weloveaparade.com

MARCH 19 • 1PM

Abington St. Patrick’s Day Parade

Starts at the corner of Orange St. and Washington St.; www.abingtonstpatricksdayparade.org

E-SCOOTERS & E-BIKES SAFETY

By Emma Knight Injury Prevention Intern, Boston Children’s Hospital

As e-scooters and e-bikes become more popular, both riders and pedestrians need to keep safe. These devices are efficient ways to navigate busy cities and towns but if not done safely, can lead to serious injuries or death. Injuries related to these devices have increased at a worrisome pace, especially in 10–14-year-olds who make up the largest group of those injured from e-scooters. It is recommended riders wear protective gear including helmets, knee pads, and elbow pads to help prevent injury from falls and collisions. Check for damage on your scooter before riding, and ensure you know how to use the brakes. This ensures you can operate your device safely and that you will not lose control of it. Be sure to alert others and ensure they see you as these devices can be silent, small, and quick. Due to the speed that e-bikes can run at injuries to pedestrians can be more severe. You should not ride alone, avoid distractions, and drive sober. Riders should remember to always follow manufacturer’s instructions such as age and weight limits as these can both impact the safety of the rider. Repeated bumps from tricks and stunts can cause damage to the device, causing fires while in operation leading to leg burns or make the device unstable, posing a risk for the rider as well as the pedestrians around them. Following these safety tips can help keep both riders and pedestrians safe.

2022 Most Popular Dog Names in Boston

The City of Boston Animal Care and Control Division released it’s top dog names and top dog breeds registered from 2022 and reminds residents that all pets need to be licensed by the March 31 deadline. The City of Boston will also host a series of dog licensing and pet vaccine clinics from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturdays from March 4 to June 3 at seven BCYF community centers. For details, fees, and locations please visit boston.gov/animals or call (617) 635-1800.

1. CHARLIE

2. COOPER

3. TEDDY

4. MAX

5. FINN

6. OLIVER

7. MILO

8. WINSTON

Top 10 Dog Breeds in Boston in 2022

10 Easy Steps to Raising World Citizens

When you send your kids off to school, you hope they learn the skills needed to succeed in an increasingly interconnected world. While you want teachers to prepare children who can compete in the global economy, you also recognize that a global education must begin at home – and the earlier the better.

Like most parents, you are very busy. You don’t have time to learn another language or become an international studies scholar. But don’t despair. Here are 10 easy steps that can help you inspire future citizens of the world – and perhaps a future world leader.

1. Map it out.

Make sure you have a world map and display it in an area where the family usually gathers. Knowing where you live on a map brings a perspective that the world is a big place and that growing up, we only see a small part of it. When you see something on television about another place, point it out on the map. Becoming familiar with where other places are is an essential first step to understanding different views. It’s also fun.

2. Climb the family tree.

Most of us have backgrounds that transcend borders. Talk with children about their ancestors. In most cases, you won’t have to go back very far to identify a relative from a different country with different customs. You’ll not only provide a great learning experience; you’ll also strengthen family ties.

3. Discuss the dinner menu.

The foods we enjoy and the menus at our favorite restaurants represent a true global melting pot. Talk about where foods came from. Did you know that ketchup comes from China, the potato originated in the Andes (near what is now Peru) or that coffee hails from Ethiopia? Children will enjoy learning about their favorite foods’ paths to their plates. The Food Museum Online is just one source with fascinating histories of many different foods.

4. Watch your words.

How we view our world often depends upon how we describe our world. So help your children expand their verbal horizons. If you speak another language,

unlike any other in healthcare. They must possess high levels of aptitude and autonomy to operate independently while caring for patients with a wide range of needs. Our nurses must possess the ability to independently communicate assessment findings and care needs of the patient. This requires keen assessment skills, critical thinking, creative problem-solving, and selfmotivation to empower patients to meet their health care goals.

Teamwork: Although home health and hospice nursing require autonomy there is a community of support at VNA Care. Nurses draw on the expertise of, and learn new skills from, VNA Care’s nurse specialists. They have support from clinical services managers and participate in interdisciplinary collaboration with other team members to provide the best possible patient care.

of support. An empathic and compassionate approach to care makes all the difference in creating that source of support.

Passion for the work we do: VNA Care nurses enjoy working face-to-face with patients and being an integral part of our communities. They build meaningful relationships with patients and families, becoming trusted partners to help live their best lives at home.

Five Qualities We Look for in a Home Health or Hospice Nurse Applicant

WE’RE

HIRING OPEN ROLES:

RN and LPN

PT and PTA

SLP Per Visit

Hospice HHA or CNA

Hospice RN

APPLY TODAY: vnacare.org/careers

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Home health and hospice care is uniquely rigorous and exceptionally rewarding. Although it requires a specific set of skills and characteristics, our nurses ease into their new roles while working with a preceptor and educator through our strong orientation program. If you see these qualities in yourself and are interested in joining our team, please check out our careers page. We would love to meet you and welcome you to our team!

