Westchester Family - Ultimate Guide to Summer Camp 2021 by Schneps Media Digital Editions

camp Westchester Family’s Ultimate Guide to Summer 2021

Why Kids Need Camp This Year! How These Camps Ran Successfully Amid a Global Pandemic Camps Reimagined to Virtual and In-person

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contents

FEATURES 6 | Editor’s Note Your camp resource for Summer 2021 8 | Why Kids Need Camp This Year After a year of remote learning, the benefits of this environment are more important than ever 12 | How These Camps Ran Successfully Amid a Global Pandemic This is how these camps safely ran their camps 14 | Camps Reimagined to Virtual Instead of closing their doors completely for the summer, some camps pivoted to virtual camp and created a whole new experience for their camp families and beyond.

ultimate guide to Summer Camp 2021 WestchesterFamily.com

16 | Questions to Ask Camp Directors It’s always important to ask key questions about the program and safety procedures before deciding which camp will become your child’s home away from home 18 | Getting Ready for Camp Sending your child to camp for the first time is a major milestone for a child, but how do parents know if their child is ready and when the right time is for their child to embark on this new adventure? 20 | Safety Changes for Summer Camp Both day and overnight camps operated successfully last summer amid a global pandemic, and campers had a safe, fun, and healthy summer.

WestchesterFamily.com | Ultimate Guide to Summer Camp 2021

22 | Kid-Friendly Sunscreens! As kids start to head to summer camps and venture outside, it’s important to remember sunscreen! 38 | Researching a Camp Amid a Pandemic Even in the midst of a pandemic, there are ways to go about narrowing down your choices and choosing the best camp for your child and family

Listings 26 | Camp Directory

Ultimate Guide to Summer Camp 2021 | Westchester Family

Editor’s Note

President Victoria Schneps-Yunis CEO Joshua Schneps

Westchester Family WestchesterFamily.com Publisher Clifford Luster cluster@schnepsmedia.com Executive Editor Donna Duarte-Ladd edit@westchesterfamily.com Digital Editor Katarina Avendaño Digital Director Erik Bliss ADVERTISING SALES Account Managers LynnMarie Hanley lynnmarie.hanley@westchesterfamily.com Nina Spiegelman nina.spiegelman@westchesterfamily.com PRODUctION Art Director Leah Mitch production@schnepsmedia.com Production Staff Arthur Arutyunov, Connie Sulsenti DISTRIBUTION & CIRCULATION Roberto Palacios 718-260-4531

Your Camp Resource for Summer 2021 In a sign that New York is recovering, camps are open this summer for our kids. Whooo hoo! Whether it’s virtual, in-person, or sleepaway, we have a thorough listing of camps to help you in your camp decision (page 26). In this year’s issue, you’ll find helpful articles such as Why Kids Need Camp This Year (page 8), a piece that helped me personally decide if my oldest should attend camp (YES!) this summer. Other articles get straight to the point, such as How These Camps Ran Successfully Amid a Global

Pandemic (page 12) and Camps Reimagined to Virtual (page 14). The past year has been rough, and our kids have frankly been rock stars. I am excited for them as they start to get out and enjoy the summer. Happy for them to connect with friends, which camps help to do this every summer. Whether in-person, remotely, in the city, the woods, or even in another country — Summer 2021 is on. Happy Summer! Donna and New York Family Media

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Ultimate Guide to Summer Camp 2021 | Westchester Family

Why Kids Need Camp This Year After a year of remote learning, the benefits of this environment are more important than ever By Jess Michaels

f ever there was a summer that children needed camp, it’s this summer. So many New York children have been learning remotely, with very few days of in-person learning each week, if at all. Children are missing out on some important developmental opportunities due to COVID and camp is an environment that can provide so many of these missed occasions. Here are just a couple of the reasons why camp is so important for children after a year of remote learning. Break from the Screens One of the many drawbacks of life with COVID is that children are spending more and more time behind screens. Sam Borek, Owner and Director of Woodmont Day Camp in Rockland County feels kids are missing out on social interactions and the ability to connect with friends. “When children are watching their teacher on a screen, they can zone out or use their phone

while not focusing on what is being taught. Remote learning is giving children the chance to escape into their own world, which is unhealthy. It’s also difficult for teachers to connect with their students in a virtual classroom. Camp is the complete opposite of this. Kids are connecting with peers and learning from role models by being present and participating, rather than watching on a screen. Campers and staff are sitting and talking to each other where valuable lessons are learned at many moments throughout the day.” Laurie Rinke, Owner and Director of Camp Echo Lake, a coed overnight camp in the Adirondacks, agrees. “Because we have been more isolated, kids are on their screens for learning or just to communicate with their peers. There is a loss in face-to-face interactions, facial cues, body language and the ability to just stand in front of someone and see how what you say is received and react to that. Camp is like a communication, kindness and empathy immersion class which is exactly what kids need right now.”

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Extracurricular Activities Like so many things, sports and extracurricular activities aren’t running in the same way this year and it’s having a huge effect on today’s youth. “So many of the activities that helps kids find their passion have been amended or cancelled like sports, musical theater at school or jazz band,” says Rinke. “Kids aren’t able to do the things they are excited about or able to be sparked by something new right now, but at camp, we can give them the opportunity to play sports, climb the rock wall for the first time or perform in performing arts. These activities are harder to do everywhere else but at camp we are able to make these things safe and give exposure to the things they love or might learn to love.” Peer relationships Borek feels one of the biggest challenges of virtual learning is that while children are seeing kids on a screen, they aren’t interacting with them. “Children are missing out on those precious moments that create

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memories. Laugher or a spontaneous comment is totally devoid in zoom or google classroom. When children sit together in camp at lunch and talk throughout the day, these are the moments that make camp so special. It is what children are truly missing in a virtual environment.” Genna Singer, Director of Camps at the Marlene Meyerson JCC Manhattan says, “Kid only opportunities are so valuable to children and it’s so hard when children have lost nearly a year of those formative experiences. Just being with other kids is a learning curve of experiencing how to navigate being with peers and is an opportunity to find a common language. These are all important things that come along with kid specific experiences such as camp.” Independence Due to COVID, children are with their parents at home more than ever before. While this is good for family bonding, it can certainly hinder a child’s development. Singer says that when kids are home doing remote school, their parent or caregiver is often just five feet away from them. “Traditionally,

“Camp is like a communication, kindness and empathy immersion class, which is exactly what kids need right now.” when children go to school, they stretch in different ways socially and academically but when they are learning at home, they are still just at home. The confines of how they think of themselves in relation to family or at home is still present, so kids aren’t stretching in the same way. Camp is where children can find their real self and become independent. Seperation from their parent or caregiver will be so much more important this summer.” Rinke agrees and explains, “Children need to gain independence individually and if they are only with their parents, they can’t do it as easily. Camp allows children to make their own decisions, with the guidance of their counselors, such as if they need a sweatshirt if it’s a chilly day or being able to choose their own elective. Being without parents there to help is crucial because it gives children the opportunity to have these experiences which will help them develop into independent adults.”

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Safe consistency Children thrive on routine. Unfortunately, COVID has taken that away in so many ways. “Right now, kids don’t know when a quarantine may happen or if school will close so they are forced into things being unpredictable,” says Rinke. “There is a certain level of consistency and routine at camp. Kids know they will be there for a certain number of weeks, what time their meals are, who is in their cabin and what kind of activities there are. This kind of consistency is good for kids and also a way of getting back to a normal level of routine.” Borek agrees and says that right now, children are in school for very few full five days from 830 – 3 PM. “This year, kids are being short changed of the feeling of structure and being in a full day program. Children thrive off of structure so when they only have three hours a day of school, it leads to lots of free time for Tik Tok or Instagram. A camp day reminds children of how to follow a schedule.”

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How These Camps Ran Successfully Amid a Global Pandemic By Jess Michaels

ast spring, COVID-19 changed everything. Children were home navigating distance learning while parents were juggling working from home while assisting their kids with schoolwork. No one knew what the summer would be like and if camps would be able to operate but what became abundantly clear is that children were feeling anxious and lonely and needed camp more than ever before to socialize with other children, take a break from screens and participate in activities outside of their homes. With guidance from the American Camp Association, CDC, medical professionals and state and local Department of Health offices, camps where states were able to operate adjusted their programs to put numerous health and safety protocols in place to mitigate the risk of COIVD-19 at camp. Here’s how these camps ran successfully and how they now have a blueprint for running safely in a pandemic. The Decision to Open Unfortunately, for many camps, the decision to not operate was made by the Governor of the state the camps resided in. For others who could open, there were many factors to consider.

