Author: ActivityHero Team

The ActivityHero Team is based in California and includes staff members and bloggers who love to share what they know about parenting, keeping kids active, choosing just the right camps and classes, and running successful businesses for kids.

Categories
Camps Featured Posts Holiday Break Camps Parenting Resources School Breaks Sleep away camps

Dallas Camp Guide for Summer 2021

Find the best summer camps for kids in the Dallas TX Area for Summer 2021 – including Fort Worth, Plano, Frisco, Keller and surrounding areas.

Discover our most popular and trending camps in Dallas, TX – including outdoor camps, adventure camps, sports camps, LEGO® camps, maker camps, coding camps, and more! Learn more about camps updated programs for Summer 2021, including curriculum, group sizes, safety protocols, and cancellation policies.

Vision Martial Arts Camp in Plano, TX

Vision Martial Arts

Vision Martial Arts is a family-centered martial arts school offering in-person programs in Plano, TX and online classes to families everywhere. Vision Martial Arts specializes in character development and self-defense for kids of all ages and their families. Children become better learners through the development of focus, confidence, self- discipline and respect. They have camps all summer and classes year round, online and in-person!

Oklahoma Awesome Adventures

Oklahoma Awesome Adventures presents the 2021 Junior Elephant Ambassador Camp! This one-of-a-kind experience includes a one week overnight camp (5 days / 4 nights) located in Hugo, OK, close to Hugo Lake and right next door to the Endangered Ark Foundation, one of the nation’s largest private elephant facilities in the United States.

Participants will have a unique opportunity to learn about one of the world’s most endangered species – the Asian Elephant – up close and in person.  In addition to earning their Junior Elephant Ambassador Certification, Campers will also be provided with valuable lessons and enriching activities that will focus on Team Building, Leadership, Recreation Fun!

OutLoud Adventures

OutLoud Adventures was created by Jeffery Moffitt and Allison Caldwell to help youth form deeper connections with nature, build community, and explore the world around them. Jeffery and Allison have over 25 years of combined experience working with teenagers. They know that the key to an amazing summer adventure is the right route with the right people, and they take great pride in designing trips that are well paced, strike the perfect balance between challenging and rewarding, and are led by incredible educators that are experts at creating a sense of community from our very first meeting with the group. Their Summer 2021 small-group outdoor adventures depart from the DFW Airport and include options for epic explorations to the West Coast, Sedona, Seattle and Yellowstone.

United States Youth Volleyball

The United States Youth Volleyball League provides every child between the ages of 7 and 15 a chance to learn and play volleyball in a fun, safe, and supervised environment. While the program teaches children the skills necessary to excel in the sport of volleyball, the focus remains on participation, cooperation, sportsmanship, responsibility, and, of course, fun! Volleyball camps are being held in both Dallas and Cedar Park, TX for Summer 2021.

Destination Science

STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) learning is more important than ever before. At Destination Science, we say “Science is a Way of Thinking!” When we know how to “do” science, we know how to be creative, critical, and organized thinkers and problem solvers. In all of our activities, we teach children how to ask great questions and how to wonder out loud. Every day provides opportunities to create new things and imagine. At Destination Science, we use science to prepare your child for life! We’re safe, non-stop fun, so kids can’t wait to go every day! In-person Destination Science camp locations include Plano, Dallas, and Frisco, TX for Summer 2021.

Challenger Sports

Challenger Sports, the largest soccer camp company in North America will run over 1,200 camps this summer and utilize over 30 years of coaching experience! Locations in Texas include Rockwall, Frisco, Carrollton, Coppell, Flower Mound, Keller, and more! Challenger’s International Soccer Camp will contain a selection of age & ability appropriate drills and practices being used by five of the world’s top soccer countries (Brazil, France, Spain, UK and the US). Camp programs will include the innovative TinyTykes program, for ages 2-5. TinyTykes will feature fundamental soccer activities, games, and stories that have been designed to develop the technical, physical and social aspects of young players. The half-day and most popular player development program, for ages 5-16, will run for 3 hours each day and focus on coached skill development, games, challenges and competitions.

Breakthrough Basketball Camps

Breakthrough Basketball

Breakthrough Basketball conducts quality, high-intensity, drill based camps that focus on not only bettering a players skill set on the court but also building character and confidence off the court. These camps will strengthen your athletes mentality while boosting their confidence to become more aggressive and skilled players. Our camps will provide a focused, fun learning environment that cannot be rivaled. Breakthrough Basketball has camps across the country, including Texas locations in Abilene, Amarillo, Duncanville, Fort Worth, Houston, Iowa Park, Killeen, Lake Dallas, Lubbock, Perryton, Round Rock, and San Antonio.

Active Learning

Choose from USA Chess Camp or 7 different Video Game Creation Camps. Mix and match to create a fun-filled day for your child. At USA Chess Camp, professional chess instructors teach children of all abilities to play and improve their games. Each day consists of chess lessons and competitive play. Instructors are selected by USA Chess for their ability to make chess fun and teach the game to players of all levels. Our popular video game creation and animation camps let kids create & program their own video game. Using our custom curricula, children learn Minecraft, GameMaker, Kodu or Scratch as they create their very own video games that they can actually play!

KidzToPros

KidzToPros has built a trusted brand as an after-school and seasonal camp provider, partnering with over 400 schools in 14 metropolitan areas – including Dallas, TX. KidzToPros offers programs for grades K-8th, including: outdoor sports camps, LEGO® Masters, Minecraft and Roblox game design, art skills, graphic design, and more!

CodeWiz Reading (online)

Code Wiz offers a wide range of individualized STEM programs, each tailored to the students’ skill level for kids aged 7-17. Watch your kids expand their creativity through computer science with a student-driven, project-based learning approach.  Code Wiz programs include online camps and and single-day class programs for Robotics, Minecraft modding, Roblox, Game design, Animations, Digital Art, Mobile app development, Web development, Java, Python, etc.

iCode Sugarland

The goal of iCode Sugarland is to enrich the educational experience and capability of tomorrow’s entrepreneurs, engineers, artists, scientists, economists, thinkers and doers. Our students gain skills in collaboration, creativity and out-of-the-box thinking, through a process and proprietary curriculum that equips them with knowledge, confidence, leadership and project management skills. These skills are critical, as the global workforce increasingly demands innovators to solve ever-changing needs and crises. The demands are endless and through technology, so are the possibilities. Summer 2021 Camps include Minecraft Modding, LEGO® Robotics, YouTube production, and more!

Natl CSI

If you love CSI and forensics, this online STEM camp is for you! Taught by current and former detectives (how cool is that!), this camp is packed with hands-on activities to learn what it takes to become a crime scene investigator. Each student gets their own CSI Lab Kit shipped to them before the virtual class.Lift your own fingerprints and classify them, solve a missing persons case, analyze handwriting, and so much more! Ideal for students in grades 6 to 12 with an interest in law enforcement, science, and forensics. Each camp is capped at 10 students ensuring plenty of one-on-one guidance and mentorship from practicing CSI professionals – build your STEM skills and connections needed to succeed in the field. 

 

Find in-person Summer camps near me >>
Find online Summer camps and classes >>

Categories
Camps Featured Posts Holiday Break Camps Parenting Resources School Breaks Sleep away camps

SoCal Camp Guide for Summer 2021

Find the best summer camps for kids in the Los Angeles and Orange County Areas for Summer 2021 – including Irvine, Glendale, Santa Monica, Redondo Beach, Palos Verdes, and more!

Discover our most popular and trending camps on ActivityHero – including outdoor camps, adventure camps, sports camps, LEGO® camps, maker camps, coding camps, and more! Learn more about camps updated programs for Summer 2021, including curriculum, group sizes, safety protocols, and cancellation policies.

Camp Galileo

Rediscover summer fun at Camp Galileo where 75% of time is spent outdoors! Camp Galileo combines traditional summer camp excitement with lasting, innovation-igniting learning for pre-K – 7th graders. Summer 2021 program themes in Irvine CA include National Parks Adventure, Toymakers, and Olympic Games – art, science, and outdoor fun! And, check out the worry-free enrollment policies.

Camp Cosmo

“Creativity is intelligence having fun.” Albert Einstein’s words are the backbone of every Cosmo class, whether its focus is academic, artistic, physical, or social. Founded by a parent in response to the global pandemic, Camp Cosmo’s goal is to reach kids at home and offer them an outlet for fun that goes way beyond video games or TV. Every Cosmo class is designed to inspire critical thinking, creative thought and social connections — through play.

KidzToPros

KidzToPros has built a trusted brand as an after-school and seasonal camp provider, partnering with over 400 schools in 14 metropolitan areas. Summer 2021 camp locations in SoCal include Redondo Beach, Glendale, Los Angeles, and more. KidzToPros offers programs for grades K-8th, including: outdoor sports camps, LEGO® Masters, Minecraft and Roblox game design, art skills, graphic design, and more!

Summer Camps for kids in SoCal by LangoKids Irvine

LangoKids Irvine

LangoKids offers group classes to children ages 1-10. Kids acquire languages and are immersed in cultures through music, games, and art.

Musique Sur La Mer Orchestras and Academy of Music

La Petite Musique Training Orchestra (LPMO) is open to all instruments and all students with a minimum of one year of study on their instrument. This orchestra serves as both a first orchestral experience for young musicians and a training orchestra for Musique Sur La Mer Youth Symphony Orchestra.The Musique Sur La Mer Jazz Orchestra (MSLMJO) is a delightful combination of strings, woodwinds, brass and percussion. The music ranges from the American songbook to Latin jazz, swing, country, pop, alternative and rock.

