Boston Parent July 2023

Page 10

THIS SUMMER What Every Child Should Do

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July 2023 | BostonParentsPaper.com 5 6 Family F.Y.I. • Safety in Crowds • Screen Free Summer • Teddy Bear Picnic Day 10 9 Things Every Child Should Do This Summer 13 Your Child’s Ear Health 21 Camps & Summer Programs 10 17 Coaching for the Kids 18 5 Benefits of STEAM Summer Camps 21 Last Minute Summer Camp Options WHAT’S INSIDE Volume 38 • Number 11 Contents JULY 2023 Boston Parent 841 Worcester Street Suite 344 Natick, MA 01760 • 617-522-1515 info@BostonParentsPaper.com Visit us online at BostonParentsPaper.com TM PUBLISHER Parenting Media, Inc ART DIRECTOR | Debbi Murzyn ASSOCIATE EDITOR | Jean Abernathy ADVERTISING SALES Holly Castro, David Morney BostonParentsPaper is published monthly by Parenting Media Inc. Please note that the advertisements in this magazine are paid for, which allows this magazine to be free to the consumer. Copies of BostonParentsPaper are distributed to locations throughout Greater Boston and Eastern Massachusetts. Past issues are available on our website, www. BostonParentsPaper.com Send letters to the editor or article submissions to editor@ bostonparent.com. Submit events to our Family Friendly Calendar at bostonparentspaper.com/event 9 Things Every Child Should Do This Summer

Family F.Y.I.

Block It Out

Did you know that during World War I block parties were held to honor residents of that particular street who had gone off to war? Neighbors would rope off the block and sing patriotic songs while holding a small parade. Today many block parties are held on either Independence Day or Memorial Day – an ideal way to observe two important national holidays.

Safety in Crowds

BRINGING YOUR KIDS TO EXCITING EVENTS OR NEW PLACES CREATES MEMORIES AND FAMILY FUN, YET CROWDS CAN BE OVERWHELMING FOR ANYONE, LET ALONE PARENTS TRYING TO KEEP EYES ON THEIR CHILDREN. Kids love to explore once something has caught their attention, especially without letting their parents know they are going to wander. It only takes a second for a child to separate from the group — causing panic in both children and adults. Even though busy places may make parents anxious, it shouldn’t stop you from enjoying new adventures as a family. The following tips will help your children stay safe and give you peace of mind.

• Teach older children about safety in crowds. Once you arrive to the event/place, point out recognizable landmarks, such as an information desk, large statue, etc., to use as a meet up spot if you were to be separated. Come up with a plan about reaching the designated spot in the event of separation.

• Bring a stroller or wagon for younger children. If you have young kids, keep them physically near you by containing their busy bodies in a stroller or wagon. If they ask to get out, make sure they know they must hold your hand until they get back in.

• Make sure your kids have your phone number. With young children, you can put your name and contact information on a piece of paper in their pocket and let them know when they might need to use it. There are also safety items, like bracelets and temporary tat-

toos, available for sale to be used for identification purposes. With older children, practice reciting your phone number with them prior to the outing until they have it memorized.

• Dress to impress. Plan outfits for your kids that are easily visible and stand out in crowds. For a day time outing, pick bright colors or even matching colors/outfits. For night time, consider clothing articles that light up or buy glow-in-the-dark bracelets to easily spot your child.

• Take a photo before heading out. In the unlikely event your kids get separated, taking their picture will allow you to have the most recent photo of what they look like that day to show employees and police. In times of stress your own memory may get fuzzy, so this will even help you remember key identifiers on your child that day.

• Identify safe people at the event. Point out where employees may be stationed (ticket booth, restaurants, etc.) and show them what their uniform looks like in case they need to ask someone for help.

• Be mindful but relaxed. Being constantly worried about crowds will make the outing less fun for you and the whole family. The best thing you can do is always be prepared in crowds and remember these safety tips!

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Screen Free Summer

Is a screen-free summer possible? Andy Crouch, author of The Tech-Wise Family, offers some tips for reducing the amount of time kids spend with their devices this summer:

• Create a low-technology living space, whether at home or in a vacation dwelling: Fill it with things that reward creativity, skill, and active engagement: board games, books, journals, Legos and other building toys, art supplies, musical instruments, sports equipment and pool or beach toys. Push technology and cheap thrills to the edge.

