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Talking to Kids About Disabilities
Talking to Kids About Disabilities
10
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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
APRIL 2023
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TM What’s Inside 6 | Family FYI • Vote for Your Boston Faves! • Top 10 Dog Breeds in Boston 2022 • E-Scooters & E-Bikes Safety FEATURES... ...AND THERE’S MORE 10 | 10 Easy Steps to Raising World Citizens A global education must begin at home. 14 | What Kind of Assessment is Right for Your Child? Developmental and behavioral concerns about your children can be distressing. 18 | Talking to Kids About Disabilities “I’m just the way I am.” Volume 38 • Number 8 APRIL 2023 10 14 18 8 23 CAMPS & SUMMER PROGRAMS CAMPS & SUMMER PROGRAMS
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.
Calling All Patriots
DEDICATION, DETERMINATION, PERSEVERANCE AND ENDURANCE –all values we want to teach our kids. On April 17, Marathon Monday, head out to show your family’s support for the 30,000 runners competing in the 127th Boston Marathon, the oldest annual marathon in the world.
You’ll also want to tell your kids what happened April 19, 1775, in Lexington and Concord, sites of the opening battles of America’s fight for independence, and the reason we celebrate Patriots’ Day in Massachusetts.
Start out the week “Boston Strong,” then round out the school vacation week by perhaps attending one of the many special events you’ll find listed in our Calendar online.
6 Boston Parents Paper | March 2023
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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.
8 Boston Parents Paper | April 2023
April 2023 | BostonParentsPaper.com 9
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,
10 Boston Parents Paper | March 2023 Continued on page 12 >>>
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.
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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!
April 2023 | BostonParentsPaper.com 11
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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.
12 Boston Parents Paper | April 2023
<<< Continued from page 10
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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
14 Boston Parents Paper | April 2023
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The CIRCUIT BREAKER program was started in FY’04 to provide additional state funding to districts for high-cost special education students.
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reimburses local school districts for a portion of their prior year's costs above a certain threshold for educating severely highneeds special education students
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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 by agreeing that students with significant special needs are not just the responsibility of one school district, but rather the collective responsibility of the Commonwealth
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April 2023 | BostonParentsPaper.com 17
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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
18 Boston Parents Paper | April 2023
Continued on page 20 >>>
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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.
20 Boston Parents Paper | March 2023 <<< Continued from page 18
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.
April 2023 | BostonParentsPaper.com 21
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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/
ANDOVER SUMMER AT PHILLIPS ACADEMY (ANDOVER)
Day and Overnight Camp
978-749-4400
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, 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
AZ-U-MAK-IT EQUESTRIAN SUMMER HORSEMANSHIP PROGRAM (PLYMPTON)
Day Program
781-561-5961
Ages 7-18
Family run business, offering riding lessons, horsemanship programs, leasing, showing, an IEA team, and more!
Our program is designed to offer equine educational basics, such as horse care, grooming and how to tack up, along with traditional summer camp activities such as arts
April 2023 | BostonParentsPaper.com 23
24 Boston Parents Paper | April 2023 Camp programs for children with type 1 diabetes. Programs offer fun, recreation, diabetes education, and support. • Clara Barton Camp for girls • Camp Joslin for boys • Day Camps • Adventure Programs • Family Programs • Year-round Programs The Barton Center for Diabetes Education, Inc. 30 Ennis Road, P.O. Box 356, North Oxford, MA 01537 508-987-2056 | www.bartoncenter.org July 3-August 11, 2023 Classes in Math, Science, English, Technology, SAT Prep, and Art For students Grades 6–12 Visit belmonthill.org/summeracademics to learn more! BOYS & GIRLS GRADES 5-12 FROM COMMUNITIES S u m m e r S t a r t s H e r e ! 70 DIVERSE INTEREST ATHLETES CAMPERS & STUDENTS 700+ EXPERIENCED COACHES TEACHERS & TRAINERS 20+ HALF & FULL-DAY SPORT CAMPS & CLINICS LEARN MORE & REGISTER TODAY: www bchigh edu/summer-programs ACRE URBAN CAMPUS EASILY ACCESSIBLE BY RAIL OR ROAD COLLEGE PREP COURSES 39 3 30+ ACADEMIC CREDIT, ENRICHMENT & SPECIALTY COURSES
This camp must comply with regulations of the Massachusetts Department of Public Health and be licensed by the local board of health.