Andy Lilienthal, Owner and Director of Camp Winnebago, an all-boys overnight camp in Maine, initially had a discussion about health and risk with his wife Laura, who is also a pediatrician and the camp’s medical director. They knew that children were suffering emotionally last spring and felt a mission towards being a key to children’s development. “If ever there was a summer to provide camp for children, this was it. We took a look at our intrinsic assets at camp—our camper density was low, we have a flexible program and we have mental health professionals and medical staff at camp. We realized we could make this work and we didn’t have to change a lot of our physical plant to do it safely. It also quickly came back to the fundamental goals of camp. What is it about camp that’s important? Once we honed in on that, we knew we could do it. We understood that camp may look different, but the deliverables like strong friendships, social emotional learning and emotional safety would very much be the same as any given summer.” Katie Duffy, Director of the Asphalt

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Green Camps in NYC explained that by the time New York State gave day camps the green light to operate in June, they had already created a structure of what camp could like look based on the guidelines from the American Camp Association and guidance from the CDC. “We had to be practical about our camps and facilities and what was doable and what wasn’t. We felt that our uptown camp could open because of our large outdoor field but unfortunately, we couldn’t run our Battery Park camp because we couldn’t secure the outdoor space.” Communication With so much uncertainty at the time, communication with parents was imperative and was key to many camps success last summer. “Winnebago sent out numerous communications to parents and hosted a series of zoom calls with families in the spring. We encouraged open and frank conversation, letting parents know we were going to be transparent in our plans,” Lilienthal said. “Over these zoom calls, parents were able to digest information, ask

questions, gauge where we were at and make decisions for themselves on whether or not to send their child to camp.” Multi-Layered Plan Lilienthal said there wasn’t just one safety protocol but a number of them working together that lowered the risk of COVID at camp. “We had a multi-layered approach that was like layers of Swiss cheese. Every intervention had holes in it—physical distancing, masks, cohorting—none of them were perfect but when you put layers on top of each other, the holes in the cheese got smaller.” Camp Winnebago’s plan included: a testing regiment for both campers and staff; daily health checks; small cohorts and opening them to larger cohorts and then eventually the whole camp once it was deemed that everyone at camp was COIVD free; increased hand sanitizing and hand washing as well as increased disinfecting of equipment and facilities; outdoor activities; masks when near other cohorts or inside; and many more protocols to keep camp a healthy environment. Duffy said they looked at camp from

“It also quickly came back to the fundamental goals of camp. What is it about camp that’s important? Once we honed in on that, we knew we could do it.” A-Z, from top to bottom to see what changes needed to be implemented in order to create a COVID safe environment. “Asphalt Green put in a thermal scanner that campers walked through each day to read their temperature, had two nurses instead of just one, social distanced from other cohorts, used tons of hand sanitizer and added portable sinks inside and outside for hand washing and staff wore masks at all times, with children wearing them at arrival and when transitioning to different activity spaces. We worked hard to keep the program as is and to maintain a community feel. We still had color war, carnival and morning assemblies but we just did them safely and in careful ways.” Summer 2021 The good news is camps will be open for

summer 2021 and camps have already proven they can run safe, healthy programs amid a pandemic. “I think that summer 2021 will not be the same as 2020 and that this summer will deliver its own set of challenges but knowing that camps have a blueprint for operating in a pandemic and that we can alter our program to meet those new challenges is the important piece,” said Lilienthal. “Think about why you would send your child to camp in a typical year and hopefully you are doing it for the independence they will gain, friendships they will make and for connections with role models. If there is a way to send your kids to camp this summer and have them be safe, which we have proven we can do, there has never been a summer that kids need camp more than this summer.”

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Camps Reimagined to Virtual By Jess Michaels

ith the unknowns of COVID-19 last spring, many states in the Northeast didn’t permit overnight camps to operate, including New York state. Instead of closing their doors completely for the summer, some camps pivoted to virtual camp and created a whole new experience for their camp families and beyond. Christie Ko, Executive Director of the Fiver Children’s Foundation which runs Camp Fiver, an overnight camp for children from underserved NY communities, made the decision to not open camp in May, even before Governor Cuomo announced that overnight camps couldn’t operate. We realized we couldn’t guarantee a COVID free environment and with many of our families

coming from vulnerable populations, we weren’t willing to take a chance. We reached out to our Fiver families to let them know that resident camp wasn’t going to be running and realized even then, people were feeling social isolation and anxiety about health and family economics. We also learned that our families were looking for the same things that we have always provided which is social-emotional support, adult role models and educational activities. Our team put our creative minds together to figure out what we could provide our families.” The Fiver leadership team held several brainstorming meetings to plan out what a virtual camp program could look like. “We thought about the key elements and culture of Fiver that we wanted to remain. There are rituals that make our program really special

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like morning announcements and song of the night that we didn’t want to lose,” explains Ko. “We also reached out to parents and kids about the logistics like how many hours a day would you want to participate, what time would work for a start and what days of the week would work for your family?” While Camp WiFiver, the virtual camp created by Fiver, served their camp families, Adam Weinstein, Executive Director of Berkshire Hills Eisenberg Camp, a coed Jewish overnight camp in NY, explains that the virtual camp they created, Virtual Summer, was attended by almost 200 kids, although most of them were not campers at camp. “One of the coolest parts of our online camp was that we had a diverse community of children from Africa, Poland and California, as well as many from the

tri-state area. While Virtual Summer wasn’t comparable to traditional camp, we set it up in a way that was fun with camp favorites like flag pole and skits and a number of activities that worked well virtually including fitness, yoga, magic and cooking. Kids could sign up for anywhere from 1-4 hours each day and pick the type of programs they wanted to do.” Based on camp family feedback, Camp WiFiver had four, two week sessions and offered five hours of live programming during the week, with a Sunday night reflection period which is something they do in a typical summer. “The day consisted of a large group meeting where the whole camp participated and we would live stream from our camp pavilion where we would usually do morning announcements. Campers had two cabin meetings a day as well,” says Ko. “Each camper also selected two electives from a choice of about fifteen from origami to basketball to jewelry making. We built in a break and regrouped for evening activity where we live streamed camp favorites like a camp fire or a scavenger hunt.” They also

“A silver lining that came out of this all was that we now have this virtual element where kids can have a portal to Fiver that they can access all year.” built a new website that looked like camp where you could click on a certain activity area of camp like the lake or the tennis courts and there would be instructional lessons or a greeting from a staff member from that activity. “One button on the site was the dining hall where we would do a song of the night. Staff members recorded videos of the song of the night and each

day, another one would be unlocked. Kids could also write positive affirmations about campers and staff which is typically done in person at camp but we created a way to do it online. A silver lining that came out of this all was that we now have this virtual element where kids can have a portal to Fiver that they can access all year.” Weinstein says that Virtual Summer provided the opportunity for children to have some structure this past summer during the pandemic and also give them a chance to see friends safely. “Many parents were on their own screens working and this gave children the chance to be in a structured activity with an adult and other kids they could engage with.” He adds that he saw many connections being made and relationships developing online but says you can’t build a camp community virtually. “Online camp misses out on those opportunities for children to participate in self-regulated activities that take place at camp and are terrific at building strong connections that you just don’t get in a virtual program.”

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Questions to Ask Camp Directors By Jess Michaels

hen considering summer camp for your child, it’s always important to ask key questions about the program and safety procedures before deciding which camp will become your child’s home away from home for years to come. Questions often range from inquiring about the session length, the swim program or how many children are in a bunk. However, amid a global pandemic, you are certain to have many questions regarding COVID this year. The good news for parents is that both day and overnight camps ran successfully last summer and were able to mitigate the risk of COVID so children could have both a safe and rewarding summer at camp. Here are some questions you might want to ask the camp director when doing your camp research this year: 1. Can you explain what changes you are making at camp this summer to keep campers safe? If you are researching a camp now, there are many safety procedures that were put in place by camps last summer that will remain for 2021 summer, however, with the pandemic changing month to month, there are some changes that won’t be known until closer to this summer. Camps ran successfully in 2020 with safety procedures to mitigate the risk of COVID such as small group cohorts, daily health screenings, additional hand washing/sanitizing, increased sanitizing of facilities and the

camp program running mostly outdoors. Although camp looked a little different, the fundamentals of what makes camp so special for children remained the same. 2. How can I get to know the camp before registering? Even amid the pandemic, there are many ways to see the camp and get to know the camp director. Day camps offer tours throughout the year and can do so socially distanced. Many overnight camps will offer families the opportunity to visit camp this spring as the weather warms up. Camp directors are also happy to set up zoom calls or do an outdoor home visit in your backyard or apartment building’s courtyard. 3.What are the procedures if a staff member or child tests positive for COVID? Based on last summer, if a camper or staff

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member tests positive for COVID, the camp will report it to the local health department. If at day camp, the camp will notify the camp community and let you know if your child was exposed and needs to quarantine. Overnight camps used testing last year before campers and staff arrived at camp and then a few days after they arrived. If a test came back positive once at camp, those exposed in the cohort would quarantine and testing would be done. It’s important to note that there were very few positive cases of COVID at both day and overnight camps in the northeast. 4. If COVID vaccines are available, will you require them for this year? It’s too soon to tell when a vaccine will be available for children and young adults. Camps will work with their local and state health departments as vaccine information becomes available.