Ramona Convent Secondary School

Summer session students enjoy active learning in our garden, arts studios, science and computer labs, gym, swimming pool, kitchen and classrooms throughout our more than 19 acre campus. Open to both boys and girls in grades 5-12, summer session prepares students for junior high and high school and offers opportunities for enrichment. Ramona also offers summer athletics programs to introduce students to new sports and to enhance the skills of current athletes.

United States Youth Volleyball (USYVL) Camps for Kids in SoCal

United States Youth Volleyball

The United States Youth Volleyball League provides every child between the ages of 7 and 15 a chance to learn and play volleyball in a fun, safe, and supervised environment. While the program teaches children the skills necessary to excel in the sport of volleyball, the focus remains on participation, cooperation, sportsmanship, responsibility, and, of course, fun!

Destination Science

STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) learning is more important than ever before. At Destination Science, we say “Science is a Way of Thinking!” When we know how to “do” science, we know how to be creative, critical, and organized thinkers and problem solvers. In all of our activities, we teach children how to ask great questions and how to wonder out loud. Every day provides opportunities to create new things and imagine. At Destination Science, we use science to prepare your child for life! We’re safe, non-stop fun, so kids can’t wait to go every day! 

Challenger Sports

Challenger Sports, the largest soccer camp company in North America will run over 1,200 camps this summer and utilize over 30 years of coaching experience! Camp locations in SoCal include Arcadia and Tustin. Challenger’s International Soccer Camp will contain a selection of age & ability appropriate drills and practices being used by five of the world’s top soccer countries (Brazil, France, Spain, UK and the US). Camp programs will include the innovative TinyTykes program, for ages 2-5. TinyTykes will feature fundamental soccer activities, games, and stories that have been designed to develop the technical, physical and social aspects of young players. The half-day and most popular player development program, for ages 5-16, will run for 3 hours each day and focus on coached skill development, games, challenges and competitions.

Basketball camps for kids in SoCal: Los Angeles and Irvine, CA with Breakthrough Basketball

Breakthrough Basketball

Breakthrough Basketball conducts quality, high-intensity, drill based camps that focus on not only bettering a players skill set on the court but also building character and confidence off the court. These camps will strengthen your athletes mentality while boosting their confidence to become more aggressive and skilled players. Our camps will provide a focused, fun learning environment that cannot be rivaled. Breakthrough Basketball has camps across the country, including locations in Los Angeles and Irvine.

Find in-person Summer camps near me >>
Find online Summer camps and classes >>

Categories
Camps

Parent Power: Science Camps

All about STEM featuring Destination Science

ActivityHero Parent Power is a new series dedicated to helping you discover smart solutions to finding kid activities. Whether you are in need of seasonal camps, after-school programs, or academic tutoring we are here to help you stay informed on all things kid activity-related. 

In this episode, we will talk about science camps, from a variety of STEM topics to the terrific skill set that your kids can learn from attending a science camp. Joining the episode is Nina Conway from Destination Science, a leading STEM camp provider for elementary school kids. 

We love Destination Science on ActivityHero because they believe “Science is a Way of Thinking!” When we know how to “do” science, we know how to be creative, critical, and organized thinkers and problem solvers.

Parents love that Destination Science’s fun-filled programs make positive, powerful differences in their children! Their programs are meticulously designed to use fun science as a tool to grow terrific skills for everyday life, including:

PERSISTENCE, COOPERATION, CREATIVITY AND ESPECIALLY…CURIOSITY!

You can check out Destination Science’s current summer camp offerings on Activityhero.com

Categories
Camps Featured Posts Holiday Break Camps Parenting Resources School Breaks Sleep away camps

Houston Camp Guide for Summer 2021

Find the best summer camps for kids in the Houston TX Area for Summer 2021 – including Katy, Sugar Land, Missouri City TX, and surrounding areas.

Discover our most popular and trending camps on ActivityHero – including outdoor camps, adventure camps, sports camps, LEGO® camps, maker camps, coding camps, and more! Learn more about camps updated programs for Summer 2021, including curriculum, group sizes, safety protocols, and cancellation policies.

KidzToPros

KidzToPros has built a trusted brand as an after-school and seasonal camp provider, partnering with over 400 schools in 14 metropolitan areas. KidzToPros offers programs for grades K-8th, including: outdoor sports camps, LEGO® Masters, Minecraft and Roblox game design, art skills, graphic design, and more!

CodeWiz Reading (online)

Code Wiz offers a wide range of individualized STEM programs, each tailored to the students’ skill level for kids aged 7-17. Watch your kids expand their creativity through computer science with a student-driven, project-based learning approach.  Code Wiz programs include online camps and and single-day class programs for Robotics, Minecraft modding, Roblox, Game design, Animations, Digital Art, Mobile app development, Web development, Java, Python, etc.

Texas Rock Gym

Texas Rock Gym has been offering Climbing Day Camps to Houston youth for over 15 years. Their camps are well structured, run by experienced counselors, and most of all… fun! Not sure of what to do with your kids when they have days off of school but you still have to work? Texas Rock Gym offers single-day and multi-day camps throughout the year.

A.D. Players Performing Arts Academy

Founded in 1992 by Jeannette Clift George, the A.D. Players Performing Arts Academy offers students a learning experience that engages their imaginations with the art-making and innovation of theatre. Individuals ranging from age 3-18 get a hands-on education, developing skills and knowledge across various departments from rehearsal and backstage to acting and music. These environments provide a fascinating look at the process of producing theatrical performances. A.D. Players academy will be “cruisin’ the sea!” during summer 2021 with fun themes including: Dance Party with Nemo, Music with Moana, Muppet Treasure Island, and more!

iCode Sugarland

The goal of iCode Sugarland is to enrich the educational experience and capability of tomorrow’s entrepreneurs, engineers, artists, scientists, economists, thinkers and doers. Our students gain skills in collaboration, creativity and out-of-the-box thinking, through a process and proprietary curriculum that equips them with knowledge, confidence, leadership and project management skills. These skills are critical, as the global workforce increasingly demands innovators to solve ever-changing needs and crises. The demands are endless and through technology, so are the possibilities. Summer 2021 Camps include Minecraft Modding, LEGO® Robotics, YouTube production, and more!

The Artistic Realm of Talentz

At the Artistic Realm of Talentz, their awesome and unique classes and camps are a great way for young aerialists ages 2-18 with no experience to learn the world of circus artz. Youth classes include portions focused on both skill development and play.

Natl CSI

If you love CSI and forensics, this online STEM camp is for you! Taught by current and former detectives (how cool is that!), this camp is packed with hands-on activities to learn what it takes to become a crime scene investigator. Each student gets their own CSI Lab Kit shipped to them before the virtual class.Lift your own fingerprints and classify them, solve a missing persons case, analyze handwriting, and so much more! Ideal for students in grades 6 to 12 with an interest in law enforcement, science, and forensics. Each camp is capped at 10 students ensuring plenty of one-on-one guidance and mentorship from practicing CSI professionals – build your STEM skills and connections needed to succeed in the field. 

Pro’s Katy Indoor Summer Fun Camp

Pro’s Katy Indoor Soccer strives to provide the best indoor soccer experience in Houston for all Adult and Youth players. They offer Year-round training for kids of all skill levels between 2-14 year olds. Every class is age-appropriate, managed by professional soccer trainers. At the Summer 2021 Technical Soccer Camp, campers will focus on technical and tactical skills daily, including speed and agility. Coaches will utilize the TOCA Touch Trainer in each session to help improve overall touch. Camper will also work on improving all fundamental skills like ball control, passing, receiving and finishing. 

True Knight Academy

True Knight Academy offers a student-centered approach for your exceptional child. They have a day school, after school, camps, brain-training therapies, an adult program and more on the way. True Knight Academy seeks to empower students with special needs within a Christ-centered environment, giving them a greater purpose and the opportunity to reach their potential socially and academically. The Summer 2021 Special Needs Camp focuses on fundamentals in reading, math and physical writing skills. These are facilitated through metronome—based activities to enhance brain development. Camp also includes fun field trips, including bowling, swimming, zoo, museums, ceramics, and more. 

OutLoud Adventures

OutLoud Adventures was created by Jeffery Moffitt and Allison Caldwell to help youth form deeper connections with nature, build community, and explore the world around them. Jeffery and Allison have over 25 years of combined experience working with teenagers. They know that the key to an amazing summer adventure is the right route with the right people, and they take great pride in designing trips that are well paced, strike the perfect balance between challenging and rewarding, and are led by incredible educators that are experts at creating a sense of community from our very first meeting with the group. Their Summer 2021 small-group outdoor adventures depart from the DFW Airport and include options for epic explorations to the West Coast, Sedona, Seattle and Yellowstone.

Find in-person Summer camps near me >>
Find online Summer camps and classes >>

Categories
After-School Activities Camps School Breaks Uncategorized

The 10 Best Spring Break Camps

Curated by ActivityHero families in your community, here are the most popular go-to online and in-person programs in support of your child’s learning (and your sanity) while school’s out. It’s also just a great opportunity to open their minds to new interests and build skills outside of the traditional classroom walls.

Top 5 In-Person Camps

  1. Horseback Riding 

Learn about horses. From grooming and feeding to bathing and even horse first aid! You’ll find out interesting facts about the history, evolution and anatomy of the horse while picking up some horse lingo, caring for and riding the horse you’ll have throughout the session at Horse Camp.

