Westchester Family Ultimate Guide to Summer Camp - 2024

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Checklist for Parents of First-Time Overnight Campers Benefits of Day Camp

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CONTENTS

ULTIMATE GUIDE TO SUMMER CAMP 2024 WestchesterFamily.com

FEATURES 8 | Checklist For parents of first-time overnight campers 10 | Money Tips on saving money on summer camp 12 | Overnight Camp Questions to ask when searching for an overnight camp 14 | Your Camper When your child is homesick

GUIDE 16 | Day Camps The benefits of day summer camp 18 | Health Tips for staying hydrated this summer 20 | Jewish Summer Camps This mainstay of Jewish culture is worth considering 50 | Sun Care Keep your camper sun safe this season

4 WestchesterFamily.com | Ultimate Guide to Summer Camp 2024

22 | Camp Directory The best resource guide for New York parents

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EDITOR’S NOTE

Live, Love, Camp!

New York winters are brutal; there’s no denying that. So how do we cope through the frigid, cabin fever months? By looking forward to the summer, of course! And what’s the best part of summer? That’s easy — summer camp!

Summer camp offers children the unique opportunity to make new, lasting friendships and enjoy exciting, once-in-a-lifetime experiences while giving parents a little much-needed break at the same time.

So why choose camp? There are endless reasons. If you’re on the fence for financial reasons, we’re sharing 8 Top Tips for Saving Money on Summer Camp (page 10) to help parents on a tight budget.

Once you’ve made the final decision to

say YES to summer camp, the next step is finding the right one. Our guide has you covered from A to Z - literally! Our comprehensive Camp Directory (starting on page 22) lists dozens of camps for New York parents to consider when selecting where your child will be making memories this summer.

It’s never too early to start preparing for for your child’s summertime adventures, so we’re sharing our Checklist for Parents of First-Time Overnight Campers (page 8), plus tips galore on Homesick Campers (page 14), Staying Hydrated (page 18) and Sun Care (page 50).

Let’s make this the best summer yet!

The New York Family Team

PUBLISHER: Clifford Luster EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR: Donna Duarte-Ladd ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER: Erin Brof ADVERTISING DIRECTOR: Stacie Goldberg DEPUTY EDITOR: Jeannine Cintron DIGITAL EDITOR: Kaitlyn Riggio EVENTS MANAGER: Shara Levine PARTNERSHIP MANAGERS: Lauren Alperin, Lauren Anchin, Joan Bergman, Mary Cassidy, Suzanne Cirigliano, Chris Cunnington, Lori Falco, Shelli Goldberg-Peck, LynnMarie Hanley, Lisa Herlihy, Nicole Miller, Janine Mulé, Nina Spiegelman, Gwen Tomaselli MARKETING & STRATEGY DIRECTOR: Rosalia Bobé MARKETING & EVENTS ASSISTANT: Ashley Rivera SALES & MARKETING ASSISTANT: Elana Cantor MARKETING ASSISTANT: Tilejah Gilead MEDIA SALES ASSISTANT: Anastasia Aktipis ART DIRECTOR: Leah Mitch WEB DEVELOPER: Sylvan Migdal GRAPHIC DESIGNERS: Arthur Arutyunov, Connie Sulsenti EDITORS AT LARGE: Serena Norr, Cris Pearlstein EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS: Jana Beauchamp, Mia Salas

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Checklist for Parents of First-Time Overnight Campers

BY JESS MICHAELS

S

ending your child to overnight camp for the first time is an exciting time for your family and of course, you want it to be a successful summer. Here are some tips on how you can help make your child’s first year away a great one!

Label Everything – If it is going in the trunk, it should be labeled! Camp life means there are a bunch of kids all living together and items are sure to be mixed up from time to time. Making sure to label all items—from clothes to shampoo—will help misplaced items get back to your camper.

Leave Nice Items Home – Camp is messy, in the best of ways. Playing sports outside, eating ice cream on a hot day, and walking down to the lake after a rainstorm are all part of a day at camp. If your child has a favorite hoodie or pair of sweats and you would like it to come home looking nice, leave it at home.

Do Not Overpack – You want to make sure your child has all the items on the packing list the camp sent but try not to go overboard on the extras. Campers do not have a ton of space to put their things and lots of the extras never get used. Also, some campers find that too much stuff can be overwhelming when they cannot find the items they need.

Share Positive Messages & Avoid PickUp Deals – It is common for your child (and you) to have nerves as camp approaches.

Sharing positive messages about camp and not putting your own anxiety on your child is important. Avoid making pick-up deals with your child before they leave for camp. If you let your child know you will pick them up if they want to come home, you are sending the message that you do not believe they will be successful at camp.

Send mail – Make sure to write your child throughout the summer. Whether you

send a one-way email or a handwritten note, letters from home mean a lot to campers. Try not to write about your amazing vacation or how much fun a younger sibling is having at home. Although unintentional, this type of news can make your child feel like they are missing out. Keep letters light and positive and reassure your child that you know they are having the best time at camp.

Stay Calm If You Receive a Homesick Letter – If you get a letter home from your child that they miss home and want to go home, try to stay calm. You can feel helpless when you are so far away from your child but know it is common for children to miss home. Oftentimes, kids write during downtime at camp and these moments are often fleeting feelings. There is a good chance the homesick moment will have passed by the time you get the letter.

If the homesickness is really bad and affecting your child’s experience, you would have already heard from the director. Call the camp director to understand how your child is feeling.

Do Not Cause Drama on Group Chat – Oftentimes, parents will start a group chat for their child’s bunk. While it is nice to connect with the other parents, try not to start drama on the chat. If you have a concern about something happening at camp, contact the

8 WestchesterFamily.com | Ultimate Guide to Summer Camp 2024

camp director directly to discuss what is bothering you.

Respect Camp Policies – Each camp has its own policies, from sending packages to technology that is allowed at camp. Please respect the policies. Don’t hide food or phones when packing or buy bunk gifts when they aren’t allowed. If you do, you are sending a message to your child that rules do not apply.

Visiting Day is About Quality Time – Visiting Day is all about spending time with your child. It’s not about how much food and stuff you can bring or about having your entire extended family there. Let your child guide how the day will go and participate in the things your child wants to share with you.

Do Not Obsess Over Camp Photos – It is hard not to analyze each picture posted of your child but keep in mind that each photo is just a moment in time. If your child is not smiling, it does not mean they are unhappy at camp. Maybe they were caught off-guard by the photo or participating in a camp activity.

If you are worried, contact the director.

Remember that the camp director is your partner this summer, and they are there to help guide you through any worries or situations that arise, both before camp and during. The first year of camp is truly special with so many firsts—enjoy the amazing gift of camp you have given your child!

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9

8 Top Tips for Saving Money on Summer Camp

BY JESS MICHAELS

W

hen you decide to send your child to camp, you are giving them the opportunity to try new activities, meet new people, gain independence, and learn about who they are as individuals, among so many other benefits. Camp is an amazing experience; however, parents have their family budgets to consider. Here are a few ways for families to save money on summer camp: Look for camp early – It’s not too early to start thinking about camp for summer 2025. Looking early and registering for camp in the summer or early fall will help you save money by taking advantage of the early bird rates camps offer. This is also a good way to ensure you get a spot at your top choice camp.

Begin your research now to understand which camps you would like to tour this summer.

Seeing a camp in action is one of the best ways to get a feel for a camp.

Scholarships & financial assistance – If you are looking for a camp that offers scholarships, financial assistance, and sliding scales, start your search with non-profit summer camps. Families can also reach out to the

American Camp Association, NY, and NJ for a list of camps that financial assistance.

Assistance offered from the U.S government – The government offers programs that may help families save money on summer camp.

• Dependent Care FSA (DCFSA) – A Dependent Care FSA is a pre-tax benefit account that allows you to pay for dependent care such as day camp while you are working.

Visit the FSA Feds Website at www.fsafeds. com for more information.

• Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit -The IRS allows an income tax credit of up to $6,000 of dependent care expenses if you have two or more dependents and up to $3,000 for one dependent. Day camps can count towards the children and dependent care tax credit.

Visit www.irs.gov for more information.

Work at camp – Do you enjoy working with children or are you in a profession such as education, social work or nursing? Summer camps are always looking for qualified, enthusiastic adults to work at camp. Besides a competitive salary, many camps will offer your child a discount for camp.

Sibling discount – Did you know many

10 WestchesterFamily.com | Ultimate Guide to Summer Camp 2024

camps offer savings for registering multiple children at camp? Take advantage of these savings by sending more than one child to camp.

Give the gift of camp – Giving your child the opportunity to go to summer camp truly is a gift so why not make it part of a birthday or holiday gift. Does your child need that big birthday party and more toys? Asking extending family to contribute to camp as a gift is also a great idea. The skills and experiences gained at summer camp will last for a lifetime while that new toy may be fun for a couple of months.

Beware of too good a deal – We all have our budgets to consider but beware of a camp deal that seems too good to be true. Your child’s safety needs to be at the top of mind with any camp decision you make so please do your research. At a minimum, a camp should be inspected by the Department of Health. Choosing an ACA Accredited camp means that the camp goes above and beyond state licensing and meets hundreds of health and safety standards.

Call the American Camp Association, NY and NJ – If you would like to send your child to camp, there is a camp for every budget. Families can reach out to the American Camp Association, NY and NJ’s Camper Placement Specialist Renee Flax for free, one-on-one advice on finding the right camp at the right price for your family.

Contact: renee@acanynj.org or 212-391-5208.

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Questions to Ask When Looking for Overnight Camps

BY JESS MICHAELS

W

hen beginning your search for an overnight camp, there are many things to consider before registering your child. Besides asking questions about safety procedures and the activities offered, there are questions that you won’t necessarily find answers to on a camp’s website yet are important to inquire about.

