CHOOSE YOUR SUMMER
ADVENTURE!
– San Diego Camps & Programs –
2021 Virtual Camp Fair
Tanni Haas, Ph.D.
SUMMER CAMP
Safety
2 • SanDiegofamily.com • Digital Camp & Summer Programs Guide 2021
As you prepare the kids for one of the year’s absolute highlights—spring and summer camps—teach them how to stay safe while having fun. Based on my own experiences as a parent of summer campers, as well as conversations with other parents, here are common safety concerns.
COVID “The good news is that COVID cases are falling and immunity is rising,” says Dr. Jaime Friedman, pediatrician for Children’s Primary Care Medical Group in 4S Ranch. “For children with high-risk family members, getting those members vaccinated should increase confidence for parents who want to send their children to camp. If the majority of camp staff can get vaccinated before summer, that’s even better. Surrounding campers with a bubble of immunity will protect them and their loved ones.” According to Dr. Friedman, it’s unlikely we will reach herd immunity by summer. “Don’t fear, though,” she says. “Last year many camps operated safely and successfully. I have no doubt this summer can be the same.” Here are things to think about and ask camp staff in advance: 1. Will camp staff be tested regularly? 2. Will campers be tested before attending camp? 3. Will camp staff enforce mask wearing for staff and campers? 4. Will there be lots of hand washing and sanitizing of surfaces at camp? 5. Will campers be put in small groups that are distanced from other groups to make quarantine easier, if needed? The social, emotional and physical benefits of camp are greater than ever for kids (and parents!) this year. “My hope is that summer will be a great opportunity for them to get back to feeling like kids again,” says Dr. Friedman.
Water Few things are as important as teaching kids to stay properly hydrated. It’s hot outside, they sweat a lot, but they’re having fun so they often forget to drink as much water as they need. You don’t want them to get dehydrated or heatstroke, so shop together for a water bottle they like and remind them to fill it throughout the day. Find out what camp counselors do to ensure that kids stay hydrated. Do they remind kids to drink water? Do they have regular water breaks during the day?
Sunscreen Sun safety means teaching kids to apply sunscreen whenever they’re about to go outside and to reapply it throughout the day. Buy sunscreen well before camp starts and try it to ensure kids don’t have an adverse reaction.
Swimming and Water Sports Camp swimming pools are a source of endless fun, but can be dangerous if kids don’t know basic water safety and how to swim. The same applies to water sports like boating and surfing. If your kids aren’t already proficient swimmers, sign them up for lessons before camp starts. Tell them to never engage in dangerous activities like holding someone else’s head under water. Ask camp staff: 1. Do kids take a swimming test at camp to determine skill level? 2. Is the pool (or beach) always supervised by lifeguards who are trained in CPR? 3. Is playtime organized by proficiency level so that beginners and advanced swimmers aren’t in the pool at the same time? 4. Are life jackets mandatory for water sport activities?
Hiking If camp activities include hiking San Diego’s beautiful trails, make sure kids
have proper footwear. A pair of hiking boots or shoes with good traction help feet stay steady on the ground. Remind them not to take unnecessary risks (like running where they should be walking), to stay on marked trails, and always follow the camp leader.
Medical Information Provide camp staff with a detailed health history, including illnesses, injuries, operations, allergies and current medical problems (if any). Review the facilities and activities for anything that might trigger medical/ allergic reactions. Provide copies of medical and dental insurance cards, especially if kids are attending overnight camp. Make sure that camp has a well-staffed and well-equipped medical station, know their procedures for dispensing medication, and explain to kids who to alert if help is needed.
Field Trips Some camps offer extra field trips, which are often great fun. Teach kids proper behavior while in a vehicle— how to be a responsible passenger. Ask camp staff how field trips are managed: 1. Are campers split into smaller groups? 2. What is the counselor-to-camper ratio? 3. Is there a buddy system? 4. What is the emergency protocol if a camper is lost? Taking time to talk to kids, practice and prepare them for camp helps ensure successful and positive experiences, making memories that last a lifetime. v Tanni Haas, Ph.D. is a Professor in the Department of Communication Arts, Sciences, and Disorders at the City University of New York – Brooklyn College.
