Boston Parent April 2024

Bullying Prevention Depends on Parents, Coaches

Gifted Girls Hiding in Plain Sight

How to Pick the Best Camp for Your Child

WHICH TYPE OF CAMP WOULD BEST SUIT YOUR CHILD?

SENDING TEENS TO SUMMER CAMP

WHAT DO YOU ENVISION FOR YOUR CHILD’S CAMP EXPERIENCE IS YOUR CHILD READY FOR OVERNIGHT CAMP?

SPECIAL NEEDS

Enjoy the Adventure with Your Child

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“Each

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of our family.” “Our team’s attention to detail is uncompromising…”

VOTE for your Favs!

Our 2024 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.BostonParents Paper.com to vote for your favorites today. We’ll publish the winners in our annual Family Favorites publication this summer.

2024 Northeast Camp & Summer Program Guide

The 2024 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 & Summer Program Guide.

2024 Virtual Camp & Summer Program Expo Series

No Summer Camp Fairs? No Problem!

Boston Parent offers a virtual Camp Expo Flip Book complete with information and video for over 75 camp and summer programs. This flip book offers the best summer information fill your needs and is updated monthly. Register today to receive the next Camp Expo Flip Book on March 24. To register go to this site: https://bostonparentspaper. com/greater-bostonsummer-camp-expo/

“We LOVE Tender Loving Care. The teachers are like family. They care for each child like their own family. They are knowledgeable in early childhood education as well as the gentle care for infants, toddlers and preschoolers!!”

Travel with Autism

Tips for Getting to and Enjoying the Adventure with Your Child

By Jean Abernathy

For a long time, traveling with my autistic son was a traumatic experience for the whole family. My anxiety was through the roof! Many times, we almost canceled the trip because it just wasn’t worth it! The tantrums, the screaming, the sabotage of all of my packing and planning made me ask myself, why go? Before we had children, my husband and I loved to travel the world. Giving it up would be a big loss for us. After one particular 12-hour flight, when my then 18-month-old son

screamed and cried for 11 hours of it, I was ready to quit travel until my son got older. As a family and after adding another child, we figured out what worked for us. Over time, I’ve learned some tricks that really help, and I’d love to share them hoping you can find a way to make it work for you.

As a mom, travel is already hard between planning and organization, keeping everyone happy, fed, and clean. Modern Family’s Claire Dunphy said of a family trip to

FOR MORE THAN 65 YEARS, MAY INSTITUTE HAS PROVIDED EXCEPTIONAL CARE TO CHILDREN WITH AUTISM AND OTHER SPECIAL NEEDS.

OUR SERVICES ARE BASED ON APPLIED BEHAVIOR ANALYSIS (ABA):

Special education schools for autism and developmental disabilities

Center-based services for toddlers and young children

Early intervention services

Home-based services

Hawaii,”I’m a mom traveling with her kids. For me, this is not a vacation. It’s a business trip.” Then, add on traveling with a child with autism. Yes, it can be rough! I wanted to find a way to have travel be a part of our family bonding. It took some hard trips to learn what works and what doesn’t. Twice, I came home from a family trip and booked the next cruise out of our town, solo! The good news is that family travel can be done and enjoyed! Let me share what works for us.

LEADING UP TO THE TRIP

Some children with autism do better with a countdown calendar. Starting a week ahead, you mark each day off and let your child add something to his suitcase. It builds excitement and helps him prepare mentally for the trip. But this tactic is not for all. For my son, this process backfired and made him even more anxious. This made for horrific transition days, the day we left home to get to our destination. However, once we got to our destination, he would be fine. The rest of the family was a total wreck but, he was fine. Eventually, we learned to downplay the trip. As our children got older, we would discuss a destination to gauge interest. My son would never show interest in anything new but would give us clear clues if the trip was a no go. Once the trip was booked, we would tell him the dates. Then, we would drop it. Two weeks out, I give him a reminder. One week out, another reminder to discuss basics, i.e school work to bring, prescriptions to renew, etc. At this point, he may ask where his dog was staying and what activities we had planned. We let him bring up the trip if he wanted to. Sometimes he did, sometimes not. Naturally, conversation at dinner would revolve around the coming trip. He is okay with this. Now that he is older, two days before I give him a packing list. It helps ease his anxiety when we travel to accommodations he is familiar with and avoid bouncing around hotels.

AIR TRAVEL TECHNIQUES

Check Airline & Airport Resources

Always inquire with the airline ahead of time to check policies and special accommodations for kids with

disabilities. Most airlines have ways to help flyers with disabilities and have plans to accommodate people with special requirements. Many airports have special quiet areas to help people decompress if needed. Or, if you have access to an airport lounge, they can be quiet respites. Then, I plan to get to the gate early and speak with the gate agent. Often, but not always, they’ll let you board first. Some airlines now require that you make this request at the front counter. Trust me, it’s a game changer if your child needs it.

Seat Savvy

If your child has a favorite seat (like mine with his window fixation), it is worth paying a bit more for it. Even better, a bulkhead window seat with no seat to kick in front. This made a world of difference in our flights, keeping him calm and fascinated.

Packing the Carry-on

There is a ton of info on what to pack. I’m covering what not to pack in your child’s carry-on. My son’s love for metal Thomas Trains then metal Star Wars battleships stumped many a TSA agent as they went through the scanner. Until he was 14, his Ziplock bag of what felt like 200 battleships went everywhere with us. Still, for some cosmic reason, at age 17, almost every single time, it’s his backpack that gets pulled for additional screening. Now that we are beyond traveling with strollers, car seats and all the gear, we are big fans of not checking luggage, opting for carryon luggage only. But, while you are still in the young kid phase, pack all but one or two metal toys in checked luggage, provided your child will allow for this. Mine did not. If your child has to have toys with him, pack them in a clear bag ,then pull the bag out for security scanning. This will save time and much angst. My son did not like strangers going through his bag and would let them know it.

The “Mom’s Got It Covered” Bag

Aside from what I pack for him, I have my own bag. It’s my magic Mary Poppins bag. Think favorite toy, go-to snacks, water bottle, an extra outfit for him and me (you never know), and even some lollipops for those tough earpopping moments. Don’t forget sanitizing wipes for all airplane surfaces, duct tape to keep the tray table closed when not in use, and plenty of extra diapers. I learned the diaper lesson the hard way when our plane was delayed for six

Summer Program at Gifford

The Gifford School is a coed, therapeutic day school in Weston, MA serving students from 4th grade through high school who have social, emotional, behavioral, and complex learning challenges.

Gifford offers a 20 day summer program, which is an extension of our academic year program; students must be referred by their public school districts.

• Field trips and fun activities both on and off our 27 acre campus.

• Prevent regression in academic, social, and emotional learning.

• High school students have the opportunity to earn money and acquire valuable life and job skills with on-campus jobs.

Scan to watch our Summer Program Video!

www.gifford.org

hours on a flight home. You would think you could buy emergency diapers at an airport! Plus, the all-important iPad, headphones, and charger!