  1. Outdoor Adventure 

Imagine a camp that gets away from the brick and mortar limits and gives your child a 

world of possibilities. Coyote Kids Adventure Camp encourages outdoor and nature play. With incredibly small ratios and the best caregivers, they treat campers more like family than just standard childcare. 

  1. Wilderness Exploration

Get ready to discover the magical high desert landscape of Sedona and a Secret Mountain Wilderness Adventure! Spend your nights backpacking in stunning red rock canyons, kayak the Verde River, hike to incredible caves, and cool off in spring fed swimming holes. 

  1. All Day Soccer Play

This full-day program is filled with developmental practices, games, competitions and challenges. Challenger Sports’ soccer camp is more advanced and geared toward players looking for a more competitive training environment. 

  1. Aviation Camp

The Hiller Aviation Museum hosts a collection of some 50 different historic aircraft.  

Public and private museum admission, and programs for BSA Scouts and Girl Scouts, are offered periodically throughout the year.  

Top 5 Online Programs

  1. Crafting 

“Creativity is intelligence having fun.” Albert Einstein’s words are the backbone of every 

Camp Cosmo class, whether its focus is academic, artistic, physical, or social. This program is designed to inspire critical thinking, creative thought and social connections through play.

  1. Performing Arts

Choreography by Rae was founded as a way to help people of all ages amplify their voice through movement. Their motto is anyone can dance, even if you have two left feet. This supportive and inclusive environment provides students with an opportunity to develop a foundation in: Acting, Art History, Culture, Dance (Ballet, Hip Hop, Latin, Jazz), Storytelling, Singing, and more!

  1. Coding

Computer Kids Club is a computer science & academic program of typing, coding, design, math and engineering. Your child will be engaged in activities all while learning the importance of the computer and how it will help them through their school years ahead and eventually in a computer science related field. 

  1. Music

The LA School of Music offers fun and engaging music lessons and classes on piano, voice, and guitar to name a few. All music teachers are professionals with at least a Bachelor of Music. Most have a Master of Music degree. This is a special group of teachers who have been vetted through a competitive interview process for expertise, as well as creativity and fun personality.

  1. Art

Young Art believes in passion, creativity, and the power of education. Their team is committed to inspiring the next generation of young inventors, artists, designers, and entrepreneurs to be bold innovators by providing creative and enriching experiences through hands-on learning. Families are able to select from a variety of classes with modalities including clay sculpture, digital animation, acrylic painting and pencil sketching.

Categories
Camps Featured Posts Holiday Break Camps Parenting Resources School Breaks

Bay Area Camp Guide for Summer 2021

Skip to the Summer Camp Guide for:
San Francisco & Marin || East Bay || South Bay & Peninsula

Find the best summer camps for kids in the San Francisco Bay Area for Summer 2021. Discover our most popular and trending camps on ActivityHero – including outdoor camps, adventure camps, sports camps, LEGO® camps, maker camps, coding camps, and more! Learn more about camps updated programs for Summer 2021, including curriculum, group sizes, safety protocols, and cancellation policies.

San Francisco / Marin Summer Camp Guide

Summer camps with program locations serving families in San Francisco and Marin county up to San Rafael, CA.

Terra Marin Camp

Terra Marin Camps offer a nice blend of reputable academics with their core pillar – learning from the natural environment and one another. Terra Marin Camps foster a love of learning whether it be at Mandarin Camp, Earth Discovery, Wilderness Survival 101, or the Nature infused Academic program!

Galileo

Rediscover summer fun at Camp Galileo where 75% of time is spent outdoors! Camp Galileo combines traditional summer camp excitement with lasting, innovation-igniting learning for pre-K – 7th graders. And, check out the worry-free enrollment policies!

KidzToPros

KidzToPros has built a trusted brand as an after-school and seasonal camp provider, partnering with over 400 schools in 14 metropolitan areas. KidzToPros offers programs for grades K-8th, including: outdoor sports camps, LEGO® Masters, Minecraft and Roblox game design, art skills, graphic design, and more!

Mathnasium of Pacific Heights, San Francisco

Mathnasium Learning Center Summer Camp program explores STEM-related activities and games. It’s great fun and keeps math skills sharp! Activities include LEGO® robotics, logic board games, science projects, and STEM arts & crafts.

Code Wiz Reading (online)

Code Wiz offers a wide range of individualized STEM programs, each tailored to the students’ skill level for kids aged 7-17. Watch your kids expand their creativity through computer science with a student-driven, project-based learning approach.  Code Wiz programs include online camps and and single-day class programs for Robotics, Minecraft modding, Roblox, Game design, Animations, Digital Art, Mobile app development, Web development, Java, Python, etc.

Camp Chrysalis

For over 38 years, Camp Chrysalis has helped young people, ages 8 to 17, explore the rich and diverse natural environments of California. Living among redwoods, tidepools, marshes and mountains, campers cultivate an ethic of respect and responsibility for the ecologies that support life on earth. While we are backpacking, we focus on active study of the plants, wildlife and ecology around us, and on basic camping and wilderness skills. Our campers develop science skills as well as an appreciation for the natural world. Each day our campers extend themselves in hikes and local exploration.

Dogpatch Paddle Camp

Adventure awaits this summer at a standup paddle board (SUP) camp! Outdoors, active, educational, and exciting – Dogpatch Paddle Camp is creating lifelong memories. Kids will learn how to be safe, paddle strong, appreciate the raw wilderness of the Bay, while creating lifelong memories with new and old friends alike. All camps are broken into small pods with only 5 campers per counselor. All of our counselors are CPR and first-aid certified. Additionally, we only hire swim athletes (who are also really fun and great with kids!).

Gaming Together (online)

Gaming Together offers summer camps, weekly groups, and school break camps, played entirely online using Zoom and Roll20. Dungeons & Dragons is the main activity: kids each play a fantasy, Lord-of-the-Rings style hero they create, and they work together as a group to make decisions, defeat monsters, solve puzzles, and finish quests. D&D offers structured, turn-based interactions where less confident kids will flourish, while free-flowing story and strategy discussions let them work on joining in and being heard.

Sirron Norris Academy Animation Camp

Sirron Norris Academy has been offering Animation and Cartooning workshops for 10 years. This summer, the Academy is operating their week long summer camp virtually online through Zoom guided classes and as an in-person camp, held outdoors in San Francisco. Students will learn basic cartooning skills to develop their own animated short. Each student will make their own movie and we will show it on the last day of class and the movie will also be posted online.

Sony KOOV

Sony KOOV is the all-in-one coding, robotics and design kit that combines digital coding with physical building to teach the next generation of innovators. Your child will learn how to use KOOV in this online robotics and coding camp focused on block programming, computer logic and problem solving. Each day will include one hour of live instruction. Class subjects include robotics, coding, and design. 

East Bay Summer Camp Guide

Summer camps with program locations serving families in the East Bay Area, including Berkeley, Alameda, Oakland, San Leandro, Fremont, and more.

KidzToPros

KidzToPros has built a trusted brand as an after-school and seasonal camp provider, partnering with over 400 schools in 14 metropolitan areas. KidzToPros offers programs for grades K-8th, including: outdoor sports camps, LEGO® Masters, Minecraft and Roblox game design, art skills, graphic design, and more!

Galileo

Rediscover summer fun at Camp Galileo where 75% of time is spent outdoors! Camp Galileo combines traditional summer camp excitement with lasting, innovation-igniting learning for pre-K – 7th graders. And, check out our worry-free enrollment policies!

Camp Chrysalis

For over 38 years, Camp Chrysalis has helped young people, ages 8 to 17, explore the rich and diverse natural environments of California. Living among redwoods, tidepools, marshes and mountains, campers cultivate an ethic of respect and responsibility for the ecologies that support life on earth. While we are backpacking, we focus on active study of the plants, wildlife and ecology around us, and on basic camping and wilderness skills. Our campers develop science skills as well as an appreciation for the natural world. Each day our campers extend themselves in hikes and local exploration.

Cooking Round the World

Cooking Round the World offers children engaging, fun and delicious summer cooking camps – each week is a different theme!​ The culinary process is all hands on. Everyone chops, dices, sautés, blends. Campers learn the use of kitchen tools like melon ballers and rubber tipped spatulas, culinary processes like zesting and measuring, and the importance of timing and cleanliness. Other activities include subject- related games and stories, a cooking demonstration, and a trivia game.

Kairos Music Academy

Kairos Music Academy, Berkeley’s premier youth choir, has been offering comprehensive music education to children ages 6-15 in the Bay Area and celebrates 30 years.

Gaming Together (online)

Gaming Together offers summer camps, weekly groups, and school break camps, played entirely online using Zoom and Roll20. Dungeons & Dragons is the main activity: kids each play a fantasy, Lord-of-the-Rings style hero they create, and they work together as a group to make decisions, defeat monsters, solve puzzles, and finish quests. D&D offers structured, turn-based interactions where less confident kids will flourish, while free-flowing story and strategy discussions let them work on joining in and being heard.

Hanabi Judo

Hanabi’s Summer Camp will be a fun, active introduction to the traditions of Japan: an adventure in physical and cultural education for children from 5 to 15. Every themed session will have children learning judo (a requirement in Japanese schools), Japanese songs, Japanese stories as well as the main artistic, linguistic or cultural activity. At Hanabi, learning is fun. Whether children are rolling, running, story-telling or speaking Japanese, they use both bodies and minds to expand their abilities and experiences.