We refer to our clinicians as “healthcare heroes” because the work they do truly is life-changing and enables patients to stay in their homes. Working directly with patients as a home health or hospice nurse requires a distinct set of qualities as they deliver care in our communities. To succeed in these roles, VNA Care looks for these characteristics in candidates for our home health and hospice nursing positions.

Independence and Critical Thinking: Home health and hospice nurses work at the top ·of their licensure in an environment unlike any other in healthcare. They must possess high levels of aptitude and autonomy to operate independently while caring for patients with a wide range of needs. Our nurses must possess the ability to independently communicate assessment findings and care needs of the patient. This requires keen assessment skills, critical thinking, creative problemsolving, and self- motivation to empower patients to meet their health care goals.

Teamwork: Although home health and hospice nursing require autonomy there is a community of support at VNA Care. Nurses draw on the expertise of, and learn new skills from, VNA Care’s nurse specialists. They have support from clinical services managers and participate in interdisciplinary collaboration with other team members

to provide the best possible patient care.

Organization: Organizational skills are critical in this role, particularly when working independently in the field. Our nurses visit with multiple patients per day with complex and unique needs. Organization helps them handle multiple priorities and adapt quickly to unforeseen changes if necessary.

Empathy and compassion: The people we serve may be recovering from surgery, managing an illness or other health conditions or they may be on their end-of-life journey. Empathy and compassion are important parts of support. An empathic and compassionate approach to care makes all the difference in creating that source of support.

Passion for the work we do: VNA Care nurses enjoy working face-to-face with patients and being an integral part of our communities. They build meaningful relationships with patients and families, becoming trusted partners to help live their best lives at home.

Home health and hospice care is uniquely rigorous and exceptionally rewarding. Although it requires a specific set of skills and characteristics, our nurses ease into their new roles while working with a preceptor and educator through our strong orientation program. If you see these qualities in yourself and are interested in joining our team, please check out our careers page. We would love to meet you and welcome you to our team!

teach it to your child. But even if you don’t, use everyday situations to introduce international words and phrases. It can be as simple as telling children that in Italian “bath” becomes “bagno” or in French, “bed” becomes “lit.” Easy! English itself is a product of many cultures so when your child learns a new word identify its origin. You can use the Online Etymology Dictionary to show the origin of words like dinosaur (Greece), shampoo (India) and barbecue (Haiti).

5. Travel often – even if it’s only virtually.

Mark Twain wrote that travel is “fatal to prejudice, bigotry and narrow-mindedness.” Apply for passports for your children even if no immediate trip is planned. Use it when possible, but also consider visiting ethnic communities closer to home. Take virtual tours of cities and “walk” the halls of famous museums and buildings. Time For Kids provides an excellent site where children can “travel” around the world through ageappropriate news articles.

6. Turn up the music.

Music moves children of all ages and places. Plug into their iPods and talk about tunes that travel the globe. From country to pop, from reg gae to rap, international influences heavily shape the melodies we love. You can tell your toddler about the Wiggles’ Australian home or share with your pre-teen the British punk roots that spawned Green Day or even discuss Jamaican contributions to hip hop. Use an online radio service like Pan dora to create stations to expose your kids to African music, French songs, or even just a “world music” station for a variety of cultures.

7. Connect to other children.

Children are fascinated by other children. Describe what children do in other countries and how their lifestyles differ. There are many resources. Penpalworld. com, for example, connects kids with other children in the world. Also, explore ways for children to communicate with other children, through letters or email. They may even want to help other children through groups like We.org, Kids Can Make a Difference or UNICEF, the United Nations Children’s Fund.

8. Where was it made?

Even young children can be introduced to basic facts about the global economy and the global production system. One simple way to do that is to connect the clothes on their backs to where they were made. Children can also trace the origin of common household items and learn how they were assembled. Locate these nations on the map and find out about their culture. More in-depth lessons might explore the lives of workers who made these items, some of whom are children.

9. Discover the United Nations.

Despite its flaws, the United Nations is the dominant international organization of our time and has united people from all over the world in many critical efforts. It also provides many great resources. For example, learn more about the U.N.’s history, its 193 member nations and important global causes. Also, introduce your children to other international organizations that link countries and cultures.

10. Stay on top of the schools.

Encourage and support schools to introduce and expand global studies programs. Applaud those who champion such programs, and work to convince and persuade those who do not.