• Protect the rhythms of life: If an entirely screen-free summer seems daunting, commit to regular tech-free times: one hour each day, one day each week.

• Put devices to bed before you go, and don’t reach for them first thing in the morning. Your children—and you—will have a much more restorative night’s sleep.

• Sing. Crouch is a big advocate of learning to sing well—not in the sense of singing in perfect tune or like a professional, but in the sense of bringing heart, mind, soul, and strength to our singing. Get some songbooks or print out lyrics for family sing-a-longs.

• Spend time outside, in nature, without phones or cameras to hand. If you need a picture, sketch it rather than shoot it.

• Allow time for boredom. Don’t attempt to keep your kids entertained every second. The fact is, the more you entertain children, the more bored they will get! Allow them time to use their imagination and creativity to explore the world around them, instead of filling all their times with screenmediated entertainment.

Crouch, a senior strategist at the John Templeton Foundation,

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wrote about his philosophy on technology and kids in his book, The Tech-WiseFamily:EverydayStepsforPuttingTechnologyinItsProper Place.

Get Cuddly

Fourth of July is very clearly the big winner in July in terms of holidays, but you won’t want to overlook another special occasion – Teddy Bear Picnic Day. The holiday occurs on July 10 and it’s the perfect time to pack up a basket and your child’s favorite stuffies, and head to the park for a little lunch al fresco.

According to a recent survey between $500-$700 is the average kid’s birthday party budget for parents. When you factor in food, goodie bags, activities and decorations, this sounds about right to us. And considering the same survey found that there were approximately 84.3 million kids’ parties in 2021 alone, that’s a whole lot of dough going toward the birthday industry.

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9 Things Every Child Should DoThis Summer

Schools out for summer! It’s summer vacation and the kids are free of the early morning rush, after school homework, and have the freedom to enjoy warm weather and time with family and friends. Many parents find that with this freedom comes the battle to keep their kids off electronics. Here are some screen-free activities every kid should do this summer.

1. Take it outside.

Some kids may enjoy playing outside without having to be pushed out the door but others may need a little encouragement. Instead of simply telling your child to “Go play outside.” Try having them design and build a kite,

then go outside to fly it. You could also do a “Park Tour” by making a list of great parks in your area (ask friends for recommendations) and visit a different park each week. Have a picnic, explore the neighborhood, set up an obstacle course, play with sidewalk chalk, toss a ball, play on the swing set, pick flowers, or take a family bike ride. The possibilities are endless and can be catered to your child’s interests.

2. Be a night owl.

No school means no early mornings. While staying up late every night may not be the best option for young children, allowing a few late nights on lazy summer evenings can be a great way to make memories. Use a projector to watch a movie outdoors, catch fireflies in the backyard, or watch a firework show. There’s something special about a warm summer evening and getting to stay up late. If you are lucky, the kids might even sleep in the next day.

3. Go jump in a lake.

It wouldn’t be summer without some swimming. Take the kids to the lake, pool, sprayground, or set up the sprinkler in the backyard. Nothing feels better than cooling off in the water on a hot summer day.

4. Plant a seed.

A great way to get kids outside is to have them work in the garden. This allows for plenty of outdoor time and can sometimes include daily maintenance for watering, weeding, and checking on the plants. “Grow something!” says Heather Allen of Olathe. “Anything, be it a tree, vegetable, or flower, there is something really rewarding about getting your hands in the dirt, and growing and taking care of a plant.” If you choose to have a vegetable garden, get the kids involved in cooking with ingredients they have helped to grow.

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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.

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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.

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

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5. Family campout.

Camping is a great summer activity to get families outside together. Some families may enjoy taking the tent to a nearby campground and unplugging for a day or two. Other families may prefer camping in the backyard so they are close to the comforts of home. Either way, put away the electronics for the day, roast marshmallows on a campfire, and enjoy the time together outdoors.