We caught up with Renee Flax, Director of Camper Placement for the American Camp Association, NY and NJ, who has been helping families find camps for their children for over 25 years.

Here are some of the top questions Renee feels families might want to ask the camp director about and why.

How do you define a successful summer for a child?

The camp director is the person who sets the philosophy of the camp and takes ultimate responsibility for the camp. They are the ones to recruit families and hire staff. If you get an answer to this question that is not what you believe you want your child’s summer to look like, then this camp may not align with what you feel is important and it’s time to move on.

If I have a concern while my child is at camp, who will I be speaking with?

One of the biggest frustrations for parents is when their child is away at camp and they think everything is going fine until they receive a letter that says they are homesick or not getting along with a bunkmate.

It’s good to know ahead of the summer what the protocol is if you call camp with a concern. Will you get a call back from the director or the group leader? When will the call back happen? There is no right or wrong answer but knowing what the protocol is will help you to be prepared when you are upset in the moment.

What do you do if the bunk isn’t getting along?

Having a bunk that isn’t getting along can

affect the whole camp experience for a child.

When you ask this question to a director, how responsive are they? Is this bothersome to the director? If so, don’t pick the camp.

No one will promise you that everyone in the bunk is going to get along but knowing what the leadership team will do to help the bunk get through a tough time is good to know.

Ask what is done if there are one or two campers causing problems and how well the staff is trained to recognize and step in if mean behavior is happening in the bunk.

If you know what to expect from a director before going into the summer, it will make it easier if these situations come up.

How many other new kids will be in the bunk this year?

This is an important question if you are sending your child to a camp where some of the campers may have been together for a few summers.

Being the new kid in a bunk where children have already been together isn’t always easy for a child. Find out if there will be other new campers in the bunk and how the camp will help incorporate your child into the bunk. Will the campers be welcoming to a new camper? Will they connect you with a parent from the bunk to

12 WestchesterFamily.com | Ultimate Guide to Summer Camp 2024

set up a get-together before the summer? You want to make sure the camp director is being candid about the bunk your child would be in and that they are partnering with you to make sure your child can be successful in an already established bunk.

Where do most of your campers come from?

It is hard for a child to be in a camp division where there is a large group of campers all coming from one area that have either grown up together or gone to the same day camp together.

Ask about the campers specifically in your child’s division, not the overall camp. Ask if the camp limits the number of kids from an area. You may also want to know where the campers come from if it’s important to you to be able to have your child attend off-season get-togethers.

Flax feels there is no question you shouldn’t ask the director. “If you ask it respectfully, the director should be willing to answer any question you have. These questions and answers will help you to get to know the camp director, figure out if the camp feels like a good fit for your family and allow you to start to form a partnership with the camp’s leadership even before camp begins.”

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13

Homesick at Camp How to handle a letter or call when your child is missing home

BY JESS MICHAELS

W

hen you send your child to overnight camp, the hope is that each day is filled with smiles, laughing and fun. But homesickness happens and is a common feeling for children to have. Still, for parents, it can be heartbreaking knowing their child is having a tough time, especially when they are not home to comfort them.

“It’s easy to tell a parent not to worry when I have the benefit of seeing their child at camp and knowing they are ok,” says Aaron Selkow, Owner and Director of Chestnut Lake Camp, a coed overnight camp in Pennsylvania. “I always tell new families to talk about this situation before their child is at camp and I ask them what they need from us to help support them.

Nothing I say in the moment will make them feel better because they are so stressed their child is unhappy. If we had this conversation beforehand, we can set them up for success.”

Extreme homesickness is rare; this is when a child is really struggling and not able to enjoy camp life. If your child is feeling this way, you would have certainly heard from the camp directly about it. Jackie Brethel, Director of Camp Kippewa Point, an all-girls camp in Maine says, “More often, a child writes a homesick letter during a downtime like rest hour and it often acts as their outlet where they can be the most vulnerable. They get their feelings out to their parents and then they move on. When you receive the letter, that moment may have happened five days ago and they are usually past it.” Selkow says he reminds parents that communication from a child through letters or in a phone call, or what you see in a camp photo, is only representative of that moment. “Try not to react negatively. It is a snapshot of an experience and there are so many moments in the course of a day at camp.”

If you are concerned by your child holding back tears on a phone call or if a camp letter has your child begging to be

picked up, call the camp.

The camp director is your partner in making the summer a success and they want to hear from you if you are worried. “While I’d love for parents to build resilience and develop coping skills to prepare for the future when their child goes to college or on a long summer trip, I want them to call me if they have concerns,” says Selkow. “I do not want them to conjure up thoughts of what may be wrong and or text in the camp group chat without them hearing from me about what is happening at camp. When they hear that things are okay, next time, they may wait longer to be in touch. Parents need to know that the camp will be transparent and responsive.”

Brethel explains that she has gotten phone calls from parents who received a homesick letter and that they are coming to get their child, which she advises against.

14 WestchesterFamily.com | Ultimate Guide to Summer Camp 2024

“Our job is not to take them out of the situation. That teaches all the wrong lessons.

Our job is to help them cope with their feelings and be as successful as they can be.

I say to parents that if camp is not in their child’s future, that is okay, but stick with the commitment they made for the summer and make it through.”

As for parents of children who completed a summer at camp but now do not want to go back the next summer because they remember being homesick, Brethel says, “Often times, a child will focus on the missing home part. Being homesick is not a reason to not try camp again. Talk to your child about focusing on all the things they loved about camp and remind them that ultimately, it was a positive experience. Let them know you are not going to let them miss a great summer at camp because they missed home.”

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15

Why Day Camp is So Beneficial

BY JESS MICHAELS

A

re you considering day camp for your child? Sending your child to day camp has so many benefits that go beyond just childcare and your child being outdoors over the summer. From independence to building confidence, a summer spent at day camp will help your child gain important life skills.

Here are just a few of the many reasons camp is so beneficial for your child.

Focus on Social-Emotional Development As a former high school teacher, Jared Gelb, Director of Ramaquois Day Camp in Rockland County, NY feels that schools are extremely focused on academics and that social-emotional development is often secondary. “Camp reverses that. We are hyper-focused on the social-emotional growth of a child and less on intellectual growth. Day camp is where we concentrate on the effort, not the result. Camp gives children the unique opportunity to build self-esteem and confidence in a far less competitive environment than school.”

A Safe Environment to Make Mistakes Day camps are built specifically for children and are a great learning environment for them. “Camp is a place for children to feel comfortable in their environment, be themselves and find out new things about themselves,” explains Jason Samuel, Director of The Nature Place Day Camp in Rockland County, NY. “It’s also a wonderful place to make mistakes and learn that it’s ok to make mistakes because you are in a caring and nurturing environment. Whether you strike out at making a friend or on the baseball diamond, there are people to support you and get you back into the game or chatting with a new potential friend.”

Resilience & Independence Children build important skills while participating in camp activities like

swimming, ninja courses and arts & crafts.

“Children gain self-confidence by trying new activities. We set them up to achieve but they do have failures in a safe environment which is part of life,” explains Tom Coffey, Director of Southampton Camp & Club. “We are a nurturing environment; however, we also want campers to learn how to do things on their own without the help of mom or a nanny. Campers are learning to use a spoon and fork at lunch, to clean up after themselves at meals and to walk from A to B to get to their activities.”

Build Confidence While Trying New Activities Samuel says that kids are exposed to a variety of new activities at day camp. “Your child may come to camp with no interest in archery, cooking or rock climbing and suddenly, a passion is ignited in them that they never knew about. And when a child learns a new skill without their parent around, they are building both independence and confidence because they did it on their own.”

Gelb adds that day camp offers children the opportunity to have a well-rounded experience which can be hard to do during the school year. “Even if your child is athletic and focused on sports at home, camp gives

16 WestchesterFamily.com | Ultimate Guide to Summer Camp 2024

you the opportunity to learn new passions like creative arts or the ropes course or maybe something like music or dance that you may not necessarily turn to because most kids don’t have the time. Camp does this inherently because these activities are part of the program.”

Learn to Be Part of a Group Being part of a team or a group is an important skill that children will need as they get older, whether in high school, college or in the workplace. “Day camp offers an incredible and unique opportunity to be part of a group and for children to feel like they are a part of something special,” says Gelb.

“Kids learn how to interact with others who they may not otherwise interact with. This allows kids to develop a sense of camaraderie and interpersonal skills which can sometimes get lost in school when kids are being taught to just sit and listen. All day, campers are together in a group, talking at lunch or around the arts & crafts table, developing social skills.”

Day camp is a place where children’s social education takes place and where kids can explore new interests in a safe and warm environment. After just one summer at day camp, you will be amazed at the personal growth your child has gained!

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17

Tips for Staying Hydrated This Summer

BY MARINA DUNBAR

W

ith the heat of summer and many camps being outdoors, it’s important to remember to keep your camper hydrated.

Before we share some tips on making sure your body is getting enough water, you should be aware of the symptoms that can occur when a body doesn’t have enough water.

Mild dehydration can cause problems with blood pressure, heart rate, and body temperature. More severe dehydration can also cause weakness, confusion and other neurological symptoms.

Keep in mind that you want to avoid letting yourself or your camper reach this point. Consider water intake as a preventative measure, not simply a cure for dehydration.

We know you and the kids know to drink more water. But we also know that this can be easier said than done. Sometimes, especially young kids, get busy and forget to drink water, not soda, or a icee-water.

But let’s also be honest here: water just tastes better for some people than others, especially if you are used to sugary foods.

Here are some tips to make sure you’re getting enough water, and maybe even enjoying it.

Watery Fruits Drinking water isn’t the only way to increase your water intake. There are many fruits that have high water content, and your kids probably already love them. These superfoods include strawberries, tomatoes, cucumber, pineapple, oranges, and celery.