There are many ways to raise world citizens. As parents who have seen, for better and for worse, how well our own children can mimic behaviors, we’d like to offer one last bonus suggestion: Always keep in mind the power of your example. Stay curious about your world. Seek new and different perspectives. Converse with those who are different. And, perhaps most important, offer examples of ways to translate values into action. After all, tomorrow’s world citizens must not only understand their world, they may be called upon to save it. Y

Article originally provided by J. Michael Adams and Angel Carfagna and updated by Boston Parent staff.

What Kind of Assessment is Right for Your Child?

By Mariela Vargas-Irwin, PSYD, BCBA-D, LABA

Every day was hard with 5-year-old Patrick. He would purposely find ways to annoy others and just did not seem to respond to consequences. The school tested him and said that there was nothing wrong; in fact, they said he was gifted.

Another child, Latoya, was never the same after being in a car accident. She cried all night and refused to get into any car. She also seemed to be unable to play with any of her previously preferred toys for long and had frequent tantrums.

Then there was ten-year-old Maria, who didn’t seem to be making any progress at school. She had an intellectual disability and her Individualized Education Program looked good on paper. However, she was becoming more aggressive each day and her language continued to be very limited.

Finally, Autumn, two years old, was in a fog. She stopped saying mama and dada, cried for no apparent reason and ran in circles all the time.

Developmental and behavioral concerns about your children, such as those listed above, can be extremely distressing. Of course, you would do anything for your child! But where to start?

The first step is to consult your pediatrician. They will be able to rule out any possible medical problems and are more likely than a specialist to be able to see you quickly. Once a physical cause for your concerns is ruled out, your pediatrician will most likely refer you to a psychologist for an assessment. There are, however, several kinds of assessments that can be conducted.

A Comprehensive Diagnostic Assessment will include a cognitive and an adaptive assessment. It may include both norm-referenced assessments

that compare children to others, as well as criterion-referenced tests that compare students to themselves. A Comprehensive Diagnostic assessment may result in a diagnosis such as Autism or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder.

The psychologist or a behavior analyst may also perform a Functional Behavior Assessment. A Functional Behavior Assessment examines the functions of the behavior via direct and indirect methods helping guide the development of a Behavior Support Plan.

Another type of assessment that may be helpful is a Program Assessment. A Program Assessment includes a visit to your child’s school to determine whether their needs are being met and their Individualized Education Program is being implemented properly.

Lastly, a Neuropsychological Assessment examines executive functioning skills, attention, and memory, in addition to cognitive and adaptive skills.

To speak to the above examples, Patrick would need a Comprehensive Diagnostic Assessment and a Functional Assessment to ascertain the function of his aggressive and disruptive behavior. The fact that he is gifted intellectu-

ally does not rule out that he may be struggling with Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity, Autism, or Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.

Latoya would need a neuropsychological assessment that will examine executing functions, language, and attention to ascertain the impact of the accident on her neuropsychological functions. Typically, a complete neuropsychological assessment is conducted immediately after the accident and then repeated every six months.

Meanwhile, Maria would require a Program Assessment to determine whether her school program is meeting her needs. This assessment should include a complete review of her progress reports in addition to a visit to her school. She may also need a Functional Assessment of her aggressive behavior at home.

Lastly, Autumn urgently needs a Comprehensive Diagnostic Assessment to rule out Autism. If she does have Autism, she will need intensive early behavior analytic intervention to be implemented as soon as possible so time is of the essence.

Whatever the assessment process holds for your learner, it is important that the instruments used are both reliable and valid, and ideally, they would be able to be utilized to track progress over time. Every child is different; therefore, no assessment process will proceed identically. Y

Mariela Vargas-Irwin, PSYD, BCBA-D, LABA obtained her doctoral degree from Rutgers University, completed her internship at Boston Children’s Hospital and did post-doctoral training at Baker Children’s Center and has over 30 years of experience working with children with autism and other developmental disorders. For over 21 years, Vargas-Irwin has been a part of Applied Behavioral Learning Services team in Wellesley and is currently the Executive Director of the organization. www.ablspartners.org

Understanding Out of District Special Education and Circuit Breaker Reimbursement

It all starts with the student: Massachusetts law 603CMR 28 00

Their decision must be based on:

The Team considers all aspects of the student's proposed IEP and determines the appropriate placement to provide the services the student's IEP, including the types of related services, the types of settings where those services are to be provided the types of service providers and the location where those services are to be provided

Needs are identified A plan (IEP) is developed Services are determined

At the placement meeting, the district and the parent report on the investigation of in-district and out-of-district options

If an in-district program cannot provide the services on the IEP, the placement Team will identify an out-of-district placement

The decision to place a child in the setting that is most appropriate for their needs should be based on the I E P , not the cost

In 2004, the Commonwealth of Massachusetts created the groundbreaking Special Education Circuit Breaker account, which reimburses school districts for the cost of out-of-district special education schooling

