Whatever your idea of a summer camp may be, odds are it's fairly limited by your own experiences as a child. But summer camps come in all shapes and sizes, and studies have shown it's important for kids to try a variety of activities during their "sampling years" to learn which activities they enjoy and excel at.
In fact, encouraging your kid to put a little variety in their camp selection can help set them on the path to discovering their passion in life.
NOTE: Don't try all of these at once. Overscheduling your child in too many camps in one summer can result in exhaustion and frustration (for both of you).
Overnight Camps
1 of 9
We're starting with the traditional camp experience first, but make sure your child's ready for the independence offered by an overnight camp before signing them up. Once they are, they'll be sure to come home with lifelong friendships and memories of late-night cabin conversations and mess hall meals.
Adventure Camps
2 of 9
From geocaching to zip lining to Nerf zombie wars (yes, it's a real thing), there are all sorts of adventure camp options for kids to enjoy their most exciting summer ever.
Space Camps
3 of 9
At one point or another, every kid becomes borderline obsessed with space. Nurture that interest with more than just a cheap telescope by sending your kid to space camp, where they can learn all about the final frontier.
Volunteer Camps
4 of 9
Whether it's through a church mission trip or helping clean up your hometown with the local parks and recreation department, we're all in favor of kids learning the importance of giving back at an early age.
Sports Camps
5 of 9
Depending on your child's athletic interests, sports camps may become a summer staple in your household. Summer sports camps are a great way to improve skills and explore new sports without the pressure of winning and losing.
Nature Camps
6 of 9
Does your kid love animals? Check out camp offerings at the nearest zoo or local farm. Are they more of a flora fan? Your parks and recreation department likely offers summer programs that familiarize kids with the local species.
STEM Camps
7 of 9
Also known as the Right Brain Camps, these can include everything from robotics to computer coding (so hot right now). Who knows, maybe your kid will be the next tech startup wunderkind.
Arts Camps
8 of 9
As for the left brain focus, whether your kid is interested in painting, theater, music or all of the above, a camp focused on the creative arts can do wonders to help them explore their creativity.
About the Author
Discuss This Article