But the reigning champ of them all is watermelon (or any melon), which contains an astonishing 92 percent water even with its sweet flavor! And don’t forget, you’ll also be getting your daily dose of vitamins with your fruit and vegetables.

Fruity Waters One way to jazz up the taste of your water without added sugars or artificial sweeteners

is to add some freshly sliced fruit. The longer you let the fruit soak, the more flavor the water will have.

It can also be a fun guessing game for the kids. Give them glasses of water with a different flavor in each and see if they can identify the fruit. Make it a little tougher by mixing fruit together and seeing if they can correctly guess the fruit combo!

Freeze It Popsicles are a family favorite in the summer months, but they can often be higher in sugar than their hydration factor.

If you’re looking for a healthier but equally tasty alternative, consider freezing coconut water with fresh fruit inside.

Kids often associate the combination of frozen and colorful with a special treat, and these popsicles are just as bright and beautiful as the ones you’d buy from the ice cream truck.

18 WestchesterFamily.com | Ultimate Guide to Summer Camp 2024

Slash the Sugar Our taste buds are ruled largely by what we eat. If you want plain old water to taste not so plain old, the best thing to do is to slowly wane down your sweet tooth.

Once your kids get used to having those low-sugar treats, water will likely become more and more palatable, maybe even preferable to sugary beverages. After all, it’s easier to consume more of something when you actually like the taste!

Limit Sun Time Too much sun exposure can cause a lot of problems, and dehydration is certainly one of them. If you’re planning a summer picnic, make sure there’s a spot available with enough shade.

Consider cooling hats that keep your head from becoming too hot. Dress you and the family appropriately for the weather. And don’t forget to apply enough sunscreen!

ing, high ropes and 40+ other activities for an action-packed summer.

, Morris, CT 06763

Summer Camp at the Bronx Zoo

Plan your child’s best summer yet!

Experience fun hands-on learning, meet animals and explore the zoo.

Find camps for toddlers to teens.

Summer starts at the Bronx Zoo! Call 800-433-4149 or reach out at bzeducation@wcs.org to register.

Visit wcs.education/camps for details.

The Many Benefits of Jewish Summer Camps

BY VERED ORNSTEIN

experience for children of all ages.

ummer camps for Jewish youth are a mainstay of American Jewish culture, and more than ever, with the rise of AntiSemitism -and during this time of war or conflict, community support can benefit campers and their families, providing a network of emotional and social support.

These summer camps are undeniably popular, with dozens of different summer camps nationwide catering to all interests, needs, and levels of religious observance.

From promoting life skills and independence, attending camp can be an invaluable

History of Jewish Summer Camps Similar to the advent of Hebrew schools in the US, the first Jewish camps emerged between the First and Second World Wars as more Jewish people emigrated out of Europe. As nationalistic and oftentimes antisemitic sentiments rose among the general population, the need for a safe space specifically for Jewish youth grew significantly.

Over the last century, Jewish camps of all natures were established around the country.

According to Nancy Mykoff for the Jewish

S

20 WestchesterFamily.com | Ultimate Guide to Summer Camp 2024

Women’s Archive, there were more than 82,000 children enrolled at nearly 200 camps by the year 2000, solidifying camps’ space in the world of American Jewish education and culture.

What are the benefits of summer camp?

The American Camp Association (ACA), the official accreditation agency of summer camps in the US, has conducted research over the last decade on the effect of camps in promoting social, emotional, and personal growth among campers.

Preliminary findings from a five-year study on the impact of camps find that people who attended summer camps as children report higher levels of emotional intelligence and regulation, tolerance and appreciation for others’ differences, sense of responsibility, and sense of identity when compared to their non-camper peers. A separate, ongoing study

from the ACA is finding that these impacts can be seen in staff members and older teenagers, too. Teens who participated in some CIT (counselor in training) programs at camps report that the trainings are crucial in developing certain life skills, most notably their interpersonal skills and capacity for being compassionate and caring.

Building upon these known benefits of camps in general, Jewish summer camps foster children’s relationships to not only themselves, but to their community, too. By providing an immersive environment centered on Jewish values, camps can help bridge the gap in a child’s Jewish education. In many cases, attending camp is the only time some children get to be around other Jewish kids.

Additionally, as noted by Nancy Mykoff, Jewish camps are often at the forefront of progressive movements in Judaism such as the promotion of egalitarian leadership in the community.

Which camp is right for my family?

There is a seemingly endless selection of Jewish camps to attend throughout the country, each catering to different needs and

interests of children and families.

First, you should decide whether a day camp, where campers travel home at the end of the day, or a sleepaway camp, where campers live on campus for a period ranging from 1 to 8 weeks, is right for your child.

A child who has never spent time away from home may find an overnight camp overwhelming, and day programs can be a great way to introduce the idea of camp without the full commitment of a sleepaway program. Also consider that by nature of the live-in experience of sleepaway camps, they are usually more expensive than day camps, although many sleepaway camps do offer scholarships.

Aside from day camp versus overnight, religious denomination and level of religious observance is an important variable that will impact your decision. Nearly every type of Jewish community has its own camp programs that vary in terms of demographics and type of observance. There are also independent, nonaffiliated Jewish camps that focus more on bringing Jewish youth together than being educational or religious

institutions. No matter how you practice your Judaism, there is a camp for everyone.

Finally, consider the idea of specialized camps, such as ones focused on sports, the arts, wilderness adventures, and more.

There are also camps and programs that are specifically designed for children with a range of disabilities and special needs, ensuring that every Jewish child can have a fun and fulfilling summer experience.

If you’re interested in sending your child to Jewish summer camp but don’t quite know where to start, check your local synagogues or JCC as many of them have in-house programs or relationships to other local camps. Word of mouth from other parents in your community is also a great place to start.

Summer camps of all kinds can have lasting impacts on children’s development and social well-being, and Jewish camps come with the added benefit of fostering and nurturing campers’ Jewish and communal identities. No matter denomination, interests, income, or ability, a summer at a Jewish camp can be a life-changing experience.

Ultimate Guide to Summer Camp 2024 | WestchesterFamily.com

21

CAMP DIRECTORY | Special Advertising Supplement

CAMP GUIDE Special Advertising Supplement

The Ailey School Junior Division 2024 Summer Intensive Alvin Ailey Dance Foundation The Joan Weill Center for Dance 405 West 55 th Street, New York, NY 10019 alvinailey.org/school/summer-intensive/ summer-intensive-ages-12-15 juniordivision@alvinailey.org The Junior Division 2024 Summer Intensive is a four-week training program (June 24 – July 19) for students ages 12-15. The program offers young dancers an opportunity to study in a vibrant setting centered in the heart of New York City’s Theater District. Motivated students with at least three years of consistent dance training receive first-class instruction by a distinguished faculty of dance professional. Curriculum includes ballet, Horton, Graham, Limón, jazz, contemporary, and West African.

Amadeus Music, Theater and Art Camp 201 King Street, Chappaqua 914 238 0388 amadeusconservatory.com/programs/ summer-camp/ amadeusconservatoryofmusic@gmail. com MATILDA! Performing arts musical theater, music and art camp ages 5 - 14. Sing, dance, act, study instruments with Amadeus faculty, create fine art, design/paint sets. Have fun with outdoor play and sports.

Culminates in a musical performance in a theater. Camp fosters the joys of self expression and creativity.

Dates:Session 1: July 1 - 19, Session 2: July 22 - Aug 9, 6 week session: July 1 - Aug 9

Artistree Performing Arts Acres of Adventure Summer Camp @ Ann & Andy’s 2170 Saw Mill River Road, Elmsford 914-592-3027 annandandychildcare.com/summercamp Acres of Adventure Summer Camp at Ann & Andy’s is a one to nine-week summer camp with an emphasis on outdoors for children ages 3 months to 14 years. They offer customized schedules, individualized attention and hot lunches including barbeque Fridays. All buildings are airconditioned. Visit the website for more details. Call for open house dates.

114 W. Boston Post Road, Mamaroneck 835-2200 artistreearts.com westchester@applauseny.com Act, sing, dance and have the greatest summer theater experience of your life at Camp Artistree! Artistree Performing Arts offer a three week programs for grades K-4 and 5th10th and one week programs for Preschool-High School. Their Summer 2024 season includes “High School Musical,” and “Cinderella, Kids” as well as content from “Aladdin,” “Wicked” and our new ERAs Camp for all those Swifties out there! Preschool Camp begins June 17 with our K–9th grade camps running until August 23.

Artistree Performing Arts can’t wait to spend the summer with you at Camp Artistree!

Arc Stages 147 Wheeler Ave, Pleasantville, NY 10570 arcstages.org arcstages.org/home/educational-stage/ summerstage/ info@arcstages.org 914-747-6206 Unleash your creativity this summer at Arc Stages! Their SummerStage theatre camp offers programs for ages 5-18, with each cast's session culminating in a musical theatre production. In addition to rehearsing their show, actors dive deeper into the world of performing arts with daily workshops, including On Camera, Stage Combat, Clowning, Improv, and many more. Ignite your imagination with theme days and special events all summer long. We can’t wait to see the artist you become at Arc Stages!

22 WestchesterFamily.com | Ultimate Guide to Summer Camp 2024

Aya Tajimi Ballet Studio 32 Garth Rd, 1st Floor, Scarsdale, NY 10583 914-615-3982 www.enyb.org contact@enyb.org This studio offers in-depth ballet and dance lessons to small sized classes. Come have fun and learn the fundamentals of ballet with the staff.

All ages 3 and above are welcome!

Not only do they focus on teaching traditional ballet techniques, but they also have a unique menu incorporating training exercises to build a body that is fit for ballet. All classes are arranged by age and experience by the ABT® Certified Teachers.