Districts pay a baseline cost for all students For Circuit Breaker, the baseline cost assumes that educating a student with special needs will cost more than for a general education student

Currently, CIRCUIT BREAKER reimburses 75% of costs school districts pay above that baseline

When an approved special education school is determined to be the least restrictive environment for a student, Massachusetts helps districts protect the integrity of the IEP process Students with significant special needs are not just the responsibility of one school district, but rather the collective responsibility of the Commonwealth

"Placement options are fluid Further placements can change over time based on factors such as changes in a student s progress or needs For some students, the general education classroom is not necessarily the least restrictive setting "

-Vanderbilt University Iris Center

Each year, to ensure that districts are reimbursed from the Special Education Circuit Breaker the state legislature has to approve funds for the account in the state budget This funding is not guaranteed and significant advocacy needs to be done to ensure that students receive the services they need, and districts are supported

JOIN THE ACTION NETWORK at maaps org

Talking to KidsAbout Disabilities

By Sarah Lyons

“Why do you talk like that?”  I heard the question come from behind me as I helped another child in the Sunday school class.

“It’s just the way I am.” I heard my sisterin-law wisely answer the curious boy.

My sister-in-law, Kara, was born with Cerebral Palsy. She was helping me in the classroom that day when one of the kids noticed her speech was different. Kara has been taught to answer “It’s just the way I am.” after years of questions about her differences.

Our kids have grown up around their beloved Aunt Kara and accept her as she is but there came a time when each of them has asked about Kara’s disability and why it makes her different.

Chances are, at some point, your child will meet someone at school or in the community that has disabilities. It is normal for children to have questions about people who are different, which means parents should be prepared to answer their questions in an intelligent and appropriate way.

Here are some tips to get the conversation started:

EVERYONE IS DIFFERENT BUT THE SAME

All of us have unique gifts, personalities, and challenges. No two people are the same and this is a great thing because diversity makes life interesting and fun. While we are all different, everyone has things in common too. All people, including people with disabilities, want to have friends, be shown respect, and have the desire to be accepted. Encourage your child to embrace the differences of others and find common ground, as well. If your child is interested in a popular television show, book, toy, or game; chances are a person with special needs is too. Ask them what they love to do, I would guess they will be happy to tell you.

TYPES OF DISABILITIES

Some disabilities are obvious and some are not. Some people may need a walker or wheelchair to help them move around. Others may have a cognitive (thinking) disability that is not as visible. Explain in simple terms that people struggle with different things and may need a little extra help from a physical tool (like a wheelchair) or help from others. People can have impairments with sight, hearing, walking, speech, cognitive, or a variety of other things. It is important to note that just because

EDUCATION

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Melmark is Mission First. Every Individual, Every Day.

Melmark serves individuals with autism, acquired brain injury, neurodevelopmental disorders, dual diagnosis and severe challenging behavior.

Programs and services include:

• Premier special education day schools and residential homes for children

• Adult day and adult residential programs

• Autism-specialty early intervention services

• Public school and in-home consultation services

Inquiries and questions, please contact Elizabeth McRae, Administrator of Program Services at Melmark New England, (978-654-4300).

• Day and Residential Programs

• Academic programs based on age and ability for students 3-22

• On campus and community based career training starting at age 14

• Multidisciplinary educational framework based on the SCERTS Model

Learn more at www.melmark.org or scan this QR code!

To learn more contact League's Admissions Coordinator, Lynne Goyuk (P): (508)850-3900 (E): lgoyuk@leagueschool com

www.leagueschool.org

NEW Melmark New England: The Stoughton Day School

Melmark New England: The Andover Day School

someone is in a wheelchair, it does not mean they have a cognitive disability. Also, disabilities are not contagious and children are not going to “catch” the disability. These things may sound obvious to adults, but children process things differently and many have these questions.

NAME CALLING IS NEVER OKAY

Emphasize that people with disabilities have feelings too. Name calling is hurtful, disrespectful, and is a form of bullying. People with disabilities need others to stand up for them when they cannot stand up for themselves. Encourage your child to tell an adult if kids are teasing another child. Your child can be an example to others by being kind and respectful. Parents can set an example by using positive language and behavior towards others, as well.

A NOTE ABOUT “RUDE” COMMENTS

Kids are curious and love to ask questions. Many times, they will speak exactly what is on their mind, without thinking about whether the comments will be hurtful. This can be very embarrassing to parents. So, what do you do if your child blurts out a rude and embarrassing comment? Start by answering calmly and matter of factly. If, for example, your child says

“Why is that boy in a wheelchair?” Simply answer, “He needs it to move around. Why don’t you say hello?” If the child is reluctant, say hello to him yourself along with something like “John likes trains. Do you like trains too?” If the person accompanying the child responds, follow their lead. It is always better to treat others as you would like to be treated than to hurry away in an embarrassing situation. Later, when you are at home, you can ask your child if they have any other questions about others with disabilities and reinforce the value of treating everyone equally.

