Northeast Ohio Parent Camp Guide - Spring 2020

Spring 2020 edition

Camp summer and

Programs guide

Pack Up Supplies They Need

Family Camp Unplug Together

DIVE INTO FUN

Get Skills Explore or Refine

Sponsored by:

70+››››››› Camps Inside

April 2020 - NortheastOhioParent.com

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Hikes, creek walks, crafts, kayaking and games are some of the activities your child may participate in at Cleveland Metroparks summer nature camps. Ages 3 - 15

Animal encounters, crafts and conservation education are all part of the experience at Cleveland Metroparks Zoo Summer Day Camp.

Ages 5 - 14

Golf lessons, golf etiquette and fun on-course experiences are all part of Cleveland Metroparks Golf Camp.

Camps take place at Seneca and Washington Golf Courses. Ages 8 - 17

Living at Itsmore Best 2 | FamilyTo learn visit clevelandmetroparks.com/camps

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Spring 2020 edition

Camp and summer Programs guide

16 REASONS TO GO Seven reasons parents should consider sending their child to camp

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CAMP SKILLS: EXPLORE OR REFINE? The choice between speciality camps to explore new areas or refine existing skills.

WHAT TO PACK FOR CAMP — AND WHAT TO LEAVE Ten things all campers should have and five they should leave at home.

FAMILY CAMP Summer camp doesn’t have to be just for children.

✱ Visit NortheastOhioParent.com to find more summer camp guide listings.

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CAMP A ND SUMME R PROG RAM GUIDE L ISTINGS Sponsored by

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Camp SKILLS: Explore New Things or Refine Existing Talents?

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CAMPS PROVIDE OPPORTUNITIES FOR KIDS TO FURTHER SPECIALIZE OR JUST TRY NEW EXPERIENCES

By Ginny McCabe

B PHOTO BY YMCA OF GREATER CLEVELAND

lake Jeffrey-White, 9, is in fourth grade at St. Francis of Assisi.

He’s been to a variety of specialty and day camps throughout the Cleveland area, including camps at Fairmount Center for the Arts, Camp Gilmour, Camp Invention and a camp at Cleveland Metroparks, to name a few.

In choosing a camp, Cindy Jeffrey, Blake’s mom, says her son drew on the activities that he enjoyed during the school year, and they asked him if he wanted to expand on those activities.

“In the last few years, I would give him the camp catalog, and say, ‘Buddy, circle which of these that are interesting to you,’” Jeffrey says. “For example, ‘Do you have an interest in building a robot?’”

After he looked at the catalog, Jeffrey says it was a matter of how the different camps all fit into their summer schedule, but basically, “We would have him select what he was interested in.”

If there was something new that they wanted him to try, Jeffrey says the 9-year-old was open to suggestions.

“Sometimes, he loved it, and other times, he didn’t love it,” she says. “So it was a good way for us to explore those interests of his.”

For many kids like Blake, when given the opportunity, they would explore camp activities they want to try to learn new things. For others, focusing on a specialized camp helps them hone in on getting better at that skill.

When considering a summer camp, parents should decide what is the best fit for their child: explore new things or refine existing skills.

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DIVERSE EXPERIENCES Blake has tried a variety of new things at summer camps and continues to enjoy the diverse experiences, Jeffrey says.

Blake has been involved in specialty camps that range from sports that he’s interested in — such as hockey, basketball, baseball, karate and swim camps — to STEM camps, like Camp Invention. He has also participated in a lot of educational type camps at Gilmour Academy and she says the camps are very specialized.

One camp taught him how to build a robot, and another was a chess camp.

“I found it really fostered and nurtured his enjoyment of something very particular like chess,” says Jeffrey. “I didn’t know my son loved chess. Now, after a week of camp, I know that he really enjoyed it,” As far as the sports camps, Jeffrey says, they certainly increased Blake’s skills during the off-season, and it kept him interested and engaged in the sport or whatever activity it is.

Rhonda Rickelman, director of auxiliary programming at Gilmour Academy in Gates Mills, says summer camps can provide opportunities for kids to explore not available in other settings.

“We try to give kids specialty opportunities in different areas that they might want to explore,” Rickelman says. “So for example, we have hockey, figure skating, stroke development for swimming, technology camps and STEM camps.

We have cooking experiences for the kids, and we have chess, sewing, drones, Mission Fit, Sky High Adventure and Etiquette Camp. We have some offerings that the kids might not want to do a lot of, but that they might get a good feel for. So, we like to let kids dabble in things.”

TAKE A DEEP DIVE INTO SKILL-BUILDING Specialty camps can be for those who excel in a certain area, but also for those who show an interest in a specific area.

Jeannie Fleming-Gifford, executive director of Fairmount Center for the Arts, says specialty camps give children a chance to “deep dive into a specific art form.”

Summer is a great time to explore new interests, she says, but “it’s also a time to be able to focus on things, that maybe during the school year, it’s a little bit harder to devote the time to specific areas, specifically in the arts.”

Fleming-Gifford says there are often pressures to commit children, even as young as age 9, to particular activities or pursuits. Summer camps, though, are a chance to break out of the mold of the everyday.

“We should give them a chance to not only be a specialist, but allow them to get involved in something new and different, too." she says.

“They play soccer all-year-around, but in the

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summer, then to say, ‘I might like to try art, I might like to try dance and I might like to do theater and perform on stage.’ Specialty camps give even novice students a chance to try something new. They may not have a lot of experience, but they have an interest, or they’re curious, so specialty camps give them a time in the summer to really be exposed to new art forms, learn new skills and have some fun.”