6. Complete a project.

Family projects are a great way to keep kids busy. Decide as a group what projects you would like to focus on this summer. Some ideas could include cleaning and remodeling (or rearranging) their bedrooms, collecting food for a food pantry, planting a garden, scrapbooking, reading an entire book series, or running a 5K.

7. Learn something new.

“I tell the kids, the school year is for learning what your teacher wants you to learn and summer is for learning what you want to learn.” says Amy Cameron, mom of three. She suggests making a list of 2-3 topics of interest and plan to pursue them by reading books, attending camps, or doing research. Moms Erin Lorton and Stephanie Loux both suggest keeping a daily journal. “They write a few sentences about their day. It’s always fun to look back on previous years.” says Lorton. “We keep daily math,

reading, and summer writing journals.” says Loux. You can print pictures and create a keepsake for them to look back on.

8. Cool off with a sweet treat.

Ice cream should be on every kid’s summer bucket list. There are countless ice cream and snow cone shops to visit in the metro area. Create a list of new shops or old favorites you would like to visit this summer. You could also try making ice cream or popsicles at home.

9. Get moving.

It’s great to be outside in the summer but sometimes it’s too hot or rainy and you need to find an indoor place to burn off energy. Consider getting the kids moving by visiting an indoor trampoline place, a skating rink, rock climbing facility, or indoor aquatic center. If you want to save money and need some indoor ideas, have a dance party in the house, find Go Noodle or Cosmic Kids Yoga on YouTube, or have a push-up and sit-up challenge.

It’s unrealistic that kids will stay off of their electronics the entire summer, but with these tips you can increase their outdoor and exercise time. They may have so much fun they forget about their tablets. A parent can dream, right?. Y

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.

12 Boston Parents Paper | July 2023

t’s summer! You’ve got your kids’ sunblock, goggles, hats, towels and floaties, plus a lounge chair in a coveted location near the pool. You are the picture of summer perfection … almost.

While we offer you kudos for hauling all of that gear around in style and protecting your family’s skin and eyes, there’s one thing you may have missed on the summer safety checklist – their ears. Often disregarded until it’s too late, proper ear health is especially important during the summer months as kids are swimming up a storm weekly, if not daily.

“Our ears serve an important role and if they’re not healthy, that can lead to conditions that have a significant impact on our lives,” says Jocelyn Joseph, M.D., M.P.H., chief of pediatrics at MIT Medical, Cambridge. “For example, fluid in our ears can cause hearing loss and, as a result, a child’s speech and language development may be delayed. Also, if fluid is persistent, it may lead to chronic ear infections and continued need for antibiotics.”

What Is Swimmer’s Ear?

No one wants to be sidelined at camp because of swimmer’s ear, but the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) report that 2.4 million health care visits are attributed to the infection annually in the United States, resulting in almost half a billion dollars in health care costs.

Swimmer’s ear (or otitis externa if you want to get fancy), specifically, is an infection of the outer ear canal and rears its ugly head when water stays in the ear canal for an extended period of time, offering germs a play area to grow and infect the skin. Common in children who love to swim, symptoms can include itchiness inside the ear, redness and swelling, pain when the ear is tugged and

puss drainage. The moral of the story? You want to avoid this at all costs. Joseph advises parents to prevent swimmer’s ear by wearing a swimming cap or ear plugs, but if your little one simply isn’t having it, drying the ears as best you can after swimming is helpful.

“Use a towel, washcloth or even a blow dryer on the lowest setting,” she says. “Hold the blow dryer about a foot away from the ear.”

Another option, Joseph says, is to use a 1:1 mixture of white vinegar and rubbing alcohol before and after swimming. Pour a teaspoon of the mixture in each ear and let it drain out if, and only if, the eardrum is not ruptured.

In the event your child starts to complain of ear pain, Michael Cohen, M.D., a pediatric otolaryngologist at Massachusetts Eye and Ear, encourages parents to visit an ear, nose and throat (ENT) doctor as soon as possible.

“Swimmer’s ear is treated with ear drops; usually antibiotic or a combination of antibiotic and steroid drops are used,” he explains. “Sometimes the swelling can be so severe that drops cannot get into the ear canal, in which case an ENT doctor can put a small sponge, called a wick, into the canal to help the drops get in further. Several ear cleanings may be necessary to remove infected debris and to facilitate healing.”