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Jody Lee Cates
5 Camp Strategies Parents Can Use to Help Kids Thrive Ask kids why they love camp, and you’ll often hear, “Because it’s FUN!” For many families, camp is an experience where kids have a great time doing things they don’t usually get to do. But benefits of camp reach well beyond learning to surf or petting a dolphin. In a five-year independent study sponsored by the American Camp Association, researchers surveyed past campers, parents and staff about the impact of camp on their lives. Overall, the findings show that kids who attend camp are more optimistic, self-confident, responsible, joyful, and learn skills to relate better to others. Survey participants who were ages 18–25 and attended camp as kids reported that what they learned at camp is helping them thrive in school and the workplace. At a time when learning social skills isn’t as straightforward as it once was, camp helps kids develop relationship skills that have lifelong benefits. Parents don’t have to wait for kids to attend camp to begin creating a transformational culture at home. Here’s how to use camp strategies to benefit your family year-round: 1. Talk about what matters most. At camp, kids learn how to communicate what’s important to them and to listen to what’s important to others. Talk about your family values and what your child hopes to gain from camp. What character traits are important to you? When choosing a camp, ask the questions: Philosophically, does the culture of
the camp resonate with our family? Do the values taught match ours? 2. Work as a team. While exploring camp options together, utilize the team mentality taught at camp. Team building grows confidence and competence as kids participate in activities with support and encouragement of teammates and camp staff. At home, think of your family as a team—a group of people linked by a common purpose who are working together to create connection and a sense of belonging. Some camps are skills-based and individual-focused. Others offer a variety of activities that groups can try together. Even if a skills-based camp is preferred, look for camps that also support social learning and growth. Ideally, camp will help children improve skills and discover new ones while gaining confidence and learning how to be a good friend and teammate. 3. Step outside the comfort zone. A hallmark of camp is the opportunity for kids to try new things and see what they like best. Find out what activities and guidelines camp staff use to encourage independence and get kids to step outside their comfort zones; then think about how to incorporate the ideas at home. For example, how does staff instill the belief that kids are capable of more than what is asked of them? If kids are expected to make their beds every day, start the same daily habit. If kindness is rewarded, set up a similar system at home. “By putting into practice these
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kid-tested camp strategies, you’re preparing children for a positive camp experience while giving kids a jump-start on what you hope camp will mean to them,” says Audrey Monke, owner and director of Gold Arrow Camp and author of “Happy Campers: 9 Summer Camp Secrets for Raising Kids Who Become Thriving Adults.” 4. Take advantage of learning opportunities. Kids who attend camp have a multitude of learning opportunities. Why should they have all the fun? Camp professionals are a rich resource that parents can learn from year-round by simply following favorite camps on social media and signing up for email newsletters. Take advantage of the experience and abundant resources camp experts work hard to curate and create. Their knowledge and enthusiasm will keep you in the know about child development topics that will benefit your happy camper well past summer months. 5. Stay connected. Of all the camp strategies that help kids grow into successful adults, Monke stresses that staying connected at a deeper level benefits kids most. She advises parents to resist the natural inclination to return their focus entirely back to daily schedules and homework requirements, forgotten lunches, and the myriad logistical details that make up a busy family’s life. “We don’t talk at camp about kids’ grades,” Monke says. “We talk about their interests, hopes and dreams.”
Camp Benefits that Last a Lifetime
American Camp Association research results are in. The unique setting of camp teaches kids to: • Live in the moment. • Appreciate differences as they meet new people. • Respect and value everyone’s uniqueness. • Work together. • Learn by doing. Camp experiences: • Encourage kids to try new things. • Foster perseverance, self-reliance and confidence. • Develop skills that contribute to future success in college, the workplace and life. Learn more at www.acacamps.org/ resource-library/research/ camp-impact-study.
Parents can duplicate these conversations by creating time each day to step back and reflect. Much like circle time or a nightly campfire talk, encourage one another to share what’s going well and what they would like to change. Model a willingness to go deeper by slowing down, making eye contact and listening. Make time for kids to evaluate what they’re doing, how they feel, what they hope to accomplish, and what kind of support they need.
By using camp strategies proven to build character traits and social skills kids need to thrive, parents create a culture at home that promotes the ongoing growth of happy campers with benefits that last a lifetime. v Jody Lee Cates is a local mom and award-winning writer of San Diego Family Magazine’s “Parenting with Purpose” column. She also blogs about healthy relationships at www.jodyleecates.com
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Summer Camp with Birch Aquarium Birch Aquarium is offering both in-person and virtual summer camps for kids in grades K-5. Program Highlights This summer Birch Aquarium is offering both in-person and virtual summer camps for children entering grades K-5. Explore underwater worlds and meet amazing ocean creatures in these week-long camps where campers will play games, create fun crafts, engage in science activities, and of course, get up close with our aquarium animals, live or virtually. Camps run June 21-August 27. Dates & Times June 21-August 27, varies Ages Kindergarten - 5th grade Rates & Discounts Prices vary, discounts available for Birch Aquarium Members
SIGN UP NOW! La Jolla, CA 92037 Phone: 858 534-FISH(3474) mailto:birchaquariumprograms@ucsd.edu https://aquarium.ucsd.edu/experiences/programs/summer-camps www.facebook.com/BirchAquarium
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Watch the camp preview video.