On Board Communication

I make it a point to give the person sitting in front of my child a heads-up of what we are dealing with. I explain that my son has Autism. He usually enjoys flying but can get restless. We will do our best to keep him content and prevent him from kicking your seat during the flight. Please understand that this is hard for him. People are usually very kind and understanding if you are trying to work with your child.

The Reward System

I was initially against bribing, but flights aren’t the usual setting, are they? I reward him with a small treat from my bag if he’s good for a certain period. It’s amazing what a little motivation can do.

Bring Backup

If you find yourself having to travel solo with your special needs child, find someone to come along. Having a buddy to help so you can regroup for five minutes or go to the bathroom on the flight makes a difference. We all need a breather now and then.

YOUR ACCOMMODATIONS

Choose a Rental Over a Hotel

I have more success staying in a place with a kitchen (See Breakfast and Dinners In) and a comfortable place to eat meals and separate bedrooms. Separate bedrooms or a comfortable place for my son to be alone and decompress makes for a much happier situation for the whole family. Also, with separate bedrooms it is easier for him to fall and stay asleep without the noises of others in the room. Sometimes, our family of four can’t avoid a hotel night, nor want to pay for two rooms. These nights are very stressful. It’s hard for all to sleep well. What helps are a small travel fan and a travel headband with wireless earphones to cut down on noise distractions. The more restful sleep my son gets the better it is for all of us.

Familiarity

Part of the fun of travel is to explore new things. For my son, new and unfamiliar places are pure torture. As a parent, I want both of my children to see the world. My son resists this want. Over time, we have discovered that if we go to a familiar base setting for longer durations, my son is better able to handle doing day trips or short three-day trips from the vacation. Plus, leading up to the trip is not so traumatic because he knows what to expect and actually looks forward to it.

Breakfast and Dinners In

On days that we are out and about, I try to start the morning with a “normal” breakfast with familiar foods. This normalcy is one less new thing for him to face. Then, after a tiring day of exploring, knowing that a dinner out will end badly, I plan a normal dinner at the place we are staying.

Build-in Down Time

Since the pandemic, I find that both of my children, autistic or not, need more downtime. I use a one-to-one ratio, one day exploring, then the next day of downtime. As the trip goes on, I transition to half day segments recognizing that the longer away from home the more the trip wears on my child.

Be Flexible

Sometimes, things don’t go as planned. Maybe it’s a delay or an overstimulating environment. A backup plan or a quiet corner for meltdowns can be a lifesaver. Sometimes, it might mean cutting a trip short for the sanity of the family, and that’s okay.

DO A POST MORTEM

Once you’re back home and settled, think about what worked and what didn’t. Write it down! Consider creating a “How to Travel” journal. Take note of items you wished you had packed and items that should have stayed home. List situations when everything worked out and why, as well as what didn’t and possible ways to do things differently next time. Plus, check in with yourself. As moms, we tend to focus on everyone else. How did you enjoy the trip? Are you rested or exhausted? Did this trip live up to what you imagined? What could you do differently to make future travel better for you and all of your family? The focus of the journal is to document how a trip went as opposed to the trip itself, so that next time your travel experience will be even better. Get beyond family travel being a relocation. Enjoy an actual vacation.

Traveling with our special kiddos take extra work, but the memories are worth it. We’ve got this, mama! 

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Gifted Girls Hiding in Plain Sight

By Courtney Dickinson

In speaking with the hundreds of parents I’ve met at education presentations, a consistent message I hear is “my son really needs something more challenging, but my daughter is doing just fine.”

Yet, ongoing research and data tell us that if one child in a family needs gifted education services, there is significant chance they all do. So, why are girls so often overlooked? Why are our gifted girls hiding in plain sight?

There is surprisingly little research on this, but we do know that girls begin puberty ahead of their same age male peers, and that social and emotional skills of most girls are considered to be about two years ahead of their counterparts. With these advanced social skills; girls are often awash in empathy and perspective taking; they see the signs that others may not be ready for what they are ready for intellectually, and so they throttle back and wait.

Instead of embracing their curiosity — asking the question, tackling an experiment, building a prototype of something they’ve imagined — they will step back to blend in. They will downplay their grades or achievements so as to not hurt their friends.

For decades there has been awareness about the tension girls in particular feel, the pull between conformity and achievement. The wisdom in an older piece from the Davidson Institute about gifted girls still rings true on most fronts. Does the following resonate with what you see now, or experienced yourself while growing up?

Gifted girls often face a range of social pressures in schools, causing them to shift priorities.

Join us at Acera’s free event, Girls in STEM on Saturday, May 18th from 10AM to 12PM. To learn more, visit aceraschool.org

In school, the desire for friends, a disinclination to stand out, fear of ridicule, and the need for acceptance often compel gifted girls to make their abilities appear ordinary or even nonexistent.

Signs of giftedness include deep intellectual curiosity, rapid application of ideas across subject areas, and drive to think in complex ways. For gifted

In school, the desire for friends, a disinclination to stand out, fear of ridicule, and the need for acceptance often compel gifted girls to make their abilities appear ordinary or even nonexistent.

girls, however, these attributes can be hidden because girls often:

• Purposely hold back because of a need to please others

• Have acute sensitivity

• Have a heightened fear of failure

• Strive for perfectionism, leading to anxiety

• Drive for friendships and fitting in, which can trod over curiosity to learn, express and grow

All of these features tend to heighten for girls around grades 5 and 6, a time of unique risk that a girl, when entering adolescence, can have plummeting confidence and lose a sense of themselves. Myriad reasons help explain this, most notably the fact that this age can often become a crossroads for a gifted girl. Conform and follow the path laid before you in a conventional way, or become yourself and live into your unique gifts, potential, and capacities for creativity and leadership?

This moment of vulnerability is a crucial opportunity for parents and educators to steward girls’ growth

through middle school, helping her enter high school with enduring intrinsic motivation, a strong sense of self, and confidence to learn and flourish.

How?

Help your daughter find ways to connect with other girls who share her interests and who may be a good intellectual and creative match.

Watch for decreasing interest in a topic that once fascinated and challenged her, and (gently) initiate a conversation to understand why.

Consider starting (or encouraging your daughter to join) a Destination Imagination team, which provides fun STEAM challenges.

Self advocacy is key! Encourage her to speak up for herself for new class placements or to initiate an after school club. If her teachers and school are unresponsive, advocate on her behalf. She’ll be empowered knowing you understand and believe in her.

Engage in the process of choosing electives. Encourage her to share

the courses available to her and brainstorm on which ones sound the most interesting, challenging, and fun.

Find a school that is a great fit for your daughter. Find one that provides individualized programming that embraces her interests, challenges her curiosity, and gives her that deeper and wider runway for learning.

There are a wealth of after school classes and clubs in Greater Boston, offering instruction in coding, game design, science, the arts, and more, many offering full or partial scholarships. These settings can be safe spaces for girls to be unlock their curiosity, as their classmates will share their passion for the subject matter.

March 8th is International Women’s Day; acknowledge it in a way that celebrates and empowers the girls in your life! 

