There may be snow on the ground, but summer is just around the corner. It won't be long before final exams and farewell picnics herald the end of the school year.
During the school year, summer is anticipated by parents and tweens. The harsh reality is that 10 weeks or so of summer vacation with no activities scheduled can be long. Whether you are working parent or a SAHM, camps can be a good option for your tween.
When looking at camps for your tween consider the following:
What type of camp is needed?
- Day
- Residential
- Academic enrichment or academic intervention
- Sports
- Dance
- Theater Arts
- Music/band
- Computer
- Film
Summer School: Academic Intervention v. Academic Enrichment
If your child is doing poorly in school, look in to academic classes offered through your county's education system. Howard County Public Schools offers academic intervention for struggling students in grades 1 through 9. Baltimore County Public Schools offer summer school to "assist learners in developing and accelerating skills and overall achievement."
Some students need advancement or enrichment over the summer. Howard County offers comprehensive summer school for grades K-12.
How many weeks of camp will you and your tween need?
- If you are a working parent, look at camps which offer discounts for enrolling for consecutive weeks.
- If you only need a few weeks here and there, peruse camp websites to find out which camps will work with your schedule.
- If your tween has multiple interests or MUST take a computer animation camp, check signup deadlines to ensure enrollment.
Logistics
- If you have more than one child who will be attending a camp, look carefully at location of each camp, check dropoff and pickup times, look in to carpooling with a friend.
- Don't want to make lunch every day? Check out which camps provide lunch.
- Does your child have a food allergy or disability? Look in to which camps have a nurse/health professional on staff.