5. What is your camp’s refund policy? This has become an important question that more and more people are asking of all businesses since COVID hit in spring last year. Before choosing a camp, it’s important to understand their refund policy and what date you have until to ask for your money back or to roll it over to the following year. 6. How do you handle separation anxiety after a year of remote learning at home? A good camp director will meet your child where they are and are focused on the social-emotional well-being of every child at camp. In 2020, many children came to camp with anxiety from being home from school and not socializing with others for an extended period of time. The good news is that camp directors said it took just a few days of being at camp for children to adjust. 7. Will you require testing before camp? Testing in 2021 is going to look different than it did in 2020. For overnight camp, parents can assume that some kind of testing

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9. What kind of screening process is done at camp to make sure staff and campers are healthy? Both day and overnight camps required daily health screenings each day with questions asked about your child’s health and temperatures being taken either at home, at camp, or sometimes both.

will take place. 8. Will my child have to wear a mask at camp? Last summer, children at day camp didn’t need to wear masks, unless social distancing couldn’t be maintained. Overnight campers wore masks when around other cohorts and also when social distancing couldn’t be maintained. It is too early to tell what the mask policy will be but one year later, however, mask wearing has become more common place than it was last June and children have become accustomed to wearing them daily.

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10. Are there activities that will be eliminated because of COVID? With COVID, certain contact sports and activities needed to be eliminated last summer. Many camps also didn’t do field trips or inter-camp games to prevent exposure to many people. It is too early to tell what activities will need to change for 2021 but camps offer dozens of activities and if a camp needs to make some changes to keep staff and campers safe, there are so many other amazing activities to participate in. Camps that ran in 2020 reported that even with some changes, it was probably the best summer they ever had because children needed camp so much after months spent at home.

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Ultimate Guide to Summer Camp 2021 | Westchester Family

Getting Ready for Camp By Jess Michaels

ending your child to camp for the first time is a major milestone for a child, but how do parents know if their child is ready and when the right time is for their child to embark on this new adventure? Some parents might also wonder if this is really the year to start camp when COVID-19 is still a concern. Whether you are considering day or overnight camp, there are many deciding factors and tips for parents when making this important decision.

COVID-19 While COVID-19 is still present, parents should know that both day and overnight camps ran successfully last summer, with no or few cases that were quickly contained. Using a multi-layered plan of protocols which included daily health checks, frequent hand hygiene, cleaning & disinfecting of facilities and cohorts of campers, among many other protocols, camps were able to mitigate the risk of COVID and keep campers healthy. In fact, many camp directors reported that it was their healthiest summer yet with so much hand washing and children staying home when they had a fever! “This is not the year to miss out on camp. Children need camp

this summer more than ever,” says Susie Lupert, Executive Director of the American Camp Association, NY and NJ. “With so many kids learning remotely and missing out on extracurricular activities, camp provides children with the opportunity to return to a sense of normalcy by being in a safe and structured environment and socializing face to face with kids and adult role models.” The right age for camp When is the right age for a child to begin camp? Josh Male, Owner and Director of Gate Hill Day Camp in Rockland County feels there really is no right age to start camp. “Most children are ready for a day camp experience between the ages of 3-6. Ultimately, the decision to start a summer camp experience depends on factors that are specific to your child’s needs and interests and the goals you have for your child.” Lauren Bernstein, Owner and Director of Camp Walden, a coed overnight camp in the Adirondacks agrees. “There is no perfect age to begin camp. Some children are ready earlier and some later but both are okay. Don’t get caught up in what your friends say about having to start overnight camp at a certain age because socially your child won’t fit in after that time. If your child isn’t ready,

WestchesterFamily.com | Ultimate Guide to Summer Camp 2021

start later and find the right camp at the time when your child is ready.” Best ways for parents to determine readiness Most parents can just sense when their child is ready for camp. “See how your child responds to watching a camp video and discussing camp. If you went to camp yourself, you can also talk about your own experience,” suggests Bernstein. “Discuss the exciting opportunities available at camp and see how they react. Touring a camp or attending Rookie Days can also help you determine your child’s readiness. Often times, friends or an older sibling going to camp will trigger children to talk about being interested. It’s ok for a child to be nervous about doing something for the first time but don’t let nervousness allow you to think your child isn’t ready.” Male feels kids are typically ready for day camp before their parents are. “As for child readiness, parents should focus on things like potty training, showing an interest in group activities and the ability to participate in other programs where parent involvement is not required. The reality is that camp is an ideal environment for pre-school aged children to learn the skills necessary for group and school based settings

such as making friends, trying new things, independence and resilience.” Tips for preparing your child for camp “Young children transition best when parents have provided several opportunities for their child to feel safe and excited about their new day camp,” comments Male. “First, parents should be excited and committed to the idea of day camp to demonstrate camp is going to be a fun safe place. Attending the facility and meeting the director and other staff starts the process for a child to feel comfortable with the place and people they will be spending their summer with. ” Bernstein feels that once you make a decision on a camp, you shouldn’t over discuss it with your child. “A school year for an 8-year-old is a very long time. Sometimes parents get ahead of themselves and like to plan ahead but over orchestrating camp preparations too early can cause more angst then good.” Lauren also feels a great way to set your child up for success is to let them know how much you trust and believe in the camp you are sending them to. “Tell your child about all the

“It’s ok for a child to be nervous about doing something for the first time but don’t let nervousness allow you to think your child isn’t ready.” wonderful opportunities at camp and that you know they will love it. Normalize homesickness and say to them that they will of course miss home and that you will miss them but you know they will have a great time. Don’t promise to pick them up if they don’t like it. No day is perfect at home or at camp so if you made a pick up deal with your child, they will have it in their head they can leave if they are having a difficult moment.” How camps help children prepare for camp Camps do so many things to help children get ready for the camp experience. “Camps host open houses and pre-camp orientation which are great opportunities to see the camp again and to help children in the preparation process,” says Male. Camp Walden does email buddies where the camp will connect

• Comprehensive Care from Birth to Age 21 • State of the Art Pediatric OLce • Convenient on-site parking

families in close proximity. “Often times these email exchanges will lead to facetime with the campers or get-togethers. We also group campers by age on the bus so they start acclimating right away and the camp experience begins from the minute they are on the bus,” says Bernstein. “Meet and greets before camp are nice opportunities for campers to connect with the director and other key staff. Before they get to camp, they feel more relaxed knowing the director and that they will be taken care of.” Keep in mind that when you send your child to camp, you are forming a partnership with the camp leadership team. If you need assistance in helping your child prepare for camp, let the director know. Some children need a little more hand holding and a good director will know how to help your child prepare for the wonderful camp experience ahead.

• Extended evening & weekend oLce hours • Most Insurances Accepted

Schedule your annual physical Susan Meisler, M.D. • Hilary Smith, M.D. • Lisa Mandelker, D.O. • Debra Etelson, M.D. 145 Huguenot St., Suite 200 New Rochelle, NY www.childrenshospital.org/bchp/practices/pediatric-associates-of-southern-westchester

(914) 235-1400 Ultimate Guide to Summer Camp 2021 | Westchester Family

Safety Changes

for Summer Camps

by Jess Michaels

t’s impossible to predict exactly where we will be with COVID-19 by summer, however, both day and overnight camps operated last summer successfully amid a global pandemic and campers had a safe, fun and healthy summer. Camps have put numerous protocols in place to mitigate the risk of COVID and while no environment can be 100% COVID free at this time, the summer camps that operated in the region had either no COVID cases or very few positive cases which were effectively managed and didn’t spread among the camp community. Camps have a blueprint on how to operate safely during COVID and the good news is that even the camps that didn’t open last summer, will be open for this summer. Here are a number of safety measures that camps implemented last summer. You can expect to see many of these changes at camp but all final decisions will be made closer to the summer with COVID changing so rapidly. Although camps may look a little different than in summers past, the core fundamentals of what makes camp so special and valuable for children such as gaining independence, building self-esteem and making new friends in an outdoor environment, remain the same and these opportunities feel more important now than ever before.