Genius Kids – Fremont Mowry Campus

Genius Kids is an award-winning global learning center founded on the simple belief that every child is born a “genius” and
as parents and educators, it is our responsibility to awaken the
“inner genius” in each child. Genius Kids advanced yet fun, learning curriculum offers stimulating, positive, educational experiences to develop cognitive, social, emotional, motor, communication and self-confidence skills. Summer programs are available for both preschool and school-age children.

Girls Leading Girls

Girls Leading Girls is a San Francisco based nonprofit organization that trains young women in leadership and life skills through soccer. Programs focus on three main areas: skill development through soccer training and competitive play, leadership training through junior coaches and career mentoring programs, and character building through community service initiatives both home and abroad.

Mad Science of the Bay Area

Mad Science® offers unique, hands-on science experiences for children that are as entertaining as they are educational. Mad Science encourages scientific literacy in children in an age when science is as vital as reading, writing and arithmetic. Mad Science offers a variety of science summer camps designed for children ages 5 to 12, including Nature’s Anatomy Academy, Spy Academy, Jet Cadets, NASA: Journey into Outer Space, Reactions in Action, Wacky Robots & Widgets and more.

CodeREV Kids

CodeREV Kids Tech Camps provide a one-of-a kind camp experience. Campers learn important technology skills while having a fun-packed time that will create memories that for a lifetime. With a healthy mix of project-based coding, programming or digital art, design, teamwork building activities off the computer, and outdoor games and activities in the park, CodeREV Tech Camps provide a perfect mix of fun, education, and life-skill building to keep each student motivated, having fun, and learning.

American Swim Academy

American Swim Academy has been teaching the Bay Area to swim since 1973. Their goal is to promote water safety, comfort and stroke technique for all ages and abilities. All programs are taught with love and positive reinforcement. Swimmers learn through a structured, consistent program that builds progressively through basic swimming techniques to more advanced and challenging skills.

Pear Tree Summer

Pear Tree is a social justice school and camp located in the Oakland hills. Each week we offer a unique theme explored through arts and crafts, cooking, sports and games and science. Included is a one-hour morning academic support session with Montessori-informed, common core aligned curriculum to prevent summer learning loss. Our week culminates in a theme-inspired on-site celebration!

South Bay / Peninsula Summer Camp Guide

Summer camps with program locations serving families in the South Bay and Peninsula area, including San Mateo, Palo Alto, San Jose, Los Gatos, and more.

Next Level Athletes – Born2Ball

Next Level Athletes Born2Ball Basketball Academy is the premier innovator in basketball training and camps where they put the fun in fundamentals. Their summer camp programs offer advanced and comprehensive basketball training to increase your child’s knowledge, ability, and skills.

Ingenium Enrichment LLC

Ingenium Enrichment is a Modern Kids Learning Center featuring online and in-person programs – including tutoring, academic enrichment, and camps! Ingenium Summer Camp 2021 safely welcomes families with fun, enrichment-filled camp days in 45,000 square feet of dedicated youth development indoor and outdoor facilities.

KidzToPros

KidzToPros has built a trusted brand as an after-school and seasonal camp provider, partnering with over 400 schools in 14 metropolitan areas. KidzToPros offers programs for grades K-8th, including: outdoor sports camps, LEGO® Masters, Minecraft and Roblox game design, art skills, graphic design, and more!

RISU Inc

RISU provides K-12 students with STEM enrichment programs – both online and in-person. Popular programs include Python App Development, Scratch Coding, Math Camp, 3D Animation, and more!

Menlo Park Legends

Menlo Park Legends Experience Baseball Summer Camp is coached by the Legends semi pro team. The 5:1 ratio means tons of individual attention for your child. Private and small group instruction, along with their innovative coaching program combining drills, games and exciting contests are to ensure your child is building confidence and having a legendary time while simultaneously developing their baseball skills.

Best in Class Education Center Palo Alto

Best in Class offers engaging academic enrichment camps in math, reading, and writing for kids in grades K-8th. Students benefit from individual attention, active instruction in small groups, and engaging course material aligned with common standards. Best in Class specifically seeks out college-educated instructors with a passion for teaching to ensure your students get the most out of their learning. 

Galileo

Rediscover summer fun at Camp Galileo where 75% of time is spent outdoors! Camp Galileo combines traditional summer camp excitement with lasting, innovation-igniting learning for pre-K – 7th graders. And, check out our worry-free enrollment policies!

Camp Chrysalis

For over 38 years, Camp Chrysalis has helped young people, ages 8 to 17, explore the rich and diverse natural environments of California. Living among redwoods, tidepools, marshes and mountains, campers cultivate an ethic of respect and responsibility for the ecologies that support life on earth. While we are backpacking, we focus on active study of the plants, wildlife and ecology around us, and on basic camping and wilderness skills. Our campers develop science skills as well as an appreciation for the natural world. Each day our campers extend themselves in hikes and local exploration.

Kidizens

Would you like to leverage your love of LEGO® to learn critical real-life lessons and strategies? Kidizens inspires students to become good citizens and future leaders, one LEGO® brick at a time. Kidizens is an innovative and a highly immersive educational environment where students build, inhabit, manage and govern their own LEGO® cities. It’s a collaborative and guided discovery of real-world concepts while role-playing and having fun in a universe built of LEGO®.

Ventana School Summer Camp

Keep your child wondering constantly at Ventana’s Summer Camps! With engaging week-long themes, campers will explore hands on activities that will boost their creative confidence and stimulate their way of thinking. Ventana Summer Camps are full of immersive fun. Summer session themes include: Brilliant Builders, Mad Science, Art Explorers, Wacky Water Week, Movie Making and more!

AIClub / Pyxeda (online)

Award winning Artificial Intelligence and Programming classes for Grades 4-12. Designed and taught by Computer Science PhDs. Artificial Intelligence (AI) is one of the fastest-growing fields. AIClub provides workshops to help students understand and build AI. Students will learn what Artificial Intelligence is, learn different types of AI algorithms, and create applications to build and use AI using the Amazon Cloud.

Run for Fun Camps

Run for Fun programs are great for kids of all ages and athletic abilities! Any youth who enjoys running around, playing classic field games, and having fun will enjoy the program. Some of the favorite games include Chaos Tag, Capture the Flag, Dr. Dodgeball and Gaga Ball. The program consists of games that allow everyone to play and also serves as a great form of exercise. Kids work on their speed, agility and fitness through play. Run for Fun emphasizes good attitude and sportsmanship.

Gaming Together (online)

Gaming Together offers summer camps, weekly groups, and school break camps, played entirely online using Zoom and Roll20. Dungeons & Dragons is the main activity: kids each play a fantasy, Lord-of-the-Rings style hero they create, and they work together as a group to make decisions, defeat monsters, solve puzzles, and finish quests. D&D offers structured, turn-based interactions where less confident kids will flourish, while free-flowing story and strategy discussions let them work on joining in and being heard.

CodeREV Kids

CodeREV Kids Tech Camps provide a one-of-a kind camp experience. Campers learn important technology skills while having a fun-packed time that will create memories that for a lifetime. With a healthy mix of project-based coding, programming or digital art, design, teamwork building activities off the computer, and outdoor games and activities in the park, CodeREV Tech Camps provide a perfect mix of fun, education, and life-skill building to keep each student motivated, having fun, and learning.

BrainVyne LEGO and Money Camps

BrainVyne offers entertaining and enriching LEGO® summer, spring & school break camps and LEGO® birthday parties for children ages 4 to 12 years old in the San Francisco Bay Area. Their unique enrichment classes & camps are fast-paced, where kids discover, explore, invent and create. During Summer 2021, BrainVyne is also offering their Money 101 Camps and Stop Animation Camps as online programs for kids anywhere.

DesignX

DesignX offer one-of-a-kind in-person programs in design to unleash and nurture creativity in kids ages 7-16 in Los Altos, CA. Kids learn how to take their idea from concept to completion for Fashion, Textiles, Soft Toys, Wood Toys, Accessories and Architecture. The curriculum and methodologies used in our programs enables budding fashionistas and tinkerers as young as 7 to explore their ‘voice’ and build on their creative confidence. DesignX students have a personal connection to their finished projects, as they are creating something that they intend to wear or use… encouraging true “design thinking” while fostering a sense of global awareness and an eco-friendly mindset.

Dance Connection Palo Alto

Dance Connection offers classes for ages 3 to adults from beginning to advanced levels. Children’s combination dance classes and graded classes in ballet, jazz, hip hop, contemporary, and tap dance are guided by experienced dance professionals. Summer camp programs include TikTok Dance Camp, Musical Theatre, Cheer & Dance Camp, Acro Dance Camp and more!

Young Builders

Young Builders is a way to get your child to build a plane, boat or electric motor among many things while building self-esteem and confidence. Working with their hands with parts that can be picked up at any home improvement store will give them a sense of pride while building skills. The knowledge they get from building these models will help with math, geometry through the need for measurements and an introduction to engineering while having fun. A memory that will last a life time and a pride of saying “I made that.”

Genius Kids – Sunnyvale

Genius Kids is an award-winning global learning center founded on the simple belief that every child is born a “genius” and
as parents and educators, it is our responsibility to awaken the
“inner genius” in each child. Genius Kids advanced yet fun, learning curriculum offers stimulating, positive, educational experiences to develop cognitive, social, emotional, motor, communication and self-confidence skills. Summer programs are available for both preschool and school-age children.