A Trip Through the Decades

SUMMER CAMP 2024 JUNE 24 - AUGUST 16 SUMMER CAMP HOURS FULL DAY: 9:00AM - 4:00PM HALF DAY: 9:00AM - 12:00PM / 1:00PM - 4:00PM EXTENDED HOURS: FROM 7:30 AM - 6:00 PM AGES: 18 MONTHS - 12 YEARS

Offering a fun and safe summer camp since 1972.

Call us or visit our website for a complete program description.

914.636.6202 | WWW.HUDSONCOUNTRY.ORG

Summer Fun Activities DAILY SWIMMING (ON-PREMISE POOL-AGES 3 & UP) | SPORTS | YOGA | DANCE |MUSIC | ARTS AND CRAFTS | GARDENING | COOKING | HANDS-ON SCIENCE | SLIP AND SLIDE SUMMERTIME TREATS | WATER PLAY | FIELD-TRIPS & MORE...

ESTABLISHED 1972 | 340 QUAKER RIDGE ROAD NEW ROCHELLE NY 10804 | www.hudsoncountry.org | 914.636.6202 Ultimate Guide to Summer Camp 2024 | WestchesterFamily.com

23

camp Directory | Special Advertising Supplement

Bach to Rock Mamaroneck 130 Mamaroneck Avenue, Mamaroneck NY 10543 914- 341-1457 mamaroneck@bachtorock.com

Bach to Rock Scarsdale 969B Central Park Avenue, Scarsdale NY 10583 914- 721-6016 scarsdale@bachtorock.com bachtorock.com/camps Bach to Rock music camps give kids the chance to unleash their inner rock star — even if they’ve never played an instrument before! Bach to Rock offers spring, winter, and summer music camps for kids and teens, including week-long, partial-week, half-day, and day camps. Kids have a blast learning to play hit songs and performing with other campers! Their campers also get the chance to record their music in their state of the art B2R Studios!

Beth El Day Camp

Camp Awosting (boys)

1324 North Avenue, New Rochelle 914- 235-2700, ext.256 bethelnr.org Beth El Day Camp, the premiere day camp in Westchester for ages 2-8, offers a top-notch experience with sports, tennis, swim, music, art, STEM, yoga, and more. With a commitment to safety, a nurturing environment, and low child-to-staff ratios, it’s the perfect place to spend the summer.

Enjoy delicious lunches, towel service, and the expertise of besttrained professionals. Beth El ensures everything begins with love and ends in fun. Extended care available from 7:30am-6:00pm. Visit betheldaycamp. org for details and dates.

860-567-4924 Awosting.com summer@awosting.com

Camp Chinqueka (girls) 860-567-9678 Chinqueka.com summer@chinqueka.com Awosting is a 120+-year-old traditional boys’ overnight summer camp on Bantam Lake in Morris, CT. Their close-knit atmosphere allows a focus on developing Awosting’s core values of brotherhood, independence, confidence, and experience. Chinqueka is a traditional overnight camp for girls ages 7-16 in Bantam, CT. Their closeknit community puts an emphasis on kindness and self-discovery with the support of warm & experienced staff.

Chinqueka is a place “Where Girls Can Be Girls!”

Summer at the J Give your child an unforgettable summer experience at the JCCMW!

Programs are available for children from tots to teens across a variety of interests including: • Dance • Performing arts • Aquatics • Arts and crafts

• Gymnastics

• Sports

• Baking

• Nature

• STEAM

Your child will learn, explore, and grow in a community united by curiosity, discovery, creativity, friendship, and fun!

Learn more and register at:

jccmw.org/camps JCC Mid-Westchester 999 Wilmot Road, Scarsdale 914-725-7300 ext 878

24 WestchesterFamily.com | Ultimate Guide to Summer Camp 2024

2024

SUMMER CAMP

SUMMER ART CAMPS

katonahartcenter.com

one-week sessions ALL SUMMER LONG 7/1-8/30 for ages 3.5 yrs-18 yrs

Full & Half Day Camp Boys & Girls Ages 4–13 Sign up for one week, multiple weeks or all 8 weeks!

Gymnastics • Games & Events Theme Days • Color Wars Ninja Warrior Obstacle Course The Ninja obstacle course adds another layer of athleticism and fun to our camp day.

Campers will run their hardest to get up the warped wall and test their balance, strength and problem solving skills to make it through the many obstacle course options!

Their self confidence and motivation will be enhanced by the support and cheering of their instructors and fellow campers.

SPACE IS LIMITED

SATURDAY SUMMER CLASSES ALSO AVAILABLE

“We specialize in beginners.”

Boys and girls will make use of all Olympic events, such as floor, uneven bars, balance beams, and vault as well as our in ground trampoline, Tumbl-Trak®, cargo net, parallel bars, rings and rope.

At Equalize Fitness

GymCats Gymnastics & Birthday Party Center One Odell Plaza, Yonkers (Exit 9 off Saw Mill River Pkwy)

40 Radio Circle Drive • Mount Kisco, NY 10549 914.232.4843

914-965-7676 • info@gymcats.net www.GymCats.net Ultimate Guide to Summer Camp 2024 | WestchesterFamily.com

25

CAMP DIRECTORY | Special Advertising Supplement

Camp Jewell YMCA

Camp Combe Summer Day Camp 684 Peekskill Hollow Road Putnam Valley, NY ymca-cnw.org/camp-combe ssullivan@ymca-cnw.org Located on the YMCA of CNW’s beautiful 100 acres facility, YMCA Camp Combe Day Camp serves campers ages 4-14. From mini-camp, to their leadership development programs, campers have the opportunity to participate in activities such as swimming, ziplining, archery, and much more.

The camp provides campers with the opportunity to grow and explore while surrounded by a community of friends that will last a lifetime! Kids need camp now more than ever, and #There’sNoPlaceLikeCombe!

6 Prock Hill Road Colebrook, CT 06021 860-909-0563 campjewell.org camp.jewell@ghymca.org Established in 1901, Camp Jewell YMCA has built a strong reputation for providing campers with engaging activities, quality programming, and comfortable facilities. Aside from fostering an all-round enriching experience, Camp Jewell focuses on teaching their values - Caring, Honesty, Respect, and Responsibility - which are integral in all that they do. At Camp Jewell, they understand that each camper is unique. They offer 2-week programs for campers 7-16 with over 40 activities and specialty camps.

Camp Level Up 48 Pocono Springs Way, East Stroudsburg PA 18302 570-218-8166 camplevelup.com gamer@camplevelup.com Camp Level Up is a 1-week E-sports sleepaway camp for campers entering 4th through 11th grade. Located at a premiere private sleepaway camp in the Poconos (75 miles from NYC), Camp Level Up offers a hybrid program of e-sports gameplay and traditional camp programming campers will spend half of their day participating in activities related to competitive video gaming and the other half immersed in traditional camp activities including sports, adventure, arts and aquatics/lakefront.

What will be YOUR summer adventure?

An Amazing Camp Experience!

MAKE MEMORIES!

SUMMER 2024 JULY 1-AUG 22 8 WEEKS OF FUN!

WEEKLY OPTIONS AVAILABLE!

Swimming, boating, sports, music, arts, and everything else you’d come to expect from an awesome summer day camp!

Mosholu Day Camp/MMCC Located at Lake Cohasset in Harriman State Park 261 Arden Valley Road, Southfields, NY 10975

CALL 845.243.0751 VISIT mosholudaycamp.com EMAIL mosholudaycamp@gmail.com

26 WestchesterFamily.com | Ultimate Guide to Summer Camp 2024

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A classic sleepaway summer camp for girls ages 8 to 17, located on the shores of Laurel Lake in Fitzwilliam, NH.

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27

CAMP DIRECTORY | Special Advertising Supplement

Camp Southwoods

Camp Pinebrook 1000 Pinebrook Boulevard, New Rochelle, NY 10804 914-813-8700 CampPinebrook.com Allie Horn, Camp Director: allison@ camppinebrook.com A community in which children make new friends, develop life skills, and have fun in a nurturing environment infused with Jewish values (ages 3 years-6th Grade), including “On the Rise” and CITs (Counselors in Training) for up to 15 year-olds, located in Westchester. Complex with two 50’ x 30’ heated and instructional pools, bathhouse, Pinebrook Field of Dreams, multi-sport grass field and Sport Court, 70’ x 55’ Gymnasium/Basketball Court. Camp begins June 27th.

532 NY-74, Paradox NY 12858 campsouthwoods.com office@southwoods.com Camp Southwoods offers countless activities spanning athletics, arts, aquatics, and adventure. There’s something for everyone! But what happens while the kids are having fun is most important. In every choice this camp makes and everything they do, they’re crafting an environment where campers build confidence, embrace challenge, and celebrate each other for their authentic selves. Someday when they’re grown up, they’ll look back and say, “I am who I am because of camp.”

That all starts today!

OFFICIAL SCHOOL OF ALVIN AILEY AMERICAN DANCE THEATER

THE AILEY SCHOOL JUNIOR DIVISION 2024 SUMMER INTENSIVE

(ages 12-15)

Audition: February 11 Summer session: June 24-July 19 For more information and to register: AlvinAiley.org/School

The Ailey School 405 West 55th Street New York, NY 10019

The Ailey School Junior Division. Photo by Rosalie O’Connor

28 WestchesterFamily.com | Ultimate Guide to Summer Camp 2024

Cary Leeds Center for Tennis & Learning Summer Camp 1720 Crotona Avenue, Bronx NY 718-247-7420 caryleedsinfo@nyjtl.org The Cary Leeds Center for Tennis & Learning offers a full range of Summer Camp activities for junior players ages 5-18. All levels are welcome from beginners in the development level program to advanced players in the high-performance level program.

Campers spend the day keeping active on court, making new tennis friends, and having a blast! Led by a world-class team of coaches, the Cary Leeds Center is the place for you this summer.

SIGN UP FOR

“This summer ...

Summer Music Camps Ages 4–17

I’m going to learn to be strong!”