The benefits of the specialty camps include building a technique and skill-building in a specific discipline, and in creating well-rounded, curious people who are exposed to different things, she says.

“I’ve always been taught as an educator to think about ‘scanners’ versus ‘divers.’ It’s great to have people who know a lot about a lot of different things, but we also know society values people who have in-depth knowledge, skills and specialties in certain areas,” Fleming-Gifford says. “So, these specialty camps are really about those divers. It’s giving kids in-depth, immersive, hands-on and, dare I say fun, experiences in specific arts-based activities.”

She advises that families put together a plan for summer camp if they want to give kids optimal opportunities to be exposed to a variety of different things. Maybe, she says, that includes specialty camps kids have already had experience with, or others that may be new to them.

As kids get older, they tend to engage in more specialty camps, find more things they are interested in and they branch out into something different, Gilmour Academy’s Rickelman says.

“Kids, when they’re young, they are not sure what they like, but a camp is a good way to find out,” she says. “Maybe they talk about gardening or helping in the garden, then they come to a nature-based camp. Or maybe they are interested in chess and they really want to craft that. We can play chess at camp, but to have an expert come in and teach them more about it, or to teach them certain moves, those are the things that take them to a level that says this might turn into a hobby, or this might turn into something that I really want to put in as part as my repertoire as a person.”

BLAKE JEFFREY-WHITE AT BIG SHOT BASKETBALL AT GILMOUR ACADEMY. PHOTO BY CINDY JEFFREY

DANCE CAMP AT FAIRMOUNT CENTER FOR THE ARTS. PHOTO SUBMITTED BY FAIRMONT CENTER FOR ARTS

KIDS CAN REFINE TALENTS YMCA of Greater Cleveland offers sports camp and day camp programming across the region.

Ryan Holesko, program director of the Sports Camp at the YMCA of Greater Cleveland says, says kids can practice a skill at camp, further develop that skill, and then, take it with them when they play sports in school or become part of a community team.

“One benefit that we run into on the sports side a lot, especially for our younger ages, is this is their first time experiencing a sport at the

BLAKE JEFFREY-WHITE AT HOCKEY CAMP. PHOTO BY CINDY JEFFREY

team level,” he says. “It encourages them to join a team and play more, especially after the summer is over.”

There are 10 branches of the Y in Cleveland and each one runs a sport-specific camp throughout the summer. Each week, campers engage in a new sport, complete with drills, scrimmages and other sports-related activities aimed at improving kids’ sports skills through friendly competition, teamwork and making new friends.

“This is not a boot camp where we make fun of the kids that can’t perform well and only reward those who do extremely well,” says Rick Batyko, executive director, marketing at the YMCA of Greater Cleveland. “It’s more about the philosophy of the camp experience for us.”

At Gilmour Academy, Rickelman says approximately 30 to 35 percent of the kids that register for camp will participate in at least one specialty camp, which each focus on a particular skill or aspect of a game, as opposed to a general approach.

“For example, if we have a hockey camp, we don’t just have a hockey camp, it will be a power skating camp, because you are going to learn how to skate. That’s the key to the camp,” she says. “Another camp is called Big Shot Shooting Lab, so you are going to learn shooting skills instead of just general play. It takes you to another level of your game.”

However, she says while kids naturally are drawn to the sport or activity they’re involved in and developing in, there is danger in over-specializing for young kids.

“Take swimming, for example: You swim all year, and then you swim all summer, so when do you get a break?,” Rickelman says. “And those breaks

are so important. When adults work, we take vacations, but do the kids take breaks from this kind of stuff?”

Based on her own experience as a coach with 20 years of experience, Rickelman says every year, kids need three to four weeks off from whatever activity that they are doing — and it should be completely off.

“Take time to refresh, renew, bring yourself back in and do something fun — don’t be so scheduled all of the time,” she says. “Kids need downtime to regroup with normal dinner hours, normal play time, normal sleep, where they’re not rushing from one event to the next.

“Three to four weeks a year, it would be great if every kid could get that,” Rickelman says.

When choosing the right camp, she says, communication between kids and their parents is important. She suggests parents ask kids what they really want to do. Sit down with them and pose questions like, “What camp would you like to go to?,” “What would you like to do?” or “How can we make this a good experience?”

After a first exposure, if your child demonstrates interest, then it’s time to send them to a specialty camp, she adds, particularly if they can identify specific aspects or skills then want to improve on.

Either way, it’s important children drive the decision of what to do each summer.

“There are very good parents, who say to their kids, ‘Hey take a look, are you interested in any of this? Or does any of this interest you?’”

Rickelman says. “But we also have people that just sign their kids up. Then, I will say, ‘Don’t you want to be in this camp?’ and they go, ‘No, my mom signed me up for this.’”

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THINGS TO PACK FOR CAMP

+5 TO LEAVE HOME

By Heather Tunstall

10 FamilyLiving Livingat atIts ItsBest Best 10 || Family

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here may still be a chill in the air here in Northeast Ohio, but believe it or not, it’s time to start thinking about packing for summer camp. You don’t have to drag out the luggage just yet, but begin to prepare by taking a peek at the packing list that your camp provides to you, and think about things you may need to purchase or borrow prior to camp time.

And if you really want to prep your pack list, nothing beats an on-site visit to camp, says Joe Wolnik, summer program director at Camp Fitch in North Springfield, Pa. “If you’re a first-time camping parent, you should look into doing some sort of tour with your camp, if the camp you’re going to does that,” he says. “I guarantee that during that tour, you will see something that you didn’t expect or anticipate as

part of your child’s experience. Just seeing the facility itself will put you in the right headspace.”

