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5 Life Lessons Learned at Camp Parents Press Bay Area Virtual Camp Fair 2022 | ParentsPress.com
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INSPIRING THE WORLD TO ROCK, ON STAGE AND IN LIFE
ALL AGES AT SCHOOL OF ROCK, STUDENT HEALTH AND SAFETY IS OUR TOP PRIORITY. WE OFFER ONLINE AND SOCIALLY-DISTANCED IN-SCHOOL LESSONS. STUDENTS ENROLLING IN OUR ONLINE, ONE-ON-ONE MUSIC PROGRAM ARE TAUGHT USING SCHOOL OF ROCK’S REVOLUTIONARY EDUCATION METHOD. FOR OUR IN-SCHOOL LESSONS, WE HAVE CREATED STRICT GUIDELINES FOR CLEANLINESS AND DISTANCING THAT MAXIMIZE SAFETY DURING MUSICAL INSTRUCTION. SELECT THE EDUCATIONAL APPROACH THAT’S RIGHT FOR YOUR CHILD AND START THEIR MUSICAL JOURNEY TODAY. SCHOOL OF ROCK | SAN RAMON 460 MONTGOMERY STREET SAN RAMON, CA 94583 (925) 415-3340 sanramon.schoolofrock.com 2
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Camp Video Provided By SCHOOL OF ROCK SAN RAMON
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2022 Virtual Camp & Summer Expo
Learn about the many day, virtual and overnight camps as well as summer programs for all ages and interests.
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Featured Camps: ABA Summer Ballet Camp Always Learning and Growing Outdoor Forest Camp AR Workshop Santa Clara Youth Summer Camp Art with Susan Creativity Camp Athena Camps Black Oak Wilderness School Camp EDMO Coding with Kids, LLC Dance Connection Summer Dance Camps! Ecole Bilingue de Berkeley Le Camp dÉté Eden Village West Feather River Family Camp Junior Center of Art and Science Summer Camps Lawrence Hall of Science’s Teen Research Programs Learning Plus Tutoring Legarza Sports Camp Little Scholars Outdoor Adventure Camp Poison Apple Productions Ripe Fruit School of Creative Writing Sacred Heart Cathedral Preparatory Summer Institute School of Rock San Ramon STEM Camp by Mad Science of the Bay Area Stratford School/Summer@Stratford Summer at Athena Academy SUMMERFILM: Cinema Arts workshops Terra Marin YoungWonks Online Coding Summer Boot Camp Parents Press Bay Area Virtual Camp Fair 2022 | ParentsPress.com
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Parents Press Virtual Camp Fair
Contents 7
Which Type of Camp to Choose
18 Key Camp Search Questions You Didn’t Know You Needed to Ask
42 Medications at Camp 50 Too Young for a Job? Too Old for Camp?
CIT Programs to the Rescue A great way for teens to continue their summer camp experience.
28 5 Life Lessons Learned at Camp
29 Should They Stay Or Should They Go?
52 Summer Camp Listings
Day Camp or Overnight Camp
32 6 Tips to Prepare First Time Overnight Campers
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Which Type of Camp
Would Best Suit the Needs and Interests of Your Child?
T
he 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 typically vary from one to eight weeks. Some camps offer up to ten weeks of programming. Before camp and after camp programs are offered for an additional fee at some day camps.
OVERNIGHT (also referred to as 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 provide campers with the opportunity 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.
SPECIALTY CAMPS are based in day or resident settings. Popular options for specialization may 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 very specific diagnoses, while others are geared to meet a broader array of needs at any one 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 own 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. Parents Press Bay Area Virtual Camp Fair 2022 | ParentsPress.com
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Parents Press Bay Area Virtual Camp Fair | 2022
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20% 25% NEW FAMILY DISCOUNT DISCOUNT $400 VALUE!)* VALUE * ($300+ WITH CODE CODE WITH PJ_FREM_2020 PJ_CV_2020 PP22
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LEARN MORE AT FeatherRiverCamp.com Financial Assistance Available Parents Press Bay Area Virtual Camp Fair | 2022
*$300 savings is for a family of 4 staying 4 nights. Discount value varies with number of nights and campers.
Camp Video Provided By FEATHER RIVER FAMILY CAMP
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Athena Summer Day Camps Los Altos & San Jose Sports, Creativity & Mentorship Girls Kindergarten – 10th Grade
AthenaCamps.com 12
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Camp Video Provided By ATHENA CAMPS
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Get Dirty. Eat Organic. Make Shabbat a Party. Located on 350 acres in Sonoma County
Organic Farming, Wilderness Skills, Homestead Crafts, Culinary Arts 100% Organic. 100% Kosher. 100% of the time.
Three week overnight sessions for rising 3rd-11th graders 510.560.5610 www.edenvillagewest.org
Camp Video Provided By EDEN VILLAGE WEST
Weekly Camps June 6 - August 12
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Camp Video Provided By LEGARZA SPORTS
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Key Camp
Search Questions
You Didn’t Know You Needed to Ask • Are there deal-breaking parameters for our family’s camp search? What
is non-negotiable for us? Session length, location, and activities are often non-negotiable. Can you be flexible about number of weeks? Location – a camp that must be in a certain state or within a certain zip code? Activities – horseback riding, Lacrosse, theatre or other activities that are the child’s favorite? Every parameter cannot be a deal breaker, but be honest about the aspects of the search that are not flexible for your family.