DAY CAMPS Daily Temperature Checks – Children and staff were required to have their temperatures taken daily before attending camp. If your child had a fever, they were asked to stay home for a certain number of days and some camps required a negative COVID test or a note from your pediatrician before returning to camp.

Daily Health Screening – Families were asked to fill out daily health screenings. If a child or staff were exhibiting any COVID symptoms or had traveled to certain states, they were asked to stay home from camp. Reduced capacity – Camps ran at a reduced capacity of campers to maintain social distancing guidelines. Outside activities – Because the spread of COVID is reduced when outdoors, many camps ran outdoor programs and maximized their outdoor space. Hand hygiene – Hand hygiene was a top priority at camp, with additional hand washing and hand sanitizer stations throughout camp. Children cleaned hands before, during and after activities. Many camp directors reported a decrease in common sicknesses over the summer because of diligent hand hygiene. Cohorts/pods – Camp groups acted as cohorts where they stayed together throughout the day and didn’t intermingle with other groups. State guidelines will determine if cohorts are needed and if so, the size of them for 2021. Additional cleaning & disinfecting – Camps have always cleaned and disinfected equipment and activity areas but with COVID, those cleanings increased throughout the day and included a deeper cleaning. Lunch – To limit the number of people gathering together, lunch times were staggered and lunch took place outside. Many camps also switched the way they served lunch from family style or buffet to prepackaged lunches. Rainy Days – Because camps ran activities

WestchesterFamily.com | Ultimate Guide to Summer Camp 2021

outside for the most part, some camps built in “rain days” last summer, very much like snow days where there wasn’t camp on extremely wet days. Masks – Last summer, all staff wore masks and children wore masks on buses and when social distancing couldn’t be maintained. Eliminated activities – There were certain activities that were eliminated from the camp program because of too much contact with other people or equipment. Busing – Some camps decided to run busing last summer and some didn’t but camps will do busing in 2021. Due to social distancing guidelines, there may be less children on each bus this summer, children may be wearing masks and children may sit alone, with a sibling or with a camper from their group. Field trips – While out of camp trips have always been fun, camps eliminated them last summer to reduce exposure to other people. Field trips will be determined by each camp and final decisions on them will occur closer to summer when directors can evaluate where the state is with COVID-19.

OVERNIGHT CAMP Testing – The use of COVID-19 tests was part of how overnight camps were able to mitigate the risk of COVID at camp last summer. Both campers and staff were required to take a test a number of days before camp and then again once at camp. Testing wasn’t the one magic bullet but was used as part of a multi layered system to mitigate the risk of COVID at camp. Testing may look different this summer as advancements in testing occur and final decisions on testing will occur closer to summer.

camps will need to have cohorts and pods for the summer.

sicknesses because of the additional hand hygiene.

Outdoors – Overnight camps used their vast outdoor space to help mitigate the risk of COVID and spent as much time outdoors as possible which reduces the risk of spreading COVID.

All camp gatherings – One of the most special parts of overnight camp is when the whole camp comes together for all camp gatherings. After it was deemed safe to all come together, these larger camp gatherings were able to occur safely.

Temperature checks & Daily Health Screening – Like day camps, camper and staff had their temperature taken each morning and a health screening was given daily at overnight camp.

Inter-camp Games – While intercamp games have long been a tradition of overnight camps, last year there were no inter camps to mitigate the risk of COVID. Decisions on inter-camp games will be made closer to summer.

Cohorts/Pods – With the goal of all campers being able to come together after a period of time, many overnight camps had cohorts or families where those campers started camp together and only intermingled with their cohort for first 2-3 weeks of camp. As time went on and camp was deemed COVID free through, campers were able to come together as a camp while also maintaining distancing between other cohorts. It is too early to tell whether

Cleaning/disinfecting – As with day camps, there was an increase in cleaning and disinfecting around camp from equipment to facilities.

Masks – Masks were used when social distancing couldn’t be maintained between cohorts or when an all camp gathering was occurring.

Hand hygiene – Camps increased hand hygiene among campers and staff with additional hand washing and hand sanitizing throughout the day. Overnight camp directors also reported less common

Dining – Each camp that opened did dining differently however campers ate outside more frequently and some camps staggered eating times. Visiting Day – Last summer, the overnight camps that ran didn’t offer a visiting day. This was because the camp session was shorter and also it ensured the bubble they created at camp remained COVID free. Decisions on Visiting Day will be made closer to the summer depending on rates of infection at the time. Camp trips – Trips outside of camp were eliminated last summer. What camp trips will look like this summer will all depend on what the rates of COVID infection are in the states the camps are located in and where the campers are traveling to.

Ultimate Guide to Summer Camp 2021 | Westchester Family

Kid-Friendly

Sunscreens! By Courtney Ingalls

s NYC kids’ start to head to summer camps and venture outside, it’s important to remember sunscreen! As kids prepare for the coming hot summer days we have have kid-friendly sunscreens to protect your kids’ skin from the sun’s harmful rays! These sunscreens are gentle on kids’ skin and are free from harmful chemicals, so you and your kids can focus on having a fun-filled summer!

Babo Botanical Baby Skin Mineral Sunscreen SPF: 50 broad spectrum Price: $12.99

This vegan sunscreen is another perfect choice for babies that have sensitive skin! Babo Botanicals is gluten, soy, and dairyfree. The sunscreen is ultra sheer and lightweight, making it easy to apply on young kids.

All Good Kid’s Sunscreen Lotion

Babyganics Baby Sunscreen Lotion

SPF: 30 broad spectrum Price: $15.99

SPF: 50 broad spectrum Price: $9.99

Having a sunscreen that will be gentle on your kid’s skin is something that many parents look for. All Good adds chamomile to their sunscreen which is perfect for soothing sensitive skin. This mineral sunscreen lotion is UVA/UVB protected, water-resistant, lightweight, non-greasy, and is made with reef-safe ingredients. All Good makes sure that your skin feels great while also being protected!

This plant-based sunscreen seems to be a favorite for many parents! Babyganics is made with certified organic ingredients such as cranberries, raspberries, seed oils, and sunflowers. This sunscreen is a little thicker than other brands, so you only need to apply a small amount to your kids for full coverage!

WestchesterFamily.com | Ultimate Guide to Summer Camp 2021

Ultimate Guide to Summer Camp 2021 | Westchester Family

Anthelios Sunscreen for Kids SPF: 60 broad spectrum Price: $19.99

With one of the highest broad spectrums, La Roche-Posay Anthelios uses Cell-Ox Shield® technology that protects the skin from UVA and UVB rays. This sunscreen is pediatrician tested and uses antioxidants that will help protect your child’s sensitive skin from future sun damage. This sunscreen is water-resistant and can last up to 80 minutes. For kids 3 and up.

Coola Mineral Baby Organic Sunscreen Lotion SPF: 50 broad spectrum Price: $36

Kids’ skin, especially those with sensitive skin, need some extra love when it comes to applying sunscreen. Coola sunscreen is for babies 6 months or older and is made to protect baby’s delicate skin. The sunscreen is pediatric tested, paraben-free, and fragrance-free. Parents should make sure to apply sunscreen to their children every two hours to ensure the best coverage.

Badger Kids Broad Spectrum Sunscreen SPF: 30 broad spectrum Price: $16.99

With this sunscreen being biodegradable and coral reef free, you can protect the environment while soaking in the suns rays! Badger kids sunscreen has a Zinc Oxide formula that is phthalate-free and also is scented with orange tangerine and vanilla! This cream is a little thicker than others so a little dab goes a long way!

Hello Bello Sunscreen Lotion SPF: 50 broad spectrum Price: $9.78

Hello Bello is the only FDA approved sunscreen that protects against all three types of UV rays. This sunscreen is made to protect both adults and kids and is made with ingredients such as green tea, avocado, and cucumber extract so your skin will stay soft and healthy! It is suggested that you reapply the sunscreen after excessive sweating, water or towel dry off.