Locations in Mamaroneck & Scarsdale

Rock City

Recording Arts

(AGES 4-6)

(AGES 10+)

Rock Band

Beat Refinery®

(AGES 7+)

(AGES 10+)

Glee Club

Beat Making

(AGES 7+)

(AGES 8+)

Build Strength and Lasting Friendships at World Cup Gymnastics’

Record a Demo (AGES 7+)

bachtorock.com/locations

877-227-8558

Join us on campus

for a summer full of enrichment and FUN! We offer 1, 2 and 4 week full day programs for grades 7 -12. Our students dive into a rich environment of new skills and new friends, fostering growth and independence.

• Songwriting and Music Production • Acting and Performing • Visual Arts • Digital Photography and Photo Editing

• Auditioning • Filmmaking • Creative Writing • Journalism • Vocal Arts

Youth & Open House is Precollege Saturday, April 13 at 10 am P r og r a m s i n t h e A r t s Serious Foundation. Serious Fun.

R S V P a t p u r c h a s e .e d u / y o u t h

Continuing Education

Register now at purchase.edu/youth

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Superior Gymnas�cs Training �y �SAG Cer��ed �nstructors

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Beginner to Advanced Skills Training on All Olympic Events

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Tradi�onal Camp Ac�vi�es �ncluding �eekly Field Trips, Arts � Cra�s � Summer Games

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State-Of-The-Art, Fully AirCondi�oned, ��,��� S�uare Foot Complexx

Call 914-238-4967 or register online at

���l��������a�������� 170 Joan Corwin Way · Chappaqua · NY Ultimate Guide to Summer Camp 2024 | WestchesterFamily.com

29

CAMP DIRECTORY | Special Advertising Supplement

Clay Art Center Challenge Camp Iona University 715 North Avenue New Rochelle, NY 10801 914-779-6024 info@challengecamps.com challengecamps.com Challenge Camp is an ACA-accredited day camp at Iona University in New Rochelle, offering summer enrichment learning opportunities for creative children ages 4-15. Over 120 STEM & Arts project based electives to engage and inspire your camper. Sports and on-site swimming options enable campers to challenge their minds and bodies. Hot lunch and snack are included. Transportation, early dropoff/extended day options available.

Join them for their 44th Summer of Fun and Learning!

The Chapel School Summer Program 172 White Plains Road Bronxville NY 10708 914-337-3202 directorofsummercamps@ thechapelschool.org thechapelschool.org/summer-programs The Chapel School Summer Program has provided record numbers of children a safe and nurturing environment and flexible weekly registration for hours of fun and enriching activities including: sports, art & crafts, music & drama, cooking, coding, game design, off-site day-trip adventures and MORE! Summer 2024 Online Registration is LIVE!

30 WestchesterFamily.com | Ultimate Guide to Summer Camp 2024

40 Beech Street Port Chester, NY 10573 914-937-2047 clayartcenter.org Clay Art Center offers themed weekly summer camps for kids and teens (ages 7-15) from July 8th to August 23rd. Aspiring young campers will work with clay to create cups, bowls, sculptures, and more, developing their imaginations and learning various techniques. Ages 7-11 will focus on hand-built sculptural art, while ages 12-15 will learn wheel-throwing pottery with hand-building. Unplug and have fun with clay at their award-winning camps! Enroll March 8th-22nd for a 10% discount!

R i t N Register Now ffor Aft After School Classes & Vacation Camps for Kids 6-14

• Me & My Doll • Sewing Machine

SUMMER

• Hand Sewing • Fashion Design

2024

Sewing builds fine motor skills, creativity, patience and mindfulness.

SEASON

Students have fun and develop a skill they'll have for life!

June 17 – August 23 • Cinderella Kids • High School Musical, Jr • ERAs Camp • And more!

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Ultimate Guide to Summer Camp 2024 | WestchesterFamily.com

31

CAMP DIRECTORY | Special Advertising Supplement

Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory DNA Learning Center One Bungtown Road, Cold Spring Harbor, NY 516-367-5170 summercamps.dnalc.org Hands-On Science Summer Camps!

Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory DNA Learning Center (DNALC) provides biology-focused lab enrichment programs to students entering grades 6-12. Week-long in-person science camps are held at three locations: at the Dolan DNALC in Cold Spring Harbor, the DNALC NYC @ City Tech in Brooklyn, and the Regeneron DNALC in Sleepy Hollow. Led by experienced instructors, campers learn to use sophisticated laboratory and computer equipment to perform advanced experiments at grade levels beyond their peers. Scholarships are available!

Crestwood Music Education Center 870 Scarsdale Ave, Scarsdale 914-961-3497 info@crestwoodmusic.com Crestwoodmusic.com Located in downtown Scarsdale. For over 35 years, CMEC has offered private lessons in piano, guitar, voice, strings, woodwinds, brass, drums and percussion instruments for students of all ages and levels. This world-class faculty will be providing a premier music education experience! CMEC has one of the most comprehensive chamber music and orchestral programs in the tri-state area as well as their well-renowned Suzuki and Jazz/Rock programs.

32 WestchesterFamily.com | Ultimate Guide to Summer Camp 2024

Curtain Call Sterling Farms, 1349 Newfield Ave., Stamford, Conn.

203-329-8207 curtaincallinc.com/summer-programs brian@curtaincallinc.com Summer’s a time to act out - and what better way than in Summerstock Workshops? Curtain Call’s Summerstock Workshops for Grades K-12 are full-day programs that focus on acting, improv, singing, dance/ movement, and (for grades 6-12) play/sketch writing. Students rotate in age-appropriate groups between specialized instructors. Sessions run two weeks (June 24 thru August 16, 2024), and culminate in a showcase of student work. No experience is required. Sibling discounts, scholarships, and payment plans available.

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SUMMER ARTS PROGRAM

PRESCHOOL - GRADE 7 DISCOVER THE 47-ACRE FOREST THROUGH A VARIETY OF WEEKLY THEMES

FIVE WEEK PROGRAM FOR STUDENTS ENTERING GRADES 1-9

JULY 1 - AUGUST 2

PADDLE ADVENTURE ����������������

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ENROLLING NOW!

Early-bird discounts available through April 3 SCAN �������� FOR MORE ��������� INFO

Hoff-Barthelson Music School is the ideal setting for a stimulating, challenging, and fun-filled summer of creative exploration.

Our Summer Arts Program offers rich, individually tailored experiences in music, movement, and visual art.

www.hbms.org

REGISTER ���������������������

BY THE WEEK!

914-723-1169 | Scarsdale

���������������� NOW REGISTERING ������� ONLINE! ryenaturecenter.org • 914-967-5150 • 873 Boston Post Road, Rye

Kiwi Country Day Camp •

825 Union Valley Road, Carmel, NY 10512

Summer Camp 2024 June 27th- August 16th

Ages 3-15

Visit our website b it or call ll to t schedule h d l your tour t today!

KiwiCountryDayCamp.com • (914) 276-2267 • info@kiwicountrydaycamp.com Ultimate Guide to Summer Camp 2024 | WestchesterFamily.com

33

CAMP DIRECTORY | Special Advertising Supplement

Dance Cavise Studios 273 Halstead Ave., Mamaroneck 914-381-5222 dancecavise.com Described in the New York Times as “setting higher standards in dance education, the Dance Cavise Summer Programs are no exception. Broadway veteran Joe Cavise heads the staff of NYC and local professionals. Dance programs for 5 - 18yrs - Beginner, Intermediate and Advanced Intensive levels. (Advanced by audition only) Classes include Ballet, Jazz, Hip Hop, and Modern. 2 Day Preschool Program Available! July 1 – August 2. Weekly options available. Special opportunity for season ending production of Cinderella Junior.

Fairview Lake YMCA Camp

Dorothy P Flint 4-H Camp 3186 Sound Ave Riverhead NY 11901 516-832-2591 ccenassau.org/dpf-4-h-camp DPF4hCamp@cornell.edu Celebrating a century of moments at Dorothy P. Flint 4-H Camp! The 140acre co-ed overnight and day camp, along Long Island Sound in Riverhead, NY, welcomes campers aged 5-16.

DPF 4-H Camp is committed to providing a nurturing environment for youth to thrive. Join them for their 100th-year milestone, they teach 4-H educational programs like Archery, Nature & Ecology, OutdoorLiving & Cooking, Farm & Agriculture, Sport & Recreation, Performing Arts, and Visual Arts & Crafts.

1035 Fairview Lake Road, Newton, NJ 973-383-9282 fairviewlakeymca.org Two Great Camps. One Great Summer!

Fairview Lake YMCA Camps offers traditional, specialty, ranch, adventure, and leadership programs that will help children learn, grow and thrive. Kicked off in 2022, Lake in the Woods YMCA Camps is a 5-day-a-week sleepaway camp, where kids are home on the weekend. Located in Northwest NJ, the main campus of Fairview Lake is a beautiful private 660-acre camp.

Lake in the Woods is located just a few minutes away at the state-of-the-art Blair Academy Campus. Whichever program campers go to, they are in for an unforgettable summer!

SUMMER

2 24

Discover an individualized approach to summer programming at Winston Prep! Our individualized day program enhances academic skills, builds confidence, and fosters independence for students with learning differences.

For our Connecticut campus, contact ctsummerprogram@winstonprep.edu Scan the QR code to learn more about our CT Campus

34 WestchesterFamily.com | Ultimate Guide to Summer Camp 2024

Summer Dance Program

Dance Cavise

5 Week Programs

273 Halstead Avenue Mamaroneck, NY 10543

Weekly Dancers Welcome

914-381-5222 www.dancecavise.com

Pre-K, Children’s, and Intensive Programs

www.clayartcenter.org

award winner 2017 inspectors choice! celebrating 50 Years!