My sister-in-law, now thirty-eight years old, has been asked many questions over the years, some rude and some just curious. She has learned to handle them well because she knows that, just like anyone else she has challenges to overcome and successes to celebrate. Kara loves watching movies, dancing to music, and taking care of animals. She loves eating candy, pizza, and tacos. She is fun to be around and loves to get out and explore new places. People with disabilities are just people. Sometimes that simple fact is all kids need to know. Y

All people, including people with disabilities, want to have friends, be shown respect, and have the desire to be accepted. Encourage your child to embrace the differences of others and find common ground, as well.

Sarah Lyons is a busy mother of six children. Lyons has been published in Pregnancy and Newborn Magazine KC Parent, Austin Family, Creative Child and over 140 other parenting publications.

CAMPS & SUMMER PROGRAMS

ACERA (WINCHESTER)

Day Camp

781-729-3489

Age or Grade Range: Ages 5-17

Make 2023 a summer to remember! Build an arcade game, program a robot, or write an original song! Learn wilderness survival skills, tackle LEGO design challenges, practice origami, and create your own augmented reality game!

At Acera, children nurture their natural desire to inquire, create, innovate and experiment – drawing out kids’ leadership and self-esteem through STEM skill building, artistic expression, and projectbased learning. Our staff consists of professionals with significant experience in the classroom and in their own fields of expertise. Among them are award winners, active research scientists, and working artists. Acera’s in-person Summer Programs run from June 12 through August 25, 2023, enabling kids ages 5 and older to take on enticing projects, from electronic art and

robotics to woodworking and science experiments. Our sessions run in mornings, afternoons, or for full days. Our expanded offerings for 5-8 year olds include introductions to hydrodynamics and chemistry in our Splash! and Ooey Gooey camps. For 7-10 year olds, Acera offers camps in engineering, atmospheric science, filmmaking, digital art, and more. Kids 10 and up can immerse themselves in classes like Live Action Role Play, Coding with Arduino, Arcade Game Design, and more. Early drop off and late pickup available.http://www. aceraschool.org/summer-camps/

helping students from across the United States and around the world to achieve ambitious goals. Andover Summer offers three distinct programs: Summer Session, eSummer and Advantage. Each are uniquely designed to meet the varying demands on the modern student and family.

https://www.andover.edu/summer

BERKLEE

- ABLE DAY SESSIONS

SUMMER MUSIC PROGRAM FOR STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES (BOSTON)

Day Program

617-747-2760

ANDOVER

SUMMER

AT PHILLIPS ACADEMY (ANDOVER)

Day and Overnight Camp

978-749-4400

Age or Grade Range: Grades 7-12 Andover Summer at Phillips Academy in Andover, Massachusetts, is widely recognized as one of the nation’s premier summer academic enrichment programs,

Age or Grade Range: Ages 9-17

At Berklee, we believe that the arts better the lives of everyone. That’s why we offer the ABLE Day Sessions program for musicians with disabilities. Study your instrument in group lessons. Play or sing with other musicians in an ensemble. Experience music through drumming, singing, and music

technology workshops. Learn from other musicians in clinics. Share your music in a performance with your ensemble at the end of the week.

https://college.berklee.edu/ berklee-institute-arts-educationand-special-needs/day-sessionsable-arts-better-lives-everyone

BOSTON BALLET (BOSTON & NEWTON)

Day Camp

617-456-6333

Age or Grade Range: Ages 5-9 BBS partners with local art organizations including the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, to immerse students in collaborative cultural learning and activities. Ballet technique and musicality are explored through original activities developed by expert faculty members. This program guides students on a journey from understanding the use of space to the creation of original dances. No experience required – beginners welcome!

https://www.bostonballet.org/ education-program/ballet-andarts-explorations/

BRANCHES AT MEADOWBROOK (WESTON)

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 about Branches at Meadowbrook: a collection of summer and yearround programs. 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. https://www. branchesmeadowbrook.org

BROOKS SCHOOL SUMMER PROGRAMS (NORTH

ANDOVER)

Day and Overnight Camp

978-725-6253

Age or Grade Range: Ages 3-18

For more than half a century, Brooks School has been a quintessential summer experience and tradition for generations of families. Through its dedication to offering the highest-quality youth development programs and devoted staff, Brooks has achieved its place as the leader in summer programs.

https://summer.brooksschool.org

PASSPORT SUMMER CAMP AT CAMBRIDGE MONTESSORI (CAMBRIDGE)

Day Camp

617-308-9458

Age or Grade Range: 18 mo-11 years

Our inclusive and diverse community allows campers to learn from each other and to appreciate cultural similarities and differences in a fun, creative, and safe camp environment.