& crafts and games. Included is a daily group riding lesson. https://www.azumakitfarm.com/
BERKLEE - ABLE DAY SESSIONS SUMMER MUSIC PROGRAM FOR STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES (BOSTON)
Day Program
617-747-2760
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/BIAAE/ programs/day-sessions-able
BOSTON BALLET (BOSTON & NEWTON)
Day Camp
617-456-6333
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-and-artsexplorations/
BOSTON COLLEGE HIGH SCHOOL SUMMER PROGRAMS (BOSTON)
Day and Virtual Programs
617-474-5181
Entering Grades 5-12
Whether you’re are looking for
academic enrichment, athletic growth or just want to enjoy some good old fashion fun, BC High is the place to be this summer.
For the academically minded student, BC High offers top notch academic courses in a wide variety of areas including SAT/ACT Prep, Chemistry, Biology, Algebra, Geometry, Trig for Calculus, Digital Photography, Intro to Drawing, High School Writing and more. Rising high school seniors can get a jump start on their common application in our College Essay class. Additionally, middle schoolers can get ahead with Math Fundamentals, Writing Fundamentals, Study Skills classes and an Intro to Algebra I class. High school and middle school athletes will enjoy our sports camps which are designed for players of all ability levels. Led by dedicated BC High coaches, our goal is to promote teamwork and fun through various drills, games and competitions. Camps are offered in Baseball, Basketball, Soccer, Lacrosse and Football. Just looking
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.
26 Boston Parents Paper | April 2023
The city is our campus!
The Most Robust Day Program Around
EXPLO Junior, a 3-week multi-course program, is where 4-7 graders come to explore the world around them in the most unique way – their own.
REGIS COLLEGE: WESTON, MA
Residential or Day Bus service available.
For almost 50 years, families have taken advantage of the tremendous value and benefits of the EXPLO day program. Day students spend the day side by side with residential students who come from across the country and from around the world.
With over 80 courses and electives to choose from, your student can discover new skills, talents, and interests. See what exciting learning experience your child can have with like-minded peers – and how we help open their eyes and minds.
Session 1: June 25 - July 14 Session 2: July 16 - August 4
explo.org/bostonparents
JULY 10 through AUGUST 6
REGISTRATION now
OPEN!
SUMMER PROGRAMS FOR STUDENTS ENTERING GRADES 1-12 AND 2022 HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATES
Whether you’re new to theatre or looking to deepen your experience, the Summer Festival at Greater Boston Stage Company has something engaging and exciting for you!
28 Boston Parents Paper | April 2023
GREATERBOSTONSTAGE.ORG
to maintain a strong body? Check out our Scholastic Sports Performance Program to improve mobility, strength, power, speed and conditioning.
For campers interested in trying something different this summer, we offer the following specialty programs: Arts Camp, All Sports, Minecraft, Coding & Robotics, Roblox Mission to Mars! and Dungeons and Dragons. https://www.bchigh.edu/ summer-programs
BRANCHES AT MEADOWBROOK (WESTON)
Day Camp
781-647-0546
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 year-round 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
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
CAMP BIRCH HILL (NEW DURHAM, NH)
Overnight Camp
603-859-4525
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
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
2023 Session Dates:
2020 Session Dates:
2 Week Sessions
June 25 – July 8, 2023
June 28 – July 11, 2020
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
April 2023 | BostonParentsPaper.com 29
CAMP KODIAK (ONTARIO, CANADA)
Overnight Camp
905-569-7595
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
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
CRS SUMMER - CHARLES RIVER SCHOOL (DOVER)
Day Camp
508-785-8250
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
CODEWIZARDSHQ VIRTUAL SUMMER CAMPS AND CLASSES (VIRTUAL)
Day Camp
800-213-2417
Age: 8-16
CodeWizardsHQ offers the most fun (and effective!) virtual coding camps and classes. Hands-on interactive learning in small groups, customizable projects, and highly rated instructors provide an experience students love.