• What’s driving my camp search? Does my child want to be a camper?
• How do I uncover a full range of camp options that might suit my child’s current needs and interests? Visit parentspress.com and click on the Find A Camp Tool to explore options. Word of Mouth is a great way to add additional options. Ask people whose children share interests with yours. Ask community people who know your child, coaches and staff of extracurricular activities or after school programs.
• What educational philosophy will best match my child’s temperament and compliment their current school experience?
Un-paralleled fun and learning? The opportunity for new experiences? To develop new skills? Family tradition? The need for child care? Answers to these questions will influence your options.
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What values are important to you in terms of how the camp runs its program and trains its staff? Do you want a camp that emphasizes structure and responsibility? One that emphasizes free play and choice? How do the camps you are considering build community and encourage independence?
• What is my budget for camp?
There’s a camp out there for everyone! Some camps offer financial assistance. Financial aid procedures vary from camp to camp, so don’t be afraid to ask questions. Read camp brochures and websites carefully for information and application instructions.
• How is the programming at this camp designed to grow with my child over the years? On average, what percentage of campers return for a second year? A fifth year? Yes, you’re looking for camp for THIS coming summer, but camps design programming so children can return in future summers since some of the leadership and other skills are not instantly acquired, but gained over the course of a few summers.
For more information about camp including helpful tips on finding the right camp, contact the American Camp Association or visit www.aca.org.
g n i n r a e L s y a Alw rowing &G
Summer Forest Camp Explore, Imagine, Create, Grow! Ages 3-8 | Small Groups
San Francisco and Berkeley Area June 6th-August 29th 2022 9am-3pm sibling discount www.alwayslearningandgrowing.com Parents Press Bay Area Virtual Camp Fair 2022 | ParentsPress.com
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ATHENA ACADEMY
ACADEMIC SUMMER CAMPS Athena Academy proudly offers two week-long skills programs for dyslexic and twice exceptional students entering grades 1–8. This program is specifically designed, utilizing Athena Academy’s unique teaching approach, to help dyslexic and twice exceptional students build foundational skills for learning. Our highly trained, dedicated teachers will work with the students on understanding the way their brains work and through multi-sensory, skills-based instruction, teach them to use their visual-spatial strengths when learning. The incorporation of our project-based curriculum will engage the students with meaningful and fun content that will allow them to apply the skills being taught. Through engaging hands-on projects in our Makerspace your dyslexic thinkers can explore their passions and build on their strengths while getting the summer boost they need to find success in school. Past projects have included learning about area and perimeter by building garden boxes, using the design process to build your own arcade game and using water pressure to build a chain reaction.
Learn more and register at: www.AthenaAcademy.org/summer
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525 San Antonio Avenue, Palo Alto, CA 94306
Dates Mon, June 20–Fri, June 24 Mon, July 18–Fri, July 22 Cost $650/wk by Mar 1st $700/wk Mar 2nd or later Grades 1st-8th Graders Time 8:30am-3:00pm
Experience first-hand a space for dyslexic and 2e students where learning becomes joyful and success becomes possible.
Camp Video Provided By SUMMER AT ATHENA ACADEMY
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Teen Research Programs at Dive deep into science with UC Berkeley’s public science center this summer! These one-week explorations allow students entering grades 10, 11, and 12 to dive deep on science topics like marine biology, forest management, biotechnology, data analysis, and more. Our programs are developed in collaboration with educators and scientists at UC Berkeley, including Nobel Laureate Saul Perlmutter. Teens will benefit from the science content as well as from connecting with others. Meeting graduate students and faculty who are doing real-time research at the university level, and hearing their personal narratives, provides an inspiring, empowering experience and creates pathways for the next generation.
Financial aid is available for these programs. Visit lawrencehallofscience.org/teenresearchprograms for program descriptions & registration. Parents Press Bay Area Virtual Camp Fair 2022 | ParentsPress.com
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Camp Video Provided By ALAMEDA BALLET ACADEMY
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Camp Video Provided By DANCE CONNECTION
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5 Life Lessons L
Learned at Camp
ife lessons. These are moments where the lightbulb goes off over child’s head. They understand the concept of two plus two. They see something they can’t un-see or learn something they’ll never forget. Over the last 150plus years, camp has provided opportunities for children and adults to discover or further develop many life lessons. Here are just a few.
It’s all about relationships. Life doesn’t exist in a vacuum and no one can do this alone. Just like a classroom, children have opportunities at camp to share experiences with peers, develop friendships, and learn the ups and downs of getting along with others. By the nature of co-existing in the same space and enjoying similar experiences, camp encourages children to develop and maintain skills necessary to relationship building.