Early Childhood & Elementary

Designed as an introduction to Montessori, this is a great option for families looking to enroll their little ones in an engaging, Montessori-influenced environment for the summer. Available to students in Grades P3–K. P3 students must be current Kingsley students or prospective Kingsley students beginning September 2023. The program is open to the public for Grades P4–K. Early Childhood sessions are half or full day. Our Elementary program is designed to be an engaging and rewarding experience both on and off campus, and is open to Grades 1–6. Elementary sessions are full-day.

The city is our campus!

We offer a variety of enrichment programs tailored to your child, from ages 18 months to 11 years, including science & nature, music & movement, arts & crafts, water sports, and more! Finding the right summer program for your child can be overwhelming. We hope to make this process as seamless as possible. Your camper’s passport to adventure has arrived! https://www. cambridgemontessori. org/passport-extendedprograms/passportsummer-camp

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. https:// campbirchhill.com

CAMP CODY (FREEDOM, NH)

Overnight Camp

603-539-4997

Age or Grade Range:

Ages 7-17

At Camp Cody, we believe that carefully tailoring the summer experience

to the individual camper creates, on a larger scale, a successful and enjoyable summer for all campers. At our spectacular location, campers develop independence, self-confidence make friends, and have great experiences.

https://campcody.com

CAMP KODIAK (ONTARIO, CANADA)

Overnight Camp

905-569-7595

Age or Grade Range:

Ages 6-18

Camp Kodiak is Canada’s premier overnight summer camp for children and teens, ages 6-18, with and without LD, ADHD, and high-functioning ASD. Highlights include: SOCIAL SKILLS PROGRAM, ACADEMIC PROGRAM, 50+ activities, 2:1 camper-to-staff ratio.

https://www. campkodiak.com/

CAMP MED-O-LARK

(WASHINGTON, ME)

Overnight Camp

207-845-2555

Age or Grade Range:

Ages 8-16

Founded in 1946, Camp Med-O-Lark is a coed, arts summer camp for ages 8–16, nestled on the banks of a pristine lake in Washington, Maine.

Med-O-Lark campers create their own schedule from a wide variety of activities — performing arts, fine arts, sports, waterfront fun, and much more.

Med-O-Lark is an open, diverse, non-competitive community, where campers make friendships for a lifetime!

https://medolark.com

2023 Session Dates:

2020 Session Dates:

2 Week Sessions

June 28 – July 11, 2020

June 25 – July 8, 2023

July 9 – July 22, 2023

July 12 – July 25, 2020

July 23 – August 5, 2023

July 26 – August 8, 2020

4 Week Sessions

June 25 – July 22, 2023

July 9 – August 5, 2023

6 Week Sessions

June 25 – August 5, 2023

CRS SUMMER - CHARLES RIVER SCHOOL (DOVER)

Day Camp

508-785-8250

Age or Grade Range: Age: 2-17

CRS Summer provides fun and enriching programs for kids between the ages of 2 and 17 on our beautiful 16-acre campus. In addition to our renowned Creative Arts Program, featuring dance, music, visual art, technology, film and theater, we have camp options in STEM, nature, entrepreneurship and more. Campers will be able to spend time in our outdoor Wetlands lab, on the fields playing sports and other games and in our swimming pool. Our newest program, CRS Summer Minis, offers drop-in toddler programs. We pride ourselves on creating a warm, inclusive, and supportive environment for all of our campers. https://www.charlesriverschool. org/crs-summer

EDGE ON SCIENCE (BEVERLY, NEWTON)

Day Camp

(315) 773-5673

Age or Grade Range: Ages 8-17

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/

EMPOW STUDIOS (MULTIPLE LOCATIONS)

Day Camp

617-395-7527

Age or Grade Range: Ages 7-15

At Empow Studios, kids have fun exploring all that STEM includes, finding their passion, and accelerating their learning. With classes and camps across five STEM domains – Digital Art & Design, Minecraft, Coding, Robotics, and Video Game Design — kids deepen their technology skills as they build amazing beginner to advanced projects.