Minecraft and Roblox coding camps are perfect for gamers interested in coding. Camps use Minecraft to teach computing concepts. Kids build projects inside Minecraft while using it as a tool to learn coding. A Roblox camp introduces students to the world of Roblox game creation! By the completion of this camp, students will have a completed project and the skills to create games.
Accelerated classes cover the same content as the year-round program. Students can complete 3 full courses in one summer! Students learn Python, JavaScript, HTML/ CSS, and more. Save $20 with Code BP20.
Summer is the perfect time to start a coding education. Students who enroll in our summer camps can continue coding with a $100 credit toward core classes.
https://www.codewizardshq.com
CURIOSITY CAMP AT SIMON’S ROCK (GREAT BARRINGTON)
Overnight Camp
413-644-4400
Grade Range 9-11
Curiosity Camp at Simon’s Rock is open to inquisitive and motivated students interested in exploring their academic and creative interests in a college environment while they are currently completing grades 9, 10 or 11. Students will participate daily in Simon’s Rock’s signature Writing and Thinking Workshop along with a Seminar, and arts and science courses to experience diverse and exciting academic offerings. The program’s cohort of 30 students allows for small class sizes where students and professors can collaborate and
engage in dynamic discourse in this academic summer camp.
https://simons-rock.edu/academics/ beyond-the-classroom/curiositycamp.php
DEBATE CAMP (BOSTON, DANVERS, WEST ROXBURY, BRUNSWICK)
Day & Overnight Camp
888-512-8154
Grades 5-11
Debate Camp provides summer training programs in public speaking, debate and Model UN for students in grades 5 to 11. Debate Camp is pleased to be hosting its American Overnight Debate Camp on the campus of Bowdoin College, in Brunswick, Maine (known for its exceptional food service among other things) Campers are housed in a supervised dormitory setting and debates and activities take place throughout the college campus. Boston area campers can take advantage of to / from supervised train travel on Amtrack’s BostonMaine Downeaster Train; full details on our website.
http://www.debatecamp.com/boston
DEDHAM COUNTRY DAY CAMP (DEDHAM)
Day Camp
781-320-1832
Ages: 3-15
At Dedham Country Day Camp, we believe that summer time should reinforce the wonders of being a child, and the enduring joy of friendship. Programs for children ages 3-entering 10th grade. Each week is a different theme! Check out our website for weekly themes. Entertainment brought in each week.
LITs and CITs enjoy being a combination of camper and counselor. It’s the best of both worlds for your middle and high schoolers.
https://www.dedhamcountryday. org/summer-camp/
EDGE ON SCIENCE (BEVERLY,
NEWTON)
Day Camp
(315) 773-5673
Ages 8-17
Immerse your child in one or more week-long STEM experiences,
30 Boston Parents Paper | April 2023
April 2023 | BostonParentsPaper.com 31 Wh mer lasts a lifetime. EverwoodDayCamp.com 781-694-5829 Voted Best Day Camp In MA! Best Camp For Pre-K Best Camp for TEENS Sharon, MA Transportation Available
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
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
ENVISION BY WORLDSTRIDES (WALTHAM, WELLESLEY)
Day, Overnight & Virtual Options
866-858-5323
Ages 6-18
Whether your child dreams of innovating in technology, medicine, science, or shaping the future as a leader or activist, the perfect next step is to explore their future with a WorldStrides Career Exploration program. These programs offer students life-changing moments that will provide new ways to learn and grow while preparing them for a new and exciting career.
https://discover.worldstrides.com/ team-activation-boston/
EVERWOOD DAY CAMP (SHARON)
Day Camp
781-694-5829
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
EXPLO SUMMER PROGRAMS (WELLESLEY, WESTON, BRONXVILLE, NY)
Overnight Camp
781-762-7400
Ages 8-18
For almost 50 years, EXPLO has been thoughtfully designing summer academic enrichment programs for rising grades 4-12 that provide endless opportunities for exploration. EXPLO has been part of 88,000 students’ journeys as they find their strengths, discover new interests, make lifelong friendships with peers from around the globe, and have plenty of fun every step of the way.