Code For Fun

Code for Fun is a non-profit organization committed to exposing all students, especially girls, to computer science at an early stage, to help grow the next generation of engineers. Code for Fun offers virtual programs and camps via our award winning instructional platform – including Roblox, Minecraft, Machine Learning, Python, Scratch, Mobile App Development & more!

The Curiosity Lab

The Curiosity Lab is dedicated to connecting children with Nature. Created and led by a former public elementary school teacher who spent 25 years developing curriculum, this unique camp immerses children in outdoor nature experiences. This summer they are offering week-long nature based camps that provide amazing experiences along the magnificent San Mateo Coast. It’s time to get out, get dirty and get happy!

Find in-person Summer camps near me >>
Find online Summer camps and classes >>

Categories
Time-Saving Tips for Busy Moms

Fun Activity Ideas for Long Car Rides

Beat backseat boredom! Here are 7 fun ideas to keep your kids entertained during your next road trip, while boosting brainpower and bonding with family.

By Sarah Antrim

Road trips can be really exciting … for about 20 minutes, until the “are we there yet” and “I’m bored” comments begin to roll in. Sure, you could let kids fire up a game or movie on their tablet, but let’s face it: Kids get enough screen time these days. Besides, gazing out the window means they will get a better sense of going on and adventure as they watch the scenery change and spot buildings and landmarks that are unfamiliar.

How to get kids to set down the tech for at least a good part of your trip? ActivityHero gathered these 7 great games and activities that kids love — and some are even fun to play well into their teen years! Don’t tell the kids, but these activities also improve their powers of awareness and observation, memory, and fine motor skills. Be sure to play at least a few of the ones that involve the whole family, such as the Alphabet Game. They allow for some silly interaction between parents and adults that is sure to start your trip off with miles of smiles.

See All On-Demand DIY Activities and Printables, including art, science, coding, music, and more >>

The State License Plate Game

Heading down a highway? That can make for boring viewing, to be sure, but it’s a great forum for this car game, which enables kids to practice geography, memorization, writing, and more.

In this game, passengers check out the license plates of vehicles nearby and attempt to find at least one plate per state.

To begin, have kids make a list of all 50 states. They can hand-write it during the trip, or you can prepare sheets ahead of time at home. To make it more challenging, see if the your kids (and you!) can name all of the states without looking them up.

Next, give a copy of the list to each child. If you have little kids who can’t read, you can print the photo shown here and have them look for states by their first letter and their license plate color and image.

As each child finds a plate from a new state, they cross it off their list. The first one to complete all 50 states or get the highest number crossed out is the winner.

Alternate version: Instead of a worded list, give kids a printed black-and-white map of the states (widely available online) and have them color each state as they spy a license plate from there.

You can also use the map to point out where you’re headed, as well as the route you’re taking, so your child can track your progress.

BONUS POINTS: Download one of the many “50 States” songs (or states and capitals songs) to play in the car, too. By the end of the trip, you all might be able to name them quickly … even it it’s off-key.

The Alphabet Game

This game can go fairly quickly, but it’s one your kids can play over and over until they tire of it. It’s especially fun for little ones just learning their ABCs, since they’ll be proud to show what they know.

To play, kids will try to find each letter of the alphabet — from start to finish — by looking at street signs, billboards, highway markers, license plates, car or truck logos or artwork, and any other item with wording or letters.

For example, a sign that reads “Albuquerque” would count for letter A. Another that says “Bus Stop” would count for B, and so on.

The alphabet must be completed in order, which means it can be challenging when you get to Q and Z, unless you do happen to be near Albuquerque or Zion National Park.

It’s more challenging if you can accept only first letters of words, but you can also allow kids to find consecutive letters within the same word. In this case, Albuquerque could count for A and B. Alter the rules as you like, but be sure everyone knows them!

Kids can either work together to finish one alphabet or each complete their own in a race to see who finishes first.

Mad Libs

Who can resist the silly stories that ensue with Mad Libs?

A tried-and-true favorite for over 50 years, Mad Libs can still entertain every generation in vehicles, at rest stops, in the lobby of a restaurant, or in a hotel room while waiting for a turn to brush teeth.

Purchase your own book of Mad Libs at your favorite book store, visit the website (Madlibs.com) for free downloads, or add the Mad Libs app to your iPhone or iPad.

Kids will practice language and terms, such as identifying the difference between a noun and an adjective. If you’re traveling during the school year, encourage them to bring their vocabulary books or lists from school and find the funniest uses for new words.

Make a Travel Journal

Give each child a notebook and crayons. Or create a homemade travel journal using construction paper and office paper, punching holes in the spine and linking them with yarn.

Each time you enter a new state, encourage your child to draw a picture of something they spot, and ask them to write a few memorable things that they liked about that state.

Older kids can log the trip in greater detail. Did you stop somewhere for lunch or dinner? How was the food? What sort of things did you see there that are different from those back at home? Not only will this help you recall good times when you review them a few months later, but it also will allow you to return to favorite spots if you make the same journey again.

The Alphabet Memory Game

This is a great activity for the whole family, except perhaps the driver who should save their attention for the road ahead.

One person starts the story with a noun that begins with the letter A, for example, “I went to Atlanta.” The next person repeats the story and adds on with the next letter of the alphabet, such as “I went to Atlanta to see a buffalo” and so on. See how long you can keep the game (and the story) going.

Kids will exercise their memory and concentration with this game.

If you complete a particularly funny story, one of the older kids can write it down after the fact, recording it in their travel journal so you all can have a good laugh later.

BONUS POINTS: On the way home, see if anyone can remember one whole story that you created during the ride to your destination. (No peeking in the travel journal for help!)

Destination Wheel of Fortune

Can I get an F for fun? There’s a reason that this game show has existed since 1983!

In this travel version, everyone chooses one thing that they are excited to see or do at your destination. Then each person puts that thing in the form of a phrase, just as the game show does. Examples could be “going miniature golfing” or “hiking a new trail.”

Next, have passengers take turns trying to guess one letter at a time to reveal the answer. If they can solve the puzzle first, they win!

Kids will practice reasoning and spelling with this game. This is also a good way for parents to learn what each child is hoping to do, so everyone will have a fond memory when the vacation is over.

BONUS POINTS: It’s always nice for parents to have one “date night” during a vacation! You can use ActivityHero to help you find a drop-in session or a day or evening class at your destination, where your child can a special activity while you savor a meal and some couples-time at an upscale eatery.

Sewing Cards

If you’d like kids to practice fine motor skills, pick up some of these colorful cards at a craft store or toy store. Or work together with your kids to construct some homemade ones prior to the car ride, using these instructions.

All you’ll need is a hole puncher, some thin cardboard, a thick plastic needle, and some colored yarn.

Have your child trace a figure that they’d like to “sew” on a piece of cardboard. For instance, they may choose a teddy bear, a dinosaur, or a cartoon character. They may draw it themselves or you can print it out from a website photo. (If using a printout or a drawing of the item that’s on paper, use glue to mount it to the thin cardboard before moving on to the next step.)

Next, use the hole puncher to place holes around the outline of the picture, locating them about an inch apart and an inch from the edge.

Take these cards, along with the plastic needle and yarn, along on your trip. If you don’t have a plastic needle, simply wrap some tape tightly around the end of the yarn … or use a thin shoelace, which will be easy to thread through the holes.

What fun games do YOUR kids love to play during road trips?

Share your ideas in the comments to help other parents keep their kids happily amused! And for more car activity suggestions, check our recent posting on kid-friendly, screen-free podcasts to keep little ones entertained.

ActivityHero has updated schedules on popular kid’s activities – including in-person, live online, and on-demand. Customize your search by your child’s age and discover convenient providers near you.

 
 
Categories
Camps Uncategorized

Parent Power: First-Time Campers 101






What to Expect When Thinking for Your Child’s First Camp Experience

ActivityHero Parent Power is a new series dedicated to helping you discover smart solutions to finding kid activities. Whether you are in need of seasonal camps, after-school programs, or academic tutoring we are here to help you stay informed on all things kid activity-related. 

In this episode we will talk about first time campers 101: what to consider when thinking about introducing your child to their first camp experience. Our guest for this interview is Courtney Cimoli. She is the chief operating officer of Camp Edmo, the leading camp provider in the San Francisco Bay Area and Greater Sacramento regions of California with a multitude of school year programs and 32 on-site summer camp locations. 

You can check out their current summer camp offerings on Activityhero.com.

One of the reasons why we love Camp Edmo at ActivityHero is because they collaborate with leaders in the fields of Science, Maker Education and Social Emotional Learning to design a well rounded and diverse curriculum for their programs. 

Q: How do I know if my child is ready for summer camp?

A: All camps have different guidelines around that. for EDMO, they need to be potty trained and at least 4-years old. Any camp you are looking at, verify what age do they start at and what are the parameters that you child needs to meet to be able to join the camp. From there, once they are starting to develop curiosity over different theme areas, if there’s something they are excited about and can get engaged about, that’s the time for camp. If you notice they love dinosaurs, try dino-science camp to match it off of something they really enjoy. In general, if they love hands-on activities, this is a great time for them to start camp. It’s really great when you can do those DIY things at home with them but it’s a whole other level when they can get in there and experience with other kids, other adults, and counselors. Another thing to note, there is a little bit for every personality type. So you might think “my child is really outgoing! they are ready!” but camp is great for the more reserved campers too. It’s a place to practice those skills. They are going to have to be outside the home and practice [social] skills.

This is an environment where they don’t have to, they get to. For myself, I was that really great place for me where I got to go out and practice my social skill building. I got to be in new environments, in a way that was really engaging and exciting. [Camp] is great for all types of kids.