Once it’s time to start getting items together, get your kids involved in the packing process to help them bear a bit of the responsibility as well as to get them ready for a fun-filled summer.

“For first time campers, packing can be a fun activity to build excitement,” says Joe Mendes, director/owner of Camp Roosevelt Firebird in Bowerston. “For a camper who is anxious, involving them in the packing process in a few ways can build enthusiasm and buy-in.”

Each program’s specific list varies slightly depending on the activities that will take place, but most have similar requirements. We talked with several area camps to compile a list of 10 things you should definitely bring, and five things that should stay at home.

Ask your camp’s director if they have spare items in case your child forgets to pack something. Most camps offer back-up clothes, shoes, towels, toiletries and other items that are available for children who don’t have a particular item.

“The important part is to remember to ask someone,” says Andy Hudak, executive director at Camp Whitewood in Windsor. “If it comes down to a pair of dry socks or a toothbrush or water bottle, we have things. Remember to ask because there’s almost nothing we couldn’t get a kid if they need it — everyone is there to help you with what you need.”

Camp Fitch has what they call their “Camper’s Closet,” which has a plethora of items in storage that campers can use if they forget, lose or damage something.

“We serve a lot of underprivileged families, and maybe the kid doesn’t even have the item to begin with, so it’s there for them,” Wolnik says. “If we come to find that they don’t have that item, then we say go ahead and bring it home with you and use it. We’ve had so many examples of kids who go home and don’t even have a blanket on their bed. So it’s a good program for the forgetful kid, but also for those who really need it.”

The Camper’s Closet program is strongly supported by the Camp Fitch alumni network through physical or financial donations. Other camps often have similar programs — check with your camp to see what is available to either borrow from or donate to.

The most important thing for a child — and their family — to have for camp is a positive attitude.

“We always encourage parents to send letters as well as our campers to write letters back home,” says Konner Lashley, program director at Hiram House in Chagrin Falls. “They’re still able to hear back, but try not to include things like, “Oh we miss you so much,” but rather having them be positive like, “I hope you’re having a great time!”

Mendes agrees: “Bringing enthusiasm, an open mind and parental encouragement that the camper will do great is the most important thing.”

TAKE: 1

APPROPRIATE CLOTHING

Check weather reports, and understand that even though it may be warm during the day, it can get chilly at night. The best way to prepare for fluctuating temperatures is to pack layers, and to bring enough changes of clothes for each day.

Sweatshirts are great for sitting around the campfire or early morning hikes.

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PROPER SHOES

Sturdy, comfortable shoes are a must for most outdoor activities. Make sure to pack an extra pair, in case your kid likes to go puddle-jumping or the group takes a mud trek.

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TOILETRIES

A toothbrush and toothpaste, comb or brush, deodorant and shower items (soap, shampoo/ conditioner, towel) will keep your kid fresh even on the dirtiest camp days. Their cabin-mates will thank them.

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A WATER BOTTLE

A reusable water bottle is perfect for long hot days with outdoor activities. It helps with hydration while cutting back on single-use plastics.

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SLEEP NECESSITIES

Some camps include sleeping in tents outside and will require a sleeping bag, while others have campers in cabins on mattresses. Check with your camp to see whether you should pack sheets or a sleeping bag, and don’t forget a pillow, pajamas and anything that your child uses at night, such as a retainer or favorite stuffed animal.

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SWIMSUITS & TOWEL

Chances are the summer camp you’re going to will have an opportunity for your kid to swim. Bring at least one, but preferably two, swimsuits.

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EXTRA PLASTIC BAG FOR WET CLOTHES AND SHOES

It’s summer camp, and things will almost certainly get wet and dirty. To avoid getting the clean stuff messed up by the muddy stuff, an extra plastic bag comes in handy.

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PROTECTION FROM THE ELEMENTS

Being outside means being exposed to the sun’s UV rays, rain, wind and, of course, bugs. Make sure your child is prepared with sunglasses, sunscreen, a hat, a raincoat and mosquito/tick repellant.

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WIND-DOWN ACTIVITIES

As kids prepare for bed or have free-time, they often enjoy writing letters home or writing in a journal. Pack a few pens and writing materials, or very small games/activities for those times they have to wind down after a busy day.

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MEDICATIONS

Make sure to clearly label your child’s medications and include any instructions necessary so that the onsite nurse is able to easily administer them.

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LEAVE

Just as there are items the kids will need, there are also items that should be left at home. Bearing in mind that camp is meant to be an interactive, safe experience, it’s important that parents make sure their children adhere to the packing guidelines that are provided. Here are five things that should not be included in your child’s camp bag:

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The distraction that comes from texting and calling deters from the full camp experience, and phones can also be easily damaged. All camps have emergency lines that can be used if needed, and campers can write and receive letters or postcards to stay in communication with family.

Irreplaceable family heirloom?

Leave at home. Expensive jewelry? Not a good idea. It’s very common for kids to lose or damage things when they’re in unfamiliar places and off doing fun things. It’s best to keep valuables at home.

CELL PHONES

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ELECTRONIC GAMES AND SMART DEVICES

Similar to cell phones, electronic games and devices like iPads, smart watches and gaming consoles are not allowed at most camps.

Your child will be busy with camp activities, forming new relationships and interacting with nature, and once again, expensive items like these can be damaged.

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SPRAYABLE SUNSCREEN OR BUG SPRAY

Aerosol sprays can be quite dangerous around campfires.

Opt instead for lotions or pump sprays to stay safe from the rays and the bugs.