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I can do that! Confidence! Camp thrives on self-efficacy in young people. Enjoying success in a healthy manner and learning to overcome obstacles or even failure are hallmarks of a camp experience. For both campers and staff, camp allows young people to feel proud when things go well and encourages resilience when they don’t.
Take a risk
One way to build confidence is to try something new. Camp is rife with safe, healthy opportunities for children to take a chance. This could mean climbing a 30-foot wall, trying out for the camp production of Peter Pan, riding a horse, or trying broccoli for the first time. At camp, young people learn how to take risks and learn from their outcomes.
It’s a great big world out there. When a child goes to camp, they interact with peers and
Parents Press Bay Area Virtual Camp Fair | 2022
adults from places they might have never seen or even heard of. Campers might hear a new song or accent. They may meet someone from another state or country, and sometimes they run into people from home who become lifelong friends at camp. Camp is an opportunity to both try new things and meet new people.
Not all learning happens in a classroom. Last but certainly not least, campers discover that school does not have a monopoly on learning. Campers develop new skills, learn about their own passions and interests, and are exposed to ideas and experiences that don’t normally sneak into a formal classroom. Without knowing it, campers are learning every day by simply getting out and going to camp. For more information about camp including helpful tips on finding the right camp, contact the American Camp Association or visit www.aca.org.
Should They Stay
or Should They Go? Day Camp or Overnight Camp.
D
eciding between day camp or residential there is no clear, linear checklist to determine (overnight) camp is one piece of the decision whether day or overnight camp is right for your for families. Camp is an experience and not child, the questions listed here can help guide limited to a singular location. that conversation: Campers can develop the • What is the primary reason for These questions can help same skills, both hard and begin a dialogue with your wanting to go to camp? soft, whether they’re sleeping family about which camp away from home or returning • Has your child ever spent experience is the best fit to their own beds each night. for you. The choice of day multiple nights sleeping away While there are differences versus residential camp is from home? between day and residential one important aspect of the camps, above all else, the most • What’s your budget for camp? overall decision. But even important outcome of this then, make sure you follow decision is finding the right fit • Can your child bath and dress up with those potential for your camper and family. camps. Talk to directors. Ask themselves independently? This begins with knowing for tours. Ask for references. your camper. Many overnight • How far away from home do Do your due diligence. In camps begin taking campers the end both you and the you want your child’s camp between ages 7-9 years old. camp want this summer experience to be? However, some children may to be the first of many and be ready at 6 and some others • What activities are important to the beginning of a great may not be ready at 10. While relationship. your camper’s experience?
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l o o h c S t i u r F e Rip e v i t a e r C of g n i t i Wr
2022 One-Week Creative Writing Summer Camps for Teens: Middle School & High School Students July 11 - August 5 2015
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» In-Person and Hybrid Options (IN-PERSON or on ZOOM) » Discover Your Writing Voice » A week of exploration, instruction, creativity & fun!!
http://www.ripefruitwriting.com Parents Press Bay Area Virtual Camp Fair | 2022
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By Bud Copeland
W
hether your family has a long tradition of summer camp or this is the first camper from your clan, once you’ve made the decision to send your child to camp, the real work begins. Directors in our membership have shared thoughts on first-time, overnight campers, and below are 6 tips for preparing those campers.
TRY SLEEPOVERS. Some first-time campers
have never slept away from home before. While camp is a great place for young people to adjust to being away from home and family, it’s not the best place to begin the experiment. Slumber parties, going to a relative’s house for the weekend, or spending the night at a friend’s house, are all good practice for dealing with that unfamiliar feeling prior to night one at camp.
INVOLVE THE CAMPER IN THE PROCESS.
From the first conversation about camp, it is a family affair. Including the camper in these preparations and decisions lays the foundation for a positive camp experience. Finding camps, taking tours, talking to directors, planning communication, packing, etc. and anything the family can involve the camper with, they should. The more a camper feels ownership over this experience, the better. “Buying in” isn’t always the easiest for first-timers, so start early, keep them involved and informed, and empower them throughout the process.
SET AND MANAGE EXPECTATIONS. It’s easy to tell
campers everything is going to be fine, and they are going to love camp. Odds are, you’re telling the truth. However, experience teaches us that love for camp often comes over time. Campers may experience homesickness, anxiety, or other unfamiliar feelings for the first time at camp. It’s important to talk about these feelings, communicate how normal they are, and brainstorm strategies to cope and continue having fun.
COMMUNICATION IS KEY. Camps have policies
and procedures for communication during the summer. Some camps allow phone calls, some print e-mails for the campers, and almost all still encourage snail mail. Learn camp’s policies regarding camper communication and review them with your camper. Set realistic expectations for if, when, and how they can share the fun their having at camp. Also, prewrite a few letters and send them ahead of time for your camper. Hearing their name at mail call is one of camp’s thrills!
BE HONEST WITH CAMP. Prior to camp, parents should communicate any and all pertinent information that could influence their child’s summer. Whether it’s family dynamics at home, new developments at school, or recent health changes, sharing this information openly and honestly with your camp sets up all parties for success. Things such as bedwetting, new medications, or having a camper whose sister who’s going away to college after the summer, can all be useful in helping camps prepare for your child.