Q: What types of camps are best for a first-time camper? Should I pick something more general, like all-sports or all-fun? Or should I go for something more specialized?

A: It depends on your kid. Are they really motivated by a particular thing and want to attend a specialized camp? Some kids need more of a general interest level, they are both great. Both camps have awesome benefits. One thing I would pay attention to, regardless of if it’s general-interest or specialized is, “whats the additional stuff to their curriculum?”. Even if it’s specialized, there should be other aspects of the camp day. You want them to be singing songs, performing skits, having outdoor game time, having some sort of SEL or social skill bulding session where they are learning traits such as responsibility and initiative. So whether it’s a general-interest theme or specialized theme, make sure you’re getting a well-rounded package. That’s what is going to really engage your child and get the best out of camp.

Q: Do you have a lot for campers that take the same camp or type of camp for multiple weeks in the summer? Is it better to have a longer time frame for first-time campers?

A: I would recommend, picking a camp and sticking with one or two. Floating them to a different camp every week can sometimes make it difficult for them to get established when they are really just learning what camp is. Camp involves so much culture. You show up, you go here for your rally in the morning, you learn where your boundaries are, when you’re relearning that every week at a different camp in addition to getting used to the atmosphere of camp in general, that can be really overwhelming.

I recommend a camp that offers a variety of themes, so they can mix it up each week. So they can mix it up, but still attend the same camp. At EDMO, they can attend the whole summer but do a different theme each week. So you’re doing this over arching convept of maker or science but you’re doing other themes each week so they can stay really engaged. But the general outline and structure of the day is the same so that can really help them get settled in.

Kids come for 6, 8, 10 weeks and by the end, that’s their home. They end up helping new campers get involved.

Q: Should I register for camp with siblings or friends?

A: For siblings, unless they are really close in age and depending on how the camp does grouping, they will likely be separated. Make it easy on yourself, do one drop off and one pick-up, especially if the camp have a vareity of offerings, like EDMO does. So your kids can have very different interests but still find something engaging.

Coming with friends can be great, it can help them feel comfortable from the minute they get there, especially if your child is a little more reserved and needs that extra support. However, they don’t need to. Make sure that the camp you are signing up for is ready with techniques to help them get engaged, make new friends, at EDMO, the first thing we do Monday morning is you meet your group and we do Team-Love. They do icebreakers, they create a team name and get engrained as a group. So it doesn’t matter if they didn’t have a friend when they walked in the door, they will have an entire group of friends within 15-minutes of being there. And then throughout the day, we have a variety of techniques with our SEL curriculum. The counselors are trained to help them interact with others and make new friends. Don’t be worried, if you are sending your new camper without anyone they know.

Q: Is there anything else you want to add about how counselors bridge the gap for kid and/or parents?

A: We have Team-Love and SEL curriculum to help them make connections thorughout the day. One thing that helps the kids and the parents is distracting them the moment they get there. Naturally, the kids want to stay with the parent, that’s who they know, that’s what they are used to, so a really good counselor is going to help them distract away from those nerves. So the second you walk into camp, there is some sort of activity going on.

Staff members are always friendly and excited to see the kids. That’s going to help the camper and the parent make that transition the first day or any day they are there.

Q: What do you believe is the biggest challenge for first-time campers?

A: Drop off! AM Drop off! Time and time again it’s the biggest challenge for campers and parents. I can tell you as a parent myself, I am not looking forward to leaving [her] for the first time for a full-day. So it can be just as hard on the parent as the camper. One thing a recommend is drop them off, and leave. Staying just allows the child to build up more anxiety, get more and more upset. And when we see a quick drop-off, because we have other techniques, we have activities that are already going on, 5-minutes, the camper ready to go!

Q: What benefits do you believe summer camp offers children, above free play at home through the summer?

A;So many! That’s a really big question. The thing I love about summer camps as an extracurricular activity, camp does not expect your child to fit the mold in any way. Camp is for everybody. There is a little bit of everything and it’s about discovery of yourself within that. That’s why I have devoted my life and career to it, because that’s what summer camp did for me many years ago. I was very shy, afraid of my shadow type, that was able to really find myself and get comforatble at camp. So the benefit of taking them to this environment that is so inclusive and inviting, is huge.

Social interaction, trained professionals, that can help them learn responsibility and initiative. Can they learn these things at home? yes. It it the same as learning this from other adults, surrounded by their peers, no. That’s a very different experience. I think both are important, but summer camp can really have so many levels of value.

Q: When you are a new parent to signing up for summer camp, it can be overwhelming. What do you feel like are the most important questions for a parent to ask when they are researching camps?

A: Make sure the camp is well-rounded throughout the day. There are a lot of safety measures for 2021, but there is still a level of interaction. So make sure there are different parts of the day, with outdoor recreation, various games that include collaboration and team work. Don’t get so excited about one theme that you forget about the schedule of the full camp day.

With COVID, camps are doing things differently. That’s what I would really be watching for this year. Are they truly staying in a stable group? I’m not going to lie, especially in our industry that’s something that’s really difficult to enforce when we are going in and out of different periods throughout the day. At EDMO, we’ve been working tirelessly to make sure our COVID-19 protocols are across the board being followed by our campers and counselors. Stable groupd are crucial right now.

I would pay attention to the staff they are hiring, but I wouldn’t get too hung up on qualifications. Just because a staff memeber is a college graduate in a specicial field, don’t mean they are vibey. You want fun, interactive staff. I’ve see 16-year old counselors who have attended camp for year, be the strongest counselor out of a staff of people much older than them. It’s really about the culture the camp is creating, more so, on-paper resume qualifications.

Q: Last advice?

A: When signing up for camp, get your campers involved. let them read the descriptions and help pick the themes. It is going to be so much easier if they are excited for the program.

Camp is for everyone. Scholarships are available through ActivityHero and EDMO.

Explore your child’s camp options today.

Categories
After-School Activities Camps Featured Posts Uncategorized

Camp Trends 2021 White Paper

7 Summer Camp Trends in 2021 - Official Report by ActivityHero

7 Summer Camp Trends in 2021

Official Report by

Introduction

Summer planning during a pandemic has incorporated many more considerations than in years past. As parents and their kids start to determine what to do when school is out in the next few months, here are some key factors ActivityHero has observed in our community of 4 million+ families that may help others start thinking about their plans now.

“This year, families are registering for camps a bit later than usual, but the earliest camp registrations show that families are eager to have kids get outside and be active. We’ve seen a big increase in demand for outdoor specialty camps.”

Peggy Chang
CEO & Co-Founder ActivityHero

7 Summer Camp Trends

01. 45% of All Searched Activities are Outdoor

02. Locations

03. COVID-Safety

04. Average Session Prices Increased 108%

05. Updated Cancellation and Refund Policies

06. More Options for Deposits or Payment Plans

07. Fewer Add-on Options

Camp Trends Report Based on Q1 2021 data by ActivityHero. 45% of all searched activities are outdoor. Horseback riding and biking classes are filling quickly.

01. 45% of All Searched Activities are Outdoor

Parents want their kids outside. Many continue to struggle with balancing the “new normal” distance learning paired with increased screen time. Outdoor Activities and Non-Contact Sports have much more interest this year, contributing to most of the search inquiries happening on our platform. Horseback Riding and Biking classes, in particular, have been enrolled to capacity with long waitlists. Outdoor Petting Zoos and Outdoor Science Camps also support socially distant learning and have large upticks in popularity too.

Camp Trends Report Based on Q1 2021 data by ActivityHero. Many camps are held at public schools or temporary spaced and these locations are taking longer to confirm this year.

02. Locations

Many camps are held at public schools or temporary spaces and these locations are taking longer to confirm this year. You may see a “TBD address” more frequently, which means that the camp is still working on confirming the exact location.

COVID-Safety: Camps have adjusted many of their programs support their communities and their staff to follow public health guidelines.

03. COVID-Safety

Camps have adjusted many of their programs to support the families in their communities and their staff to follow public health guidelines You may even notice that many have dedicated pages on their websites addressing all the efforts to be taken to best ensure everyone’s safety. Face masks and daily screenings are regularly appearing as requirements with frequent hand washing and sanitizing reminders too

Camp Prices: Camp Trends Report based on Q1 2021 data by ActivityHero

04. Average Session Prices Increased 108%

Average camp session purchase prices have increased from $425 to $888 this year due to longer sessions that have become more common in some areas such as the San Francisco Bay Area. Camp sessions are required to be 3 weeks this summer to support more stable cohorts for COVID-safety. As a result, registrations for 3-week camps have increased by 5,000%, compared to last year.

On the plus side, attending a camp for multiple weeks helps kids make more friends and be more comfortable. 

It also gives them more time to master new skills such as art or coding.

Some camps have the same prices per week in 2021, including:

Camp Trends Report Based on Q1 2021 data by ActivityHero.

05. Updated Cancellation and Refund Policies

Many providers learned from their experiences last year to better apply more manageable and flexible policies this year. Some camps offer credit toward another registration and don’t offer cash refunds. There’s a wide variation of what’s available.

06. More Options for Deposits or Payment Plans

After last year’s unprecedented cancellation of camp, many have adjusted payment policies this year. More flexibility is now being offered as alternatives to only requiring full upfront payments. Families may only have to pay a small deposit to hold their spots. 

This year, 28% of registrations are using a payment plan.

Camp Trends Report Based on Q1 2021 data by ActivityHero.