Courtney Dickinson is Founder and Head of School at Acera: The Massachusetts School of Science, Creativity and Leadership.

Depends on Parents, Coaches

By Ju’Riese Colón, CEO, U.S. Center for SafeSport

WE’VE ALL SEEN IT.

Name-calling, ridiculing, spreading rumors, or even hitting. But how do you tell the difference between bullying and behavior that’s just … mean?

It can be a challenge, especially considering the fact that most youth don’t tell an adult when they’ve been bullied. It’s up to parents to recognize and identify the behavior and respond accordingly.

At the U.S. Center for SafeSport, our goal is to make every athlete feel safe, supported, and strengthened. We believe that youth sports should be fun and confidence-boosting, but bullying can seriously impact an athlete’s physical and mental health. The sooner we recognize and respond to bullying behavior, the sooner caring and engaged parents and coaches can foster supportive environments to help athletes thrive on and off the field.

So, what is bullying? And how do we spot it – and stop it?

What does bullying look like?

Bullying might not be easy to pinpoint, but that doesn’t mean it doesn’t happen. In fact, according to one study by the U.S. Department of Education and U.S. Department of Justice, about 20% of students ages 12-18 experienced bullying nationwide. The key to stopping it is knowing what bullying looks like in action.

Maybe you’ve seen two athletes get into a heated argument after a game or start throwing punches in the locker room. While bullying and conflict can look similar, bullying behavior is defined as repeated or severe aggressive behaviors directed at a minor. And it comes in many forms, from verbal bullying to physical bullying to social or even sexual bullying and more.

Taunting, spitting at one another, or actively excluding someone from a team event can be hurtful in the moment, but when bullying behaviors are repeated or severe they can have serious long-lasting impacts on those being targeted.

We’ve heard of examples of athletes spreading emotionally damaging rumors about another athlete online, or instances in which an athlete was threatened with violence or physically intimidated until they quit the team. And it’s well known that athletes who bully often zero in on those who have less social power than they do, focusing on factors like weight, disability, physical appearance, race, and/or gender identity.

Intervening early makes a difference.

Whether you’re on the court coaching your child’s team or you’re on the sidelines handing out orange slices, parents and coaches serve as the eyes and ears of the team. You are positioned to recognize and respond to inappropriate behavior early before it escalates into something more.

HERE ARE 5 ACTIONS YOU CAN TAKE:

1

Set behavioral expectations upfront. If you’re a parent or coach, let your child or the athletes on your team know what behaviors are acceptable and unacceptable. Allow the athletes to be a part of this process, letting them co-create the norms for team behavior.

2Model appropriate and respectful behavior. Treat every athlete on the team with equity, respect, and kindness and use language that is intentionally supportive.

3Promote team cohesion and bonding. Use encouragement and positive feedback to improve camaraderie, boosting unity and morale.

4Hold athletes accountable to expectations and policies. Make sure athletes know that they’ll be held accountable for their actions. Be sure to always promote accountability, not punishment, and outwardly reward inclusive behavior.

5Respond to misconduct immediately and consistently. When misconduct occurs, address it immediately. Remember that if you address one incident but ignore another, you’re sending mixed messages about what behaviors are acceptable. You can break a pattern before it takes hold.

Sports should be safe, welcoming spaces where every athlete feels like they belong. As a parent or youth coach, you have the power to foster a culture of respect and inclusion.

The U.S. Center for SafeSport provides educational resources for parents and coaches to help make sure young athletes feel safe. Our Bullying Prevention Handbook for coaches of Minor Athletes provides useful tools and tactics to create the most enriching sport experience possible for athletes. For more tools to help you recognize, prevent, and respond to abuse in sport, visit uscenterforsafesport.org/ abuse-prevention-resources. 

PHOTO BY THE U.S. CENTER FOR SAFESPORT

Ju’Riese Colón is the Chief Executive Officer of the U.S. Center for SafeSport, the nation’s only nonprofit organization committed to ending all forms of abuse in sport. As CEO, Ju’Riese leads the strategic vision and direction of the organization to ensure every athlete is safe, supported, and strengthened through support. An experienced child advocate who serves as an expert on issues related to child safety, Ju’Riese has led prevention and outreach initiatives with youth-serving organizations serving families, educators, law enforcement, and diverse communities. She earned bachelor’s degrees in criminal justice and Spanish from Virginia Commonwealth University.

If you or someone you know has experienced abuse or misconduct by a participant of the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Movement, you can make a report to the U.S.

HOW TO PICK THE Best Camp FOR YOUR CHILD

IN NEW ENGLAND, WE’RE INCREDIBLY FORTUNATE BECAUSE WE HAVE AN ABUNDANCE of summer camps for our children to choose from. Whether you’re looking for a day or sleepaway camp, one that focuses on the performing arts, science, or whatever else your child is passionate about, it more than likely exists in our region.

Which Type of Camp Would Best Suit the Needs and Interests of Your Child?

The opportunities that summer camp provides are endless: the ability to try new things, the chance to make new friends, and the prospect of gaining independence are just a few.

Consider the possibilities:

DAY CAMPS typically serve children ages 3-15. Session lengths usually vary from one to eight weeks. Some camps offer up to ten weeks of programming, before and after camp programs are offered for an additional fee at some day camps.

OVERNIGHT (also called Resident or Sleepaway) Camps usually serve children ages 6-18. Campers stay at camp for one to eight weeks, depending on the camp’s session length.

GENERAL CAMPS offer a broad range of activities. Many allow campers to focus on one or a few areas while encouraging them to try a variety of others. It is sometimes possible to explore an activity or interest in depth within the context of the whole program.

TRIP & TRAVEL CAMPS involve outdoor exploration through active sports like biking, hiking, climbing, and canoeing. Campers spend most of their time traveling and preparing to travel.

The only downside to having so many options is that it can feel like an exhausting search to find the right fit for your kids. We want them to be happy. We want them to feel comfortable. And, most of all, we want them to be safe. But how does a parent know they are making the right choice? Read on to find a wide range of information that will answer your checklist of questions regarding how to best decipher the information in all of those brochures and how to make the most of an informational visit. You’ll have better peace of mind, and chances are, your kids will have an incredible summer.

BE PREPARED

Before you start scheduling camp interviews, research the options that appeal most to your family, then weigh the pros and cons of each (you can even grade them on a points system if you like). After you’ve compiled a list in order of interest, start eliminating some. You don’t want to drive yourself crazy going on interviews for camps that aren’t all that appealing to you. It’s a waste of your time and theirs. Once you’ve ruled

SPECIALTY CAMPS are based in day or resident settings. Popular options for specialization include horseback riding, the arts, sports, computers, or travel. Programming revolves around intensive exposure to the specialty area.

CAMPS FOR SPECIAL POPULATIONS serve specific clientele like children or adults with particular medical conditions, disabilities, or special needs. Some camps focus on campers who share specific diagnoses, while others are geared to meet a broader array of needs at any time.

RELIGIOUSLY AFFILIATED CAMPS offer religious education formally and informally. Review materials carefully for explanations of how religion influences a camp’s culture to find one with the balance that best matches your family’s values and beliefs.