GO DO SOMETHING (THE PARENTS).You’ve done
due diligence finding a camp. You’ve packed, practiced and rehearsed arrival day, and the time has come to drop off your camper. Once at camp, don’t stick around too long. When you depart, the magic of camp truly begins. Take this time and enjoy it. That could mean reading a book you’ve been putting off, getting together with other parents who are summer empty-nesters, or doing any number of things that the joy of parenting forces you to delay. Remember that your child is off making new friends and facing new challenges in a safe environment. It’s time to step back and both have some fun.
For more information about camp including helpful tips on finding the right camp, contact the American Camp Association or visit www.aca.org.
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Camp Video Provided By CALIFORNIA FILM INSTITUTE
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Camp Video Provided By YOUNGWONKS
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Camp Video Provided By AR WORKSHOP SANTA CLARA
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Medications at Camp What Parents Should Know
M
ANY PARENTS STRUGGLE WITH THE QUESTION OF WHAT TO DO ABOUT THEIR CHILDREN’S MEDICATIONS, specifically ADD and ADHD medications, during the summer months. Although I am not a doctor or medical expert, I can give you my perspective as a camp director and some simple steps to take to ensure your child has a fun-filled camp experience. First, speak with the camp director to clarify the daily schedule and possibly identify the counselor who will be in direct contact with your child. Although many full-time camp directors have plenty of experience with children with ADD and ADHD, the camp counselor may only be 18 or 19 years old and sometimes even struggling with the same issues your 8- to 10-year-old may be having. This is not to say your child is not safe, but the level of experience can vary greatly from counselor to counselor. Next, take into account the duration of the camp. Is it just a three- or four-day camp or a multi-week overnight camp? To put this in perspective, think about how long you worked with teachers, doctors and consultants to properly diagnose, work through issues and begin to process and create a workable solution for your child. The relatively short amount of time a counselor is in contact with campers makes it not only difficult for the counselors to learn the group’s dynamics, but individual issues, as well. After speaking with the camp director there is still yet another level of expertise you can go to. By law, each camp in the state of California must have a health care consultant on staff to help the camp directors manage the many physical forms and immunization documents. Although the health care consultant may not have immediate knowledge of your particular situation during your first call, he or she is there to help manage the medications and implement protocols. Furthermore, by HIPAA Privacy Act guidelines, the camp counselor will 42
Parents Press Bay Area Virtual Camp Fair | 2022
most likely not be aware of any of the medical issues of your child unless authorized by you, the parent or guardian. This granting of permission can be achieved through the health care consultant, and it is important that you are comfortable and in full knowledge of the camp’s written plan for your child. From my perspective, parents of children with ADD and ADHD sometimes feel the physical activity offered in a summer camp setting may allow them to be a little more lenient with medications that reduce hyperactivity. I urge all parents to also understand the timespan and experience of those in direct contact is significantly reduced and it is important to look at both sides of the equation while implementing the appropriate plan of action.
Important organizational chart for camps in California that parents should be aware of:
1. Camp director/owner 2. Health care consultant 3. On-sight medical personnel 4. Camp counselor in direct contact with your child
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Camp Video Provided By POISON APPLE PRODUCTIONS
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Camp Video Provided By ART WITH SUSAN
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Camp Video Provided By BLACK OAK WILDERNESS SCHOOL
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Too Young for a Job? Too Old for Camp? CIT Programs to the Rescue!
Y
OUR TEEN IS TOO YOUNG TO GET A SUMMER JOB AT A LOCAL RETAIL STORE, yet she considers herself too mature to spend the summer frolicking in the pool, playing games and making crafts. With a roll of the eyes, she has declared, quite to your dismay, that she’s too old to attend camp this summer You, on the other hand, have a different idea. Summer camp still seems very much a worthwhile venture considering the alternative – just hanging out all day. There is a solution to this dilemma: Young teens can participate in a Counselor-in-Training (CIT) program. CIT programs offer a perfect happy medium for those kids who feel they’ve “outgrown” summer camp but aren’t yet old enough for employment. And, for many kids, they offer a chance to extend the summer camp experience a few more years.
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What Are CIT Programs? CIT programs are for young teens who are serious about assuming some of the responsibility and effort it takes to work with younger children in a camp setting. There are usually a limited number of openings, and some camps only consider teens who have been “campers” in previous years. CIT programs are intended to train teens to become future counselors, leaders and mentors. There are a variety of responsibilities given to these trainees, and the scope of their duties can vary enormously from camp to camp. Some of their assigned tasks might include organizing and planning activities, leading teams in various projects, helping out with camp maintenance, assisting counselors with office work and assisting at various athletic activities. At most camps, CITs are usually still
CIT programs are intended to train teens to become future counselors, leaders and mentors. There are a variety of responsibilities given to these trainees, and the scope of their duties can vary enormously from camp to camp. considered “campers,” but they assume more responsibilities. Most teens in CIT programs are still considered minors, and, therefore, are not paid. CITs usually pay a camper’s fee, but their fee is often reduced. The teens are expected to split their time between working as a CIT and being a camper. CITs at day camps are usually 14 to 16 years old. Resident camps (overnight camps) generally expect applicants to be 16 or 17, because teens cannot become a senior counselor at an overnight camp until they reach 18. In some of these instances, the CITs are paid a stipend or given tips.
years. Therefore, it is important to call the camp you have in mind to discuss their guidelines prior to applying. Camps are looking for teens who are excited about becoming mentors to younger kids. So it’s imperative that your teen lists experiences in this area, such as babysitting, tutoring or community service that might involve children, such as reading to youngsters at a local library. Teens should also list skills or sports they are good at on the application. For instance, if a teen has lots of experience with tennis, a camp director might foresee using the applicant as an assistant coach in a tennis program.
