Bloom - Summer Camp Guide 2024

ISSUE 06

bloom

2024

SUMMER SURVIVAL GUIDE FOR MOMS and summer camp guide

DAY CAMPS THAT OFFER FLEXIBLE SCHEDULES

4 SUMMER CAMPS FOR TODDLERS

THE BEST INDOOR PLAY SPACES FOR KIDS 0-6 WHEN PARKS ARE TOO HOT

EAST VALLEY MOMS & KATE MAE PHOTOGRAPHY

A LETTER FROM THE CHIEF CURATOR

summer survival guide Have you planned your summer yet?

If you’re the unicorn mom who booked vacation plans and summer camps back in January, teach us your ways, we’ve got a lot to learn.

Researching summer camps can be a second job for moms this time of year, so we’re proud to have curated some of the most popular summer hacks for moms; from indoor, beatthe-heat activities on a budget to day camps focused on special interests, to sleepaway camps a few hours from home.

Whether it’s sports, art, theater or nature, there is a summer camp to keep everyone busy and during this summer!

photo credit: Kate Mae Photography

Here's our picks of camps, along with helpful advice from our 20+ local moms who all write for East Valley Moms. With kids in every age and stage, we've got tips, tricks and reviews to make summer planning a little easier for you, mama.

XO, Amy McConnell chief curator, East Valley Moms

Intro

EAST VALLEY MOMS

Table of Contents

Our writing team of 20 local moms has put together this resource to help you find all the tools you need to keep your kids happy and engaged this summer.

keep reading 7

Beat the Heat: Indoor Play Spaces for Kids 0-6

Contributor Jackie mom of 2, lives in Gilbert, AZ

Years Old

9

Finding Summer Childcare for WFH or Hybrid Work Schedule Families

10

Meet the Mom: Erin Gleason of Swimhaus

12

A Day Camp That Focuses on Self Empowerment for Kids

13

Camp Planning Just Got Easier. Meet: Summer Camp AZ

14

Boys & Girls Club Review

16

Avoiding the Summer Slump from a Former

Contributor Tiffany, mom of 5, lives in Florence, AZ

Teacher

17

Our Favorite Energy Burner Day Camps

19

Tips for Sending Your First Time Camper to Sleepaway Camps

20

Ultimate East Valley Pools

21

My First Day Camp

22

A Guide to the America The Beautiful Pass

24

Vacation Bible Schools

25

4 Family Dates for Summer

Contributor Cara, mom of 2, lives in Scottsdale, AZ

photo credit: Kate Mae Photography

Andrea Cook Andrea is a busy mom of three little boys!

She teaches special education by day and is in grad school at night. She lives in East Mesa, on the Mesa/Gilbert Border, and is an Arizona native, moving around the state a lot.

Andrea is married to her college sweetheart and spends as much time as she can outside.

Lindsey Augeri

photo credit: Kate Mae Photography

Amanda Backus Amanda is a native Midwesterner who decided to ditch the cold weather for the west coasts warmer weather in her mid-20’s.

She has lived in Queen Creek since 2016 and is married to her favorite human, Ryan.

Together they share four boys (yay boy moms!), two of whom are her step-sons.

this issue's writing team

Lindsey is a stay at home mom who occasionally substitute teaches. She and her husband are involved in a small church plant in Mesa and host a small group every week in their home.

She loves playing with her kids, heading to the library, going on walks and chatting with friends over coffee.

East Valley Moms is a hyperlocal, digital media platform to connect local parents with local resources and storytelling to inspire a more connected, joyful parenting journey across Mesa, Gilbert, Tempe, Chandler, Apache Junction and Queen Creek.

e v i l s i p u n g i s

Weekly Mon - Fri May 27 to J uly 19 activities, d iscovery, and climbin g fun!

ages 4 – 14 register online 2626 S Hardy Dr, Tempe, AZ 85282

Beat the Heat

Indoor Play Spaces for kids 0-6 years old 01

Play and Stay Our most beloved spot, this indoor play area for kids 0-6 is different the rest for one big reason: Supervised Play Sessions. Experienced and friendly staff are here to engage, entertain, and supervise playtime while you take care of your tasks or enjoy a relaxing moment on the sidelines.