Is Your Child Prone to Ear Infections?

If your child swims regularly, particularly in water with high bacterial counts at recreational water venues, chances are he is at increased risk for developing an outer ear infection, but there are other factors to consider as well.

Joseph cites children with small ear canals as an example of kids who are more susceptible to this kind of illness, as well as those who use hearing aids or wear headphones. Even irritants like hairsprays can put a child at increased risk for infection.

When possible, ask pool operators if disinfectant and pH levels

July 2023 | BostonParentsPaper.com 13

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are checked twice a day. If the levels are within a normal range (which is 7.0 – 7.6 for pH), the water is less likely to spread germs.

Middle ear infections (otitis media with effusion is the technical term) is when fluid builds up in the middle ear and doesn’t offer any signs of acute infection like pain, pus or fever. According to the CDC, these infections can be caused by viral upper respiratory infections, allergies or exposure to irritants such as cigarette smoke.

“Due to [children’s] anatomy, they may have more dysfunction of their Eustachian tube,” says Joseph as to why children may be more susceptible to middle ear infections. “As they grow, this tube changes its position and allows for better drainage of the fluid that naturally collects into the ear tube to drain into the nose.”

Ear Cleaning 101

Those cotton swabs sure do look inviting to little ones, so first and foremost, keep them out of their reach. The only person who should be in charge of cleaning ears is a grown-up, and even then it should be done gently and not as often as you might think.

“The ears are generally self-cleaning,” says Cohen. “Wax produced within the ear canal is normal and serves a protective purpose as it has both moisturizing and antimicrobial properties. Wax gradually comes out on its own as the skin of the ear canal grows outward.”

So how can you safely and effectively clean a child’s ears? With great care and caution.

“Any visible wax can be gently wiped away with a washcloth, but parents should not try to clean within the ear canal using cotton swabs or other implements as this often pushes wax in further and can damage the delicate skin of the ear canal,” he explains.

Joseph concurs, encouraging parents to avoid sticking anything into the ear, even those seemingly innocent cotton swabs. It’s easy to mistakenly dive too far into the ear, which is delicate and may cause the rupture of the tympanic membrane (the eardrum). And don’t even think about trying to get creative. It should go without saying that pen caps, hair pins and the like shouldn’t go anywhere near the ears.

“Avoid cleaning the ear canal,” she says. “If a parent suspects it needs to be cleaned, please call and make arrangements for your child’s ear to be cleaned at their provider’s office.”

If your child is complaining of ear discomfort or pain, Joseph advises not to ignore it. Also, take note if they are speaking loudly or listening to the TV or radio louder than what you think is normal. These can be signs that their ears should be checked by an ENT.

So as you pack up for the pool this summer and round up all of that gear to keep your children safe for the duration of the season, don’t forget about the ears. Ear plugs and swim caps may not be the most glamorous of accessories, but your kids (and their ears) will thank you.

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Coaching for the Kids

Afriend of mine recently took to social media, asking for input regarding coaching his young child’s baseball team. His chief concern was his own “old school” style (yelling) when it comes to lack of hustle, dumb mistakes, etc.

I heard that. My first thought was that they should make chew toys for adult humans who coach kids 10 years old and younger - something on which you can bite down when you’re frustrated to the point of wanting to gnaw off your own tongue.

I’ve been there. I’ve coached two of my daughters’ softball teams. I think I once actually ripped out some of my own hair in frustration, something a middle-aged man should never do, as he has no assurance that hair will ever come back.

I’ve also been that parent who’s ready to go headbutt one of their child’s coaches to let them know their excess aggression on his part is not acceptable.

Yes, irony can sometimes be so ironic.

My friend’s concern seemed to mostly be about how other parents might view his coaching style (yelling). Which I get (see above example of self-abuse). But what gets lost in that approach, I realized while aggressively being an example of it, is that it discounts the important part: how the experience affects the kids.

No, really … it really is supposed to be about the kids.