Baby Bum Sunscreen Spray SPF 50

Tropic Sport Sunscreen

SPF: 50 broad spectrum Price: $13.99

SPF: 30 broad spectrum Price: $29.99

Baby Bum is a 100% mineral-based and reef-safe sunscreen that protects against UVA/UVB rays. It protects and also hydrates the skin with coconut oil and shea and cocoa butter. This lotion is lightweight, non-greasy, and fragrance-free so parents can feel good about protecting their kid’s skin! When applying to kids, make sure you apply sunscreen 15 minutes before sun exposure.

If you are looking for a sunscreen that is good for your kids and the environment, then Tropic Sports Sunscreen is the one for you! It is reef safe, eco-friendly, and waterresistant. Tropic Sport has also scored #2 on the EWG, making it a sunscreen that has a lower hazard ranking!

WestchesterFamily.com | Ultimate Guide to Summer Camp 2021

Get IN on the ACT! PGT’s in-person summer camps are ON!

Limited spots are available for The Play Group Theatre’s inspirational and innovative performing arts camps. Mix+Match the perfect theatre arts summer for your young actor! Discover why PGT is a Westchester Family Favorite year after year!

2020 0

1 , 2, 3, and 4 week camps

P GT S u m m e r C a m p s P r e p a r i n g K i d s f o r E v e r y S t a g e i n L i f e

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Ultimate Guide to Summer Camp 2021 | Westchester Family

Camp Directory | Special Advertising Supplement

Camp Guide Special Advertising Supplement

A Child’s Dream 10 Mill Road, New Rochelle 914-633-4332 achildsdreamnursery.com A Child’s Dream will be offering a fun-filled camp to the current 3’s and 4’s students for the weeks of 6/14 and 6/21. Camp will run Monday - Thursday from 9am-12pm. We will also offer lunch bunch on Mondays and Wednesdays from 12pm-2pm for an additional fee of $30 per day for these two weeks. Students that sign up for Lunch Bunch will bring a nut free lunch from home. Lunch Bunch is optional. Camp will also be open for all incoming students and current students going into the 4’s class for the weeks of 6/28/21-7/26/21 (no camp the week of 7/5/21). Students entering kindergarten are not eligible for these weeks. There will be no Lunch Bunch during the 6/28-7/25 session.

Amadeus Music, Theater and Art Camp 201 King Street, Chappaqua amadeusconservatory.com amadeusconservatory.com/programs/ summer-camp amadeusconservatoryofmusic@gmail. com 914- 238- 0388 June 28 - August 6 Performing arts music, theater, and art camp for ages 5 - 16. Sing, dance, act in a musical, study two instruments with Amadeus faculty, create and exhibit fine art, design and paint sets. Have fun with outdoor play and sports. Culminates in a musical performance in a theater or outdoors. Camp fosters the joys of self expression and creativity. Half day 9:00 - 12:00, Full day 9:00 - 3:00. Session 1 June 28 - July 16 . Session 2 July 19 - Aug 6. Weekly sessions available

Berkshire Hills Eisenberg Camp and Berkshire Hills Culinary Camp 159 Empire Road, Copake NY 914-693-8952 bhecamp.org Berkshire Hills Eisenberg Camp is a coed Jewish sleepaway camp for children and teens 7-16. We are welcoming to everyone and focus on a program of values and community. Our activity program is a mix of group bonding through cabin activities and electives that offer a more individualized experience. We offer everything from sports, arts, outdoors adventure, and water fun. In addition, we offer a Culinary Camp program for children going into 5th grade and older. This program will give your child the skills in the kitchen to then come home and cook a delicious family meal!

Artistree Performing Arts Acres of Adventure Summer Camp 2170 Saw Mill River Road, Elmsford Acresofadventuresummercamp.com 914- 592 -3027 Acres of Adventure Summer Camp at Ann & Andy’s is a one-to-nine-week summer camp program emphasizing the outdoors. The camp is located on 5 acres with 25 play areas. The outdoor program includes baseball, soccer, kickball, basketball, dodge ball, bocce ball court, mini-golf, color war games, zipline, climbing wall, water slides, and more. There is also a computer lab. Open to children from 3 months to 14 years old. Campers ages 11-14 take fun recreational, educational, and cultural trips. They offer customized schedules and individualized attention. They also offer hot lunches and Barbeque Fridays. All buildings are air-conditioned. Acres of Adventure Summer Camp at Ann & Andy’s are licensed by the Health Department and have experienced counselors. Covid safety regulations are followed.

114 W. Boston Post Road Mamaroneck, NY 914-835-2200 info@artistreearts.com artistreearts.com Instagram: @artistreearts Facebook: Artistree Performing Arts Join Artistree Performing Arts for theater camp all summer long! Artistree’s mission is to create a community where the performing arts are explored and celebrated, friendships are made and confidence is built through the backdrop of theater, music, dance. Our summer camp is a wonderful way for your child to be a part of that experience. Shows for Summer 2021 include “Willy Wonda,” “Shrek,” “The Jungle Book,” “Into the Woods” and a one week “Hamilton” Camp. Camps are offered for preschool-high school students. No previous experience is required. If you love performing, then come join us “where talent grows” at Artistree Performing Arts.

WestchesterFamily.com | Ultimate Guide to Summer Camp 2021

Camp Birch Hill 333C Birch Hill Road, New Durham, NH 603-859-4525 campbirchhill.com Camp Birch Hill is a sleepaway camp for the individual. The atmosphere is natural and friendly. An elective program empowers children to create personalized schedules from a variety of well rounded activities. Ideally located in New Durham, New Hampshire at the entrance of the White Mountains 90 miles from Boston. The directors are ever mindful of the physical and general well-being of the campers. Camp Birch Hill continues to provide a safe, positive and welcoming environment where boys and girls aged 6-16 are free to explore, engage, create and develop lasting friendships and memories while connecting with nature.

RYEY Y CAMPS CAMPS RYE BEST SUMMER EVER! Ages 3-14

21 Locust Avenue, Rye ryeycamp.org camp@ryeymca.org 914-967-6363

CAMP ARTISTREE

2021! Preschool– High School All Shows Performed Outdoors

Enroll at ArtistreeArts.com • (914) 835-2200 Ultimate Guide to Summer Camp 2021 | Westchester Family

Camp Directory | Special Advertising Supplement

Camp Ramaquois

Camp Regis Applejack

30 Mountain Road, Pomona, NY 845-354-1600 campramaquois.com Camp Ramaquois is not like every other camp. Their day camp for boys and girls ages 3 to 15 in Pomona, NY (only 20 minutes from the Mario Cuomo Bridge) provides a truly authentic camp experience. Their magnificent 44 acres, 5-acre lake, nine heated swimming pools, and exceptional facilities and programs allow them to provide children with a dynamic and memorable summer filled with love, warmth, and being part of a special community. Campers are encouraged to take healthy risks, learn new skills, develop relationships with their peers and counselors, develop independence and assume responsibility.

15 Heron Lane., Pauls Smiths, NY 919-357-5533 campregisapplejack.com info@campregisapplejack.com Camp Regis Applejack is a family owned and operated, co-ed, overnight and day camp in upstate New York. Founded in 1946 on the Quaker beliefs of community, acceptance, and respect of nature, Camp Regis Applejack gives children an education that lasts a lifetime. With hundreds of activities on and off their property kids are encouraged to learn through fun and develop the skills necessary to be successful independent individuals. They are located on nearly a mile of lake front property, which allows for various waterfront activities, while their location in the Adirondack National Park allows for some amazing wilderness trips.

Camp Zeke - Jewish Summer Sleepaway Camp 31 Barry Watson Way, Lakewood, PA 212-913-9783 questions@campzeke.org Camp Zeke is an overnight camp in the Pocono Mountains where 2nd through 12th graders celebrate healthy, active living through gourmet, farmto-table food, sports, fitness, and arts in a joyful community that’s based on Jewish values. Some campers throw on an apron and cook with our chefs in camp’s teaching kitchens. Others join a yoga, spin, or strength training class with our amazing instructors. Some campers love to play team sports and compete against the camps all around us. Others prefer to perform in a dance, circus, or theater show, or create fine arts in one of our studios. Campers choose electives to craft their days based on their interests!

Performing arts, music, theater and art camp.

Get close to nature this summer Greenburgh Nature Center Summer Camp animal interaction • STEAM-based learning • 33 acres to explore

Sessions run weekly • July 5 through August 27 For children entering 1st - 4th Grade Register online: greenburghnaturecenter.org/summer-camp

Ages 5 - 16. Sing, dance, act in a musical. Study two instruments/voice. Studio art, set painting, outdoor play.