Open daily, with extra programming for kids Monday-Thursdays. Located at the 101 & Indian Bend (worth the drive, we promise!) Open: 9-4 p.m. M - TH., 9-6 p.m. Fri. & Sat., 9-5:30p.m. Sun. Drop-In Play Prices: $25/day, memberships available for unlimited monthly play for $125.

Wiggle Worms

Play area includes balls, hoops, ride on toys, tunnels, soft play area and more! Open to children ages 6 years & younger.

02

Summer hours begin begging of May 1 (M/W/F, 9-11 a.m.)

McQueen Park Activity Center Resident fee $1.50 (with valid Gilbert ID) and Non-Resident fee $2.00.

Baby Bear

03

Baby Bear is Mesa Arizona’s first Montessori style indoor play area. Our space is carefully designed to be a safe and engaging spot for children under the age of 6 to explore, experiment, build, and imagine. We aim to improve concentration, fine and gross motor skills, problem solving abilities, and practical life skills for the little ones in our community. We are sensory friendly and low-stimulation for the children (and parents!) who are too often overwhelmed.

Drop-In Play Prices: $15 for an all-day play pass ($10 per sibling). Get $5 off your visit if you come in after 1:00 p.m.

Monday to Friday 9:00am - 4:00pm, located at Power & 60 in Mesa.

Scan this QR code to get a list of our favorite indoor activities for 6-11 year olds for summer!

Swimhaus serves the Gilbert, Mesa, and Chandler areas as the premier swim school for kids 3 months to 12 years.

We use our proven, confidence-building curriculum to promote a love of swimming and teach your children to be safer in and around the water.

EASY ON PARENTS

fun for kids

Finding Summer Childcare for WFH or Hybrid Work Schedule Families WRITTEN BY AMANDA BACKUS MOM OF 4, LIVES IN QUEEN CREEK

Summer childcare can seem like an all or nothing commitment for a lot of camps I’ve looked into, but with my family’s schedule we need some flexibility, and not full time camp childcare, which was harder to find that I anticipated.

I found myself needing childcare every other week due to my new schedule that allows me to work from home part time.

Knowing that childcare facilities rarely allow for part-time schedules, and just the idea of not being able to be home with my kids full time had me more stressed out than the idea of actually getting in a hot Arizona car.

Hopefully, my struggle in finding childcare that fits my family’s needs can help make yours a little less stressful.

Ninja Nation offers one of the most inclusive day camps for families who need flexibility and options for summer child care needs.

Parents can choose camp attendance from one day/week to five days/week, and everything in between. Plus, there’s a 10-camp pass that families can use like a punch card as needed through the summer.

Another flexible offering from Ninja Nation: Dropoff/pickup windows that offer parents larger windows for making the camp work for their family needs.

Ninja Nation is perfect for kids ages 5-13, offers sibling discounts and runs May 27August 2, 2024. Lunch and snacks are provided.

Scan this QR code to read the full article with the rest of Amanda’s tips!

meet the mom

Erin Gleason This mom is the visionary behind Swimhaus, the most beloved swim school in the East Valley that she runs with her husband

Swimhaus is a beloved swim school in Gilbert that’s known for its no-headache policies for parents, incredible results-driven swim instruction for kids, and their incredible involvement in the community.

It’s no suprise that this swim school is family owned and operated by an incredible couple also in the thick of their own parenthood journey to Mae, their four-year-old daughter.

Keep reading to meet the mompreneur behind Swimhaus, and to learn a little more about the Valley’s best swim school.

Why did you want to start your own business?

I always knew that I wanted to work with kids. I went to school to become an early education teacher. When I graduated, finding a teaching position was next to impossible. I ended up working as a nanny for the next 13 years.

At a certain point I knew I needed to transition from being a nanny and started exploring options. My husband has always been a serial entrepreneur and we knew we wanted to do something together.