FAMILY CAMP SESSIONS include family members of all ages, from grandparents to infants. Accommodations vary, as do program options and session length. The focus is on being together as a family—to learn, to relax, and to enjoy new experiences and adventures.

out camps that don’t meet your essential search criteria or expectations, begin exploring the details of each option you like. Sometimes, the filtering process yields too many camps to interview personally; sometimes, it doesn’t yield enough. Adjust key variables, such as location and session length, to narrow or expand the number of options on the results page. Use the results page to go directly to camp websites.

GET ORGANIZED

Camp interviews may feel tedious at times, depending on how many you plan on talking to. Still, they are necessary in determining how your child might fit into the environment. Go into each interview armed with knowledge of your pros and cons so that you have your questions firmly planted in your mind. How does the camp convey who they are and reflect the world they’ve created exclusively for a child’s benefit? Camp seekers can learn much from a close look at camp websites, brochures, photos, videos, FAQs, newsletters, social media, and camper or parent testimonials. Many camp

websites are a gateway to most camp information on this list, from video content to downloadable brochures and forms, all reflecting the camp’s culture.

Camps are much more than lists of activities they offer; they are vibrant educational communities – and no two are exactly alike. There is probably not just one perfect camp for your child. More than one camp may turn out to be a great fit, given your search criteria, so the interviewing stage will most likely factor into your final decision and help you pinpoint the camp. So, how do you decide between two (or a few camps) with comparable activities, locations, schedules, amenities, and prices?

Enough research will provide answers to your questions without you having to utter a single word. Camps try to anticipate what families need to know and provide this information online. You’ll want to use interview time to ask questions that haven’t already been answered – questions that explore the fit for your child.

Are you running low on time? Interviews with some camp head honchos may already be available online. You can also consult with friends who’ve previously met with the camp for information you never even realized you might want. Look for an interview with the example,; you might see photos on the website or Facebook showing the salad bar or a cabin group sitting around the table with food served family-style. This might spark a question about camp food and how your child’s dietary needs can be met. Or, combing through the part of a website developed exclusively for parents of overnight campers might enable you to understand the camp’s plan and suggestions for communicating with your camper. Perhaps reading the director’s blog from last summer or looking at newsletters might give you insight into the camp’s philosophy and culture.

BE YOUR CHILD’S BEST ADVOCATE

You’re the expert on your child! What aspects of his personality might affect the camp fit? (Your child is shy and cautious in new situations, for instance. Or your child needs to have a certain amount of time to practice music, sports or academics.) 

Submitted by American Camp Association, New England.

2024 Session Dates:

2 Week Sessions

June 30 – July 13, 2024

July 14 – July 27, 2024

July 28 – August 10, 2024

4 Week Sessions

June 30 – July 27, 2024

July 14 – August 10, 2024

6 Week Sessions

June 30 – August 10, 2024

One Week Theatre Arts Camps

K - 1st Grade

9:30am - 1pm

June 24 - 28

K - 1st Grade 9:30am - 1pm

July 15 - 19

5th - 9th Grade 9:30am - 3pm

June 24 - 28

2nd - 4th Grade

July 22 - 26 9:30am - 3pm

2nd - 4th Grade

August 5 - 9 9:30am - 3pm

6th - 12th Grade

July 29 - August 2 9:30am - 3pm

K - 1st Grade, 9:30am - 1pm

July 8 - 12

July 29 - August 2

6th - 12th Grade 6pm - 8pm

June 24 - 28

2nd - 6th Grade 9:30am - 3pm

July 22 - 26

5th - 8th Grade

July 29 - August 2 9:30am - 3pm

5th - 8th Grade

August 5 - 9 9:30am - 3pm

Sending Teens to Summer Camp

By Kerrie McLoughlin

Community service camps offer a great chance for teens to make a difference and help out in the community, while also learning lifelong skills.

Summer camp seems the perfect summertime solution for elementaryage kids so they don’t sit around the house bored and so they can make friends and learn new things while having fun. As our children grow out of their “little kid years,” we sometimes forget they still need those kinds of experiences they had when they were younger, just in a different form. Maybe the thought hasn’t crossed your mind that your teen might need to find a fun summer camp. Your teen should be babysitting, mowing lawns, working at the pool, making TikTok videos, hanging around with friends, right? Well, sure! But why not send teens off for a week or more of summer fun and learning this year for a break? Here are some great benefits for teens attending summer camp:

Learning how to give back. Community service camps offer a chance for teens to make a difference and help out in the community while also learning lifelong skills. Kids spend

their days helping others, which feels good to everyone involved. Maybe your teen will learn how to pack food for the homeless, teach kids how to read, or work on a project that will benefit the community, like cleaning up a playground or fixing equipment. Teens could even learn how to paint a house, care for the yard of an older adult who is unable to do so anymore … or even learn how to plan and build a house for someone in need.

Deepening faith. If your teen enjoys church youth groups and activities, a church or other organized religious camp might be just the ticket. The day might begin with a church service, followed by breakfast, then a hike and some time spent in the cabin with friends memorizing Bible verses for a competition at the end of the week. Later, there could be singing songs around a bonfire while roasting s’mores.

Working as a team. Your child will meet kids of different ages and from diverse

INSPIRE YOUR CREATIVITY,ENRICH YOUR SUMMER

Students ages 3–16* will enjoy a fun, inclusive dance experience, foster personal growth, further their training, and create lifelong memories with faculty and friends. Register for one of our summer programs today!

bostonballet.org/bpp-summer

June 27-August 9, 2024

Classes in Math, Science, English, Technology, SAT Prep, and Art For students Grades 6–12 Visit belmonthill.org/summeracademics to learn more!

backgrounds. Learning how to get along and work as a team is a huge life skill that will be reinforced at camp. Some camps even have kids do team-building and trust activities to help them get to know each other.

Standing on their own. Let’s face it. As our kids get older, they start to grow away from us. They are simply preparing to head out on their own and preparing you for that transition by perhaps being a little distant. They are stuck between childhood and adulthood, and it’s a confusing time. Going away to camp for even a short period helps teach independence. A daily structure at camp is already in place, which teens need to follow. Because parents aren’t doing the nagging, teens don’t tune out but rather respect and learn from other adults.

Appreciating everything. Away from screens, a person finds it easier to focus on nature, learning, forming relationships, and more. Being away from parents, kids will come home with a new appreciation for what it takes to be in a family and help run the household.

Working as a team, your child will be meeting kids of different ages and who are from different backgrounds.

Your teen will probably also appreciate funny things like a full pantry that’s open all day, a comfy bed, and privacy!

Teen summer camp has so many benefits that cover all the bases, including physical, social, mental, and spiritual. As for the rest of the summer?

Well, your teen can spend plenty of time doing those odd jobs to help pay for camp next year! 

Kerrie McLoughlin is the seasoned homeschooling mom of five. Find them at TheKerrieShow.com.

Is Your Child Ready

Day Camp or Overnight Camp for Overnight Camp?