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ANYTHING VALUABLE OR SPECIAL

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DANGEROUS OR PROHIBITED ITEMS

Beside the obvious “no weapons,” there are some other items that may sneak their way into kids’ bags. Keep an eye out for lighters, sharp objects, vape pens, drugs or cigarettes. A good rule of thumb: if it’s not allowed at school, it’s not allowed at camp.

Also leave any items with a strobing feature (such as some flashlights) at home, as these can be dangerous for campers with sensitivities.

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Camp isn’t just

for kids

Moms, dads and kids can relax, unplug and strengthen their relationships by attending family camp.

By Marisa Palmieri Shugrue

H

ey parents, when was the last time you rode a horse, challenged yourself on a high ropes course or took a canoe out on a lake?

Whether your answer is “Never!” or “Way back when I went to camp as a kid,” family camp may be the opportunity you’re looking for to try something new and reconnect with your spouse and children.

Many summer camps in and around Northeast Ohio cater to families several times a year by offering family camps.

Moms, dads and kids — even grandparents, in some cases — attend camp for a week or a weekend and typically stay as a family unit in their own cabins, which may have private or shared bathrooms. All camp activities and meals in the camp’s

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dining facility are included.

“One way we see it is an alternative family vacation,” says Rachel Felber, camp director for Camp Wise in Chardon, which is a department of the Mandel Jewish Community Center of Cleveland.

“It’s a little bit like going to an all-inclusive resort.”

Building bonds, tech-free For many families, the biggest perk of camp is spending time together engaged in fun activities and not distracted by devices, camp directors say.

“During traditional summer camps, we don’t allow any electronics, but for family camp, it’s their vacation, so they definitely can use their devices and we do offer WiFi,” says Hannah Kight, business manager for Camp Fitch YMCA, located on Lake

Erie just over the border in North Springfield, Pa. “But it’s not typical to see people plugged in. It’s a nice time to unplug and forget you even have technology.”

Amy Bilsky and her husband, Scott, of Orange Village have gone to family camp at Camp Wise with their sons Sam, 14, and Justin, 11, for seven years. The program is Friday evening through Sunday afternoon during Labor Day weekend.

“I love that we get to have a weekend to ourselves to enjoy camp and all it offers and, frankly, not be on electronics,” Bilsky says. “You can go to the lake and go boating, do arts and crafts or play sports.

They offer a wide range of activities and you can pick and choose what you want to do.”

Take A Trial run Family camp is also an opportunity for your family to experience a camp before sending your child there for a week or more in the summer. Adults get to see the facilities, eat the food and try the activities their kids will be doing. Children get the lay of the land before going away for a week alone.

“It’s a great opportunity for families to introduce kids to going to overnight camp in a really safe way,” Felber says. “It’s a natural progression to go from family camp into summer camp. Many continue to go to family camp after that.”

“I thought it was a good way to get away from technology and have a great time in nature, but I also thought it was a great way to introduce them to camp, because I hoped they’d want to go there some day,” Bilsky says.

It turns out, they did. Now, both of her sons attend a three-week camp session at Camp Wise annually and family camp has become a chance for the boys to show their parents what they experienced over the summer and return to the place Bilsky calls their “home away from home.”

“A lot of people come because they get the opportunity to try all these activities you normally wouldn’t get to try,” Kight says. “And to be able to do it as a family strengthens the bond. A lot of people say it’s the highlight of their summer.”

ABOVE: THE WULIGER FAMILY ENJOYS TIME TOGETHER A CAMP WISE’S FAMILY CAMP. PHOTO BY CAMP WISE BELOW: THE BILSKY FAMILY OF ORANGE VILLAGE, LOOKS FORWARD TO ATTENDING FAMILY CAMP AT CAMP WISE EVERY YEAR TO UNPLUG AND HAVE FUN WITH ACTIVITIES LIKE ARCHERY, BOATING AND MORE. PHOTO BY AMY BILSKY

For many families, the biggest perk of

camp is spending time together engaged in fun activities and not distracted by devices, camp directors say.

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7

Reasons TO SEND YOUR CHILD TO CAMP

By Mary Ann Blair

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ith summer calendars quickly filling up, it can be hard to try and squeeze in one more thing. However, if you have never sent your kids to a summer camp, here are seven reasons why you should consider it.

1 WITH SO MANY OPTIONS, IT’S EASY TO FIND A GREAT FIT FOR YOUR CHILD From sports camps and art camps to STEMbased camps and more traditional overnight options, summer camps are designed to serve a variety of ages and interests. The length of camp can range from a few mornings for younger kiddos to weeklong sleep-away camps for older kids. Local churches, school districts and other organizations offer a wide range of camps too. With a little bit of research, you can easily find a camp well-suited for your child.

2 CAMPS PROVIDE KIDS

WITH EXPERIENCES THEY MIGHT NOT HAVE ACCESS TO IN “EVERYDAY” LIFE Horseback riding. Paddling a canoe across the lake.

Wilderness survival.

Conquering a ropes course. Sleeping under

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the stars. Adventures are endless at camp, and your child will have an opportunity to try something brand new. For the youngest campers, trying a new craft activity or learning a new camp song can be so much fun.

3 CAMPS ARE A SAFE

PLACE TO PRACTICE SOCIAL SKILLS It might be awkward or uncomfortable for your child during those first few hours of camp when they don’t know a single soul. After all, stepping into a new social environment can be challenging. But the ability to comfortably communicate with new people is a life skill that all kids need, and a camp is a great place to practice.

Camps also provide kids an opportunity to form friendships with a

whole new group of peers they might never have met otherwise.