Benefits for Teens
Finding the Right Fit
Teens who participate in CIT programs reap many benefits. They gain confidence in themselves and their special abilities and talents. Most camp directors expect that CITs will learn leadership skills, develop responsibility and competency, acquire a strong work ethic, gain decision-making skills and learn to be part of a team working toward a common goal. Teens also learn the value of being a positive role model and mentor for younger kids. These programs serve as a release from the academic pressures teens are faced with during the school year, yet they still provide an excellent learning experience. The completion of a CIT program looks great on college applications. Participation in these programs shows a willingness to work hard and take on the responsibility necessary to work with young children. In addition, camp program directors often provide great references because they can write about a trainee’s strengths and accomplishments in detail.
Your teen will have a better experience if the camp she chooses fits her abilities, skills and interests. Ask your friends and neighbors about camps that their children attended, particularly if they participated in a CIT program. It’s always good to hear from someone who has experienced the program firsthand. If possible, visit the camp before applying because not every camp is right for every child. ■
The Application Process The application process to become a CIT can vary from camp to camp. It may involve simply filling out an application or also going on interviews and supplying references. Some camps only accept applications from teens who have been campers at their camp in previous Parents Press Bay Area Virtual Camp Fair 2022 | ParentsPress.com
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Summer Camp Listings Your Child’s Best summer ever starts here
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ACADEMY AT OAKLAND BALLET (OAKLAND) Day Camp (510) 893-3132 Ages 5-17 The Academy at Oakland Ballet Company offers classical ballet training with one of the leading Bay Area professional dance companies. The Academy at Oakland Ballet’s focus is on developing the whole dancer through classes that not only teach ballet technique, but explore artistic expression and build self-confidence - all in a fun and nurturing, yet challenging class environment. https://oaklandballet.org/education/ theacademyatobc/summer-intensive/
ALAMEDA BALLET THEME SUMMER CAMPS (ALAMEDA) Day Camp 510-337-1929 Ages 4-11 No experience necessary! In addition to a daily dance class, children learn about and watch a different famous classical ballet each week. They explore their own creativity through exercise in movement concepts. Students also learn valuable lessons about anatomy, nutrition, dance history and vocabulary. https://alamedaballet.com/classes/ summer-camps-classes-2/
ART WITH SUSAN CREATIVITY CAMP (ALBANY & WALNUT CREEK) Day Camp 214-732-4056 Ages 5-12 Spend Some Summertime Creating! Open Choice Studio is an innovative art program that offers students the opportunity to respond to their own ideas and interests through artmaking. Working at their own pace, students learn problem-solving, independent thinking, cooperative learning, and persistence through Listing information provided by Camps
creative discovery. Veteran art teacher Susan Stein guides the community of student artists, determines their needs, creates structure, and introduces a large variety of new mediums and techniques. Play creative games. Explore sensory materials. Enjoy time outside http://www.artwithsusan.com/
ATHENA CAMPS (LOS ALTOS AND SAN JOSE) Day Camp 408-490-4972 Ages 4-17 Athena Camps is a day camp for girls entering Kindergarten - 11th grade designed to inspire courAges and build confidence through a unique combination of athletic, creative, emotional, and social activities in a nurturing community of mentors. https://athenacamps.com/
BERKELEY CITY BALLET SUMMER Dance Camps (berkeley) Day Camp 510-531-8566 Ages 5-8
Day Camp and Virtual Programs 415-282-6673 Grades Pre-K - 8th + LIT Programs EDMO is back with some incredible summer programming to help kids learn something new, all while having fun! Join us for a summer filled with science, technology, maker and art with a social emotional learning twist - online or in-person! https://edmo.org/summercamp
