An age-by-age guide to the Best Camp Experience

Summer camps offer more than playtime—they offer transformative experiences that shape a child’s growth and independence while building cherished memories. For each age group and stage of development, kids’ experiences at summer camp have different benefits and considerations.

While San Diego County has a plethora of camp options, think about your child’s unique needs, interests and goals. A first grader’s camp experience should look very different from that of a preteen. Take the following into consideration for each age group:

Early Childhood (ages 4-6)

At this age, summer camps focus on encouraging curiosity and fostering skills (social and otherwise) through playful activities. Camps often offer themed weeks—ranging from nature exploration to arts and crafts—where little ones engage in imaginative play, outdoor adventures and storytelling.

These day camps typically prioritize a nurturing environment that introduces teamwork, sharing and cooperation through fun-filled games and activities.

Important considerations:

Comfort and familiarity : Ensure the camp environment is nurturing and familiar, allowing for a smooth transition. Familiar faces or activities help ease separation anxiety.

Safety measures (important at every age and stage): Verify the camp’s safety protocols, especially regarding supervision, allergies and basic medical needs.

Communication: Choose camps that prioritize communication with parents when needed or requested.

Play-based learning : Look for camps that emphasize play-based learning to nurture curiosity and social skills in a fun and engaging way.

Elementary Kids (ages 7-10)

As children step into the elementary years, summer camps offer a broader spectrum of activities. Sports camps are popular, providing fundamental skills training in activities like soccer, basketball, gymnastics or swimming. Adventure camps introduce thrilling experiences that include rock climbing, ziplining and camping, encouraging a sense of courage, confidence and resilience.

Specialized camps also emerge at this age, catering to specific interests such as coding, robotics or theater. Camp is a great way to nurture budding passions and talents or explore new ones. Teambuilding activities and structured games further develop social skills and cooperation among peers as developing relationships becomes more important.

Important considerations:

Interest alignment : At this age, include children in the decisionmaking process and discussion of hobbies/sports they’re interested in or passionate about.

Balanced activities: Seek a balance between structured activities and free time for social interaction and personal exploration.

Friendship opportunities: Ask if the camp facilitates teamwork and bonding among campers through group activities and team sports.

Independence development: Encourage camps that foster independence through small responsibilities and decision-making opportunities.