Primary (Grades K-3) All Sports (Grades 1-9) Choice (Grades 4-9) Offering Stimulating Courses Like: • Swimming • Robotics • Project Runway • Digital Photography • International Cooking • Baseball • Soccer • Grand Prix Racers • & Much More!

Maria regina hs, hartsdale

Transportation & Extended Day • Hot Lunch included

SquirecampS.com • 914-328-3798 Ultimate Guide to Summer Camp 2024 | WestchesterFamily.com

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CAMP DIRECTORY | Special Advertising Supplement

Fiddleheads Cooking Studio 646-853-6046 camps@fiddleheadscookingstudio.com fiddleheadscookingstudio.com Enjoy a flavorful adventure with Fiddleheads, whose mission is to create a fun and educational environment that promotes food exploration and teaches children where food comes from using seasonal ingredients. This summer, Fiddleheads is offering hands-on cooking classes connected with fun weekly themes, garden education, crafts - and children will receive their very own apron. It’s not just about food – it’s about empowering children in the kitchen! Register online now.

Fleur de Lis Camp 120 Howeville Rd Fitzwilliam, NH 03447 603-585-7751 fleurdeliscamp.org For the best summer ever come to Fleur de Lis - a girl’s overnight camp filled with great fun, activities, and adventures in beautiful southwestern NH. With only 100 girls everyone gets to know each other and make friends of all ages. It’s a place of joy, belonging, friendship, and laughter where campers can be their true selves. Campers come for the summer and leave with a new second home, forever friends, and life-long memories.

Friends of Rye Nature Center 873 Boston Post Road, Rye, NY 10580 914-967-5150 ryenaturecenter.org admin@ryenaturecenter.org Friends of Rye Nature Center’s camps provide adventure, exploration, and a connection to nature. Day Camp (grades prek-7): Offers weekly themes with a variety of fun, daily activities like science experiments, animal time, games, and more. Paddle Adventure Camp (grades 8-10): This all-levels program builds kayaking skills, confidence, and an appreciation for the Hudson Valley. Equipment included.

June Bugs (prek-kindergarten): Start your summer camp season with a morning or afternoon in June!

ACT OUT THIS SUMMER!

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36 WestchesterFamily.com | Ultimate Guide to Summer Camp 2024

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Greenburgh Nature Center Green Chimneys Summer Camps 400 Doansburg Road, Brewster, NY 33 Clearpool Road, Carmel, NY 845-225-8226 greenchimneys.org/camps Classic camp traditions blend with dynamic outdor experiences to create exciting and enriching summers, and memories to last a lifetime. Clearpool in Carmel boasts miles of open green space and forest trails, plus a 30foot waterfront and boat launch on a natural lake. Hillside in Brewster features unique farm and wildlife activities with 300+ animals, canoeing on the Great Swamp, and an indoor pool. Caring, experienced staff from across the globe help kids bond and discover great new talents.

99 Dromore Road, Scarsdale 914-723-3470 greenburghnaturecenter.org Send your child on an outdoor adventure this year! The Greenburgh Nature Center provides seasonal camps for your child to connect with the natural world by encouraging the spirit of discovery. Camp activities include immersive interactions with 100+ animals, trails, crafts, games, and more. If you want your child to spend more time outdoors, this is your chance. Registration for winter, spring, and summer break camps is on our website today.

GymCats Gymnastics At Equalize Fitness 1 Odell Plaza, Yonkers 914-965-7676 gymcats.net Their summer camp offers quality instruction for beginners through advanced gymnastics in a fully air conditioned facility that teaches gymnastics all year long! They offer individualized instruction, all campers are grouped by age, and no experience is necessary; they specialize in teaching beginners! You can choose half day or full day and sign up for one week, multiple weeks or all 8 weeks.

Spots fill up quickly- register online now!

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Ultimate Guide to Summer Camp 2024 | WestchesterFamily.com

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CAMP DIRECTORY | Special Advertising Supplement

Hoff-Barthelson Music School Harvey Summer Camp 260 Jay Street Katonah, NY 10536 harveycamp.org summercamp@herveyschool.org 914-232-0581 The Harvey School offers a variety of different camps, allowing your children to choose from a multitude of programs all on one campus. At Day Camp, children in grades 2-8 will participate in the arts, sports, science, music, and theater as well as games and camp-wide events. This wide variety of offerings allows campers to explore different interests while introducing them to new activities. They also offer programs for rising first graders as well as a special ninth-grade program. In addition, campers in grades 5-8 can also choose to take a more in-depth approach by attending Art Camp or Sports Camp.

July 1 through August 9, 2024, Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

They are closed on July 4 & 5.

25 School Lane, Scarsdale 914-723-1169 hbms.org summerarts@hbms.org 914-723-1169 Hoff-Barthelson is the ideal setting for a stimulating, challenging, and fun-filled summer of creative exploration. Their Summer Arts Program (July 1-August 2) offers rich, individually tailored experiences in music, movement, and visual art for students in grades 1-9. Participants benefit from expert instruction; a nurturing environment; learning and practicing with peers; exploring new instruments and art forms; growing their understanding of music theory; developing performance skills; and forming lasting friendships. Early-bird discounts through April 3.

38 WestchesterFamily.com | Ultimate Guide to Summer Camp 2024

Hudson Country Montessori Summer Camp 340 Quaker Ridge Road New Rochelle, NY 10804 914-636-6202 info@hudsoncountry.org hudsoncountry.org Hudson Country’s camp is an eightweek program (June 24 -August 16) for ages 18 months – 12 years.

With themed weekly schedules, campers engage in indoor/outdoor activities while learning and having fun. Activities include daily swim instruction (on-premise pool), sports, hands-on science, technology, art, field trips, music, dance and more. Flexible scheduling, full & half-day sessions and extended hours 7:30am-6:00pm available.

JCC Mid-Westchester Independent Lake Camp 70 Clark Rd., Thompson PA 800-399-2267 or 570-727-4160 independentlake.com Independent Lake Camp is a premier, elective-based overnight camp for ages 6-17 in the Pocono Mountains. ILC has been making a difference in kids’ lives for over 30 years - supporting respect and creativity in a nurturing and inspiring environment. Each camper chooses their activities from an impressive selection including Circus, Sports, Fine & Digital Arts, Music / Recording Studio, Theatre, Dance, Magic, Skatepark, RPG, High Ropes, Lake, Pool, Horseback, & Nature. Let’s Engage, Connect, & Grow!

999 Wilmot Road Scarsdale, NY 10583 914-725-7300 jccmw.org symonsb@jccmw.org JCC Mid-Westchester offers summer camp programs for children ages two and older across a variety of interests including gymnastics, dance, arts &amp; crafts, STEAM, and performing arts. With a dedicated team of experienced staff and instructors, the JCC is committed to fostering the growth and learning of each camper in a safe, supportive, and fun environment. Weekly and daily options are available to fit all schedules. Make this summer truly memorable by choosing the JCCMW!

J Sports Academy The Masters School: 49 Clinton Avenue, Dobbs Ferry, NY 10522 914-847-9014 jsportsacademy.org info@shamesjcc.org Elevate your game! J Sports Academy offers campers ages 8-14 expert coaching in basketball, soccer, and tennis, as well as recreational swim and other camp activities—all in the worldclass facilities at The Masters School.

Experienced coaches ensure athletes of all levels improve their skills while making friends and having fun! Flexible scheduling and transportation options make J Sports Academy the perfect choice for parents, too. Register now to secure your spot!

Spring Classes & Shows Summer Theatre Camps playgroup.org (914) 946-4433 Ultimate Guide to Summer Camp 2024 | WestchesterFamily.com

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CAMP DIRECTORY | Special Advertising Supplement

Mamaroneck Beach + Yacht Club Kiwi Country Day Camp KAC Kisco Art Center 40 Radio Circle, Mt. Kisco 914-232-4843 kackisco.com Art & Imagination Camps (ages 3.5-5) geared towards the creative spirit of the young child. Kids Camp (grades 1-5) small groups enable students to receive individual attention in a familylike atmosphere. Teen Camp (grades 6+) each session will focus intensively on a topic, building the skills needed to explore the subject independently.

After-school and weekend classes are also available!

825 Union Valley Road Carmel, New York 10512 914-276-2267 kiwicountrydaycamp.com info@kiwicountrydaycamp.com Since 1952, Kiwi Country Day Camp has provided campers with an authentic traditional camp experience.

Their formula for success blends a magnificent facility with a dynamic and creative curriculum, offered by a highly spirited and interactive staff. The KCDC core program offers campers a variety of sports, adventure, performing/creative arts and daily instructional swim led by professional educators. Call and schedule your tour today! (914) 276-2267.

555 S Barry Avenue Mamaroneck, New York 10543.

914-698-1130 mbyc-ny.com Mamaroneck Beach & Yacht Club is a private membership club with unparalleled service. A world where relaxed elegance meets a new world luxury lifestyle; a place where you and your family will create cherished summer memories. Exceptional service, attention to detail, the warmth of their staff and unmistakable style will make MBYC a recognized icon and a beloved destination by its members.

GREENBURGH NATURE CENTER

SEASONAL CAMPS FEBRUARY 19TH- FEBRUARY 23RD MARCH 25TH- MARCH 29TH APRIL 22ND – APRIL 26TH JUNE 24TH – AUGUST 30TH

GAMES

(914) 8 238-0388

2024

HIKING

Come H Have Fun!