CAMP ST. ANDREWS (DARDANELLE - 45 MIN NORTH OF SONORA) Sleepaway Camp (650) 445-4555 Ages 8+ by July Founded in 1970, Camp St. Andrews San Bruno is an unforgettable, weeklong, traditional summer camp in the High Sierras. https://www.campstandrews.org/
CODING WITH KIDS (VIRTUAL)
Weekly Dance Camps from 9am-3pm culminating in performance! https://berkeleycityballet.org/ classes-and-more/classes/ dance-camps
BLACK OAK WILDERNESS SCHOOL (EL SOBRANTE) Day Camp 253-326-7322 Ages 5-17
CAMP EDMO (MULTIPLE LOCATIONS)
Virtual Camp 206-486-0525 Ages 5-18 Coding with Kids provides online camps through our unique Coders Pathways®️ for Ages 5-18. Virtual camps are conducted live, in small groups, and teach a variety of subjects, from game development in Scratch or Python to Minecraft Modding, Roblox, Java/C#, and 3D Design. In-person classes are also available at many locations throughout the US. We look forward to seeing your camper this summer! https://www.codingwithkids.com/
Black Oak Wilderness School is an exciting new non-profit outdoor camp that focuses on connecting students with nature through a DANCE CONNECTION series of skills and programs with a CAMPS (PALO ALTO) different approach to educations and Day Camp conservation. 650-322-7032 http://www.blackoakwilderness.com/ Ages 4-17
SUMMER
Experience dance in an inclusive, artistic, creative, and athletic environment with Dance Connection. Camps are offered for children and Parents Press Bay Area Virtual Camp Fair 2022 | ParentsPress.com
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teens in weekly sessions from June 6 through August 5 with full and half day programs. https://danceconnectionpaloalto. com/dance-connectionevent-calendar/ summer-dance-camps/
DOODLETON RANCH (CLAYTON) Day Camp (510) 207-7467 Ages 7-11 Doodleton is a nonprofit organization with a summer camp program. All programs including the summer camp are created to foster appreciation, understanding, and respect for the natural world. Campers participate in projects that use nature as a tool. http://www.doodletonranch.org/
EDEN VILLAGES WEST (SONOMA) Sleepaway Camp (510) 560-5610 Ages 8-16 Eden VillAges West is an organic farm-to-table Jewish summer camp in Northern California for rising 3rd-11th graders that integrates culinary arts, organic farming,
wilderness skills, and homestead crafts. Join us for an incredible summer 2022! https://www.edenvillageswest.org/
FAD PAD (OAKLAND) Day Camp (510) 219-3474 Ages 5-12 The FAD PAD is a magical outdoor camp offering a wide variety of FUN! Art, Cooking, Gardening, Fairy Lore, Drama, Cooperative Games, Hand Sewing and Starwitz. http://www.mehstories.com/
FEATHER RIVER FAMILY CAMP (QUINCY) Family Camp 510-336-2267 All Ages A family getaway unlike any other! Fill your days however you choose–from hiking and swimming to arts and crafts, disco bingo, and more! Programs promote growth, relaxation, safety, and fun for all Ages. Meals, activities, and lodging included. https://featherrivercamp.com/ summer-family-camp/
FIELDGUIDES SUMMER BACKPACKING (MULTIPLE LOCATIONS) Sleepaway Camp (650) 969-6325 Ages 12-17 15-day backpacking trips for youth Ages 12-17 in the Trinity Alps Wilderness. The trips travel 4-7 miles a day, and are an ideal entry into the area’s pristine high-altitude lakes, unique limestone pinnacles and caves, and rich conifer forests, home to a number of endemic species. Trips in these unique wilderness areas with our experienced guides encourages participants to challenge themselves, build long lasting friendships, and create connections with the outdoors that will help them gain a stronger sense of self and a better understanding of the world they live in. For 16-17 year olds we are also offering a wilderness leadership training (CIT) program designed to increase leadership and outdoor living skills. https://www.fieldguides.org/ summer-programs.html
GOOD SHEPHERD LUTHERAN SCHOOL SUMMER CAMP (NOVATO) Day Camp 415-897-2510 Ages 2-5 We will hold camp Monday-Friday with various hourly options. During summer camp, we offer play-based activities centered on a weekly theme; we also offer special events like a bubble show or jump house. http://www.gslsnovato.org/
INTEGEM AUGMENTED REALITY CODING & ART CAMP (MULTIPLE LOCATIONS) Day Camp (408) 459-0657 Ages 5-18
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Fun and Educational Camp! K-12 students learn Augmented Reality coding, digital art, game design, animation, 3D, storytelling, STEM/ STEAM, design thinking and more.