After taking the kids I nannied for to a swim school in Michigan, I called my husband and said I found the perfect fit for us! He was able to handle more of the backend, business development tasks and I could use my experience and love for kids to help guide our instructors and run the day-to-day.

Did you take maternity leave?

We had Mae in March of 2020 so it was a unique situation. Due to Covid, we had to close Swimhaus on a Friday and had Mae on Monday. From the maternity leave standpoint, the Covid lockdown was great for us as we were both able to stay home longer than we would have if the world didn't stop.

How do you make time for selfcare in between all that you have going on?

I love to read at night in bed. I also love getting up early before everyone is up to enjoy my coffee in peace and quiet.

It’s probably my favorite time of day to just sit and breathe.

Erin and her daughter, Mae

What lessons have you learned in your career that you apply to parenting? Gotta keep going. No matter how much you want to crawl into a corner and cry.

What do you teach your children about success and failure? You can do hard things. Life will beat you down if you let it. The mental aspect of how you handle those times when you just want to quit is what can make or break you.

Favorite East Valley date night? Buck & Rider with my favorite guy Favorite restaurant in the East Valley? Too many to list! We love OHSO for the atmosphere and Pita Island (NE corner of Gilbert and Guadalupe) for lunch. Pita Island is such a fantastic hidden gem, we just love this local business.

Follow Swimhaus at @swimhaus_gilbert on Instagram

A day camp that focuses on self empowerment for kids

WRITTEN BY KIRA HENNING MOM OF 4, LIVES IN MESA

When my oldest daughter was 9, she asked Santa to bring her confidence for Christmas. Along with a polaroid camera (which she did get) and a dog (which she did not get), my sweet girl actually listed it out with two underlines to be sure it’s importance was not missed.

As parents, often we struggle with how to help grow these sorts of traits, how could Santa bring confidence? I’m so happy to share that this summer, Becoming You is a youth empowerment camp that can help kids find that confidence they’re looking for, and have a fun summer adventure while personally blossoming.

Becoming You is more than just a summer camp.

Led by seasoned teachers, Megan and Julia focus on emotional intelligence and community building, all while having a blast!

Your child's uniqueness will be celebrated. Conveniently located off of the US60 freeway in Mesa, Arizona, Becoming You Summer Camp is designed to ignite growth and foster empowerment in your child.

Through a blend of enriching activities, games and personalized guidance, they cultivate confidence, self-awareness, and a sense of belonging, ensuring your child thrives under their care.

CAMP PLANNING JUST GOT EASIER

MEET: SUMMER CAMP AZ WRITTEN BY AMY MCCONNELL MOM OF 1 LIVES IN MESA If you’ve ever researched camp options for your kids, you know just how overwhelming and daunting it can be. Evaluating locations/ times/ pricing/ themes your child is interested in, all are factors that can leave a mom more overwhelmed with options than excited for summer.

A few summers ago we stumbled upon an incredible local visionary who is making camp planning a one-stop-shop where parents can shop camp options all on one website, both day camps and sleep away camps.

Why did you start Summer Camp AZ? As parents ourselves, we created something that we wanted for our children that simply did not exist in current fall, winter, spring and summer camps. We wanted active, fun, affordable camps. We wanted them to be smaller, more personal like we remembered as a child. And we wanted to make sure they were in a safe environment.

How are your camps safer for kids? With our experience of running camps for three decades, we know the largest safety issue is in transporting children on field trips. We were fortunate to never have an incident, but we changed our structure to create a safer environment.

No more hot vans or school buses or worry your child will be left behind. All our activities are done on site and the vendors like the horses, zoos, fire trucks, etc., all take a field trip to us!

How can I browse your camp options? On summercampaz.com, you can search all our camps, and we’ve got several options in the East Valley (Chandler & Gilbert).

Where in the East Valley are you offering camps? Our East Valley camp venues are active, fun places your kids want to be--think Big Air in Chandler or Altitude & Urban Air Trampoline Parks in Gilbert. Each week has a different theme engaging your kids. On Animal Week we bring horses, petting zoos, reptiles & more to the parks. On Water Week its fire engines, water slides, & foam parties.