My daughter’s coach is a very nice guy. And he knows the game very well. On paper, he’s a great coach … for 18-year-old college players.

Some of his players haven’t hit five feet tall. Some haven’t hit chronological double digits. This is my daughter’s fourth season. She’s a veteran on her team. She’s also a bright kid who loves playing. And she still doesn’t fully understand that one team wins, and one

loses.

Which is great. She’s having fun … despite the fact her coach has her doing drills you see in movies about marines struggling to get through boot camp. I keep telling myself that, as long as she enjoys it, it’s good for her. Then I take a leisurely eight-minute walk to my car and back, where no one will hear my teeth grinding.

It’s a classic dynamic, of which I’ve seen both sides. It’s a balancing act, trying to teach kids the game and that life, like it or not, is competitive. The harder you try, the better you’ll be. Theoretically.

But the chasm between I-know-something-you-don’t-know adults and easilydistracted children, who think a dugout is a place to hit each other on the head and make up new dances, is as weighty as ever.

One thing that has changed is the number of recreational choices kids now have. Recreation now comes attached to their hands, in the form of computerized multi-dimensional imagination factories called cell phones. When I was that age, many centuries ago, the

biggest threat was those extra 11 channels from the regular three television networks –a problem that was remedied, my grandpa once demonstrated, by one angry yank on the cable line leading into the wall. As the choices move faster, real sports – especially baseball and softball – move slower. As a coach, I’m far more sensitive than my coaches were, to the possibility of doing something to turn a kid off to playing real sports. In the 1970s, quitting a sport wasn’t much of an option, when the only alternative was playing with other kids … most of whom are too busy playing sports.

I’ve found that a good rule to follow when running out of solutions is to read the room. Or, in this case, the dugout.

Tony Hicks is a newswpaper columnist and the father of four daughters.

July 2023 | BostonParentsPaper.com 17

STEAM Summer Camps

5 REASONS TO CONSIDER THIS SUMMER

Summer camp provide an environment in which encourages children to be lifelong learners, critical thinkers, action-takers, and global citizens. Children can begin putting the real-world pieces together that they have learned throughout the school year and start applying those principles in a fun and engaging manner during summer. A STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts & math) approach summer camp allows your child to explore different areas of study and provides them with an understanding of how each subject is connected. Here are five reasons why you should consider a STEAM focused summer camp for your child.

ENCOURAGES LEARNING DURING SUMMER

The dreaded “summer learning lose” has plagued classroom teachers for decades, and often contributes to wasted instructional time come Fall. A growing body of research indicates that summer programs can help students retain and build upon their learning from the previous year, especially if those programs are specifically aimed at enrichment. Camps that focus on arts and science enrichment offer a powerful combination of interactive, individualized instruction to provide children with an opportunity for focused reading, practical mathematics, as well as the lively interaction that children crave when school is out for the summer.

SPARK AN INTEREST IN SCIENCE

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Summer is a great time to encourage your children to pursue new interests that they may not normally be attracted to, including the sciences. A study of high school and university age students enrolled in a summer science internship program revealed that

the majority of the students reported extracurricular exposure to the STEAM fields had encouraged their interest in science. Actively applying science concepts outside of the classroom seems to have a lasting effect on children, and summer camp is a great place for them to start exploring in a fun, supportive environment.

INTRODUCES CAREER OPPORTUNITIES EARLY ON

While summer camp may seem like the last place that children should be thinking about their career goals, it’s never too early to give them enrichment experiences in the STEAM fields to ignite the kind of curiosity that often leads to a fulfilling and meaningful work life. A two-year study of middle school students across the country revealed that “students who once participated in science summer camps were more likely to later report a career interest in the science and engineering fields”. It’s clear that enrolling your child in a STEAM focused camp is an ideal way to provide them more options as they start considering their path through high school, college, and beyond.

CHILDREN EXPERIENCE ACADEMIC SUCCESS IN A LOW PRESSURE SETTING

Summer camp can be a nice way for children to experience the joy of academic achievement in a more supportive, low stakes environment. A few weeks at camp can give your child the chance to feel safer and more supported while learning, which can, in turn, lead them to feel more confident and take on greater academic challenges once the school year resumes in fall.