4 CAMPS GIVE KIDS

A MUCH-NEEDED TECHNOLOGY BREAK No matter how old your child is, they could probably benefit from a screen hiatus, especially during the summer months. Spending time outdoors, learning a new skill, having fun and forming new friendships is good for the body and soul.

5 SENDING KIDS TO CAMP IS BENEFICIAL FOR YOU, TOO Driving away from your child(ren) on the first day might be a little gutwrenching. However, entrusting your kids to someone else for a while can be truly beneficial. Maybe it will free up time for some overdue self-care, or give you and your partner time to reconnect. Maybe it will provide an opportunity to hit the reset button with your tween or teen. After all, absence makes the heart grow fonder. Parenting is tough work, so don’t feel guilty if you enjoy this time to yourself. Chances are, your kids are having a blast without you.

6 YOUR CHILD’S

EXPERIENCE AS A CAMPER COULD HELP LAND A SUMMER JOB IN THE FUTURE Camps are staffed by amazing counselors who provide kids with all kinds of good, clean fun. Most of these counselors were campers once, too. Now they get to help a new set of youngsters make unforgettable summer memories, all while sharpening their own teamwork and leadership skills. Your child might have that same opportunity one day.

7 CAMP IS JUST

PLAIN FUN So many adults have fond memories from their days spent at camp, and kids who have been to camp often say it’s a favorite part of their summer. Odds are, your kids are going to love it. And for that reason alone, it’s worth sending them to camp.

Mary Ann Blair is a mom of two boisterous boys.

Besides chronicling her adventures in motherhood at maryannblair.com, she loves the outdoors, reading and all things crafty.

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CAMP and

Programs Guide AKRON ARTWORKS Visit akronartworks.com

AKRON CHILDREN’S MUSEUM Visit akronkids.org/calendar/programs

AKRON ROTARY CAMP

Akron Rotary Camp is a place where disabilities and limits do not hold campers back from enjoying programs that develop their self-confidence, independence and social skills. They offer 8 weeks of overnight and day camp where campers can participate in traditional camp activities, such as swimming, kayaking, campfires, songs, crafts, games and more. Visit gotcamp.org

AKRON ZOOCAMP

Connect your child with wildlife by signing them up for ZooCamp at the Akron Zoo. Educational activities include animal encounters, zoo tours, crafts and games. Campers receive a t-shirt, snacks and more! Registration open. Camps run June through August for ages 2-15. Visit akronzoo.org

AR WORKSHOP

AR Workshop offers creative and crafty “Summer ARt Camps” in two locations: Hudson and Strongsville. Its single-day or full-week sessions are designed for girls and boys, ages 6-14. Kids create DIY wood, canvas and yarn projects, along with camp t-shirts. Visit arworkshop.com

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BALDWIN WALLACE COMMUNITY ARTS SCHOOL Visit bw.edu/sap

BECK CENTER FOR THE ARTS

Beck Center offers half-day and full-day camps for ages 5-19 in dance, music, theater and visual arts. Students learn new skills and build self-esteem as they create unique works of art, develop new friendships, discover hidden talents, stimulate their imagination and have fun.

Beck Center will also offer more than 140 arts education classes and lessons for people of all ages and abilities. Call 216-521-2540 or visit beckcenter.org

BUSY BEES POTTERY & ARTS STUDIO

Busy Bees Pottery & Arts Studio, located in Mentor, offers weekly themed summer art camps for kids ages 5-12. Full- or half-day camps will keep them busy learning various art methods while creating multiple projects each day. Call 440-571-5201 or visit mentor.busybeesart.com

CAMP ASBURY Visit campasbury.org

CAMP CARL

Visit campcarl.life

CAMP CURIOSITY SCIENCE DAY CAMPS Visit greatscience.com

CAMP FITCH YMCA

Camp Fitch’s century-old classic sleepaway summer camp provides boys and girls, ages 6-17, with a holistically safe, values-driven community where they discover friendship and achievement. Kids feel like they belong among the camp’s carefully vetted, highly committed and caring staff, who create transformative experiences on the shore of Lake Erie in North Springfield, Pa. Call 814-922-3219 or visit campfitchymca.org

CAMP INVENTION

Imaginations will soar in the all-new Camp Invention program “Elevate!” Campers in grades kindergarten through sixth grade will collaborate in hands-on STEM activities exploring concepts of flight, Earth’s ecosystems and sports innovations.

Use promo code LOCAL15 to save $15 (expires 5/12). Call 800-968-4332 or visit invent.org/camp

CAMP LEAD

Camp LEAD: “The Amazing Chase” is a week-long day camp with high-energy activities promoting leadership and social emotional learning. Inspired by the TV show “The Amazing Race,” campers learn about healthy competition, collaboration and accomplishing goals. Campers will stretch personal limits to become effective leaders.

Call 216-292-8775 or visit effectivela.org

CAMP WHITEWOOD

Since 1940, ACA-accredited Camp Whitewood fosters a safe, fun and engaging environment for children to learn and grow, providing quality summer camps at economical prices. Any child can attend its day and overnight programs, regardless of 4-H membership. Call to schedule a personal tour. 440-272-5275 or visit 4hcampwhitewood.com

CAVS ACADEMY SUMMER CAMPS

Join the Cleveland Cavaliers for Cavs Academy Summer Camps, the only official youth basketball summer camp of the Cavaliers.