Deciding between day camp or residential (overnight) camp is one piece of the decision for families. Camp is an experience and not limited to a singular location. Campers can develop the same skills, both hard and soft, whether they’re sleeping away from home or returning to their own beds each night. While there are differences between day and residential camps, above all else, the most important outcome of this decision is finding the right fit for your camper and family.

This begins with knowing your camper. Many overnight camps begin taking campers between ages 7-9 years old. However, some children may be ready at 6 and some others may not be ready at 10. While there is no clear, linear checklist to determine whether day or overnight camp is right for your child, the questions listed here can help guide that conversation.

These questions can help begin a dialogue with your family about which camp experience is the best fit for you. The choice of day versus residential camp is one important aspect of the overall decision. But even then, make sure you follow up with those potential camps. Talk to directors. Ask for tours. Ask for references. Do your due diligence. In the end both you and the camp want this summer to be the first of many and the beginning of a great relationship. 

• What is the primary reason for wanting to go to camp?

• Has your child ever spent multiple nights sleeping away from home?

• What’s your budget for camp?

• Can your child bath and dress independently?

• How far away from home do you want your child’s camp experience to be?

• What activities are important to your camper’s experience?

Camp & Summer Program Listings

Your Child’s Best summer ever starts here

ACERA (WINCHESTER)

Day Camp

781-729-3489

Ages 5-17

Make 2024 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 project-based 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 10 through August 23, 2024, 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 SCHOOL OF MONTESSORI SUMMER PROGRAM (ANDOVER)

Day Program

978-475-2299

Ages 6-14

ASM’s Summer Programs offer students the opportunity to engage in handson learning related to theater and STEM. Students will learn the value of collaboration through group projects and performances, enhance problemsolving skills, and further develop

practical life skills such as attention to detail, time management and organization.

https://andovermontessori.org

ANDOVER SUMMER AT PHILLIPS ACADEMY (ANDOVER)

Day and Overnight Camp

978-749-4400

Grades 6-12

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 two distinct programs: Summer Session, a 5-week residential experience and Advantage, a two-week offering for students who live within commuting distance to campus. Each are uniquely designed to meet the varying demands on the modern student and family and guaranteed to keep your child academically engaged during the summer months.

https://www.andover.edu/summer

BEMENT SCHOOL SUMMER PROGRAMS (DEERFIELD)

Day Program

413-774-7061

Grades K-8

During the months of June, July, and August, Bement’s campus takes on a new role: summer camp! Every year, students entering kindergarten through grade 8 flock to Bement for a variety of summer program offerings.

Bement is the perfect place for children to have memorable summer adventures as they explore our 30-acre campus finding excitement and friendship around every corner.

https://www.bement.org/community/ summer-programs

BERKLEE

COLLEGE OF MUSIC DAY SESSIONS: ABLE SUMMER MUSIC PROGRAM FOR STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES (BOSTON) Day Program

617-747-2760

Ages 9-12

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.

http://college.berklee.edu/BIAAE/ programs/day-sessions-able

BOSTON BALLET SCHOOL SUMMER CAMPS (BOSTON & NEWTON) Day Camp

617-456-6333

Ages 3-16

Whether your child is beginning his or her dance education journey or preparing for the next stages of training, Boston Ballet School’s summer experience offers a platform for students to elevate their knowledge, refine technique, and discover new genres of the art form.

In a fun, lively, and supportive environment, BBS expert faculty lead students ages 3-16* through a comprehensive dance experience ranging from classical ballet technique to other movement enrichments that spark creativity and imagination.

Students will have a fun, enriching experience, foster personal growth, further their training and create lifelong memories with faculty and friends.

Register today for one of our programs! Financial aid available.

*Age as of August 31, 2024 Inspire your creativity and enrich your summer at Boston Ballet School. Students will have a fun, inclusive dance experience,

foster personal growth, further their training, and create lifelong memories with faculty and friends. Register today. https://www.bostonballet.org/

BOSTON ARCHITECTURAL COLLEGE’S SUMMER ACADEMY PRE-COLLEGE PROGRAM (BOSTON )

Summer Program, Pre-College

617-585-0105

Grades 9-12

Are you a high school student entering grades 9-12 with a passion for design? Or maybe you are curious about architecture, interior design, landscape design, or just want to explore your creative side?

Boston Architectural College’s Summer Academy Pre-College Program launches aspiring designers’ careers by studying with leading professionals around the globe!

To celebrate 50 years of Summer Academy, we are introducing the addition of three focus areas: Architecture, Interior Architecture, or Landscape Architecture. Students can also choose between Not for Credit (NFC), or the Credit Bearing Option (CBO), earning 3 College Credit Hours with the latter.

As an onsite-only optional add-on to Summer Academy, students have the opportunity to attend the Urban Design and Planning Pre-College Fellowship at an additional cost of $2,000. Students who choose to attend both the Summer Academy and the Urban Design and Planning program can enrich their experience by delving into topics such as climate change, social justice, sustainability, and beyond!

https://the-bac.edu/pre-college/ summer-academy

BOSTON LEADERSHIP INSTITUTE (WELLESLEY)

Day Camp, Overnight Camp, Pre-College, Summer Program

781-431-2514

Grades 9-12

Award-Winning STEM programs for teens covering science, engineering, medicine and business. One-week programs allow students with limited

free time the opportunity to dive into a unique STEM subject. These are also an excellent way to mix and match several subjects, helping students decide what they feel most passionate about.

Three-week research programs offer an exclusive opportunity for high school students to study at an advanced level. Whether it’s in the lab, on a field trip to Boston’s famed facilities, or presenting their individual project to the class, BLI three-week students join an elite group who experience college-level academia before graduating from high school.

https://www.bostonleadershipinstitute. com

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

BREAKTHROUGH BASKETBALL CAMPS & TRAINING (MANSFIELD, MIDDLETON, LEXINGTON & SUDBURY)

Day Camp

886-846-7892

Grades 3-12

Multi-day basketball camps for boys and girls of all ages and skill levels.

https://www.breakthroughbasketball. com/camps/

BROOKS SCHOOL SUMMER PROGRAMS (NORTH ANDOVER)

Day and Overnight Camp

978-725-6253

Ages 3-18

New England’s leader in summer programs for over 50 years. We specialize in arts, sports, and enrichment-based camps, all nestled on our 270-acre lakefront campus. Take advantage of full-day programming and transportation options. Lunch is included.

Embark on a summer of unparalleled growth and adventure at Brooks School Summer Programs, where tradition seamlessly meets excellence. With over five decades of unwavering dedication and innovation, we are the premier choice for individuals of all ages and interests. We’re more than a summer camp; we are a dynamic community committed to empowering children with skills for a successful future – fostering self-confidence, social finesse, and leadership capabilities.

Join us for an unforgettable experience that goes beyond the ordinary. Our offerings include the flagship day camp, set against the sprawling 270-acre Brooks School campus. Led by expertly trained group counselors, young adventurers explore a meticulously curated itinerary featuring 16 diverse activities. For those drawn to the arts, Stages & Studios awaits, offering a gateway to a world of creativity for newcomers and seasoned performers alike.