Plan your child’s summer at summercampaz.com

Kate Mae Photography I am a Mesa mom of four that specializes in family, milestone, maternity, natural light studio and lifestyle newborn photography.

Now accepting new clients for 2024 bookings. katemaephoto.com katemaephoto@gmail.com 602-373-0255

Boys & Girls Club Review Affordable summer camp options - ha, yeah, I chuckled, too.

Let’s face it - if you’re a working parent, finding summer care for your kids becomes top priority once spring break is over. Finding care that is NOT more than your mortgage (or rent!) can seem nearly impossible.

My husband and I both work full time, so we’ve had to also find after school care for our kids, which can be just as costly as summer camps!

Our kids have been going to Boys and Girls Club for after school care for a few years now and it’s been the best thing for our family. The same Boys and Girls Club kids attend for after school care is also open for a more affordable summer camp option, too!

For elementary aged+ kids, it’s a great option for safe, summer fun. We opted for BGC because it was not only familiar since my kids already attend club after school each day, but it was just structured enough where I knew they would be having fun and not just sitting around watching TV or iPads. I was hesitant to send them somewhere super structured because I believe it’s summer BREAK and they need some time to be kids.

WRITTEN BY CARA LESPRON MOM OF 2, LIVES IN SCOTTSDALE

Most days, my kids do not want to leave when we arrive to pick them up. The staff are young adults who truly get to know and have fun with the kids. I am always impressed when they know which kids' parents are there to pick up before the parent even says the name. Most of the time they’ve already called my kids to the front when they see me walking in.

BGC offers youth sports too - which we take advantage of in the summer. My son has done their summer basketball league. He loves playing and we love that we have something to do in that late-afternoon summer lull when it is too hot to swim, but too early for bedtime.

read, read & read more In my most loving teacher voice, “If you’re going to pick one, PLEASE let this one be it!” No matter what age your children are, reading is one of the most beneficial things you can do with them through the summer.

Most East Valley libraries offer the county-wide summer reading program where kids can earn pretty good prizes for reading!

my math experts From Grades 1 through college, beat the 'Summer Slide' with Summer Math Programs!

Enjoy personalized learning plans crafted through structured assessments, and be guided by the same tutor - always 1:1, always with certified math teachers or college professors.

Choose flexible packages of 10, 20, or 30 hourly sessions, available to schedule in June and July. Our online calendar offers convenience, with dedicated tutors available Monday to Friday from 8 AM to 7 PM.

Pictured: Mesa Main Library

AVOIDING THE SUMMER SLUMP TIPS FROM A FORMER TEACHER

WRITTEN BY KRISTIN ANTSY MOM OF 2, LIVES IN GILBERT

Personally, I am getting ready to send off my first born to kindergarten and still trying to process that in itself. In our house we will be doing lots of reading, hopefully some trips to the library, and I am going to attempt some sight word flash cards. (Read in sarcastic voice): I’m sure my daughter will thrilled with the idea of sight words.

Hopefully, there is something you can squeeze in this summer. These are all just suggestions for you to pick and choose from depending on your children and what works best for your family.

workbooks You can purchase the grade level they just completed and use it as a great review or purchase the grade above for a challenge, but know they will most likely need extra support depending on the academic level.

Maybe plan a page a day to keep it fun and in a rhythm.

Above all else, and coming from a teacher, summer should be filled with fun and relaxation and not too much schoolwork, I’m a firm believer in learning through play, too. I wish you all the best summer and hope you’ve found a takeaway you can put to use to avoid the summer slump.

My last two cents on the these activities is to limit it to something that will only take them a few minutes a day, and PLEASE don’t use schoolwork as a punishment, make it a positive time to reinforce the skills your kids have worked so hard to learn all school year.

Our favorite energy burner day camps for active kids WRITTEN BY AMY MCCONNELL MOM OF 1, LIVES IN MESA

A well rounded camp: Aspire Chandler, 101 & Chandler Blvd.