June 28 - Aug 6.

Half day 9:00 - 12:00. Full day 9:00 - 3:00. Session 1 June 28 - July 16. Session 2 July 19 - Aug 6. Weekly sessions available. 201 King Street, Chappaqua amadeusconservatory.com www.amadeusconservatory.com/ programs/summer-camp/ amadeusconservatoryofmusic@gmail.com

914 238 0388 28

WestchesterFamily.com | Ultimate Guide to Summer Camp 2021

2021

Crestwood Music Education Center

Challenge Camp

The Chapel School Summer Program

The Leffell School 555 Hartsdale Ave, Hartsdale 914-779-6024 challengecamps.com info@challengecamps.com Challenge Camp is an ACA-accredited day camp in Hartsdale, NY offering summer enrichment learning opportunities for bright, curious children ages 4-15. Our cohort model of STEM & Arts project based electives includes Active options enabling campers to challenge their minds and bodies. Courses range from 3D Printing, Chess, Coding, Cooking, Drones, Escape Room, Fashion, Lego, Magic, Makerspace, Minecraft, Music, Photography, Roblox, Robotics, Rocketry, Theater, Video Production, VR, YouTube and more! The Challenge Camp advantage is a customized program of selections based on the child’s interests, students follow their course selections for an entire session. Join us for a Summer of Fun & Learning!

172 White Plains Road, Bronxville 914-337-3202 ext. 1056 chapelschoolsummercamp.teampages. com/clubs/6897 The Chapel School offers a variety of summer programs starting June 14-Aug. 13. Care Bear Theme-Based Program (ages 3- 6): with AM, PM, and Full-Day Options. Explorer Program (ages 6-12) with Instructional Sports including Basketball, Tennis, Golf, Soccer, and Football. STEM with Mad Science, 3D Printing, Coding, and Website Design. The Arts: Drama, Singing, Fashion Design, and Cartooning. Sports: Basketball, Tennis, Soccer, Baseball, Flag Football, Sports Sampler, and more. Flexible Extended Hours: 8:00 am till 5:30 pm Charged Weekly. Register for One Week or All Nine Weeks. Safely Opened in 2020 and Back & Better in 2021.

870 Scarsdale Ave, Scarsdale 914-961-3497 info@crestwoodmusic.com Crestwoodmusic.com Located in a new location! For 35 years, offering private lessons in piano, guitar, voice, strings, woodwinds, brass, drums and percussion instruments for students of all ages and levels. This world-class faculty will be providing this summer, a premier virtual/online music education experience! One of the most comprehensive chamber music and orchestral programs in the tri-state area as well as our well-renowned Suzuki and Jazz programs will be resuming in-person for the fall 2021 semester. Private lessons and programs such as Musikgarten for toddlers ages 15 months to 3 years as well as for kids ages 3 to 5 will also resume in-person for the fall 2021.

Ultimate Guide to Summer Camp 2021 | Westchester Family

Camp Directory | Special Advertising Supplement

Dance Cavise 273 Halstead Avenue Mamaroneck, NY dancecavise.com Recognized by the New York Times as “setting higher standards in dance education,” Dance Cavise draws on an unrivaled teaching faculty, including top NYC-professionals, to deliver summer programs that emphasize proper technique and fun! Instruction for all ages and levels. Ages 3-18 with Beginner, Intermediate and Advanced Intensive programs. In addition, a 2 ½ hour Broadway Master Class Workshop, taught by Broadway stars, is offered every Friday. Open to the public, these workshops can be added to a summer program package or taken separately. All programs have a hybrid option of in-studio or virtual training. July 5 to July 30, 2021.

Greenburgh Nature Center Forest Lake Camp 261 Forest Lake Road, Chestertown, NY 518-623-4771 forestlakecamp.com Forest Lake Camp is a Brother-Sister Camp in the Adirondacks of NY with separate boys’ and girls’ camps. Their program of broad activities take kids from lake to field to mountain on their 823-acre property. Their small camp and elective activities promote independence, growth and self confidence. Campers have the opportunity to get outside and just be kids in a supportive environment with a family feel. FLC is home away from home, where campers form lasting friendships and develop skills that they will carry with them through life.

Family Owned & Operated since 1973 Experienced Counselors

Serving children 2 months–14 years of age Licensed by the Health Department

Age appropriate activities including: tween trips, bowling, swimming, golf, drama, sports, water slide, zip-line, climbing wall, arts & crafts, computers, air castle and more!

Covid safety regulations are followed. Call for a Tour and Appointment!

914-592-3027

2170 Saw Mill River Road, Elmsford, NY www.annandandychildcare.com

WestchesterFamily.com | Ultimate Guide to Summer Camp 2021

99 Dromore Road Scarsdale, New York 914-81-1812 greenburghnaturecenter.org Send your budding nature lovers to Greenburgh Nature Center’s summer camp where they will engage their senses through outdoor adventures, creating crafts, interacting with our animals, and learning about the world around them. Each week, your child will expand their point of view by participating in engaging activities ranging in topics while supervised by our Naturalists. Our summer camp is designed to meet the guidelines required during this pandemic and allow your children to safely explore, discover, and connect with our natural world.

Greenwood Trails Summer Camp 390 Winchester Road, Winsted, CT 860-379-6517 fun@greenwoodtrails.com GreenwoodTrails.com Let kids be kids again this summer! Greenwood Trails is an award-winning family-owned overnight camp for boys and girls ages 7-16. Located on over 100 beautiful acres in the Southern Berkshires, we offer 2, 3, 5 or 7 week sessions. Campers design their summers in a unique elective-based program where they “choose their own trail” by exploring new activities and expanding their horizons. The nurturing environment at Greenwood Trails helps campers build their self-confidence and resilience while making genuine connections and lasting friendships. Facilities include comfortable cabins with showers, a flying trapeze, large in-ground pool, private lake, all sports, arts, high ropes and more. The warm, friendly atmosphere and extensive facilities make for magical summers at Greenwood Trails! ACA Accredited.

GymCats Gymnastics Summer Camp Equalize Fitness, One Odell Pl., Yonkers 914-965-7676 gymcats.net The goal at GymCats Gymnastics is to build a physical and mental foundation for all sports and to promote athleticism and good health through participation in gymnastics. We are following CDC guidelines, social distancing, maintaining small groups and low occupancy. Fully air conditioned facility with 25 foot ceilings! Boys and girls ages 4 – 13. No experience is necessary, we specialize in beginners. Full and half day camp are available.

Harvey Summer Camp 260 Jay Street Katonah, NY 914 -232 -0581 Harveycavaliercamp.org cavaliercamp@harveyschool.org At the Harvey Summer Camp children in grades 2-9 will choose from one of five concentrations in either Art, Sports, Dance, Performance, or General Studies. To further personalize their schedules, students will choose nine electives outside of their concentration, giving them the opportunities to explore new interests. Dates: June 28 through August 6, 2021, Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Camp is closed July 5. Harvey Summer Camp also offer a program for first graders and weeklong specialty camps in Robotics and Basketball. See our website for program information and dates.

NeW locAtioN in scarsdale!

Providing World-Class Music Education Since 1987 for All Ages Online Lessons Available • Piano • Voice • strings • Woodwinds • Brass • guitar • Percussion/Drums

• fRee tRiAl leSSoN! • A Premier Music school with over 600 students

• One-on-One Private Lessons • Musik Garten (toddler) & Suzuki Programs • Instrumental Ensembles; Chamber Music, Rock/Jazz Group Programs • Music Production

RegiSteR foR SummeR 2021 NoW! SpAce iS Limited! 870 Scarsdale Ave, Scarsdale • 914-961-3497 • info@crestwoodmusic.com • crestwoodmusic.com Ultimate Guide to Summer Camp 2021 | Westchester Family

Camp Directory | Special Advertising Supplement

Hudson Country Montessori Summer Camp 340 Quaker Ridge Road New Rochelle, NY 914-636-6202 info@hudsoncountry.org Hudson Country Montessori School has been offering a fun and safe summer camp experience for over 48 years. Our unique summer program is developed in an environment geared for learning. It is spirited and skill-oriented but noncompetitive and social. Our spacious outdoor and indoor facilities are great for physical, emotional and intellectual growth in a secure loving environment. The quality and success of our summer program is defined by our amazing team of experienced counselors, most of whom are professional educators who work in our school year program. We know our campers enjoy the best that summer has to offer. At Hudson, they learn new skills, explore new adventures and make friends while having fun. Activities include daily swimming (onpremise pool), sports, hands-on science, technology, art, virtual field trips, music, dance and more. Our camp is an eight week program from June 21 -August 13

for ages 18 months – 12 years. Flexible scheduling, full & half day sessions and extended hours 7:30am-6:00pm available.