EXPLO isn’t like summer camp — but it isn’t like school, either. Each day is designed to let students try different things, develop their strengths, and build new skills. On any given day, students could be defending their castle under siege, designing their own clothing line, and investigating a crime scene — all before lunch. And since students structure their own day, they get to choose the courses and electives they take and the activities and trips they participate in.
Each day at EXPLO is designed to encourage learners to dive right into new and different subjects and activities to develop their strengths and build new skills — surprising themselves with all that they’re capable of.
https://explo.org/summer-programs
FLEUR DE LIS CAMP (FITZWILLIAM, NH)
Overnight Camp
603-585-7751
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
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/
GREATER BOSTON STAGE COMPANY SUMMER FESTIVAL (STONEHAM)
Day Camp
781-587-7900
Grades 1-12 (Entering) Summer is just around the corner and we could not possibly be more excited for another amazing Summer Festival. Why is the Summer Festival one of our favorite times of the year and why should you be rushing to register right now? Good questions!
The Summer Festival is the perfect time for us in The Young Company to spread our belief that “Good Theatre Makes Good People!” What does that mean? Another Good Question!
We have stacked our Summer Festival with the greatest theatre educators in the Boston area who all know the truly magnificent impact that theatre education has on individuals, and in turn, their communities. We work every day to push our students to the next level in singing, dancing, and acting.
Even more, we create a space where performers develop agency, communication, and leadership skills that will help them succeed both as artists, and more importantly, active community members.
On top of all of this, we also feel that Summer is a time to have fun! Creating theatre and connecting with audiences brings an unmatched level of joy that every human should experience. Whether you’ve been doing theatre
32 Boston Parents Paper | April 2023
April 2023 | BostonParentsPaper.com 33 Bard College at SIMON'S ROCK Great Barrington, Massachusetts 1-800-235-7186 | simons-rock.edu JULY 16-29, 2023 curiosity at SIMON ' S ROCK CAMP + + + LEARN MORE & REGISTER TODAY! curiositycamp@simons-rock.edu
your entire life or this will be your first time on stage, the Summer Festival has something new and exciting for you.
We have students returning for their 10th (or more!) Summer Festival. If that isn’t a sign that we are doing something wonderful, we don’t know what is.
Hope to see you soon!
https://www.greaterbostonstage.org
ICODE OF WELLESLEY STEAM SUMMER PROGRAMS (WELLESLEY)
Day Camp & Programs
781-291-3131
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 • ges 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/
KINGSLEY MONTESSORISUMMER IN THE CITY (BOSTON)
Day Camp
617-226-4929 • Ages 3-12
Summer in the City is a day camp running June 26 through August 4. The Early Childhood Program, for rising Preschool and Kindergarten students, has full and half day options in two-week sessions. The Elementary Program, for rising First through Sixth Grade students, offers full day one-week sessions. Explore all that Boston has to offer! No Montessori experience required.