07. Fewer Add-on Options

Extended care availability may also be limited for the same reasons. Based on ActivityHero’s community, we see a 25% reduction of this offering compared to last year.

Some camps offering extended care in 2021, include:

About ActivityHero

ActivityHero is the leading online marketplace for kids camps, activities, and after-school classes. Families book activities with one easy registration. Activity providers can claim and customize their listing and use online tools to get new customers.

Contact us

Categories
Adventure/Outdoors Animals Backpacking Camps Canoeing Environmental Featured Posts Hiking Holiday Break Camps Nature Programs Play/Outdoor Wilderness

Best Outdoor Youth Camps for 2021

Rediscover the joys of summer by planning an outdoor youth camp adventure!

After a year of change and disruption, let’s make 2021 the best year yet! Start planning your child’s spring & summer adventures with some of our top trending outdoor youth camps on ActivityHero. Small group, outdoor, in-person camps are selling fast – from horseback riding to survival skills camps! 

horseback riding camps for kids 2021

Horseback Riding Camps for Kids

From the beginner camper to advanced equestrians, find a camp for your horse-loving kids! Learn about horse care: grooming, feeding, bathing and even horse first aid. Saddle a horse, learn about tack, and even explore different styles of riding.

Youth campers will also learn interesting facts about the history, evolution and anatomy of the horse while picking up some horse lingo (did you know that horses are measured in hands?). When not riding, kids will play games, make new friends, and get crafty!

Paddleboarding camps for kids summer 2021

Paddle Adventure Youth Camps

Outdoors, active, educational, and exciting – create lifelong memories kayaking, canoeing, stand-up paddleboarding, and more. With a wide variety of water sports camps available, there is something fun for every kid!

Campers at Shoreline Lake start on sit-on-top kayaks and learn the skills they need to explore the lake and beyond. Techniques include skills such as the draw, pry, figure-eight and “C” strokes. Campers are also taught safety skills to carry them through wherever they go. These include weather and tides, paddle signals, capsize assisting and self-rescue techniques.

It is a unique camp offering water sports, nature walks, arts & crafts and outdoor games. As a parent I feel very relieved knowing my daughter is safe and in good hands.

5-Star Parent Review for Shoreline Lake Camp
outdoor mountain biking camps for kids

Mountain Biking Camps for Kids

Campers hit the trails with help of seasoned instructors – learning bicycle maintenance basics and traversing the terrain in some of the best parks and trails!

At Avid4Adventure, youth mountain biking campers learn:

  • Technical Skills:  Campers learn how to properly fit a helmet and bike, practice basic bike commands and get comfortable with technical skills including bunny hops, track stands, braking and shifting, becoming more proficient riders as they take on incremental challenges.
  • Trail Riding: Campers are introduced to a wide range of trails — where they practice good trail etiquette as they learn to ride on rolling single and double track terrain, descending and ascending trail sections and narrow and winding trails.
  • Bike Maintenance: When they’re not riding, campers get familiar with the nuts and bolts of bike maintenance, learning to safety check their bikes, solve gear problems and change flat tires.

If you are interested in including biking as part of your family routine this summer, check out these 6 Practical Tips for Families.

outdoor youth adventure camps

Outdoor Youth Exploration Camps

Adventure Awaits! Unique outdoor camps for kids include:

  • Wilderness Survival Skills Camp
  • Outdoor Nature Camp
  • Rock Climbing Camp
  • Hiking Camps
  • Overnight Camping Trips
  • and so much more!

The outdoor nature of it, different adventures each day – super unique and fun, and a good option to mix in with other camps for the summer. It was great!

5-Star Parent Review for Avid4Adventure
outdoor youth camp for skateboarding

Skateboarding Camps for Kids

Skaters of all experience levels work on developing new skills, building confidence, and work up to advanced tricks like 50-50 grinds, frontside 180’s and more!

Find a wide variety in-person camps, online classes, and DIY activities for kids on ActivityHero.com >>

Categories
Academics After-School Activities Creative Arts Dance Language Music Online Learning Science/Technology Uncategorized

Boredom Busters: Interesting New Classes To Try Next Week

Extra curricular activities open kids’ minds to new interests. They help build skills outside of the classroom. They provide a productive break from study. And they open new social opportunities to grow a community. Here are editor’s picks for interesting new classes to try:

Foreign Language

The many cognitive benefits of learning languages are undeniable. People who speak more than one language have improved memory, problem-solving and critical-thinking skills, enhanced concentration, ability to multitask, and better listening skills.*

Theater Games in Spanish – Beginners

by Rogue Artists Ensemble

Learn Spanish through theatre games and music! We naturally learn language through trial and error and through play. In Theatre Games in Spanish, students learn to communicate in Spanish by playing games and having fun. We strive to joyfully instill a love of language through embodied learning and play.

Grades K – 5

$17/day starting Feb 22

register
German for Beginners: Singing & Speaking

by Musical Learning

In this fun and musical class, learners explore German greetings, keywords, introduction vocabulary and pronunciation – through music! Learning a language is fun and easy with Ms. Kelsey – let’s sing, dance and color! 

Ms. Kelsey is a professional opera singer and language teacher, and she started Musical Learning in 2016. She has taught German, French, English and ‘Musical Science’ for the past 10 years both online and in person. 

Ages 3 – 7

$100/ 8 session series that meets twice a week starting Feb 22

Register

STEM

Skills attained through STEM education include problem solving, critical thinking, creativity, curiosity, decision making, leadership, entrepreneurship, acceptance of failure and more.*

Explorations in Quantum Physics

by Electivity Kids

In the first 4 weeks of the session, students learn about the electromagnetic nature of matter and energy, including: Magnetism, Magnetic Induction Electricity, Photons, Solar Energy. In the second half of the session, students are introduced to atoms, subatomic particles and the Periodic Table of Elements (Hydrogen to Xenon). They learn how atoms form molecules, and also learn about the structure of the Periodic Table.  Class content is taught through engaging visual aids, physical demonstrations and thought-provoking discussion.

Grades 5 – 12

$230/ full series, ongoing until March 22

register
Python Programming 1: Live Online Class

by Kodeclik Online Academy

Python is one of the most feature-packed coding languages ever and today underlies the foundation of many websites, applications, and games.

This fast moving course assumes no prior experience with Python programming but rapidly takes you to high levels of functionality illustrating how you can write your own programs in Python!

Ages 11 – 18

$399 / 16-session series beginning Feb 19

register
Ancient Greece to Quantum Realms

by Digivations Institute

With An Emphasis on the Homeric epics of The Iliad and the Odyssey, the Milesian School of Thought yielding Thales, Pre-Socratics highlighting Democritus and the Socratic Period illustrative of Socrates Philosophy in the Context of Innovation Ranging from The Theory of Everything to Einstein’s Unified Theory and Quantum Realms.

Digivations Institute has NASA award-winning curriculum and is an ActivityHero Best of 2020.

ages 12 & up

$49/day ongoing until May 25

register
Curiosity Club S.T.E.A.M. Lab – science & art fun

by Active Art & Science

Join us online for S.T.E.A.M powered fun where you will explore the curious worlds of science, technology, engineering, art and math. Conduct experiments, create art, build, take things apart and enjoy learning how art, science, engineering and technology are connected.

Ages 5 – 10

$96/ 6-session series beginning Feb 22

Register

Homeschooling

Homeschool offers academic flexibility. During these ever-changing COVID times, many families have turned to this option. Try these classes for academic homeschooling and enrichment education!

Martial Arts & Life Lessons

by Family Karate

Family Karate provides fun, fitness, karate, and life skills.  Now your child can enjoy our unique blend of martial arts and character building in our live online classes with a Master Instructor.

In each class we’ll ask you to set a self leadership goal for your children, and in the next class we’ll follow up progress on those goals.

Ages 5 – 11 but fun for the whole family! Try it as a stress reliever!

$10/day trial classes or $20/day regular price ongoing throughout spring

register
First Grade Curriculum! Homeschooling 101!

by Homeschool Academy

This is a great introductory trial for parents thinking about homeschooling their kids.

In this curriculum which follows the Common Core State Standards, we dive into EVERYTHING your child should learn in First Grade WOW! See below for a snapshot of some of the covered content. In previous classes on different platforms– parents would RAVE how their child would not be able to read at all prior to Mrs. Hendricks Academy and by the end of the curriculum- they were reading whole sentences, creative writing on their own and excelling. 

Ages 4 – 8

$7/class. Special discount available $145/month

register
Princess Story Time Ballet Dance Camp

by Lovely Leaps

Each week we will have a different princess joining the class. After the princess arrives the children will perform their dance while the princess sings, Then they will sit with their favorite toy while the princess reads a fun book! After story time the children will have a chance to each personally interact with the princess! It’s not everyday your child will get to have a virtual Disneyland experience! 

Ages 3 – 6

$17/day starting March 4

register
Tired of online classes? Try a fun Lego® course:
Amusement Park LEGO® Engineering

by SNAPOLOGY OF LOS GATOS

We bet your child loves going to amusement parks to experience the variety of fast, dropping, and spinning rides, but have they ever thought about the science that goes into building those rides and the people who are responsible for designing them? In Snapology’s Amusement Park Engineering class, students will become engineers building their own amusement park rides like roller coasters, Ferris wheel , Bumper Car and other awesome rides!! 

Snapology of Los Gatos serves Almaden, Camden, Los Gatos, Saratoga and Cupertino.