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Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater San Diego Summer at The Club Awesome Camps for Awesome Kids!
Program Highlights: Summer at The Club is a complete experience! Different themes make each week unique and special. Theme weeks include Super Heroes Week, Star Wars Week, Patriotic Week and Water Week. The theme is incorporated into special events, art projects and other hands-on activities. Members of the Club’s day camp programs will also participate in the SWAG Program. SWAG stands for Summer With A Goal. With many children falling behind academically due to virtual and hybrid learning, stopping the traditional summer learning loss is crucial. The SWAG Program keeps members’ minds engaged throughout the summer. Members will engage in a variety of activities including: reading, STEM, art, and geography. Dates & Times: 7 AM to 5 PM for all locations EXCEPT Clairemont. The Clairemont Club’s hours are 7:30 AM to 5:30 PM Ages: 5 to 13 Rates & Discounts: $160/per week • One-time fees: $60 membership fee; $10 registration fee Scholarships are available • Free membership for military families Area: Multiple clubs throughout San Diego County
Multiple clubs throughout San Diego County Phone: 858-866-0591 mailto:info@sdyouth.org www.SDYouth.org
SIGN UP NOW!
www.facebook.com/BGCGSD
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ID Virtual Tech Camp
week-long sessions in Python, Java, Minecraft, Roblox, Unity, Adobe, 3D modeling and more Program Highlights Virtual Tech Camps are the perfect way for kids and teens to sharpen STEM skills and bond with new friends, all online from the comfort of home. With the highest quality remote instruction on the planet, students unlock tech brilliance and create an exciting project. • Structured, week-long sessions available now in multiple time zones (5 consecutive days, Monday-Friday). • The hottest curriculum in Python, Java, Minecraft, Roblox, Unity, Adobe, 3D modeling, and more. • Average of 5 students per instructor, blending personalized learning and time to socialize with new friends. • A balanced schedule including 2 hours of live instruction and peer collaboration + 2 hours of self-paced project development per day. • All the magic of camp including games, challenges, and legendary iD traditions you can’t find anywhere else. Dates & Times 3/22-8/23 Ages 7-18 Rates & Discounts Save $50 with code* TOGETHER50 as long as social distancing measures are in effect. Area Held Online
Location: Online Phone: 888-709-8324 mailto:hello@iDTech.com
SIGN UP NOW!
www.idtech.com/virtual www.facebook.com/computercamps
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Helen Woodward Animal Center
Experience amazing animal interactions and camp activities including animal-themed games, crafts, songs, and more!
Program Highlights: Summer Critter Camp is the perfect animal adventure for your kids to put some magic into their summer break this year. Children will experience amazing animal interactions and camp activities including animal-themed games, crafts, songs, and more! Summer Critter Camp has two themes that alternate each week, plus daily sign-ups, weekly discounts, sibling discounts, military discounts, scholarships for low income, lunch options, and extended care hours are available. COVID-19 protocols in place for safety including masks required, social distancing, outdoors frequently, and siblings together. Check the website for full details. Adventure with Animals: Take a walk on the wild side, boldly going where no camper has gone before! Join us for an extraordinary exploration and allow our animals to awaken your sense of adventure, from discovering the different habitats that some animals call home to skillfully decoding their secrets of survival, it’s sure to be action-packed. Magical World of Animals: Have a wonderful and whimsical experience this summer by immersing yourself in the magical world of animals where our critters will certainly charm you. Their amazing adaptations and mysterious behaviors will conjure up your curiosity and stun your senses. Don’t miss out on the chance to find some fantastic creatures! Dates & Times: June 7 - August 27 | 9am-1pm PreK | 9am-3pm Kinder-6th Ages: 4-12 or 2022 school year Preschool-6th grade Rates & Discounts: $65/day PreK • $85/day Kinder-6th • $260/week PreK • $340/week Kinder-6th Area: Indoor & Outdoor at Helen Woodward Animal Center
6461 El Apajo Rancho Santa Fe, CA 92067 Phone: 858-756-4117
SIGN UP NOW!