https://www.kingsley.org/auxiliaryprograms/summer-in-the-city
LINX CAMPS (WELLESLEY)
Day Camp
781-235-3210
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
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, & VIRTUAL)
Day and Virtual Programs
800-818-3434
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
“A transformative week - especially for a beginner”
“A venue where their intelligence is encouraged in a fun way”
26 -
28
Boston Parents Paper | April 2023
“It offers something that presumes the natural inquisitiveness of kids and empowers them”
JUNE
JULY
WEST ROXBURY,
w w w . d e b a t e c a m p . c o m DAY CAMPS OVERNIGHT CAMP BOWDOIN COLLEGE - BRUNSWICK, ME JULY 23 - 29 BOWDOIN COLLEGE, BRUNSWICK, ME
LONGWOOD , DANVERS
April 2023 | BostonParentsPaper.com 35 ymcaboston.org/camps YMCA OF GREATER BOSTON NOW ENROLLING CAMPERS! FIND YOUR ADVENTURE. FIND YOUR Y. Summer fun for campers 3 to 15 years old www.dedhamcountryday.org/camp • Traditional Day Camp • Leader in Training (LIT) • Counselor in Training (CIT)
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/
MILTON ART CENTER SUMMER CAMP (MILTON)
Day Camp
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
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 3 - 15, 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
ORCHARD HILL EQUESTRIAN CENTER HORSEBACK RIDING CAMP (BERLIN)
Day Camp
781-915-7533
Ages 7-13
Our Summer horse camp is open to girls and boys ages 7 - 13. Campers team up with one of the farm’s gentle school horses or ponies and learn to care for their equine
partner while socializing with other “horse-loving” kids.
https://www.
orchardhillequestriancenter.com/ horseback-riding-camp/
PASSPORT SUMMER CAMP AT CAMBRIDGE MONTESSORI (CAMBRIDGE)
Day Camp
617-308-9458
Age 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.
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!
Our Summer Passport program welcomes children from over 20 countries and brings together friends from all over the globe.
Toddler/Primary program for ages 18 months to 5 years old, elementary age 6 years-11 years old.
https://www.cambridgemontessori. org/passport-extended-programs/ passport-summer-camp
36 Boston Parents Paper | April 2023
April 2023 | BostonParentsPaper.com 37 Learn what you love Love what you learn Acera School STEAM Camps aceraschool org/summer-camps Full and half-day camps for kids 5+ Register Today Pedalheads.com Summer Bike Camps For Kids!
PEDALHEADS (BELMONT, BOSTON, BROOKLINE, NEWTON)
Day Camp
888-886-6464
Ages 2-12
Pedalheads is a learn-to-ride week-long summer bike camp for kids 2 and up, best known for helping kids get off of training wheels and riding on their own. We combine a fun group setting with specialized equipment, tailored cycling curriculum, and incredible instructors to build confidence and get some of the most tentative kids biking on their own. We also offer advanced bike options that focus on road safety.
https://www.pedalheads.com/
PENGUIN CODING SUMMER PROGRAMS (ACTON, LEXINGTON, NEWTON)
Day Camp and Virtual Programs
781-277-2755
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 13-18. 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
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
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
38 Boston Parents Paper | April 2023
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
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
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/
RL SUMMER (WEST ROXBURY)
Day Camp
617-477-6327
Ages 6-16
About RL Summer
Summer at Roxbury Latin means growth and skill-building, fun and excitement, making new friends and doing what you love. With more
than a dozen athletic and academic enrichment programs to choose from, students from in and around Boston can spend summer days honing skills in a favorite sport, learning how to code, testing their abilities in speech and debate, or becoming more prepared for standardized tests.
Boys and girls—ages 6 through 16—can create and investigate, learn new skills, or further develop their interests on Roxbury Latin’s beautiful and intimate 117acre campus, in West Roxbury, Massachusetts. RL Summer programs are conducted with the same expertise and dedication that the school offers its own students throughout the academic year.
https://www.rlsummer.org/
STEVE & KATE’S CAMP (BOSTON & SOMERVILLE)
Day Camp
Ages 4-12
Campers (ages 4-12) choose minute to minute from a variety of activities including, sewing, stop-motion animation, music, performing arts, makers crafts, bread making, and more. They’ll decide what they want to do, and for how long–developing confidence and learning to trust their judgment along the way. Open at 3 Locations This Summer in Boston and Somerville.
https://steveandkatescamp.com
SUMMER SAGE (FOXBURO)
Day Camp
508-543-9619
Grades PK-8
Summer Sage 2023 provides five weeks (Monday, June 26-Friday, July 28) of wide-ranging programs in STEAM, sports, social and emotional learning, and more! Students have the option to attend morning, afternoon, or full-day sessions, with before and after care available. There’s no other summer program like it!