MIXING ARTS & SCIENCE IS JUST PLAIN FUN & MORE!

Quality arts instruction, especially when coupled with the sciences, gives children the opportunity to play, create, and learn in non- traditional ways that emphasize individual expression as well as real- world collaboration skills. Giving children the opportunity to learn how to create 3D drawings or movies isn’t just fun, it encourages children to use their “big picture” visioning skills to imagine new possibilities and outcomes.

STEAM summer camps offer children the chance to learn, grow, and explore new modes of thinking and doing. A STEAM summer program can not only boost academic performance during the school year, it can also build confidence, creativity, resiliency, and ideally, will be fun! Y

July 2023 | BostonParentsPaper.com 19
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Jean Abernathy is the mother of two teenagers and has contributed to Boston Parent for over 10 years.
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Giving children the opportunity to learn how to create 3D drawings or movies isn’t just fun, it encourages children to use their “big picture” visioning skills to imagine new possibilities and outcomes.
20 Boston Parents Paper | July 2023 781-890-8480 • www.BayStateSkatingSchool.org TOP 5 2022 2022 Bay State Skating School LEARN TO SKATE CLASSES for Recreational • Figure • Hockey Skating Skills The safety of our customers and staff is our #1 priority! As featured on Chronicle Over 50 Years Experience Children (4-18 years) Cambridge, Brookline, Cleveland Circle, Medford, Newton-Brighton, Quincy, Somerville, Waltham, West Roxbury, Weymouth Contact Molly at 617-999-8794 www.pianoplaytime.com Fun • Creative • Piano Lessons Learn Piano Today! Virtual Lessons • In-Home Lessons Lessons on site Small Group • Private CLASSES AND ENRICHMENT Visit our website at BostonParentsPaper.com to explore our comprehensive online resource for schools in the area. Discover private schools, preschools, boarding schools and more! Find the Right School for Your Child BOSTONPARENT From the publishers of PRIVATE SCHOOLS 2022/2023 GREATER BOSTON • NEW ENGLAND Preschools, Boarding and Private Day Schools Parents Choice Award Winner Fran Friedman Children’s Musician & Instructor Birthday Parties, Schools, Concerts, Libraries Preschool & Elementary Music Specialist Wi Winner e Lots of Participation & Fun for All! 508-358-1614 • www.franfriedman.com BIG JOE the Storyteller www.bigjoe.com 617-713-4349 Birthday Parties Schools Libraries Special Events Original & classic stories Props, puppets, & surprises Virtual Storytelling Now Available HUNTERS HAVEN FARM Hunter sHavenFarm.com 978-373-1300 104 King St., Groveland, MA • Pony par ties for all occasions at your place or at the farm. • Riding lessons for all ages and abilities • Summer Camp J & J Pony Rentals Is yo ur enro llme nt do wn? Advertise Here! 617.522.1515 Call ENTERTAINMENT AND PARTY NEEDS

ACERA (WINCHESTER)

Day Camp

781-729-3489

Ages 5-17

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

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

CAMPS & SUMMER PROGRAMS

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

July 2023 | BostonParentsPaper.com 21
22 Boston Parents Paper | July 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

Early Childhood & Elementary

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

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.

24 Boston Parents Paper | July 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!

26 Boston Parents Paper | July 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

CAMPCODY(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

July 2023 | BostonParentsPaper.com 27

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,

28 Boston Parents Paper | July 2023
July 2023 | BostonParentsPaper.com 29 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/

EVERWOODDAYCAMP(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

30 Boston Parents Paper | July 2023
July 2023 | BostonParentsPaper.com 31 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 | July 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
July 2023 | BostonParentsPaper.com 33 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-NEWENGLANDOUTDOOR 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

34 Boston Parents Paper | July 2023
July 2023 | BostonParentsPaper.com 35 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

36 Boston Parents Paper | July 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

July 2023 | BostonParentsPaper.com 37

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/

38 Boston Parents Paper | July 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.

July 2023 | BostonParentsPaper.com 39
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.
40 Boston Parents Paper | July 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

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