mailto:education@animalcenter.org www.animalcenter.org/programs-services/education/summer-critter-camp www.facebook.com/hwaceducation 12 • SanDiegofamily.com • Digital Camp & Summer Programs Guide 2021
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San Diego Craft Collective Offering weekly Craft Camps for School-Age Children from late June through mid-August. Program Highlights Children will learn about woodworking, clay, hand sewing, glass and so much more all revolving around a weekly theme. Along the way, they learn through ‘making and doing’ and create lots of crafts in several mediums. Our camps are recommended for school-age children 6yrs and up. Projects and depth of learning are matched up to the children’s age/ ability, and we break into groups of similar age. Dates & Times June 21 - June 25: 2:30 - 5:30pm July 5 - 7: 10am - 12pm July 5 - July 9: 12:30pm - 3:30pm July 26 - 30: 12:30pm - 3:30pm Aug 2 - 6: 12:30 - 3:30pm Aug 9 - 13: 12:30 - 3:30pm Aug 16 - 20: 12:30 - 3:30pm Aug 23 - 27: 12:30 - 3:30pm Ages Little Camp: 2.5 - 5yrs. All other Camps: Ages 6+ Rates & Discounts Littles Camp ($45/day or $120 for all 3 days). Other camps range $400-$450/week. Sibling Discount, Military Discount Area Liberty Station
2590 Truxtun Rd., Studio 106 San Diego, CA 92106 Phone: 619-273-3235 mailto:make@sandiegocraft.org
SIGN UP NOW!
www.sandiegocraft.org www.facebook.com/sandiegocraft
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There’s no camp like SeaWorld San Diego Camp. Meet ocean animals up close, learn from real animal experts and explore a park full of fun this summer. Spots fill up fast - register now! Program Highlights: SeaWorld San Diego Summer Camps run 5 day-sessions offering fun, quality educational experiences along with superior safety standards and low counselor-to-camper ratios. Caring, well-trained counselors help ensure an action-packed week of laughing and learning for all. So if you’re looking for a different species of Summer Camp - you’ve found it. Day Camps include but are not limited to: • Visits to SeaWorld animal habitats • Games, crafts and songs • Active, hands-on learning • SeaWorld attractions and presentations Resident and Career Camps provide experiences such as: • A hands-on look at animal-care career positions • Interactions with bottlenose dolphins • Meetings with Veterinarians and Veterinarian Technicians • Meetings with the SeaWorld Rescue Team • SeaWorld rides, attractions and presentations Dates & Times Camp sessions available from July 5 - August 13 Ages Grades 1-6 Rates & Discounts SeaWorld Pass Members enjoy exclusive discounts! Area San Diego
500 SeaWorld Drive San Diego, CA 92109
SIGN UP NOW!
Phone: 760-201-1313 mailto:swcadvcp@seaworld.com www.seaworldsandiego.com/education www.facebook.com/seaworldsandiego
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Scripps Performing Arts Academy Musical Theatre & Dance Camps for All Ages and Abilities!
Program Highlights Campers learn age appropriate choreography while creating a workshop performance utilizing original scripts inspired by a variety of popular Broadway, Rock Star and Childhood Themes. Using original scripts, written by the creative forces of the Musical Theatre Department, each summer camp provides a fun, creative, 5 day long getaway for each student! Each week culminates with a video presentation creating summer memories to last a lifetime! Beginners through intermediate students sing, act and dance to their hearts content with coordinated crafts and complimentary t-shirt. Each week culminates with a video presentation creating summer memories to last a lifetime! Dates & Times June 14-August 15 Ages 3.5-14 Rates & Discounts Contact Us for this Month’s Special!
9920 Scripps Lake Drive, Suite 105 San Diego, CA 92131 3880 Valley Centre Drive, Suite 201 San Diego, CA 92130 Phone: 858-586-7834 mailto:info@scrippsperformingarts.com www.scrippsballet.com/academy www.facebook.com/ScrippsPerformingArts/
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SIGN UP NOW!
Watch the camp preview video.
Click here now!
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San Diego Civic Youth Ballet
Learn to Dance at the Historic Ballet School in Balboa Park Program Highlights Summer camps for ages 4 - 10 begin with a daily ballet class in which students are introduced to the technical aspects of ballet as well as the concepts of musicality and performance. Supplemental activities like arts & crafts, jazz classes and performance rehearsals make every day of camp extra fun. In-person camps are running from July 6th to August 27th, with virtual camps July 12th to 16th. Dates & Times July 6-9 July 12-16 August 16-20 August 23-27 Ages 4 to 10 years Rates & Discounts $100, $120 & $150 (based on length & in-person vs. virtual) Area Balboa Park
Find more information about our Summer Camp Program by clicking here.
1650 El Prado, Suite 209 San Diego, CA 92101 Phone: 619-917-1393
SIGN UP NOW!
https://www.sdcyb.org www.facebook.com/sdcyballet
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Watch the camp preview video.
Click here now!
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