These week-long camps are a great opportunity for boys and girls ages 7-17 of all skill levels to have fun playing basketball while they “up their game.” Visit cavsyouth.com

CHALLENGE ISLAND STEAMTASTIC SUMMER CAMPS

Challenge Island is a high-energy, hands-on fusion of STEAM, 21st century skills and problem-solving adventure. Campers embark on fantastical-themed STEAM journeys where they work in collaborative teams to tackle various exciting challenges using only the materials in their treasure chest and their boundless imaginations. Visit challenge-island.com/summit-medina or challenge-island.com/clevelandeast

CHAGRIN VALLEY FARMS Visit chagrinvalleyfarms.com

CLASSROOM ANTICS STEAM CAMPS

Visit classroomantics.com/clevelandsummer-camps

CLEVELAND CITY DANCE Visit clevelandcitydance.com

CLEVELAND HEARING & SPEECH CENTER – FACEtime Camp

The FACEtime Summer Camp at Cleveland Hearing & Speech Center is designed for older children and young teens who stutter. Campers will participate in individual and group therapy at the University Circle location and will practice their skills in real-life situations at restaurants and Cleveland-area attractions.

Transportation will be required for some offsite activities. Visit chsc.org

CLEVELAND METROPARKS GOLF JUNIOR DAY CAMPS

Cleveland Metroparks offers a wide variety of golf programs, activities and hands-on instruction for junior golfers ages 8-17.

There are activities for beginner, intermediate and advanced junior golfers. Registration is now open. Visit clevelandmetroparks.com/golf

CLEVELAND METROPARKS SUMMER NATURE CAMPS

Cleveland Metroparks Summer Nature Camps connect children ages 3-15 with the natural world. From hikes in the woods, kayaking, crafts and games, a variety of Summer Nature Camps offer compelling outdoor adventures. Available in convenient locations throughout Cleveland Metroparks. Registration begins March 3 for Cuyahoga County and Hinckley Township residents, and March 10 for all other participants. Visit clevelandmetroparks.com

CLEVELAND METROPARKS ZOO SUMMER DAY CAMPS

Zoo Summer Day Camps connect campers with wildlife and inspire the next generation of conservationists. Campers ages 5-14 can spend their summer days at the zoo participating in up-close experiences with ambassador animals, behind-thescenes tours and special activities like giraffe feeding, carousel rides, educational games and crafts. Visit futureforwildlife.org

CPH SUMMER ACADEMY

Join Cleveland Play House for CPH Summer Academy.

Students ages 4-18 can participate in half-day, week-long or two-week intensives in June and July. Classes are open to students of all abilities and experience levels.

Scholarships and aftercare are available.

Call 216-414-7111 or visit clevelandplayhouse.com/academy

COMMON GROUND

Earth Camp (ages 6-14) is packed with activities like hiking, swimming, art and more. Adventure Camp (ages 12-14) packs in a high ropes course, zipline tour, swimming and more. The new Adventure Leadership Academy (ages 15-17) is perfect for aspiring camp counselors. Visit commongroundcenter.org

CREATIVE PLAYROOMS Visit creativeplayrooms.com

CUYAHOGA COMMUNITY COLLEGE (TRI-C)

Whether your child is a young performer or a budding engineer, Tri-C Summer Camps will help them discover their passions and talents.

Choose from more than 30 camps offered at five locations across the region, featuring culinary, film, game design, music, performing arts, recreation and STEM. Call 216-987-3075 and select option 1 or visit tri-c.edu/summercamps

DISCOVER CAMP 2020 Visit medinarec.org

ETIQUETTE KINDNESS SPECIALITY CAMPS

This summer at Gilmour Academy, Beachwood Recreation, Orange Continuing Ed and Westlake Recreation, kids will have confidence, fun character-building and hands-on learning during these camps. Learn the tricks of first impressions, become a dining expert and discover the art of a well-written thank you note. Call 216-292-8888.

Learn more & open a tax-advantaged college savings account today at

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FAIRMOUNT CENTER FOR THE ARTS

Visit fairmountcenter.org/special-events

CAMP and Programs Guide

FALCON CAMP

Recognized throughout the Midwest as Ohio’s premier private camp.

Independently selected “Top Ten Camp in USA” and Ohio’s “Coolest Camp.” Beautiful lakefront setting, talented staff, wide

The Leonard Gelfand STEM Center Case Western Reserve University’s Leonard Gelfand STEM Center, a collaboration of the College of Arts & Sciences and the School of Engineering, works to: strengthen STEM teaching and learning through active discovery and design; implement research based teaching and learning strategies; marshal the contributions of CWRU faculty, staff, and students; maximize impact on student learning through collaboration; and evaluate and continually refine our programs.

Upcoming Programs and Events: June 8-July 2, 2020: Future Connections, A program of University Circle Inc. for rising seniors interested in career exploration June, 2020 (Dates TBD): Introduction to Innovation-Week long opportunity for elementary teachers to strengthen standards based science and engineering content and practice July 6-17, 2020: Shipwreck Camp 2020 Science & Exploration for 12-15 year olds; Build an ROV, explore wrecks in Lake Erie; applications now available July 21-August 31, 2020: Environmental Heroes Orientation; Applications now available for middle and high school students interested in authentic field research (two year commitment for summer orientation and weekly afterschool sessions)

For more information, please call 216-368-5075 e-mail: kmk21@case.edu Web site: Gelfand.case.edu

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variety of activities and great food. Outstanding opportunity for fun and growth in a safe, healthy environment. ACA accredited. Boys and girls, ages 6-16. Call 800-837CAMP or visit falconcamp.com

THE FINE ARTS ASSOCIATION

The Fine Arts Association offers camps, classes and private instruction for all ages and ability levels. With a combination of indoor and outdoor activities, campers are immersed in the arts.