Monday - Friday 9:30 - 2:30 6 weeks: June 24 - August 2 3 week: June 24 - July 12 and July 14 - August 2

CRAFTS

$ආൺൽൾඎඌ &ඈඇඌൾඋඏൺඍඈඋඒ ඈൿ 0ඎඌංർ ๟ 7ඁൾൺඍൾඋ

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9:30 AM - 2:00 PM

FOR MORE INFORMATION AND TO REGISTER, PLEASE VISIT GREENBURGHNATURECENTER.ORG OR CALL (914) 723-3470

40 WestchesterFamily.com | Ultimate Guide to Summer Camp 2024

Mini Camp at Purchase Day Camp 3095 Purchase Street, Purchase 914-949-2636 PurchaseDayCamp.com Get your preschooler off to an early start this summer at Purchase Day Camp Mini Camp! Designed especially for our youngest campers, Mini Camp is for 3’s, 4’s and children entering kindergarten, during the first 3 weeks of June. With flexible enrollment; register for 1, 2, or all 3 weeks.

Discounts are available for enrolled Purchase Day Camp families. Campers will enjoy swimming, sports, science, art, cooking, Friday pizza lunches and more. Come join the fun!

Music Conservatory of Westchester Mosholu Day Camp 261 Arden Valley Road Southfields, NY 10975 845-243-0751 mmcc.org/camp For 80 years, Mosholu Day Camp has been providing affordable quality camping to children ages 5-15 from all over the area. Sitting on beautiful Lake Cohasset at Harriman State Park, we offer children a place to develop, experience, and enjoy nature, while taking part in unforgettable summer activities like swimming, boating, sports, music, arts, and everything else you’d come to expect from an awesome summer day camp! Buses with A/C, full 8-week summer, multiweek options.

216 Central Ave., White Plains 914-761-3900 SummeratMCW.org Summer Is Heating Up at the Music Conservatory of Westchester!

These Summer Music Programs are for kids of all ages, from preschool through high school. Music & Arts: Grades K-6, Suzuki Beginner Special: Ages 4-7, Suzuki Festival: Grades 3-9, Concert Band Program, Grades 5-7, Summer Orchestra Festival: Grades 5-12, Music Production: Grades 7-12, Jazz Workshop: Grades 8-12, & Vocal Performance Workshop Grades 9-12!

There’s something for everyone and registration is open, don’t wait!

YOUTH ARTS TECHNOLOGY PROGRAM AT SUNY WESTCHESTER PEEKSKILL SUMMER SESSION I: JULY 8 – JULY 18 SUMMER SESSION II: JULY 22 – AUGUST 1 AGES 7–17

REGISTER NOW!

914-606-7300 or peekskill@sunywcc.edu

sunywcc.edu/peekskill

Ultimate Guide to Summer Camp 2024 | WestchesterFamily.com

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CAMP DIRECTORY | Special Advertising Supplement

Oliverian School Summer Program Oasis Day Camp Dobbs Ferry Oasischildren.com Oasis in Dobbs Ferry is an affordable premier Westchester day camp located on the beautiful Mercy College campus overlooking the Hudson.

Children, ages 3 to 16, are invited to take part in activities centered around sports, the arts, nature, daily instructional and recreational swimming, and most importantly, social emotional growth. Offering a variety of camp experiences, Oasis in Dobbs Ferry has something for everyone! The traditional summer camp program includes children grades K-6, Teen Travel & Jr. Teen Travel programs, as well as an ESIC (Early Start Imagination Camp) for the newest campers, ages 3-5. Oasis in Dobbs Ferry is a place to experience amazing summers & make lifelong friends!

28 Becket Drive, Pike, NH 03780 888-922-5565 oliverianschool.org/summer-at-oliverian admissions@oliverianschool.org With a blend of adventure, experiential learning, and fun, Oliverian Summer provides a supportive and challenging educational experience for youth in grades 9-12 who may have struggled in more traditional school settings.

Nestled on the outskirts of New Hampshire’s White Mountains, students will earn academic credit and build transformative relationships cemented by the joys of shared experiences in beautiful, wild places, and be empowered to tackle challenges, learn, and grow, no matter where they go.

Play Group Theatre Summer Camps One N. Broadway, White Plains, NY 914-946-4433 playgroup.org Get IN on the ACT this summer with The Play Group Theatre’s inspirational and innovative Performing Arts Camps! With programs in Musical Theatre, On Camera, Improv, Sketch Comedy, Shakespeare, Stage Combat, Design/Tech and more, there is something for everyone at Camp PGT! The Play Group Theatre offers the best in educational theatre yearround. Limited spots available for all 2024 summer theatre camps for ages 4-17 at Camp PGT. Visit playgroup. org/summer to find the perfect PGT program for your young artist today.

Family Owned & Operated since 1973

Experienced Counselors Serving children 2 months–14 years of age Licensed by the Health Department

Age appropriate activities including: tween trips, bowling, swimming, golf, drama, sports, water slide, zip-line, climbing wall, arts & crafts, computers, air castle and more!

Call for a Tour and Appointment!

914-592-3027

2170 Saw Mill River Road, Elmsford, NY www.annandandychildcare.com/summer-camp

42 WestchesterFamily.com | Ultimate Guide to Summer Camp 2024

BEST REGISTER ryeycamp.org

SUMMER

EVER!

RYE Y CAMPS Ages 2-14 Kinder, Discovery, STEAM, Sports Adventure & Gymnastics Camps

Purchase Day Camp

Pocono Springs Camp 48 Pocono Springs Way, East Stroudsburg PA 18302 poconospringscamp.com summer@poconospringscamp.com Located in the Pocono Mountains, Pocono Springs offers a unique concept in the world of sleepaway camps: a traditional co-ed camp experience in a 5-week program.

Their five-week program allows families to provide their children with a full-season summer camp experience while also having the flexibility for family travel, specialty camps, and other summer fun outside of camp. Additionally, they’re not a session camp, so campers start and end together. A three-week “intro program” is available for 1st year campers entering grades 2nd-5th.

3095 Purchase Street, Purchase 914-949-2636 PurchaseDayCamp.com Purchase Day Camp, the premiere Westchester summer day camp, offers a wide variety of broad-based programming with flexible enrollment for ages 3-15. Heated pools and towel service for free swim and instructional swim following the American Red Cross Learn to Swim Program. Weekly Special Events and weekly trips for campers 6th grade and up. Bus transportation options for surrounding towns and lunch programs available.

Come see why so many say, ‘I Just Love It Here!’

The Rock Club and New Rochelle Racquet Club at Pine Brook Fitness 130 Rhodes St. New Rochelle, NY 10801 914-636-1019 info@pinebrookfitness.com pinebrookfitness.com Rock climbing and tennis summer camp provides both new and experienced campers the ability to learn and excel in a fun, supportive, and encouraging environment. Spend the day, week or the whole summer climbing, playing tennis, or both. All ages and skill levels welcomed!

jsportsacademy.org Ultimate Guide to Summer Camp 2024 | WestchesterFamily.com

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CAMP DIRECTORY | Special Advertising Supplement

Rye YMCA Camps RDC at Iona-Bronxville 171 White Plains Road, Bronxville, NY 10708 914-337-2087 RushDayCamp.com info@RushDayCamp.com Rush Day Camp provides a nurturing environment stimulating growth through individual initiative, group challenges, sportsmanship, and fun.

Camper’s ideas and passion come to life through hands-on discovery.

Daily camp activities include STEAM, robotics, art, Makerspace, instructional swimming, sports and games. Since 1971, Rush Day Camp’s robust daily schedule of activities engages campers in a social setting promoting kids being kids. 8 weeks starting June 24th, 2024 - Monday thru Friday 7 AM to 6 PM.

The Rye Arts Center 51 Milton Road. Rye, NY 10580 914-967-0700 ryeartscenter.org info@ryeartscenter.org This summer, The Rye Arts Center invites families to delve into enriching art adventures! Expert instructors guide young minds through painting, sculpture, musical theater, and STEAM weeks, fostering creative skill-building in an ever-supportive community. A season filled with inspiration awaits as children unfold their unique artistic journeys. Join The Rye Arts Center for a summer where creativity takes center stage, crafting indelible memories on the canvas of each child’s imagination.

914-967-6363 ryeycamp.org camp@ryeymca.org Camps for ages 2-14 include: Kinder, Mamaroneck Kinder, Discovery, STEAM, Sports, Gymnastics and Leaders in Training. Rye Y Camps are ACA accredited and led by a team of full-time professional directors. Their dedicated summer staff are selected for their strong character, maturity, enthusiasm and commitment to Y values and serve as Professional Role Models for their campers. (1:5 camper ratios for their youngest groups and up to 1:10 for our oldest campers) Extended care available. The camp adheres to safety guidelines to keep your children safe. Learn more and register at www.ryeycamp.org.

DNA LEARNING CENTER

SCIENCE

GET HANDS-ON WITH SCIENCE THIS SUMMER!

CS

S

44 WestchesterFamily.com | Ultimate Guide to Summer Camp 2024

I

REGISTER TODAY | SUMMERATMCW.ORG

D ATA S C

GRADES 8-12

ORCHESTRA FESTIVAL- HIGH SCHOOL VOCAL PERFORMANCE WORKSHOP MUSIC PRODUCTION WORKSHOP JAZZ WORKSHOP

Y

GRADES 5-7

ORCHESTRA FESTIVAL- MIDDLE SCHOOL CONCERT BAND FESTIVAL

CO

GRADES K-6

MUSIC & ARTS

BIO

SUZUKI FESTIVAL

D • Entering grades 6–12 • Westchester, Brooklyn, & Long Island DI NG • Week-long day camps CHNOLOG TE • Authentic lab experiences • Real-world applications I • Dynamic instructors FORENS • Knowledge and skills GENET EN IC CE for the classroom TICS MA R and beyond!

ENROLL TODAY! SCAN FOR WEBSITE SCAN ME!

BIOINFO

SUZUKI BEGINNER SPECIAL

GRADES 3-9

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PRE-K-GRADE 3

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CAMPS

On the web:

summercamps.dnalc.org

Soccer Stars Summer Camps

Sew Happy 154 East Boston Post Road, Mamaroneck, NY 10543 917-885-7716 info@sewhappyusa.net sewhappyusa.net Since 2011, Sew Happy has been delivering programs that give kids the best sewing foundation possible.