Choose purpose-driven programs that will leave a lasting imprint. Our passionate team of youth development professionals ensures a memorable and enriching journey. At Brooks School, we don’t just promise memories; we deliver growth and lasting impact.

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

CAMP HALE (SANDWICH, NH)

Overnight Camp

617-375-8150

Ages 5-17

Camp Hale offers youth the

opportunity to experience a sleepaway camp in the natural beauty of the White Mountains. We provide an affordable multicultural experience, where campers meet and interact with people from diverse backgrounds.

Camp Hale encourages environmental leadership through instilling values, education, and engaging youth in the preservation of our surrounding natural resources.

https://www.uses.org/programs/ camphale/

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/

CAPITOL DEBATE SUMMER CAMPS (BABSON PARK, WALTHAM) Day Camp

800-450-5012

Ages 11-17

Capitol Debate, established in 2006, has been nurturing students at

summer camps to develop debate and public speaking skills, blending personal growth, skill-building, and fun. Our curriculum focuses on creating articulate speakers and skilled debaters. In public speaking, we emphasize voice projection and modulation, articulation, and strategic use of emphasis and pauses for dynamic impact. We also stress the importance of confident body language, including effective eye contact, hand gestures, and postures.

Our training approach includes crafting powerful openings, clearly stating and supporting claims, and enhancing argumentation with evidence. In debate, we focus on cross-examination techniques, refutation skills, crafting persuasive closings, and mastering logical persuasion.

Capitol Debate’s “summer camp first” philosophy ensures a balance of engaging learning with enjoyable teambuilding activities. Students acquire lifelong skills, forge lasting friendships, and appreciate diverse viewpoints. Join us for an enriching summer experience where your child will emerge as a confident, articulate thinker ready to make a meaningful impact.

https://www.capitoldebate.com

CARDIGAN MOUNTAIN SCHOOL SUMMER SESSION (CANAAN,

NH)

Day Camp, Overnight Camp, Summer Programs

603-523-3526

Ages 8-15

The perfect balance between academic enrichment and summertime fun for boys and girls ages 8-15!

https://www.cardigan.org/summer

CODE WIZ - CODING & ROBOTICS FOR KIDS AND TEENS (NEEDHAM, QUINCY, READING, WESTBOROUGH, WESTFORD & VIRTUAL)

Day Camp

800-213-2417

Age: 7-17

Unlock your child’s inner genius this summer at Code Wiz! We offer specialized camps for ages 7-9, 10-12, and 13+, focusing on game development, foundational coding, and physical computing. Kids can delve into Roblox and Minecraft coding, create 2D/3D games in Unity, including Virtual Reality, or explore foundational coding with Scratch, Python, and Java. For hands-on learning, we have LEGO Robotics, 3D Printing, and Circuit Genius with Makey Makey.

Located in Needham, Reading, Westborough, Westford, and Quincy,

MA, our camps are accessible and designed for personalized learning. Embracing a Montessori approach, we offer student-driven, customized paths for both beginners and advanced learners. Our project-based learning ensures children learn coding while actualizing their creative ideas.

Parents praise Code Wiz for igniting passion in coding and building confidence. Our supportive environment, especially empowering for girls in tech, makes learning fun and effective. Join us for a summer where your child can thrive in technology, creativity, and confidence!

https:// thecodewiz.com/ code-wiz-locations

CRS SUMMER - CHARLES RIVER SCHOOL (DOVER) Day Camp

508-785-8250

Age: 2-14

CRS Summer provides fun and enriching programs for kids between the ages of 4 and 14 on our beautiful 16-acre campus. Our renowned Charles River Creative Arts Program features a variety of performing & visual arts along with STEM, traditional day camp sports, nature and more! Campers can also spend time in our outdoor Wetlands lab, on the fields playing games, and in our swimming pool. We also offer weekly Athletic Intensive programs, a Minis

program for caregiver & toddler, and a structured Leadership/ CIT experience. We pride ourselves on creating a warm, inclusive, and supportive environment for all of our campers.

https://www.charlesriverschool.org/ crs-summer

CURIOSITY CAMP AT SIMON’S ROCK (GREAT BARRINGTON)

Overnight Camp

800-235-7186

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/curiositycamp

DANBEE ARTS & DANCE CAMP (HINSDALE)

Day Camp

413-233-4950

Ages: 9-15

Danbee Arts and Dance Camp (DADC) is the best of both worlds for girls who want a traditional summer camp experience while also pursuing their passion for fine arts or dance. We offer 1-week or 2-week programs for girls entering grades 4-10.

We combine top-tier arts and dance instruction with Camp Danbee’s core philosophy: A place where girls can be their best selves. What results is boundless space for creative exploration and meaningful skill development.

Each girl is empowered to create her own experience based on her unique interests! Girls focus on arts or dance specifically, but they also do everything from swimming and boating to archery and yoga, mixed with lots of community togetherness events in the evenings.

Thanks to our small program size, intimate site and high counselor-tocamper ratio (1:3), each girl receives individual attention and care, and feels deeply connected to our intentionally built community.

https://www.danbeeartsdance.com/

DEBATE CAMP (BOSTON, WEST ROXBURY, BRUNSWICK, ME & PORTSMITH, RI)

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 Boston – Maine

Downeaster Train; full details on our overnight website.

Day Camp

http://www.debatecamp.com/boston Overnight Camp

https://www.debatecamp.com/overnight

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, 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

EINSTEIN’S WORKSHOP SUMMER CAMP (BURLINGTON)

Day Camp

781-202-5645

Grades K-8

A family-friendly maker space where kids create, explore, and enjoy STEAM - Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math. We are dedicated to inspiring children in their exploration of STEAM. We believe that learning is at its best when kids are excited, having fun, and

exploring with other kids.

Our lessons help students explore, grow, and gain confidence in STEAM topics. Our students gain the ability to navigate and succeed in our increasingly tech-driven society.

https://www.einsteinsworkshop.com

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

FENCING WARRIORS SUMMER CAMP BY OLYMPIA FENCING CENTER (CAMBRIDGE)

Day Camp

617-945-9448

Ages 8-13

Competitive fencing is one of the fastest-growing sports in North America, and if you haven’t tried it yet, summertime is the best time to start!

We make learning fencing fun and enjoyable, in a friendly and relaxed atmosphere.

Olympia Fencing Center coaches consist of world-class fencing masters and professional educators with CORI and Safe Sport certifications. Keep active, learn something new, and have fun this summer!

Camps designed for children ages 8-13. All levels are welcome, but no fencing experience is required. Full fencing gear is provided. 9 AM -3 PM, two hours extended pick-up available. https://olympiafencingcenter.com/ summer-camp-for-kids/

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

FUTURES FORGE SKILLS FOR SUCCESS COURSE (CAMBRIDGE)

Overnight Camp, Summer Program, Pre-college

781-715-5492

Ages 15-19

Develop Lifelong Skills to Perform Brilliantly.