At Aspire Kids Sports Center in Chandler, AZ, they aim to to cultivate "Happy, Healthy Kids!"

The expansive 32,000 square foot facility boasts topnotch gymnastics equipment, an indoor swimming pool, dedicated rooms for dance and martial arts, and a preschool gym. There's something here for every child in the family, ensuring a well-rounded experience that promotes physical activity and wellness.

Highlights: From open gym to swimming and different themes every week, Aspire keeps their campers busy with water slides, bounce houses, crafts and so much more!

Ultimate energy burner: Ninja Nation Scottsdale, 101 & Frank Lloyd Wright Blvd.

Escape the scorching summer sun and dive into a refreshing summer adventure at Ninja Nation Camp!

Are you looking for a fun activity for your child to burn off energy? Get ready for an actionpacked journey where your ninja will thrive!

From exhilarating activities to captivating classes and friendly competitions, every day is bursting with excitement. Ninja Camp features professional instruction on obstacles, camp games, team-building exercises, competitions, and lots of fun. photo credit: Ninja Nation

Highlight: Weekly, daily or 10-day punch cards to use all summer available

Learn a new skill pick: Bouldering Project Tempe, Southern & Mill Summer Camp at Bouldering Project is a full week of activities, discovery, and bouldering fun for kids! Our camps are geared for youth ages 4-12 and whether your child is brand new to climbing or an experienced climber, they'll have a blast!

My 4-year-old did their Spring Break camp and hasn’t stopped asking to come back--these camps are incredible.

Highlights: Brand new facility opened in May 2023, they offer a brave, safe space for healthy movement not only for kids, but adults too!

free

East Valley Moms events calendar highlights only FREE events for families across Mesa, Gilbert, Chandler, Queen Creek and Tempe. eastvalley.momcollective.com/calendar

sleepaway camp

Tips for sending your first time camper to sleepaway camps 01

Amanda, oldest son went to a California sleepaway camp stick to the packing list. Many boys tend to forget essentials- toothbrush, deodorant, body wash. Girls tend to over-pack, which isn’t necessary either. The people who create the list know exactly what a kid will need. So there isn’t a need to question it, or on the other end, fully trust your kid to do all of the packing.

Grandma Ginger, sent EVM's chief curator to camp starting the summer of 3rd grade Make the night before they depart for camp a send off!

Her first summer, she was nervous she wouldn't know how to eat a sloppy joe if they were served at camp (thanks to the Olson twins movie, It Takes Two). So we made sloppy joes, and it became our tradition for 13 summers of camp send offs.

Church camps for jr. high and high schoolers Cornerstone Church Summer Camps offer life-changing camp opportunitiesfor kids to have their best summer with friends while learning about Jesus.

Junior high students have an opportunity for Summer Camp in Glorieta, New Mexico June 4-8!

High School students will be at Biola University in La Miranda, California June 19-24, having fun and learning about Jesus together.

Registration for both options is $480. Registration info here.

An ASU sleep away camp in Phoenix for teens

Discover the art of performance, songwriting, production, engineering and music entrepreneurship at ASU’s Popular Music Program summer camp.

Schedules will consist of writing songs, composing/producing music on your instrument and/or computer, engineering and performing in studios, collaborating with peers, performing on stage, and getting real-world advice from industry professionals. Evenings conclude with having the full college experience: living in the dorms, going to coordinated events and spending time creating music with fellow students.

June 23-28, for teens 14-19; $1600 overnight programming + meals

THESE PUBLIC POOLS MAKE A SPLASH WITH UNIQUE WATER PLAY FEATURES chandler fun float Part of the Swimply pool rentals, this private Chandler pool is rentable by the hour (think of an Airbnb type situation).

We’ve tried a few, and this is the only East Valley pool we keep re-booking.

Get $50 in free credits here to swim.

mesquite groves The facility boasts a lazy river with a bridge waterfall and a family play pool; an interactive water feature with a 6-foot 725-gallon tumble bucket; two waterslides; water vortex; water spray pad; and an eight-lane competition pool.