Choose between one-week, half-day and six-week camps. Before and after camp care is also available. Visit fineartsassociation.org

GEAUGA PARK DISTRICT

Geauga Park District’s 8th annual adventure camps come in week-long forms for youth entering grades 5-7. Camps run the weeks of June 8, July 6, July 13, July 27 and Aug. 3, plus Junior Naturalist Camp the week of June 15. Week-long experiences for teens entering grades 8-10 are the weeks of June 15 and July 20.

Single-day “X-Treme Adventures” for the older kids are also July 9, 16 and 23. Visit bit.ly/gpdcamps

GILMOUR DAY CAMPS Visit gilmour.org/summercamp

GIRL SCOUTS OF NORTH EAST OHIO Visit gsneo.org/camplife

GOLDFISH SWIM SCHOOL Visit goldfishswimschool.com

GRAND RIVER ACADEMY Visit grandriver.org

HATHAWAY BROWN SCHOOL Visit hb.edu/summer

HAWKEN SUMMER PROGRAMS

Hawken Summer Programs offer a variety of activities led by experienced professionals for boys and girls ages 4-18. Camp offerings include day camps, one-week Passport Camps, Innovation Camps, Athletics Camps and Summer Studies. Camps run between June and August. Call 440-423-2940, email summerprograms@hawken.edu or visit summer.hawken.edu

HOLDEN FORESTS & GARDENS SUMMER CAMPS

Immerse your child in the wonders of nature at the Holden Arboretum or Cleveland Botanical Garden. From exploring unique ecological areas to learning about farm-to-table food preparation, themed summer camps are available for children in pre-K through grade 5.

Call 216-707-2841 or visit cbgarden.org. Call 440-602-3833 or visit holdenarb.org

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CAMP and

Programs Guide ID TECH CAMP

iD Tech is the world leader in STEM education, with 450,000 alumni and over 20 years of experience.

Summer programs for ages 7-19 are held at 150 prestigious campuses including NYU, Caltech and Imperial College London.

Students build in-demand skills for futures in coding, game development, robotics and creative arts. Call 1-888-709-8324 or visit idtech.com

LAKE ERIE NATURE & SCIENCE CENTER

Summer camps at Lake Erie Nature & Science Center offer preschoolers and students of all ages the opportunity to explore and connect with the outdoors, meet new friends, encounter local wildlife and discover the wonders of the night sky in Schuele Planetarium. Registration is open and ongoing. Visit lensc.org

LAKE METROPARKS SUMMER DAY CAMPS Visit lakemetroparks.com

LAKE RIDGE ACADEMY

Visit lakeridgeacademy.org/summer

LAKELAND 2020 COLLEGE FOR KIDS

Visit lakelandcc.edu/camps

LAKESHORE DANCE & GYMNASTICS SUMMER CAMPS Visit lakeshoregym.com

LIBERTY CAMP FOR KIDS

Kids can experience the founding of America from 9 a.m. to noon July 20-24 at the Historical Society in Ravenna. $30 for kids entering grades 1-6. Includes re-enactment of the Boston Tea Party, Washington crossing the Delaware, signing of the Declaration of Independence and games, craft, and a real Indian Village.

Deadline is June 30 or until spots are taken.

Call 330-548-3305 or visit libertycampforkids.com

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Children’s Grief Support Camps Offer Hope and Healing

T

he beauty of nature provides the healing backdrop for two unique summer camps for children who have experienced the death of a loved one. Both are led by trained grief support specialists from Western Reserve Grief Services.

Riding Through Grief, a day camp offered June 22-26, 9 a.m. to 12 noon, in collaboration with Fieldstone Farm Therapeutic Riding Center, 16497 Snyder Road, Chagrin Falls, is for children ages 8-12.

Through riding and working with horses on a 45-acre farm, children explore their feelings in a supported environment. The gentle, nurturing feedback of therapy horses in a tranquil environment has a healing effect.

Registration for Riding Through Grief is due by May 31. The camp fills quickly, so

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early registration is recommended.

Together We Can takes place August 4-6, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., at scenic Red Oak Camp, 9057 Kirtland-Chardon Road, Willoughby. Designed for ages 6-13, the camp encourages self-expression through art, music and sharing with other kids who have also experienced the death of someone they love. The environment creates a “safe zone” where kids can feel comfortable sharing emotions and asking questions. Registration for Together We Can at Red Oak is due by July 8.

“The children engage in activities to express feelings, support coping skills, and

honor their special person,” said Karen Hatfield, Team Leader. “We have offered drum circles, yoga and karate through the years.

They also have time to enjoy the gorgeous outdoor setting and have fun with the other kids. There is swimming, rock climbing, archery and kayaking in the afternoon.

They learn they are not alone, they are not going crazy and other children their age are coping with some of the same kinds of feelings.”

To request a registration packet for one of the camps, call 216.486.6838. More information is available at hospicewr.org/camps.

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CAMP and

Programs Guide

LIFE CENTER PLUS

LifeCenter Plus Kids Summer Camp offers excitement and programs for your children ages 5-13. Campers enjoy weekly themes and field trips, daily swimming, crafts, games and more.

Camps run Monday-Friday from June 1 - Aug. 21. Flexible camp options are available. Visit lifecenterplus.com

SUMMER AT LAUREL

Visit laurelschool.org/summer

LE CHAPERON ROUGE Visit Lechaperonrouge.com

LEARNING ABOUT BUSINESS (LAB)

Visit learningaboutbusiness.org

LORAIN COUNTY METROPARKS

Offering summer camps for kids of all ages with a variety of interests, including fishing, sports, outdoor adventure, boating, birding and more. Registration for Lorain County residents opens Feb. 21 at 440-458-5121. Registration for everyone opens Feb. 28. Visit loraincountymetroparks.com

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MAD SCIENCE AND CRAYOLA IMAGE ARTS ACADEMY

Mad Science and Crayola Imagine Arts Academy will offer STEAM camps throughout Northeast Ohio.