Beginner to Advanced levels with personalized curriculum. https://camp.integem.com/
JUNIOR CENTER OF ART AND SCIENCE (OAKLAND) Day Camp 510-839-5777 Ages 6-13
Join the Junior Center of Art and Science this summer for one-week and two-week day camps that explore art, design, and technology on the beautiful Lake Merritt! http://juniorcenter.org/summercamp
LAWRENCE HALL OF SCIENCE’S TEEN RESEARCH PROGRAMS (BERKELEY) Day Camp (510) 642-5132 Grades: Entering grades 10-12 These one-week explorations allow students entering grades 10, 11, and 12 to dive deep on science topics like marine biology, forest management, biotechnology, data analysis, and more. Our programs are developed in collaboration with educators and scientists at UC Berkeley, including Nobel Laureate Saul Perlmutter. Teens will benefit from the science content as well as from connecting with others. Meeting graduate students and faculty who are doing real-time research at the university level, and hearing their personal narratives, provides an inspiring, empowering experience and creates pathways for the next generation. https://www.lawrencehallofscience. org/visitors/teen-research-programs/
LEARNING PLUS ACADEMIC SUMMER CAMP (SAN JOSE) Day Camp (408) 377-4114 Ages 7-13 Learning Plus Tutoring uses our award-winning programs to help students catch up on academics, get ahead, increase skills, and have fun! We offer academic summer camps for students entering grades 2-9 that
cover reading, comprehension, math, writing, vocabulary, and study skills. https://www.learningplustutoring. com/summer-camp.html
LEGARZA SPORTS (MULTIPLE LOCATIONS) Day Camp (415) 334-3333 PreK-8th Grade Basketball, All-Sports, & Volleyball Summer Camp. Legarza programs give children the knowledge and motivation they need to achieve their personal best in sport and life. Over 250,000 of the Bay Area’s youth have experienced and benefitted from our 32-year, proven and tested system. Our program is tailored to help your young athlete succeed on and off the court in a safe, professional and encouraging environment of learning and fun. http://www.legarzasports.org/
MR. PETER’S GOLF CAMP (SAN BRUNO) Day Camp (415) 902-3003 Ages 5-7 & 8-15 Weekly Summer Camps M-F for kids 5-7yrs and 8-15yrs. Since 2010. Experienced staff ~4/5 to 1
student / coach ratio. Very hands on. Beginners - advanced welcome. All equipment provided. Safety first! Optional field trip to the course Friday afternoon!100% covid strict protocols. Everyone must wear masks at all times. 10 YARDS social distancing, no sharing anything, hands sanatizer, everything sprayed down between uses, 100% outside. Learn all the shots! Grip, stance, putting, chipping, pitching, full shots, drivers, etiquette, rules, scoring and course care. All you need to know to join us at the local par 3 for our weekly field trip to the course. Sibling and multi week discounts. http://mrpetersgolfcamp.com
MUSICAL THEATER SUMMER CAMPS (MARTINEZ) Day Camp 925-957-0773 Grades 3-16 Our summer camps immerse participants in the magic of theater-making with a fun summer camp twist! Whether your child is a first-time actor or a seasoned pro - summer camp is a memorable and fulfilling experience for all ability levels.
http://poisonapple.org/
Ages 11-17
NATURE AND ITS ENCHANTMENTS (WALNUT CREEK)
Awarded Best of Teen Summer Programs by Parents Press in 2015, these camps are both for teens who love writing and for those who find it challenging. Here, students learn tools to become stronger, more original writers and are encourAgesd to trust their own unique voice. They gain both confidence and competence and get excited about languAges itself! Here, in this supportive environment, the imagination is honored and each student is honored and respected. The camps are both inspirational and fun! Offered on zoom with in-person options. The teacher has taught creative writing for over 25 years, including with Poets-in-the Schools, and is a nationally awarded fiction writer. http://www.ripefruitwriting.com/ classes/teen-writing-camps/
Day Camp (925) 357-8080 Ages 3-mos. - 1st grade entry Celebrating the Freedom and Splendor of the Outdoors! https://www. klaschoolssummercamp.com/
POISON APPLE PRODUCTIONS MUSICAL THEATER SUMMER CAMPS (MARTINEZ) Day Camp 925-957-0773 Grades 3-16 Our summer camps immerse participants in the magic of theater-making with a fun summer camp twist! Whether your child is a first-time actor or a seasoned pro - summer camp is a memorable and fulfilling experience for all ability levels. http://poisonapple.org/
THE RENAISSANCE INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL (OAKLAND) Day Camp 510-531-8566 Grades 1-8 This summer we offer Montessori classroom activities in the morning, followed by summer camp in the afternoon for Lower Elementary (first through third grade) students, and an all day summer experience for Upper Elementary and Junior High students (fourth through ninth grade). https://www.therenaissanceschool. org
RIPE FRUIT WRITING (SAN FRANCISCO AND VIRTUAL) Day Camp and Virtual (415) 337-4369
SCHOOL OF ROCK PERFORMANCE CAMPS (SAN RAMON) Day Camp (925) 415-3340 Ages: 8 - 16 Do you want to learn how to play in a band or learn to write songs? School of Rock San Ramon offers a wide variety of music camps and workshops that cover topics such as these. Our local music camps are perfect for musicians of any skill level who want to play guitar, bass, drums, keyboard and vocals. Each camp will have a performance at the end of the week. Camp themes include Green Day, Pop Legends, British Invasion, Rock 101, and Songwriting. http://sanramon.schoolofrock.com/