A small set of skills and attributes have the highest impact on your future career success—and they are not developed in conventional schooling. Bright, intrepid pioneers come to Futures Forge to rapidly develop these attributes and skills.

Futures Forge’s on-site programs assemble talented, motivated teams of students to grow and learn the skills they need to perform. Our learning approach uses relevant, project-driven, hands-on challenges that prepare students to deliver outstanding work at college, in internships, and as they start their working career.

Are you smart, motivated, voraciously curious, and ready to break the mold to accelerate far ahead of your peers, stand out in college and your job, and excel in all your life? If so, we invite you to join us.

http://www.futuresforge.org

GIRLS WITH IMPACT 5-WEEK SUMMER INTENSIVE (BEVERLY, NEWTON)

Virtual Program

860-266-8633

Ages 14-24

The Girls With Impact 5-Week

Summer Intensive is our summer program designed to empower young women ages 14-24 with essential business and leadership skills in just five weeks.

Starting the weeks of July 8 and July 22, this program delivers an immersive learning experience for young women aged 14-24. Attend two classes a week from anywhere, and empower yourself with essential Business and Leadership skills. Plus, enrolled students get a shot at the Girls With Impact IGNITE Venture Competition, where the top winner receives $1,000 in seed funding for their business idea or educational pursuits. This opportunity is your ticket to a head start in college and your future career. Our proven e-learning approach has paved the way for countless young women’s success, and we’re confident it’ll do the same for you or your student.

https://www.girlswithimpact.org/

GUILD HALL MAKERSPACE (CAMBRIDGE, NATICK, WOBURN)

Day Camp

888-853-8555

Ages 8-18

Your child loves to create. We want to give them a path to success.

The world of the future is going to need a new generation that knows how to speak a more technical language. At Guild Hall, students are learn using industry standard software and tools, allowing them to learn not just the concepts, but the actual application.

Invest in an enriching experience for your young maker.

The best thing that we can do for our kids is to prepare them well for the future that they’ll be living with. We seek to give kids the tools and experiences that they’ll need to be successful later on. The earlier that you can expose kids to useful technologies and a problem solving mindset, the better suited they’ll be in a future related field.

https://www.guildhalllearning.com/ guildhall/camps

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/

LEARNING PREP SCHOOL SUMMER PROGRAM (WEST NEWTON)

Summer Programs

617-965-0764

Grades 5-12

Learning Prep School Summer Program (Extended Year Program referred to as EYP) is a 3-week program running in July. The EYP is designed to maintain progress and prevent substantial regression through structured educational and social experiences.

Middle School: Program components consist of functional academic classes (reading, math, writing, and social communication), social skills groups, art/computers, organizational support, essential speech and OT (as needed), social activities, and weekly, structured field trips.

High School: Program components consist of functional academic classes (reading, math, and writing), essential speech and OT (as needed), social and transitional/independent living skills development, and weekly field trips.

All students entering 12th grade will be participating in a volunteer based work experience, 2 days per week.

http:// www.learningprep.org/program/ summer

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 entering our 60th summer. Maplewood’s number one priority is the safety and supervision of each child. Our caring and highly skilled counselors, specialists and teachers make certain that each child feels supported and included.Maplewood’s number one priority is the safety and supervision of each child. Our caring and highly skilled counselors, specialists and teachers make certain that each child feels supported and included.

All campers who attends Maplewood will be placed with and be cared for by nurturing, energetic individuals.We have been committed to providing the best possible experiences to our Maplewood families over the last 5 decades. We take great pride in providing quality services and great pleasure in playing a part in the growth of our campers.

http://www.maplewoodyearround.com/

MILTON ART CENTER SUMMER CAMP (MILTON)

Day Camp

Ages 3.9-12

Our art teachers engage children’s imaginations and feelings using openended 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 artmaking, 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/ mac-kids-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

NORTHFIELD MOUNT HERMON SUMMER (MOUNT HERMON)

Day Camp, Overnight Camp, Pre-College, Summer Program

413-498-3290

Grades 7-12

Northfield Mount Hermon is a student-centered learning community that opens its doors in the summer to welcome students from across the globe who, like you, want to make the most of their break. You can attend as a day student or stay in our campus dorms, with a five-day boarding option for students who want to go home on weekends. Summer Scholars and English-Language Immersion: Five weeks, June 29 to Aug.

3. Summer Explorers: Three weeks, June 29 to July 20. Summer Enthusiasts: Two weeks, July 21 to Aug. 3 https://www.nmhsummer.org

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-coding-robotics-kids-boston

POWERS MUSIC SCHOOL (BELMONT)

Day Camp & Summer Programs

617-484-4696

Ages 5-11 (CIT 13-15)

This one-week summer day program is geared specifically for students with no or limited music experience, those who have started an instrument but aren’t sure whether they want to stick with it, and those who simply want to have fun exploring music!

Students will have the opportunity to play and learn some basics on instruments from the string, wind, and percussion families while being guided by our highly skilled Powers faculty. They’ll get to sample a variety of instruments before the music programs at their schools begin. It’s also a great chance to meet some other kids their age who are also just starting out on their musical journeys.

https://powersmusic.org/ summer-day-programs/

PUTNEY SCHOOL SUMMER PROGRAMS (PUTNEY, VT)

Day Camp, Overnight Camp, Summer Program 802-387-6297

Ages 13-17

Since 1987, Putney Summer Arts has welcomed a diverse community of young artists and arts professionals to the Putney School campus each summer. Located on a working farm in Southern Vermont, we provide an intimate space where students passionate about the arts receive support and inspiration to focus on furthering their artistic practice and learning. Our teachers are experienced educators and practicing artists, many of whom return year after year. Summer Arts is a community of young artists, arts educators, and professionals who believe teens can be their truest selves through the making of art in an environment where learning collaboratively and taking risks is celebrated.

Each summer we build an intentional community. We create a space that is open and supportive of each student as they dive into their creative work and

navigate their growth as individuals. Dorm living, workshops, daily sing, meals, camping, and all campus-wide events are important parts of our community building. We are committed to supporting the range of experiences and expression that students share at Putney and to creating a community of understanding of one another that enriches all.

To this end, summers at Putney are an experiment in analog living, where students turn in their cell phones and other internet-ready devices at the beginning of the session and commit to being fully present with one another, in the dorms, studios and all other aspects of the program.

https://www.putneyschool.org/summer/

RIVERBEND - SUMMER AT RIVERBEND (NATICK) Day Camp

508-655-7333

Ages 2-9

Our programs, Summer at Riverbend, Adventure Program, and Ready to Rise all help children gain friendships, developmental skills, and set students up for success while having fun!

Summer @ Riverbend- This program is for children 2 years old through rising Kindergarteners. Toddlers and young children will enjoy a variety of agespecific activities including water play, sports, arts and crafts, and music time while creating new friendships!

Adventure Program- This program is for rising first through fifth graders. Our elementary aged children have more independence while they play a wide range of games and sports; hike to Elm Bank and the Natick Waterfall; and go on field trips!