Empow Studios is honored to be trusted by more than 150 educational and enrichment organizations that support STEM programs. We’ve won more awards than any other STEM after school program or camp provider in Massachusetts!

http://www.empow.me

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. We are committed to supporting the social and emotional health of our campers through real opportunities for connection.

https://everwooddaycamp.com

FLEUR DE LIS CAMP (FITZWILLIAM, NH)

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

FUSION ACADEMY (BURLINGTON/LEXINGTON, HINGHAM, NEWTON)

Day and Virtual Camp

781-512-0505

Age or Grade Range: Grades 5-12

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/

ICODE OF WELLESLEY STEAM SUMMER PROGRAMS (WELLESLEY)

Day Camp & Programs

781-291-3131

Age or Grade Range: Ages 6-17

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. Cybersecurity, Virtual Reality, Digital Art, Animations, Drones, Robotics and a lot more!

https://icodeschool.com/ wellesley107/

KTBYTE COMPUTER SCIENCE ACADEMY (LEXINGTON)

Day Camp & Virtual Programs

818-748-8848

Age or Grade Range: Ages 8-18

Our students and alumni have accomplished amazing things over the years. Some have attended the top Ivy League Schools; others have worked at top tech companies. Additionally, our students have reached USACO Platinum, participated in MIT Primes, and ranked in the ACSL senior division.

https://www.ktbyte.com/

LINX CAMPS (WELLESLEY)

Day Camp

781-235-3210

Age or Grade Range: Ages 3-15

Based on the Dana Hall School campus in Wellesley, LINX Camps proudly serves the greater Boston area with premier camps for kids age 3-15 including junior (half and full day), general, adventure, empowerment, performing arts, sports, and STEAM camps. These fun-filled, enriching, and innovative summer programs are rich with traditions and choices. The expert staff recognizes each camper’s strengths to support the growth of younger campers while building character in older ones. The flexible sessions make for an all-encompassing experience that creates an inclusive community in which everyone thrives.

http://www.linxcamps.com/

MAPLEWOOD COUNTRY DAY CAMP (SOUTH EASTON)

Day Camp

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 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/

MIDDLESEX COMMUNITY COLLEGE (BEDFORD, LOWELL)

Day Camp

800-818-3434

Age or Grade Range: Ages 8-17

Our College for Kids program strives to employ either public school teachers or experts in the field. All program employees have experience instructing children in the content area. Programs are offered on the Bedford and Lowell campuses, as well as a theater program at the Academic Arts Center in Lowell. Please note the recommended ages of each program carefully when registering your child as they range between 8 - 17. Unless otherwise stated the cost for each program includes materials/activities. College for Teens is specifically for rising high school students to explore multiple career pathways and while earning college credit in an non-traditional pathway. https://www.middlesex.mass.edu/ collegeforkids/summer-locations

MILTON ART CENTER SUMMER CAMP (MILTON)

Day Camp

Age or Grade Range: Ages 3.9-12

Our art teachers engage children’s imaginations and feelings using open-ended instruction, allowing children to enjoy the process of creation and the pride of accomplishment. Creating art builds confidence and helps develop decision-making. In addition to art-making, campers have time for outdoor activities and games, ensuring they have a well-rounded summer experience. We believe that art is a powerful tool for personal expression and development,

and we’re excited to share that experience with your child. Enroll today to secure your child’s spot in one of our summer camps.

https://miltonartcenter.org/mackids-summer-art-camps/

NEOC - NEW ENGLAND OUTDOOR CAMP (FROM THE LINX COMPANIES) (WELLESLEY)

Day Camp

781-235-8765

Age or Grade Range: Ages 3-15

NEOC’s campus is the Elm Bank Reservation in Wellesley, an expansive property that includes river-access, trails, forested areas, fields, and gardens. Camp activities include archery, arts and crafts, canoeing, cooking, games, gardening, hiking, music, orienteering, outdoor survival skills, sports, and wellness. As the camp welcomes campers ages 315, all of these activities are offered as age appropriate. A camp culture of inclusion and appreciation allows for friendships to blossom and for campers to mentor one another. As campers grow at NEOC, they are encouraged to wonder about, investigate, and build their understanding of nature. https://www.campneoc.com

PENGUIN CODING SUMMER PROGRAMS (ACTON, LEXINGTON, NEWTON)

Day and Virtual Summer Programs

781-277-2755

Age or Grade Range: Ages 6-18

Penguin Coding School in-person Summer Camp provides a 50-50 split between screen time and non-screen time. Students explore Coding, 3-D Printing, LEGO Robotics, and Outdoor Hands-On Science.

Kids ages 6-9 can choose between Minecraft or Scratch themed camp, and those 9-12 can choose either Python or Roblox themed camp. Camps for 6-12 are structured on a weekly basis and all camp days are from 9am-3pm (Extended day till 5pm can be purchased for $40 per day)

Penguin Coding School also holds Summer Weekly High School Intensive Courses for Ages 1318. Students can learn Python, Java, or Mobile App Development.