Sewing builds fine motor skills, creativity, patience, and mindfulness.

Students have fun and develop a skill they’ll have for life! Hand sewing, machine sewing, fashion design… a wide range of great half-day and fullday options are available for boys & girls ages 6-14 with early drop-off and extended day options. Camps start July 1st and run through the end of August.

606 Columbus Ave, New York, NY 10024 212-877-7171 soccerstars.com info@soccerstars.com Soccer Stars is the largest youth soccer provider in New York State.

When school is out, soccer is in!

Have fun in the sun with our soccer FUNdamentals camp! With the 2024 Copa America as our backdrop, we’ll learn, practice and play, while exploring the history, culture, and play styles of countries around the world! Camps are running all summerlong, from 6/24 to 8/30, ages 3-8 at Loughlin Avenue Park in Cos Cob!

SPORTIME Harbor Island E. Boston Post Road, Mamaroneck 914-777-5050 sportimeny.com/summercamps/hi

SPORTIME Lake Isle 660 White Plains Road Eastchester 914-777-5151 sportimeny.com/summercamps/lisle Say “hello” to summer fun! AT SPORTIME, camp is the perfect place to make friends, play tennis and spend the day improving your skills in a safe and fun environment while building respect and sportsmanship by providing positive interaction, at two great Westchester locations. The John McEnroe Tennis Academy Summer Training Camp at SPORTIME Lake Isle focuses on serious tennis, serious fitness and serious fun! Visit us online to find out more.

SUMMER CAMPS

WHEN SCHOOL IS OUT, SOCCER IS IN! JUNE 24 - AUGUST 30 HALF & FULL DAY CAMPS ACROSS CT & NY!

WESTCHESTER /CONNETICUT Loughlin Ave Park (Cos Cob)

S AGE + 0 3-1 BEGINS [MONTH] 2024!

212-877-7171 SOCCERSTARS.COM

SAVE $35

PROMO CODE: NYFSUMWES

REGISTER TODAY!

FIND A CAMP NEAR YOU!

Ultimate Guide to Summer Camp 2024 | WestchesterFamily.com

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CAMP DIRECTORY | Special Advertising Supplement

CENTER FOR THE DIGITAL ARTS SUNY Westchester SUNY, Purchase College Squire Camps Maria Regina School, Hartsdale 914-328-3798 squirecamps.com “Celebrating 51 Years!” A camp for the child who wants it all. Winner of the Westchester County Inspector’s Choice Award! Campers customize their own schedule from over 50 different activities including photography, cooking, swimming, arts, robotics, sports and more. Campers may attend four, three or seven weeks.

Hot lunch included. Transportation, extended day, and early drop off available. Activities are taught by certified teachers in air conditioned classrooms on a beautiful private centrally located campus.

914-251-6500 purchase.edu/youth youth.pre.college@purchase.edu The Purchase College Summer Youth & Pre College Programs in the Arts are more than camps! Immersed in a variety of exciting and enriching learning activities, 7th through 12th graders gain new skills and meet friends with similar interests.

Explore acting, art, creative writing, filmmaking, photography, vocals, songwriting and music production!

Session 1 starts July 1st. Early Registration Discount Deadline: Friday, May 3 Open House: Saturday, April 13, 2024, | Meet the instructors and tour the college!

Center for the Digital Arts 27 North Division Street Peekskill, NY peekskill@sunywcc.edu 914-606-7300 sunywcc.edu/youth The Youth Arts Technology Program at the SUNY Center for the Digital Arts is a STEAM program focused on engaging youth in arts technology integration that will prepare students for advanced study and work in the 21st century. STEM jobs are projected to grow 10.8% by 2032 and earn a median annual wage of $97,980.

STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics) focuses on the hybridization of art and science and develops critical creative thinking. These courses are designed to encourage self-expression, collaboration, and innovation. Students will combine manual and digital skills to realize a take-away portfolio project.

PURCHASE DAY CAMP JUNE 27TH - AUGUST 22ND

AYA TAJIMI BALLET STUDIO

Learn Ballet This Summer!

We will hold Ballet & Hip-Hop classes!

Dates: July & August 2024 Ages: 3 years old and up

!

DANCERS OF ALL LEVELS ARE WELCOME♪ Space is limited, so sign up today!

32 Garth Rd 1st Fl, Scarsdale, NY 10583

0583

act@enyb.org

FLEXIBLE OPTIONS: CHOOSE ANY 3 WEEKS OR MORE! WEEKLY SPECIAL EVENTS WEEKLY TRIPS FOR 6TH GRADE & UP! SWIMMING, SPORTS, CRAFTS, COOKING & MORE!

Website: www.enyb.org Email: contact@enyb.org

COME SEE WHY SO MANY JUST LOVE IT HERE! PURCHASEDAYCAMP.COM (914) 949-2636

46 WestchesterFamily.com | Ultimate Guide to Summer Camp 2024

ArcStages.org | 914-747-6206

We Cam LOVE pC omb e

is now part of

YMCA CAMP COMBE SUMMER DAY CAMP REGISTRATION IS NOW OPEN! ymca-cnw.org

Mommybites.com provides expertly curated resources for all parents in the New York area, including our most popular feature — our mom-generated nanny board — the best online source for parents to find vetted (by other parents), experienced nannies and childcare providers who want to work in New York City, Westchester, Long Island and Northern New Jersey.

Visit Mommybites.com; we can’t wait to see you there!

Big Camp - Traditional camp for ages 4 - 13 Leader In Training - Designed to develop leadership skills for teens at camp.

Counselor In Training - The challenging & rewarding introduction to the world of camp counseling.

Ultimate Guide to Summer Camp 2024 | WestchesterFamily.com

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CAMP DIRECTORY | Special Advertising Supplement

WCS Education Summer Camp 2300 Southern Blvd, Bronx, NY 10460 1-800-433-4194 wcs.education/camps bzeducation@wcs.org Explore nature, learn about the planet and get close to animals—all in New York City! Wildlife Conservation Society summer camps are for every young adventurer, from toddlers to teens. Recognized as industry leaders, the WCS Education Department was the first of its kind to offer zoo camps and continues to provide awardwinning programming. Find WCS Education summer camps at the Bronx Zoo, Central Park Zoo, Queens Zoo and New York Aquarium!

Winston Prep Connecticut Summer Program

World Cup Gymnastics Summer Camp

57 West Rocks Road Norwalk, CT 06851 203-229-0465 ctsummerprogram@winstonprep.edu winstonprep.edu/our-campuses/ connecticut/summer-program Winston Preparatory School Connecticut, located in Norwalk, is gearing up for its 2024 Summer Program! Using the school’s researchbased education model, Winston Prep’s Summer Program offers a highly individualized learning environment for students grades 4-12 with learning differences, including dyslexia, executive functioning difficulties (ADHD), and nonverbal learning disorder (NVLD). This comprehensive day program will help your child enhance academic skills, build confidence, and foster independence.

For the Connecticut campus, contact ctsummerprogram@winstonprep.edu.

170 Joan Corwin Way, Chappaqua 914-238-4967 worldcupgymnastics.com This fun summer camp for youths ages 5 to 12 combines superior gymnastics training with a traditional camp experience ensuring each camper has the best summer. Their state-of-theart complex allows room to engage in tons of recreational activities and gymnastics. Each week there are exciting themed activities involving arts & crafts, cooking, skills training and more. World Cup provides a safe, nurturing environment where campers can be active, build strength, learn new skills, laugh, play, make new friends and build summer memories that last a lifetime.

Partner with Us

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Collaborate with the New York Family Media team to spread the word about your launches, promotions and news. Reach us by emailing info@newyorkfamily.com or calling 718.260.4554

48 WestchesterFamily.com | Ultimate Guide to Summer Camp 2024

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49

Sun Care: Keep Your Camper Shielded

BY KAITLYN RIGGIO

S

ummer’s finally here! Nothing says summer like fun in the sun, and many campers will be hanging outside where suncare is essential.

Luckily, there are steps and tips you can share with your child on how to stay as sun safe as possible.

Here are some tips from the National Weather Service, FDA, and CDC for staying safe from those rays this summer!

Read Up on the UV Index Forecast While checking the weather forecast before your day out, also peek at the UV index forecast. The UV index gives you an idea of the risk of overexposure to UV radiation and can help you figure out how much protection you need from the sun.

A score of zero to five means there’s a low risk of damage when exposed to the sun,

and a score of six or higher indicates damage can occur quickly.

Don’t Skimp on Sunscreen Sunscreen is an important part of staying safe in the daylight. Even on cloudy days, be sure to apply sunscreen before heading outside. When picking a sunscreen, look for a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. Reapply sunscreen frequently every two hours or more if you’re swimming or sweating.

And don’t forget to apply sunscreen to the top of your head if you don’t have a lot of hair!

Add Extra Layers of Protection Sunscreen isn’t always enough to protect yourself from the sun. Cover exposed skin with extra layers like long-sleeve shirts, pants, and broadbrim hats if you want additional protection.

And don’t forget your eyes– throw on a pair of sunglasses to protect your eyes from sun damage.

50 WestchesterFamily.com | Ultimate Guide to Summer Camp 2024

Seek Out Some Shade Work some shade breaks into your day outside. Grab a spot under a large tree or other shaded structure. Or, if you’re going somewhere that might not have shade, bring along your own! A large umbrella is the perfect way to provide shade for you and your family.

And if you can, limit your time in the sun between 10 am and 2 pm when the sun’s rays are most intense.

Know the Risk Factors For UV Radiation Damage Regardless of skin tone, anyone is at risk for sunburn and other harmful effects of UV radiation. But certain groups of people are at an increased risk.

If you have pale skin, blonde or red hair, have been treated for skin cancer, or a family member who had skin cancer, take extra care when going into the sun.

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