Ready to Rise Ready Program- After a successful 2023 summer at Riverbend, we are excited for the return of Ready to Rise! Ready to Rise is a 4 week summer program for rising first and second graders. The program identifies a small number of key literacy foundation skills that set students up for a successful school year.

https://riverbendschool.org/ our-programs/summer-riverbend/

RIVERVIEW SCHOOL SUMMER PROGRAM (EAST SANDWICH, CAPE COD)

Day & Overnight Camp

508-888-0489 x206

Ages 11-21

Riverview’s Summer Program is an ideal opportunity for students with complex language & learning challenges to maintain academics, improve independent living & executive functioning skills while enjoying social opportunities with peers on Cape Cod.

Summer at Riverview offers programs for three different age groups: Middle School, ages 11-15; High School, ages 14-19; and the Transition Program, GROW (Getting Ready for the Outside World) which serves ages 17-21. https://www.riverviewschool.org/ programs/summer-program

SUMMER IN FRENCH - FRENCH LIBRARY (BOSTON)

Day Program

617-912-0400

Ages 3-17

Providing 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/ summer-in-french/

SUMMER’S EDGE AT CAMP THOREAU (CONCORD)

Day Camp

978-831-1300

Ages 4-14

Summer’s Edge at Camp Thoreau offers day-campers ages 4-14 a chance to unplug and explore 35 acres of woods in beautiful historic Concord Massachusetts, while building character, community, and forging life-long friendships.

Our curriculum includes swim lessons, sports, archery, arts & crafts, outdoor living skills, tennis, theatre, an adventure course, free swim, and a character counts program.

https://www.thoreau.com/camp-thoreau

SUMMER SAGE (FOXBOROUGH)

Day Camp

508-543-9619

Ages 3-12

The Sage School’s Summer Sage is six weeks of discovery. From Monday, June 26 to Friday, August 2, curious and motivated students starting at 3 or 4 years old through Grade 6 will be immersed in exciting activities that cover outdoor adventure, STEAM, sports, social and emotional learning, and so much more!

Choose the perfect fit for your family with our flexible scheduling options, including morning, afternoon, or full-day sessions, complemented by convenient before and after care.

Sage’s passionate teachers, alongside alumni and local community members, will lead dozens of workshops that utilize our campus to the fullest, from the large outdoor space to the athletic facilities and performing art space, and beyond.

With intentionally small group sizes, your child will receive personalized attention, ensuring they soak up every

learning opportunity. But act fast—the summer adventure awaits, and spots are filling up fast!

https://sageschool.org/program/ summer-sage/

TABOR SUMMER CAMP (MARION)

Day Camp

508-291-8342

Ages 6-15

We welcome you to join us at Tabor Summer Camp in a tradition of learning and playing on Tabor’s unique seaside campus. By choosing from our FUN and engaging activities you will create an unforgettable summer. Day programs are available for children ages 6-15.

At Tabor Summer Camp you will enjoy the company of people from all over the US and the world. You will learn new skills, appreciate new activities, and discover new aspects of yourself. A supportive staff will encourage you to explore, grow, and challenge yourself throughout summer. By the program’s

end, you may have made a new friend from another country, mastered sailing, or simply learned to love being part of a community. The offerings of the Tabor Summer Camp will captivate your imagination.

http://taborsummer.org/

TOHKOMEUPOG - CAMP FOR BOYS (MADISON,NH)

Overnight Camp Boys Only

603-367-8362

Grade 2 - 10

Since 1932, Tohkomeupog has offered Outdoor Adventure, Friendship & Opportunity to boys. Our program blends camp-based activities with weekly wilderness excursions. Our facilities are designed such that boys may live comfortably, while immersed in an outdoor setting.

Campers live in screened-in cabins with electricity and private bathrooms. They are supervised by caring staff members, most of who have been campers themselves. Activity options include:

archery, riflery, nature, boating, aquatics, as well as a variety of sports.

Our location at the edge of the White Mountain National Forest enables us to take advantage of incredible wilderness adventures. Campers may choose to explore mountain trails, navigate waterways, climb rock faces, ride bike paths, and campout under the stars.

At Tohkomeupog, we strive to create a safe environment in which a boy can express himself with confidence. Positive attitudes, firm friendships, and friendly spirits encourage this confidence and support each camper’s attempt to challenge personal boundaries.

https://www.tohko.com

WALDORF SCHOOL OF LEXINGTON SUMMER PROGRAM (LEXINGTON)

Day Camp & Summer Program

781-863-1062

Ages 3-11

Our engaging summer program—for the mind, body, and spirit of children age three through rising fifth grade—is open to all families, both within and beyond the WSL community.

Consistent with the mission of WSL, the program aims to cultivate in each child a sense of wonder and curiosity for the natural world, creativity, collaboration with others, and confidence to engage in new experiences. Children enjoy outdoor crafts, singing, dramatic arts, group games, water and naturebased play on our campus and in the nearby meadows and forest. Mixed age groups provide a welcome chance for new and lasting friendships across the grades. And true to the Waldorf ethos, we’ll have fun rain or shine, so keep those rain boots handy!

https://thewaldorfschool.org

WELLESLEY THEATRE PROJECT (WELLESLEY)

Day Camp

781-235-1550

Ages 4-18

Wellesley Theatre Project is an awardwinning arts academy and a Wellesley nonprofit devoted to providing students (PreK – 12th Grade) with the opportunity to study and experience theatre and performing arts through year-round classes, staged productions, workshops and summer camps. Registration is now open – and filling quickly for WTP’s Summer Camps. Sessions include three production camps geared for students between 2nd and 12th grade in addition to one week Theatre Arts camps for Pre K-12th grade.

The production camps are: Annie, Kids (Grades 2-8), Matilda, Jr. (Grades 2-12), and Mean Girls, the Musical (Grades 8-12).

https://www.wellesleytheatreproject.org

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

What Do You Envision for Your Child’s Camp Experience?

electing a camp for your child can be exciting. You know that camp is a wonderful way for your child to develop independence, new skills, and new friends. But now you need to figure out which camp is the right choice. Consider these questions as you go through your search:

What is driving your camp search?

Fun and learning? New experiences and skills? A need for child care? Family tradition? Encouragement from friends?

What are your leading camp search criteria? Which ones are “non-negotiable” and which are “preferences”?

Which of your family’s values should be reflected in the camp philosophy? How religious should it be? How competitive? How diverse? How much camper choice should be given?

What activities or programs interest you and your child? What level of intensity are you looking for? Are you looking for opportunities for your child to try new activities, play, advance current skills, practice, compete or specialize?

What kind of facilities will your camper consider? Discuss electricity, bathrooms, and dining.

What session length, from a few days to eight weeks to, is comfortable for you, your child, and your family’s summer schedule? The most common session lengths are the entire season (seven to eight weeks), half season (three to four), two weeks, and one week.

What camp clientele do you want to consider? There are camps for boys only, girls only, coed, brother/sister, religious groups, underserved populations, and children with special needs.

How far are you willing to commute your child? Is there a good local source, or is it worth driving to a destination camp? 