These courses are designed to excel students to the next level and prepare them for AP Exams.

https://penguincodingschool.com/ summer

PLANET GYMNASTICS (NATICK)

Day Camp

508-647-1777

Age Range: Ages 3 & up

Our Swim & Gym Summer Day Program was carefully designed to provide children with an active day of learning, fun and games! Our gym lessons focus on teaching strength, flexibility, coordination and creative movements. Our swim lessons focus on teaching the basics of breath control, buoyancy, balance, movement and safety. A variety of games, crafts, activities and challenges will keep the children active, engaged and excited throughout the entire day. Our superb staff is energetic, caring and committed to creating a wonderful experience for every child.

https://planetgym.com/dayprogram/

PLUGGED IN BAND PROGRAM (NEEDHAM)

Day Camp

781-444-1879

Age or Grade Range: Ages 8-19

Music That Matters is an in-person summer day camp that includes band class, songwriting, recording a song, music video, workshops, offsite events, and performance opportunities. Each session ends with a benefit concert that raises money for a charitable organization chosen by the students themselves. Extended day is available. Students are grouped in bands by age, skill level and musical interest.

https://www.pluggedinband.org/ summercamp

POWERS MUSIC SCHOOL (BELMONT)

Day Camp & Summer Programs

617-484-4696

Age Range: Ages 5-11 (CIT 13-15)

Summer at Powers is flexible, fun, and open to whatever your family wants to achieve. It’s a great time to experiment and explore, or to go deeper into music you’ve been wanting to work on for ages. It’s also a time for friendship. Some of the people you meet during the

warmer months might become good friends who stick with you during the year.

We offer a more relaxed version of traditional private lessons and the Suzuki program, a number of early childhood group classes, and five full-day programs for a range of interests and abilities.

Want to try a new instrument? Learn fiddle? Introduce your toddler to music? Perfect that passage you’ve been struggling with? We can help you do any, or all, of those. Make this the summer you say yes. https://powersmusic.org/summerday-programs/

RIVERBAND - SUMMER AT RIVERBAND (NATICK)

Day Camp

508-655-7333

Age or Grade Range: Ages 2-9 Students will have a blast engaging in water slides, nature, sports, climbing, arts and crafts, gaming, and more!

https://riverbendschool.org/ourprograms/summer-riverbend/

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/

WALNUT HILL SCHOOL FOR THE ARTS SUMMER PROGRAMS (NATICK)

Day and Overnight Camp

508-650-5020

Ages 10-17

Summer Camp programs in Dance (Ballet), Musical Theater, and Visual Art.

http://www.walnuthillarts.org/ summer

WELLESLEY THEATRE PROJECT (WELLESLEY)

Day Camp

781-235-1550

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 CAMP FRANK A. DAY (EAST BROOKFIELD)

Overnight Camp

508-867-3780

Age or Grade Range: Ages 7-16 YMCA Camp Frank A. Day, or “CFAD”

as many campers and alum call it, is a coed summer overnight camp west of Boston in beautiful East Brookfield, MA. Summer after summer, Camp Frank A. Day campers bond as a community as they learn how to be more independent and how to contribute to a group. Through physical, social and educational activities, our campers gain self-reliance, a love for nature and the outdoors, and the development of attitudes and practices that build character and leadership—all amidst the fun of camp fires, bugle calls, boating, sports, archery, performance and visual arts, music, long standing camp traditions, and talent shows!

https://www.wsymca.org/camps/ frank-a-day

YMCA OF GREATER BOSTON (BOSTON, WALTHAM, WOBURN, READING, DEDHAM, NEEDHAM)

Day, Family and Overnight Camps

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/youth-andfamily/camps/ Y

“A transformative week - especially for a beginner”

“A venue where their intelligence is encouraged in a fun way”

“It offers something that presumes the natural inquisitiveness of kids and empowers them”

LONGWOOD , DANVERS

APPLYNOW for Summer 2023

Andover Summer welcomes applications from rising 7th- through 12th-graders seeking a summer program defined by academic excellence, global perspectives, student independence, and life-changing interactions with peers and teachers. With three distinct options, Phillips Academy has something for everyone this summer!

SUMMER SESSION

June 27–July 30, 2023

Our flagship 5-week academic enrichment program (day or boarding) features over 40 course offerings ranging from Writing for Success and Topics in Algebra to Game Design and Art as Action

Afternoons and weekends are filled with a variety of outdoor and social activities on our beautiful 500-acre campus.

eSUMMER

June 26–July 28, 2023

Can’t make it to campus or need more flexibility in your summer schedule? Consider our concurrent eSummer program. This 100 percent virtual program offers much of the same experience without the necessity of a daily commute or living on campus.

ADVANTAGE

July 31–August 11, 2023

Andover Summer’s newest program, Advantage is a 2-week open enrollment program that is designed as a back-to-school academic refresher. This day-only offering is for students who live within commuting distance to our campus, located about 23 miles north of Boston.