What are good Summer Camp Ideas

Before long, the current school term will be over; for good - until a new class term starts in September.

Children will be graduating and moving on. Some will continue onto a different school, or some will even start High School in September! Time moves so quickly! The question is - what will we do for our children's placement this summer?

Is there such a thing as an affordable summer camp?

After doing weeks and weeks of research, I was uncertain that I could find an affordable solution to a summer camp for my daughter. I knew that I wanted her to continue on with her education during the summer - but did not think that it would be as expensive as I found the reality to be.

I checked out my local YMCA, and found that their rates were about $50. per day. Okay, that might be do-able. But, then the family needed to join as a member. That charge was $200. for the family.

So at five days, $250. per week = $1000. per month. Then, add another $200. onto it.

Quitting my current job and just staying home almost seemed like a feasible option.  Or, I guess that I could get a second job to afford this!

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

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

The Parks Department had their entire Summer Itinerary listed on the web! A great summer camp is offered for children ages 6 to 12. The day begins at 9am and ends at 3pm. There is even a bus service available if it is needed!

The fee is $81. for the 6 week term, and a $20. bus fee. No, they don't provide any food or snacks, but they keep the children busy with educational activities every day.

The program is held at one of the Township's Recreation Facilities (parks), and includes travel to three of the other Township Parks during the week.

Also, additional voluntary programs are offered (for a small fee). They visit the local zoo, aquarium, beach, minor league baseball game, kiddie rides, camping, etc. The fee for each activity is in addition to the up front $81. cost - but it's nomina, and varies from $3.00 to $8.00 per outing.

Wow was I happy that I found this!

I really feel that we have found an affordable solution to Summer Camp. I hope that all of my readers have the same access to a local Parks and Recreation Department program for their children.

Best of luck to you all, and get ready to enjoy the upcoming summer!