This is hands down the best public pool in the East Valley, but heads up, it gets packed on the weekends ,so week days are recommended.

stapley pool Our favorite Mesa pool for littles, Stapley Pool’s jungle gym water feature is as close to a park as kids can get during the summer months--they’ll love it! Also at this pool is a three-loop water slide for kids 42'’ or taller.

flo rider at rhodes pool Catch the wave and ride the FlowRider® at Rhodes Aquatic Complex! Both kids and adults can have fun on this simulated wave maker.

A few times over the summer, the City of Mesa offers free ride days; otherwise it’s $10/hour to ride the waves.

swim lessons Swimhaus in Gilbert has been voted ‘best in the Valley’ since 2020 for good reason: they’re making swim lessons easy on parents and fun for kids with their engaging instructors and no headache cancelation policies for parents.

Try a FREE trial lesson.

Pictured: Mesaquite Groves in Chandler

ULTIMATE EAST VALLEY POOLS JUMP IN TO LOCAL POOLS THAT ARE BIG ON FUN AND LOW ON COST WRITTEN BY ANDREA COOK MOM OF 3, LIVES IN MESA Even if you’ve got a backyard pool, the scenery of your own home can get boring with daily dips in the pool.

Growing up here, the public pool scene has sure stepped up their offerings of unique, fun play structures for families to play at at a budget that’s doable. Plus fun programming like poolside storytime brings an element of unexpected fun to the pool.

Most public pool admissions are between $2-4/person and open a new realm of play possibilities for kids of all ages. There’s free days, and family passes to make it even more affordable as well.

Plus, it’s nice having the extra peace of mind of lifeguards as a second set of eyes to ensure safety.

If you’re thinking you’re not a ‘public pool person’ I challenge you to think again after you see these pools, and their low price tags for summer fun.

my first day camp

4 first-time summer camps for toddlers Chandler Gymboree

01

Offering morning and afternoon sessions (9 a.m. - noon OR 12:30 - 3:30 p.m.) camps are Monday through Thursday for kids ages 3-5.

Each week session has a different themes, like dinosaurs, safari, community helpers, beach and more. $100/session Chandler blvd & Dobson, Chandler

Wonderland Montessori camp Kids ages 3-6 can participate in Wonderland Montessori’s primary camp programming (18 - 36 month options also offered). Each week offers a themed camp experience creative learning opportunities that are age appropriate and follow Montessori teaching principles. $275/week, partial week rates available upon request 8:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. with before and after care options Elliot & Val Vista, Gilbert

02

Mommy + Me Preschool by Play & Stay

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This class is taught by an experienced preschool teacher and structured in a way to introduce your child to a classroom-like setting. Moms (or caregivers) can sit in the main area and observe from our monitors that will live stream the class.

Tuesdays from May 14 - Aug 20, 9- 10 a.m., ages 2.5 through 3 years old Full Program $500 for 15 classes, half program $315 for 7 classes All day play is included after class is over!

101 and Indian Bend in Scottsdale

Totspot Summer Camp Preschool campers ages 2-4 will discover a “Summer of Fun” at TotSpot Preschool.

Camp emphasizes fun and independence for all campers where energetic teachers present exciting themes that feature art, free play, movement and in-house field trips.

June3 - July 11, registration by the week twice/week offerings for two-year olds (M/W or T/TH, 9-11:30 a.m.), $80 twice/week offering for kids three-years and older (M/W or T/Th, 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.) $100 Queen Creek Rd & Val Vista, Gilbert

04

FAMILY VACATION

A Guide to the America the Beautiful Pass Arizona Outdoor Adventures on a Budget If you’re like me, always on the lookout for budget-friendly ways to create family memories, then I’ve got an ace up your sleeve – the America the Beautiful Pass.

Today we’re delving into the secrets of this pass and how it can be your passport to saving big on outdoor adventures.

From national parks to local lake sites, get ready to explore nature’s wonders without breaking the bank as temperatures heat up.