SUMMERFILM - CINEMA ARTS WORKSHOPS FOR AGES 1118 (SAN RAFAEL AND ONLINE OPTIONS) Day Camp and Virtual Programs 415-517-6997 Ages 11-18 Join us this summer for a variety
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of programs that explore all angles of the industry and artistry of film. All in-person camps will take place at the Christopher B. Smith Rafael Film Center. All online camps will be hosted on our CFI Education Online platform and open to students anywhere in the U.S. Times listed are Pacific Time Zone. Need-based scholarships are available for all programs. http://cfieducation.org/summerfilm
SUMMER AT ATHENA ACADEMY (PALO ALTO) Day Camp 650-543-4560 Ages 8-13 Athena Academy proudly offers two, week-long skills programs for dyslexic and twice exceptional students entering grades 1–8. The program utilizes Athena Academy’s unique teaching approach to help our students build foundational skills for learning. https://athenaacademy.org/ summer-camp/?ref=PP2202
SUMMER@STRATFORD (MULTIPLE LOCATIONS) Day Camp (408) 244-4073 Grades: Preschool - Middle School Summer@Stratford is back with our academic camp favorites and all NEW day camp programs! This summer, children will have a wide range of options to explore new interests, discover a world of wonder, and enjoy a summer to remember at Stratford! https://www.stratfordschools.com/ summer
SUMMER PROGRAMS AT SFCM (SAN FRANCISCO) Day Camp (415) 503-6254 Ages 10-18 Summer@SFCM offers opportunities for students in areas of Music Technology, Brass, Percussion, Composition, Harp, Guitar, and Voice. Students will learn from world
class faculty in the heart of San Francisco’s arts district in one or two week sessions in June or July. Ages and dates vary by program. Application deadlines as early as March 15, continuing through June 1. Admission by audition for most programs. https://sfcm.edu/summer
SUMMERCREST (SAN RAFAEL) Day Camp (415) 457-6672 Entering K-6 SummerCrest is an academic camp that offers challenging academic classes and broadening enrichment activities. We are in our 11th year of bringing a quality, fun camp to our community. http://summercrest.org
TERRA MARIN CAMP (SAN FRANCISCO, MARIN) Day Camp (415) 906-2220 Entering 3-10 Outdoor Nature Camp - Exploring, hiking, storytelling, adventuring, building shelters, learning survival skills, experiencing the environment up close and meeting the creatures both big and small who live in our surrounding forests, preserves & beaches. Language Immersion Camps Spanish & Mandarin language immersive camps where campers get to experience the language and traditions of the culture through outdoor adventures, song, dance, food and more. All language levels welcome. http://summercrest.org
WALNUT CREEK ARTS & REC SUMMER DAY CAMPS (WALNUT CREEK) Day Camp (925) 295-1490 Ages 3-14 Join Walnut Creek’s Arts & Recreation for summer camps this year! Arts & Rec offers summer
camps in arts, sports, outdoor recreation, preschool camps, specialized recreation, and much more! Our popular summer day camps include: Camp Community Arts, WC Sports Camp, WC Day Camps, Specialized Recreation Camp, Camp Tenderfoot, and Camp Clever Creek. Half-day and full-day options are available. Payment plans and scholarships are available. Visit us at www.walnut-creek.org/ summercamp or call (925) 295-1490 for more info. https://www.walnut-creek. org/departments/arts-andrecreation/arts-rec-open-now/ arts-rec-summer-camps
WILDCARE’S SUMMER NATURE PROGRAMS (TIBURON, SAUSALITO) Day Camp (415) 453-1000 x19 Ages 7-11 WildCare’s Summer Nature Programs provide young people with an unforgettable wildlife and nature experience! This summer we are offering Nature Hikes and Virtual Wildlife Classes. https://discoverwildcare.org/ summer-nature-programming/
YOUNG DANCER SUMMER DANCE CAMP (SAN RAFAEL) Day Camp (415) 499-8891 Ages 3-9 Let’s Imagine: Step into the magical world of ballet, filled with vision, imagination, and pantomime. In Marin Dance Theatre’s Let’s Imagine class, dancers will be empowered to expand their innate creativity and imagination. They will create an original story to bring to life through dance and fantasy. Little ones will dance away from this class with new movement skills and an enhanced ability to express their imagination. This is a 5-class series for dancers Ages 3-4 and 5-6. https://www.mdt.org
YOUTH CAMP AT CAMP CONCORD (SOUTH LAKE TAHOE) Sleepaway Camp (925) 671-3006 Ages 8-13 Youth Camp at Camp Concord is a weeklong overnight camp in South Lake Tahoe for kids 8-13. Enjoy the outdoors with detachment from the digital world. Your child will love all the fun-filled traditions of overnight CAMP! Over the 5 days/4 nights at Camp Concord in South Lake Tahoe, campers Agesd 8-13 will enjoy Canoeing, Crawdad Fishing, Hiking, Archery, Volleyball, Swimming, Beach Fun at Lake Tahoe, Skits, Arts & Crafts, Tye Dying Shirts, and Campfires with S’mores. Your child will be disconnected from the digital world (although texting is possible with some providers). Roundtrip bus transportation from Concord to South Lake Tahoe is included, plus all meals, a Camp Concord tee-shirt for tye dying, and all activities. https://friendsofcampconcord.org/ youth-camp/
YOUTH MUSICAL THEATER COMPANY (BERKELEY) Day Camp (510) 595-5514 Grades 7-12 Summer Musical Theater Workshops for 7th to 12th grade. YMTC is offering 3 in-person workshops this summer appropriate for 7th grade to 12th grade students at its Aquatic Park campus in Berkeley. Class size currently limited to 14 students. http://www.ymtcbayarea.org/