Junior Sailing Summer Program

iD Tech 1-888-709-8324 iDTech.com iD Tech is the world’s premier destination for STEM education, with online programs that sharpen students’ coding, game dev, and creative skills, all from the comfort of home. Choose from Virtual Tech Camps, Online Private Lessons, or small-group Semesters. Guided by elite rockstar instructors, your child will have fun, unlock tech brilliance, and join a community of 500,000 aspiring innovators.

Horseshoe Harbor Yacht Club Larchmont, NY info@Horseshoeharboryachtclub.com horseshoeharbor.info Calling all aspiring and accomplished junior sailors, ages 9-15: set sail daily on the Long Island Sound. Horseshoe Harbor provides the boats; yacht club membership is not required. All you need is the desire to sail! They own and maintain a fleet of junior sailing boats, in which their U.S. Sailing-certified instructors teach to the aspiring sailors. Sailing builds self-reliance, instills confidence, teaches the importance of sportsmanship and water safety. What a great way to spend the summer! Please visit their website for registration and dates.

Now Registering for 2021

suMMER CAMp 2021 Weeks 6/14 and 6/21 Camp is open to 3, 4 and children going to K in september 2021. Lunch Bunch offered. Mondays and Wednesdays / 12pm–2pm Weeks 6/28–7/26 Camp is open to 2, 3, 4 year olds. Children entering K in sept 2021 are not eligible for these weeks. 9am–12pm. No lunch bunch. No camp week of 7/5/21

Please call for more information.

Director: Tiffany Amaya

10 Mill Road, New Rochelle • 914-633-4332 achildsdreamnursery.com • FACEBOOK A Child’s Dream LLC

WestchesterFamily.com | Ultimate Guide to Summer Camp 2021

K I SC S Summer Art Camps June 28 - Sept. t. 3 Katonah Art Center oﬀering

on-site & virtual

classes and camps

www.katonahartcenter.com h t t A R T & I M A G I N AT I O N KIDS ART CAMP TEEN INTENSIVES

KAC’S Camps are one week camps, with morning, afternoon and/or full day options for ages 3.5 yrs-18 yrs.

Music Conservatory of Westchester Katonah Art Center 40 Radio Circle Dr., Mt. Kisco, NY 914- 232-4843 katonahartcenter.com The Katonah Art Center offers a great alternative to full day summer long programs. KAC’s camps are one week long with morning, afternoon and full day options. Camps are available for ages 3.5-Grade 12. Our Art and Imagination Camp for ages 3.5-5 is a creative mix of Arts and Crafts Projects, Free Art Play, Story Time, Outdoor Time and Collaborative Art. KAC Kid’s Camp for grades 1-5 offers choices such as Jewelry, Painting, Drawing, Pottery and Animation. KAC Teen Camps for grades 6 and up focus intensively on one topic such as Outdoor Painting, Fused Glass or Pottery Wheel.

Liberty Montessori’s Summer Science Program 155 Beechmont Dr., New Rochelle, NY 914-636-3461 631 W. Boston Post Road, Mamaroneck,NY 914-777-1382 libertymontessorischools.com Liberty’s academic curriculum is presented to the students through an interdisciplinary curriculum, which integrates subjects for children ages 17 months to 7 years. Liberty’s new Academic Advantage Summer Science Program is being launched for students needing individual summer tutoring and Science fun while developing creative thinking skills to enhance hands on experiences. They invite parents to inquire about Liberty Montessori’s Indoor and Outdoor Summer Science Camp where young scientists inquire and explore.

216 Central Ave., White Plains, NY jake@musiced.org 914-761-3900 SummeratMCW.org Spark your child’s creativity with quality instruction in music, dance, and art in Summer Music & Arts at Music Conservatory of Westchester. Kids grades K-7 will enjoy fun, interactive classes to experiment with music, learn to play piano, guitar, and violin, write songs, create art, dance, and make new friends. Three 2-week sessions start June 28- August 6. Health and safety guidelines are in place. All classes taught by our world-class faculty. New offerings for elementary and middle school students include Ukulele, Jam Session, Intro to Jazz and Blues, Intro to South American Music, and more! Visit SummeratMCW.org to register!

ninjagymnasticsfactory.com Newly-renovated children’s ﬁtness facility Programs for all age groups from toddlers to teens

Ninja classes, gymnastic classes, summer camps, birthday parties, grown-up & me, drop-in workshops.

418-420 West 238th Street Bronx, NY 10463 • Riverdale Area of the Bronx info@ninjagymnasticsfactory.com • 914-343-3903 Ultimate Guide to Summer Camp 2021 | Westchester Family

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Peekskill Extension Ninja Gymnastics Factory

Oasis Day Camps

420 W. 238th Street Bronx, NY 914-343-3903 info@ninjagymnasticfactory.com ninjagymnasticsfactory.com Ninja Gymnastics Factory is new to the Bronx and is offering a fantastic summer camp for kids ages 5-12 . Everything your child could want to do is jam packed into their camp: Ninja Warrior, Gymnastics, Sports, Arts & Crafts and more! They have a state-ofthe-art athletic facility as well as their own outdoor play space. The full-day program is 9am-4pm and half-day morning or afternoon options are available. Ninja Gymnastics Factory is proud to stand out among its peers as a place where kids learn from handson coaches about how to execute and enjoy their ninja and gymnastic activities.

Manhattan, Bayside, Dobbs Ferry, Long Island oasischildren. com Oasis Day Camp prides itself on age-appropriate programming for ages 3-15. Early Start (ages 3-5) is a nurturing camp environment. Lower (first-second grade) offers sports, arts, swim, enrichment, and nature. Upper (third-sixth grades) is bigger and better for older campers. Teen Travel (seventh-ninth grades) offers unique trips, overnights, and friendships.

2021 Session Dates 2 Week: June 27 – July 10 4 Week: July 11 – August 7 6 Week: June 27 – August 7

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27 North Division Street Peekskill, NY peekskill@sunywcc.edu 914-606-7300 sunywcc.edu/youth The Youth Arts Technology Program at the Center for the Digital Arts, Peekskill Extension of Westchester Community College is a STEAM program focused on engaging youth in arts technology integration that will better prepare students for advanced study and work in the 21st century. STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics) focuses on the hybridization of art and science and develops critical creative thinking. These courses are designed to encourage self-expression, collaboration, and innovation. Students will combine manual and digital skills to realize a take-away portfolio project.

WE ARE FOLLOWING CDC GUIDELINES Dance cavise stuDios

Small Groups (by age) & Low Occupancy Equipment Sanitized Prior to Each Session

All DAnce . All Ages . All levels

summer Programs July 5–July 30, 2021 in studio or virtual options

SUMMER CAMP ages 3–18 Friday Broadway Master class series

Dance cavise 273 Halstead avenue Mamaroneck, nY 10543 914-381-5222 www.dancecavise.com

Full & Half Day Camp Boys & Girls • Ages 4–13 1-8 weeks available No experience necessary Gymnastics • Games & Events Theme Days • Color Wars Space is limited

SATURDAY SUMMER CLASSES ALSO AVAILABLE

Continuing Education

SUMMER 2021

SERIOUS FOUNDATION. SERIOUS FUN.

Youth & Precollege Programs in the Arts

Remote, Hybrid and On-Campus Learning Options

Grades 3–12 1, 2, & 4 Week Programs June 28–August 6 Acting, Creative Writing, Digital Arts, Filmmaking, Musical Theatre, Photography, Songwriting, Visual Arts, Vocal

“We specialize in beginners.” Our Program Emphasizes Skill Progression and Safety Through Basic Skills, Drills, Apparatus Training, Floor, Uneven Bars, Balance Beams, Vault, and Trampoline

At Equalize Fitness

GymCats Gymnastics & Birthday Party Center

Virtual Open House is Saturday April 17 Register by May 7 to receive Early Registration Discount

914-965-7676 • info@gymcats.net

www.purchase.edu/youth

www.Gymcats.net

One Odell Plaza, Yonkers (Exit 9 off Saw Mill River Pkwy)

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SUNY – Purchase

Play Group Summer Theatre Programs One N. Broadway, White Plains, NY 914-946-4433 playgroup.org Get IN on the ACT this summer with The Play Group Theatre’s inspirational and innovative Performing Arts Camps! With programs in Musical Theatre, On Camera, Improv, Sketch Comedy, Shakespeare, Stage Combat, Design/ Tech and more, there is something for everyone at Camp PGT! From online to on stage and everything in between, Camp PGT offers the best in educational theatre year-round. Limited spots available for all PGT indoor/ outdoor in-person summer 2021 camps for ages 4-17. Visit www.playgroup. org/summer to find the perfect PGT program for your young artist today.