WRITTEN BY AMY MCCONNELL MOM OF 1, LIVES IN MESA

Let’s dive into the details and discover how the America the Beautiful Pass can elevate your family’s outdoor experiences without denting your budget. Time to make the most of what our beautiful country has to offer!

What is the America the Beautiful pass?

The America the Beautiful National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass is your ticket to more than 2,000 federal recreation sites across the country.

A pass covers entrance, standard amenity fees and day use fees for the passholder and all passengers in a personal vehicle at per vehicle fee areas (or up to four adults at sites that charge per person). Children age 15 or under are admitted free.

It’s $80 and good for a year after purchase. You can get it online, or locally at the Arizona Game & Fish offices.

Let’s see the savings math I got the pass at the beginning of last summer and it’s already paid for itself with these outlines: Grand Canyon: two day $70 ($35/day) Salt River picnic areas: four visits: $32 ($8/day) I am also planning a few more trips to the Salt River before my pass expires in June, plus a trip to Saguaro National Park Where in Arizona is the America the Beautiful pass good for?

There are 12 national parks in Arizona the pass is good at, including the Grand Canyon ($35/vehicle entrance fee), Saguaro National Park ($25/vehicle entrance fee) and more.

The pass is good for day passes at federal recreation sites in Arizona, like Tonto National Forest Salt River picnicking destinations, for paddleboarding, water play, etc. (versus Tonto park day passes that are $8/vehicle).

We use the pass the most for Butcher Jones, Coons Bluff and Sheep Crossing picnic areas at Salt River, plus we used it at the Grand Canyon.

Free Entrance Days in the National Parks If you aren’t ready to invest in a pass, note these free admission days for 2024.

Details on this program can be found here.

Wednesday, June 19 — Juneteenth National Independence Day Sunday, August 4 — Anniversary of the Great American Outdoors Act Saturday, September 28 — National Public Lands Day Monday, November 11 — Veterans Day

MOST RECOMMENDED VBS CAMPS IN THE EAST VALLEY Cornerstone Church in Chandler Cornerstone Church Summer Camps are back this year, with options for every age from 4 years old all the way through to High School students!

From onsite weekly camps for younger kids, to field trips and away camps for Junior High and High School, this is the perfect place for your kids to make friends, learn about Jesus and have SO. MUCH. FUN! Infant-4th KIDS KAMP is for ages 4 years through 4th grade! Family Kickoff is June 2, and Kamp runs June 3-6 from 9:00AM to Noon. Cost is $50.

Text KAMP to 21999 to register!

Cornerstone also has options for your older kids too!

5-6: 5th and 6th graders will be having fun together every morning June 5-8, right here at Cornerstone! Cost is $95.

6-8: Junior High students have an opportunity for Summer Camp in Glorieta, New Mexico June 4-8! Cost is $480.

HS: Our High School students will be at Biola University in La Miranda, California June 19-24, having fun and learning about Jesus together.

Standard registration cost is $480 To register for youth camps text CAMP to 21999

Red Mountain Community Church in Mesa Red Mountain Community Church located in Northeast Mesa. Camp is June 17-21 and the theme is “Breaker Rock Beach.” It will be 6:308:30 pm and cost $20. Click here to register.

Contributor Cara’s children at last summer’s VBS

VACATION BIBLE SCHOOLS

FIRST TIME VBS TIPS, AND THE BEST LOCAL CAMPS FOR TOTS TO TEENS WRITTEN BY LINDSEY AUGERI MOM OF 2, LIVES IN MESA

Whether you are religious or not, you are welcome to attend VBS!

Central Christian Church in Mesa & Gilbert Central Christian is having VBS on June 3-6 (Mesa) and June 2-5 (Gilbert) for kids 3 years old through 3rd grade. The theme is “Start the Party.” and hours are in the evening from 6-8 p.m.

Cost is $50. Register with a minimum payment of $25 to save your spot.

Visit centralaz.com/summer to register!

Camps also available for older kids through 12th grade!