We bring together talented Sage faculty and staff, alumni, and local community members to lead our exciting workshops. These educators will be offering more than 75 courses this summer that take advantage of Sage’s 15-acre campus, academic and athletic facilities, and visual and performing arts spaces.
Summer Sage program sizes are kept smaller than those at other summer camps so students can get the most out of each week. Courses are filling up quickly, so now’s the time to make sure your child doesn’t miss this opportunity for connection and discovery this summer!
https://sageschool.org/program/ summer-sage/
SUMMER AT TOBIN (NATICK)
508-650-1561
Age or Grade Range: Ages 4-10 Our summer program is designed for families looking for a reliable, nurturing place for their kids to spend time in the summer – with a lot of fun field trips and activities!
http://www.tobinafterschool.org/ learning/summer-at-tobin/
SUMMER AT TOBIN BEAUDET (NEEDHAM)
781-444-5444
Age or Grade Range: Ages 2.9-5
Full days of summer fun with flexible two week sessions, experienced educators, lots of outside time, daily water play, theme weeks and more! Schedule options include 7:30- 6, 7:30-3:15 and 9am-3:15pm.
http://tobinbeaudet.com/programs/ summer/
SUMMER IN FRENCH (BOSTON) Day Program
617-912-0400
Ages 3-17
provides students fun and unique opportunities to explore meaningful facets of our complex and multilingual world. Each day in our immersive program, students build their confidence in French, make friends and develop new skills for their future.
https://frenchlibrary.org/summerin-french/
TABOR SUMMER CAMP (MARION)
Day Camp
508-291-8342
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
April 2023 | BostonParentsPaper.com 39
people ages 6-17 on our beautiful seaside campus. http://taborsummer.org/
WELLESLEY THEATRE PROJECT (WELLESLEY)
Day Camp
781-235-1550
Ages 5-18
Wellesley Theatre Project is a nationally recognized, award winning, nonprofit arts accademy offering year round classes and productions for students 2nd through 12th grade. Join us this summer for a wide range of summer camps for both beginners and experienced stage performers – including Production Camps: Disney’s Frozen, Kids, Disney’s Newsies, and Guys and Dolls. From audition preparation to Opening Night, all students will learn what it takes to produce a stage show. Each camp will conclude with performances of a fully realized production professionally produced and ticketed for the public As well as specialty one week camps including – Audition Prep: Acting
Intensive, Head to Hogwarts!, Fractured Fairy Tales, Discover Disney!, From Page To Stage: Yay Unicorns, From Page To Stage: Quack-A-Doodle-Moo!, From Page To Stage: Yay More Unicorns!, From Page to Stage: Wild Safari, and From Page to Stage: Splash! Pirates and Mermaids. https://www. wellesleytheatreproject.org/ summer-camps
YMCA CAMP FRANK A. DAY (EAST BROOKFIELD)
Overnight Camp
508-867-3780
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
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/
40 Boston Parents Paper | April 2023
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.
April 2023 | BostonParentsPaper.com 41
Give your child the gift of a transformational experience at Andover this summer!
Visit andover.edu/summer for more information on all Andover Summer programs.
42 Boston Parents Paper | April 2023 Comprehensive Diagnostic Assessments Behavioral Consultation Functional Behavior Assessment Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Social Clubs Academic Tutoring Home-Based ABA Programs Introducing the BOSTON ABCS, a reliable, criterion-referenced test for young children Applied Behavioral Learning Services Evidence-based success ABLS graphics: visper.com 617.467.4136 ablspartners.org Celebrating 20 years of service to the Autism community 110 Cedar Street, Wellesley, MA 02481 TM