Summer Camp Ideas Updated 2010

Before long, the school year dwindles down and comes to an end.   New classes start next September - and we will all be another "grade" older.

Children will be graduating and moving on. Some will continue onto a different Middle school, or some will even start High School.  Time moves quicker than ever.    So... what will we do for our children's placement this summer?

Is there such a thing as an affordable summer camp?

After doing weeks and weeks of research, I was uncertain that I could find an affordable solution for a summer camp for my daughter. Mind you - I wanted something that she would enjoy. Of course, I wanted her to make new friends, go to new places, enjoy the summer and even "learn" a little bit. I just didn't think that this expedition of mine would wind up being such a costly reality.

I checked out my local YMCA, and found that their rates were about $50. per day. Okay, that might be do-able. But, then the family needed to join as a member. That charge was $200. for the family. So at five days, $250. per week = $1000. per month. Then, add another $200. onto it. Quitting my current job and just staying home almost seemed like a feasible option. Or, I guess that I could get a second job to afford this!

My local Girl Scouts wasn't much different. They seemed to have more flexibility (as they only charge a $50. sign-up fee), but the rates were just about the same. $50. to $60. per day. That of course, was just for the basic day camp. If you wanted to be active in the extra activities.... well, that was extra. Oh, and don't forget to pack a lunch and bring extra $$ for special activities. 

FINALLY - I found my local Parks and Recreation Department listed on the web.  It's wasn't easy - as it was a dot-org site that didn't show up quickly in a web search. It was actually listed on the 4th page of Google.    Not knowing... I surfed and found our local town's summer camp schedule. Not bad - actually a joy.

The Parks Department had their entire Summer Itinerary listed on the web. A great summer camp is offered for children ages 6 to 12. The day begins at 9am and ends at 3pm. There is even a bus service available if it is needed. The fee is $81. for the 6 week term, and a $20. bus fee. No, they don't provide any food or snacks, but they keep the children busy with educational activities every day.

The program's (main base) is held at one of the Township's Parks Department Recreation Facilities. It includes travel to three of the other Township Parks during the week.

Also, additional voluntary programs are offered (for a small fee). Children can opt to visit the local zoo, aquarium, beach, minor league baseball game, kiddie rides, camping, go bowling, go roller skating, or do gymnastics, etc.  The fee for each activity is in addition to the up front $81. cost - but it's nominal. It varies from $3.00 to $8.00 per outing. Wow, I was so happy to find this!

I feel that our family has found an affordable solution to Summer Camp.  I hope that all of my readers have the same access to a local Parks and Recreation Department program for their children.   Best of luck to you all, and get ready to enjoy the upcoming summer!

My daughter attended Summer Camp in 2009 as outlined my my Hub.   She had the "best summer ever". She was able to make tons of new friends; some that live right here in the neighborhood. I was also able to meet many of the parents; which made us all feel like a closer, tight knit community.

I didn't think that I would say this;  but this program was - way more - that I expected for the money.  The outings that were had were a far cry from just a "trip";  as they all had some sort of learning experience attached to them.   For example:

• Library - visit & sign up for a card.  Librarian instills the love of reading.
• Aquarium - a guided tour included.  Children take home materials to review & keep.
• Roller Rink - wow - I wish that I had been taught to roller skate when I was six!
• Zoo - a truly fun experience for the children.
• Gymnastics - a great introduction to the sport, and some free play time with supervision.

It was a great experience for us all.

Our Township's Parks Department is offering the same Summer Camp this year; and I believe that I was the first to enroll! The pricing and structure was the same as last year; and a lot of new activities were added.

I believe that more and more parents are taking advantage of the Parks Department Camp programs; mainly for the diversity of the program, and the rarity of the low fees.

I truly urge you guys out there to check out what programs are offered in your locality. I think that you would be rather suprised what a bang you get for your buck. Best to all!