Science themes include: robots, archaeology, secret agents, inventions, engineering and more. Featured art camp is Wild World, focusing on animals and conservation. With over 20 years of camp experience, they look forward to helping your child have a fantastic summer. Call 330-498-0033 or visit northeastohio.madscience.org, imagineartsacademy.com

MAGICAL THEATRE COMPANY

Build your kids’ confidence and performing skills with high energy morning sessions focusing on character, movement, voice and improv. Use those skills in the afternoon in an environment of creative excitement to rehearse a performance on the last day. Taught by professional actors & directors who care about kids. Visit magicaltheatre.org

MAGNIFICAT

Magnificat High School has summer programs for girls entering grades 1-9.

Magnificat offers participants the opportunity to explore their world, learn new skills and have fun. Visit magnificaths.org

MANDEL JCC

Mandel JCC J-day Camps & Camp Wise Overnight Camp — summer happens here. Helping children learn new skills, develop confidence and gain self-esteem, all while having a blast, is what spending a summer at Mandel JCC camps is all about. By the end of summer, campers will have gained independence, developed a host of new interests and made lifelong friendships. Call 216-831-0700 or visit mandeljcc.org/camps or campwise.org

MATHNASIUM

Visit mathnasium.com

NATURE CENTER AT SHAKER LAKES

Swap screen time for nature as you learn and explore in an outdoor classroom. Your child will love these one-of-a-kind, week-long camp experiences taught by staff, which includes teachers and highly trained naturalists. Find an outdoor adventure to inspire an appreciation for our natural world, unlocking a summer full of learning, reflection, friends and fun.

Choose from nine week-long camp experiences. Call 216-321-5935 or visit shakerlakes.org/camp

OHIO TUITION TRUST

Summer camps can open new worlds for your child. The same is true for a higher education. For more than 30 years, Ohio’s 529 Plan, CollegeAdvantage, has helped families nationwide save tax-free for education after high school. Someday your child is going to college. Someday starts today with collegeadvantage.com

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CAMP and

Programs Guide OLD TRAIL SCHOOL

As the nation’s only independent school located in a national park, Old Trail School offers children, ages 3-14, an unforgettable summer camp experience. Explore the Cuyahoga Valley National Park, build forts and tunnels and hunt for treasure in the outdoors, and so much more.

Visit oldtrail.org/summer

PERSPECTIVES ACADEMY

Visit jayberkphd.com/summer

PROGRESS WITH CHESS Visit progresswithchess.org

Sign up for our weekly newsletters to get updated on resources and what's happening in the region. Also, look for "Camp of the Week" and more summer camp season fun.

Visit NortheastOhioParent.com

RED OAK CAMP Visit redoakcamp.org

SAINT JOSEPH ACADEMY Visit sja1890.org

SHAW JCC

Camp JCC offers a traditional summer day camp experience along with a variety of weekly specialty camps for campers entering grade 1 through grade 8. Mix and match camp programs, come early and stay late with optional a.m. or p.m. care and enjoy daily swimming.

Unmatched facilities include full-size gym, indoor and outdoor pools and 50-plus acres of open space for your child to explore, learn new skills and build friendships and lasting memories. Visit shawjcc.org/camp-j

SHIPWRECK CAMP 2020

This two-week day camp, July 6-17, for ages 12-15 will engage campers in a virtual search for a Lake Erie shipwreck.

Campers conduct field research, have an introduction to scuba and snorkeling, read a novel, develop navigation skills and develop a plan and virtually find a wreck and travel to a wreck site. Call 216-368-5075, email kmk21@case.edu or visit gelfand.case.edu

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SNAPOLOGY

Snapology’s Discovery Center in Beachwood is an amazing place to build and create with Lego bricks.

Half- and full-day summer camps for ages 4-12. Your camper will have a blast building memories and learning through play with fun Lego themes. They’ve moved to 23645 Mercantile Road, Suite H. Visit cleveland.snapology.com

SUMMER RUFFING IT! 2020

Camp Dates: June 15-July 24. Art, cooking, music, movement, water play and outdoor playground fill the mornings with child-centered activities guided by Montessori-certified teaching staff.

Six-week or three-week half-day programs are available. Half-day program runs 9 a.m.-noon.

Three- and six-week options available. Visit ruffingmontessori.net

Visit NortheastOhioParent.com to find summer resources and more!

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CAMP and

Programs Guide SUMMER WIND STABLES Visit summerwindstables.com, summerwindtack.com

UNIVERSITY SCHOOL

Summer 2020 programs include many new enrichment camps and academic courses, along with our popular sports clinics and day camps. Held at Shaker Heights and Hunting Valley campuses, US camps are led by experienced teachers and coaches. They offer camps for preschool-age kids through high school.

Visit us.edu/summer

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WESTERN RESERVE ACADEMY

Welcome to another exciting season of summer camps at Western Reserve Academy. Whether your child wants to develop their athletic, academic or creative skills —­or just have fun and make friends, you’ll find options that perfectly fit their needs — and your schedule. Call 330-650-5832 or visit wra.net

YMCA OF CENTRAL STARK COUNTY Visit ymcastark.org

Camp Season is Here!

Northeast Ohio Parent will have more camp programs coverage in our May issue!

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