Summer camp season will be here before parents know it. While children anxiously await the last day of school, adults know that keeping kids occupied and mentally stimulated when they aren’t in the classroom can be challenging. Although it may be all right to enjoy a few days lounging around and playing video games, too much sedentary behavior is not good for anyone, even children. Families turn to summer camp to provide children with activities to fill their time when school is not in session. 

Camps catering to a variety of interests are open to children, so there’s likely one to excite every child. Each year, more than 25 million children and adults take part in the camp experience, according to the American Camp Association. Summer camp gives kids a chance to spread their wings and enjoy new adventures. When seeking camps, families can consider interests, proximity, cost, and other factors. Here are some types of camps families can consider. 

Day camp.

Day camps are a popular choice. They are typically general recreation camps that offer a wide range of activities. Campers are dropped off (or bused) in the morning and arrive home in the early evening. These camps are readily accessible and run by various organizations. Some camps allow you to pay by the week rather than commit to an entire season. 

Sleep-away camp.

As the name suggests, sleep-away camp hosts campers overnight, typically for several weeks. This may be children’s first extended time away from home, and there’s bound to be a few nerves. Round-the-clock activities and opportunities to bond with their peers can help kids overcome fears of being away from home. 

Academic camp.

Academic camps focus on various subjects, bringing like-minded children together. Academic summer programs keep children’s minds active, helping students avoid the dreaded “summer slide.” Some of these camps mimic a school day, making them familiar to kids. Academic focus may range from general academics to specific subjects such as STEM, astronomy, or the arts. 

Scout camp.

Boys and girls participating in scouting programs often have the option to attend summer camp. During camp, kids can earn badges and advance their rank. Many scout districts have relationships with a specific scout campsite where troops from all over live and advance together for a week or so during the summer. 

Fitness and sports camps.

Fitness-minded campers or those who play specific sports can investigate camps that focus on fitness and sports performance. These may be more rigorous than other types of camps because they involve a lot of physical activity. Wilderness preparation camp is another type of camp that may fit into this category. It will highlight survival training and help mold active hikers and campers. 

Summer camp options abound. It’s only a matter of identifying a path for children and then seeking a camp that offers the desired program.