Ages 5 – 12

$150/ 4-session series starting Feb 24

register

Categories
Featured Posts Featured Providers

Free Activities for American Heart Month + Giveaway

February is American Heart Month and ActivityHero is celebrating with an exclusive, free package of Heart Healthy activities in partnership with Young Rembrandts, Little Medical School, Soccer Stars, and Taste Buds Kitchen! Have fun with a variety of heart-themed activities including art, fitness, cooking, and science of the heart.  

Take our #HeartHeroChallenge to help us spread awareness and love for making our hearts strong in 2021 – and win a prize package worth $250!

  1. Register for any of the FREE Heart Health Month activities
  2. Share a photo/video of your child or their finished project and tag @activityhero on Facebook or @activity_hero on Instagram.
  3. Hashtag #HeartHeroChallenge

Heart Science Class by Little Medical School

In this hands-on activity, students will learn the basic functions of the heart, the history of American Heart Month, and how to measure their heart rate (pulse). Some of the activities are locating their heart, conducting a heart strength experiment, and taking their pulse.

Art Class by Young Rembrandts 

We will draw fitness-inspired scenes with a creative twist. We will be silly and imagine what it would be like if our favorite fruit were athletic, cartoon characters. We will draw them doing fun, physical activities like weightlifting and running. Bonus: Valentine coloring pages are available for younger children! 

Exercise by Super Soccer Stars

Kids get moving and their heart rate elevated with this fun, on-demand fitness class with Soccer Stars. Lesson is designed with small spaces in mind – a 5x5ft area is all you need. No equipment, no problem!  Bonus: Soccer coloring pages are also included!

Cooking Class by Taste Buds Kitchen

Join Chef Jessi Walter Brelsford, Taste Buds Kitchen Founder, and her 2-year old Sous-Chef Lucius, to whip up Chewy Granola Bars! This scrumptious snack is the perfect mix of fruits, oats, and sweetness and it’s naturally gluten-free, dairy-free, and egg-free!

Register for FREE Today!  

All the Heart Health Month activities are free, but you are welcome to make an optional donation towards our partner non-profit organization, Saloni Heart Foundation.  Their mission is to offer resources to families with congenital heart condition and to sponsor medical education for underprivileged kids in India.

Categories
Camps Featured Posts

5 Ways to Save on Summer Camp

By ActivityHero Staff

Tip 1: Look for summer camp discounts

Smart shoppers on ActivityHero save over 30% by combining early bird, multi-session and sibling discounts. The most popular way to get instant savings is the early bird discount.

But in 2021, there may not be as many discounts available because in-person camps are generally going to be smaller group sizes and the camps have to spend money on more equipment, PPE, hand sanitizer, nightly cleanings, etc. So if you see a discount, grab it!

After April, you may not find as many early registration discounts, but sibling and multiple week camp discounts are often still available. The average family saves 12% with multiple week discounts and 6% with sibling discounts.

Tip 2: Balance specialty camps and recreational camps

If you’ve been shopping for camps, you have probably seen a wide price range. Some specialty camps, such as programming or horseback riding, are priced higher because the equipment or instructors are more costly. A week of rock climbing or paddle boarding camp at Avid4 Adventure is over $650.

While you may want to splurge on a few specialty camps, recreational sports and day camps can cost a lot less. Camps held at the local park or school soccer field don’t have as much expenses to cover. For example, a week of soccer camp at Challenger Soccer Camp starts around $127.

Your child might be interested in many types of activities, so mixing in a few different camps can keep your average cost lower.

Tip 3: Consider one day sessions

Sending kids to camp for a day or two at a time can be a great way to break up the monotony of summer, or to supplement your other child care arrangements. Kids still get to experience all the fun of camp, but you’re only paying for the days you need. CD’s Kids Art Studio and Growfit Sports Camps are examples of camps that offers this type of flexibility. (And if it’s a very popular camp, we recommend registering as early as you can to make sure you secure your spot.)

Wizbots Robotics Summer Camp offers value pricing instead of camp discounts
Wizbots Robotics Summer Camp

Tip 4: Find “value priced” camps

Some camps, like Wizbots, a robotics camp in the San Francisco Bay Area, believe in “providing a quality program at the best value price,” and don’t offer any additional camp discounts. These programs might have every day lower prices, or they may offer longer hours or extended care at no extra charge.

What’s considered to be a low price varies by region. In the SF Bay Area, a full day camp that is $350 or less per week catches parents’ attention.

Tip 5: Apply for scholarships and financial aid

Your family may also be able to get assistance from camp scholarships or financial aid. ActivityHero’s scholarship program makes it easy for families to apply once and be eligible for several camp scholarships. You can also contact camps directly to ask if they offer financial assistance.

Bonus: Tell a friend

Many camps offer a referral bonus when you invite a friend to camp. On ActivityHero, you can earn $15 for each friend referred, and your friends save money too!

Find a wide variety in-person camps, online classes, and DIY activities for kids on ActivityHero.com >>

Categories
Featured Posts Featured Providers Science

Featured: Hypothesis Haven Science Club

Bridget Chapital is the founder and owner of Hypothesis Haven Science Club. Bridget is a health education professional with 18+ years experience in the biomedical research industry, including roles with UT MD Anderson Cancer Center and Baylor College of Medicine.

Hypothesis Haven Science Club is not your average STEM program.  They are the first and only medical science program for children ages 5-13 that provides early exposure to life science careers and teaches the steps that scientists take to discover, treat, and cure illnesses.

Chapital described Hypothesis Haven Science Club as the culmination of her dream to share her knowledge and experience in the clinical research industry with the next generation of young scientists. Her passion is increasing access to emerging medical treatments by bridging information gaps between medical providers and patients.

In February, to coincide with American Heart Month, Chapital and her team hosted their first pop-up event to introduce Hypothesis Haven to their Texas community. In 2021, the 2nd Annual HeART of Science event is being held virtually for students anywhere.

“The difference at Hypothesis Haven is that we’re not just teaching children how the heart works, but additionally – how did scientists discover how the heart works and how did their understanding change over time?” Said Chapital. “We want to show children it starts with a bright idea, but and then it takes hard work and perservance to figure it out.”

However, the launch of her new after school and camp business did not go as expected. Within a month, the COVID-19 pandemic shut down schools and businesses.

Chapital quickly decided to pivot and adapt their curriculum to offer online workshops and camps. 

“At first we were just doing workshops with materials that kids would have around the house. But, a lot of our lessons didn’t translate well to online because they were based on medical equipment the instructor would normally bring to the classroom,” said Chapital. “So we created brand new lessons and we able to really expand the curriculum.”

Before the pandemic, Chapital had never really thought of virtual classes, but now believe the virtual workshops will become a permanent service in their business. 

“We had kids from Brazil recently in a class on ActivityHero LIVE. We now have a worldwide reach and it’s really cool. We want to keep that piece even as things start getting back to in-person,” said Chapital.

You can learn more about Hypothesis Haven on ActivityHero or find them on Facebook and Instagram.

Free HeART of Science Workshop

At Hypothesis Haven Science Club’s Annual HeART of Science event,  kids will learn about the hardest-working muscle in the body (the heart) and how to keep it healthy and strong!

They will also learn about new treatments and discoveries that doctors and scientists are working on to help people with heart disease.

Register for free on ActivityHero >>

Categories
After-School Activities Parenting Resources Sports

Using Flexible Spending Accounts & Tax Credits for Summer Camps and After School Activities

Flexible spending accounts (FSA) can be a great way to reduce your taxes while you spend on child care. You can use money from your FSA to pay for summer camps and after-school activities. Certain after-school activities and care expenses are covered as well. If your company doesn’t offer an FSA, you can also cover some of the costs of camp and child care with the child care tax credit.

There are a few stipulations to consider, one being that only kids under 13 years old are covered. Only day camps are covered, not overnight camps, and both parents must be working or attending school full-time. Also, the same expenses cannot be covered by FSA and the child care tax credit. The child care tax credit covers only a percentage of child care costs and varies between 20-35% depending on your household income. If your adjusted gross income is over $43,000, your child care tax credit is limited to 20%. 

Other key points you should know about the tax credit:

  • Expenses are deductible only if the main purpose is the “person’s well-being and protection.” Summer school, private school tuition, tutoring and overnight camps don’t qualify.
  • Day care centers or after-school care qualifies if only if the center complies with all state and local regulations.
  • There is a maximum yearly dollar amount of $3000 for one child, or $6000 for two or more children.

Are online classes and camps eligible for FSA or tax credit?

In 2020 and 2021, many more families enrolled their kids in an online course or virtual camp. Unfortunately, some FSA’s are not approving online courses as an eligible dependent care expense because the parents were at home during the course and thus providing child care.

IRS publication 503 says “Expenses are for the care of a qualifying person only if their main purpose is the person’s well-being and protection.” One FSA administrator states in a recent notice that an online platform with audio and visual functions satisfies the requirement. But some FSA plans state that if the parents are at home, then the parents are providing care for the child. 

If I paid for a camp in 2020, but we attended in 2021, what year is my expense tax deductible?

If you paid for camp in one year, but your kids did not attend until the next year, you would count expenses in the year your kids attended. 

How can I get the EIN number for the camp or class provider?

When you register on ActivityHero.com, your registration confirmation email will include the EIN and other information you need to claim your tax credit or use your FSA funds. 

Please keep in mind that we know a fair bit about summer camps and kids activities, but we are NOT tax experts. There are additional restrictions to this tax credit, so read IRS publication 503 carefully or consult your tax advisor before claiming the tax dependent care credit.