914-251-6500 youth.pre.college@purchase.edu purchase.edu/youth The Purchase College Summer Youth & Precollege Programs in the Arts are much more than camps! Immersed in a variety of exciting, fun, and enriching learning activities, students in grades 4-12 gain new skills and meet new like-minded friends in acting, creative writing, filmmaking, photography, vocals, songwriting, STEM, and digital arts programs. Choose from 1, 2, and 4 week fully remote, fully on-campus*, or hybrid* (half in-person and half remote) programs that begin on June 28, 2021 (per COVID conditions allow)!

Thornton-Donovan Summer Challenge 100 Overlook Circle, New Rochelle 914-632-8836 td.edu Celebrating its 53rd year, the Summer Challenge has been a source of joy, entertainment, and enlightenment for boys and girls ages 3-14 for over half a century. Hundreds and hundreds of campers have learned to swim at T-D. The in-ground pool allows all campers to touch bottom on the shallow end. Instructional and recreational swimming occur daily as well as many other physical activities. Contact Annemarie at alicini@td.edu or call 914632-8836 for red carpet treatment.

Berkshire Hills Eisenberg Camp is a co-ed Jewish Sleepaway camp for children and teens ages 7-16. At Berkshire Hills, your child will find a strong community of friends, be supported by loyal and deeply committed staff, try fun and challenging activities, and become more independent. Whether you are looking for a two week session or a full summer experience, Berkshire Hills has options to fit every family’s summer schedule. While our program is designed to reflect Jewish values, we welcome all children to camp and believe that the values we teach — respect, giving back, community, and charity — benefit everyone. Set in the beautiful Berkshires, our camp provides an idyllic setting for your child’s summer of growth and fun.

• Private Lake • Heated Pool • Athletic Activities • Arts Activities • Adventure/ Nature Activities • Culinary Camp

159 EMPIRE ROAD, COPAKE, NY • 914-693-8952 • WWW.BHECAMP.ORG 36

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Rye YMCA Camps 914-967-6363 camp@ryeymca.org ryeycamp.org Camps for ages 3-14 include: Kinder, Discovery, STEAM, Sports, Gymnastics and Teen Fitness. Rye Y Camps are ACA accredited and led by a team of full-time professional directors. Our dedicated summer staff are selected for their strong character, maturity, enthusiasm and commitment to Y values and serve as Professional Role Models for our campers. (1:4 camper ratios for our youngest groups and up to 1:10 for our oldest campers) Extended care available. We adhere to strict safety guidelines to keep your children safe. Learn more and register at www.ryeycamp.org

World Cup Gymnastics Summer Camp 170 Joan Corwin Way, Chappaqua 914-238-4967 worldcupgymnastics.com This fun summer camp for youth ages 5 ½ to 12 combines superior gymnastics training with a traditional camp experience ensuring each camper has the best summer. Their state-of-theart complex allows room to engage in tons of recreational activities and gymnastics. Each week there are exciting themed activities involving arts & crafts, cooking, skills training and more. World Cup follows strict Covid-19 protocols and provides a safe, nurturing environment where campers can be active, build strength, learn new skills, laugh, play, make new friends and build summer memories that last a lifetime.

Who goes to Camp Zeke? Camp Zeke is the first and only overnight camp where kids celebrate healthy, active living through fitness, cooking, sports, gourmet food, and joyful Judaism. Campers come to us for so many different reasons! Some families want a camp that reflects their values. Others like our focus on cooking, sports, fitness, and arts. Yet others are drawn to our unique camp culture.

YWCA White Plains & Central Westchester 515 North Street White Plains, NY ywcawpcw.org For decades, children from the greater Westchester community have grown up at this summer camp. Our program continues to evolve. Children turning four years old through teenagers (coed). Early drop-off and late pick-up until 6:00 pm are available. Eight (8) week program. Minimum of 2 weeks required.

We offer:

SportS & FitneSS Cooking perForming & ViSual artS for kids from 2nd–12th grades

campzeke.org • 31 Barry Watson Way, Lakewood, PA 18439 • questions@campzeke.org • 212-913-9783 Ultimate Guide to Summer Camp 2021 | Westchester Family

Researching a Camp Amid a Pandemic By Jess Michaels

esearching summer camps is an important step to finding the right camp for your child. And this summer, after a year of remote learning and limited socializing and activities, your child is going to need a summer at camp more than ever before. Even in the midst of a pandemic, there are ways to go about narrowing down your choices and choosing the best camp for your child and family. Here are some ways to get your camp search started. Video calls with the Director – One of the best ways to learn about a camp is by speaking with the camp director. While many overnight camp directors have done home visits in the past so you can get to know the director (and for them to get to know you and your child), they have moved these meetings to zoom! Facetime, Google Meets and Zoom have made it even easier to get to know a camp director and to inquire about the camp’s philosophy, mission, activities and more. Courtyard & Backyard Home Visits If you rather do a home visit, camp directors are happy to do outside home visits when the weather warms up. Backyard and courtyard visits worked very well this fall and they will start up again as the weather improves. Day Camp Tours Since day camps are local, they offer camp

tours all year long, even in the winter. If there is a day camp you are interested in, give the director a call to schedule a tour. Touring allows you to see the camp and facilities, even if it will all look different in the summer! Tours also allow you to ask questions while in the camp environment which often sparks additional questions. Spring Open Houses and Tours When the weather warms up, many day and overnight camps will host some kind of socially distanced open house dates and camp tours where you can see the camp before deciding on a camp. Virtual Camp Fairs Camp fairs typically allow families to meet with dozens of camps all in one day! Since in-person events are challenging during COVID-19, camp fairs have been re-imagined this year. New York Family will be offering virtual camp fairs that will be using an online platform with an algorithm that will create one-on-one video calls between camp directors and qualified families, based on

WestchesterFamily.com | Ultimate Guide to Summer Camp 2021

the criteria both camps and families submit. There will be four virtual camp fairs, taking place on: Sunday, January 24th • Sunday, February 28th • Sunday, March 14th • Sunday, April 11th. Camp Websites & Social Media Already have a few camps in mind to check out? Camp websites and social media pages are filled with information from activities offered to videos. Looking at a camp’s website is a good starting point for your search but it’s always important to speak with the camp director before registering to ensure the camp is the right fit for your child. Call the American Camp Association, NY & NJ Did you know that the American Camp Association, NY and NJ offers parents free, one-on-one advice for parents looking for a day or overnight camp? Families can call Renee Flax at 212.391.5208 to speak with Renee about their child and what they are looking for in a camp.

GIRLS CAMP & BOYS CAMP

AGE 8-16

SESSION OPTIONS FROM 2-7 WEEKS

JUNE 27TH - AUGUST 13TH SPEND YOUR SUMMER AT A TRADITIONAL SLEEPAWAY CAMP

ENJOY THE OUTDOORS AND MAKE LIFELONG FRIENDS ON OUR 823 ACRES OF LAND AND PRIVATE LAKE!

FORESTLAKECAMP.COM CALL (518) 623-4771

INFO@FORESTLAKECAMP.COM

Oasis Summer Camp at Dobbs Ferry

A Premier Camp, Uniquely Affordable

YOUR CHILDREN NEED A SUMMER

OASIS

Age-appropriate Programs for Ages 3-15

Daily Travel Program for Teen Ages 11-14

Specialized Athletics Program

Expanded Visual and Performing Arts Program

Athletics, Visual/ Performing Arts, Enrichment, and Robotics

Instructional and Recreational Swim Onsite At Our beautiful Outdoor Pool

Daily Hot Lunch Included

Transportation Available

Nature and Hands-on Science Program

Fun and Engaging Weekly Themed Special Events

Air Conditioned Indoor and Lush Green Athletic Outdoor Facilities

Discover The Difference at Oasis Mercy College - 555 Broadway Dobbs Ferry, NY 10522 646-519-5057

dobbs@oasischildren.com

oasischildren.com