One Life in Mesa One Life in Mesa has “Summer Blast” on June 24-28 from 5-8 pm. This one is FREE and you can click here to register.

Kids will make new friends, see old ones, and come home with songs stuck in their heads.

Keep reading for the best VBS programs across Mesa, Gilbert, Chandler and Queen Creek!

When is VBS offered in the East Valley?

There are so many churches that offer day or evening camps to elementary age kids that are a few hours long.

There are both morning and evening camps to benefit every family’s schedule needs.

These weeklong events are generally local and hosted at the campus of the church. Some are free to attend, and some have a fee. Be sure to check for a registration date as well.

What should my child expect for their first VBS? You can expect high energy games, loud music with hand motions, water nights, and crafts to take home with you each day.

There is also a general theme for each camp for the week and the kids will learn about different stories in the Bible.

Guided desert flashlight tour Escape the heat and explore the Garden after dark with family and friends! Discover the Desert Botanical Garden’s five thematic trails, encounter desert creatures, and immerse yourself in the captivating nighttime ambiance with cool drinks and treats.

Dates : June 1, 8, 15, 22, 29, July 13, 20, 27, Aug. 3, 10, 17, 24, 31 and Sept. 7 Times: 6:30 pm – 9:30 pm Price: Included with Membership or General Admission

After school swimming family date Meet up with friends for some after school fun at the pool, most public pools are open through Labor Day and stay open until after dinnertime.

We love packing a picnic dinner in a cooler for a speical family outing after work.

photo credit: Tara Dunn Photography

4 FAMILY DATES FOR SUMMER WRITTEN BY AMY MCCONNELL MOM OF 1, LIVES IN MESA

Keep reading for family dates that fit into school and working family schedules, and a few budget hacks to keep the fun affordable.

You’ve traded in the pool bags for the backpacks and swim suits for new school clothes, but it still kind of feels like summer, and summer fun isn’t quite over, just because schools back in session.

In fact, we still have a quite a while before the temperature cools down.

Here’s a few of our favorite family dates in the late summer before we switch to fall fun.

Or, if you’re looking for reoccurring, free family fun, be sure to snag Pogo Passes for your family this summer. It’s an annual pass that grants you complementary access to more than 60 local attractions through the year--ideal for summer fun when schedules are looser.

Be sure to use code “xoxoEVM” for the lowest on Pogo Passes. Our favorite family dates on the pass include Sunsplash, Fatcats bowling and KTR Chandler.

Most City pools close week days at 7 p.m. check your local pool for most updated hours (be sure to check for swim meet closures that sometimes close pools early mid-week.

Pool pictured: Desert Oasis in Chandler

Baseball game family date Take the family out to the ball game to cheer on the Arizona Diamondbacks.

A baseball game is a sure way to make some fun memories with your little ones. (If you have a POGO pass, you get a FREE game!)

Or, if your kids are part of the Diamondbacks kids club, they can earn free tickets. Be sure to check the special promotions calendar for home games for special days where kids can run the bases after the game, or there’s special swag given out to fans (especially the Father’s Day promo this year--it’s good!).

See the Mighty Wurlitzer Pipe Organ Summer is the perfect time to check out Organ Stop Pizza, known as the most entertainingly affordable pizza in town. Perfect for warm weather, it’s dark and cool inside as families dig into specialty pizzas, pastas, appetizers, sandwiches, salad bar, desserts, a variety of soft drinks, beer, and wine, all while an organist plays songs by request on the Mighty Wurlitzer Pipe Organ.

Stay tuned for announcements on their annual Christmas in July specials and promotions including a 10% discount for anyone who donates $2 or 2 food items, and Summertime Santa will be here on Saturdays and Sundays.

Also induced are nightly Christmas Stocking giveaways for Christmas Trivia questions.

photo credit: Kate Mae Photography

EAST VALLEY MOMS East Valley Moms has been sharing local resources for families, hosting live playdate events and giving family-friendly activity reviews of attractions across the East Valley for nearly 10 years.

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