Hi there, it’s Emily! With summer just around the corner (or at least on every parent’s planning radar), it’s time to start thinking about how to keep the kiddos entertained, engaged, and maybe even learning a thing or two. Whether you’ve got a budding scientist, a little artist, or a future linguist, there are camps and programs out there that mix fun with education in all the best ways.
Here’s my curated list of the top summer camps and educational programs for 2025 that will help your kids grow, explore, and have the summer of their lives.
1. STEM Camps
Why It’s Awesome: Perfect for kids who love building, experimenting, and asking “why” a million times a day. STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) camps focus on hands-on learning and problem-solving.
- Examples:
- iD Tech Camps: From coding to robotics, these camps are perfect for tech-savvy kids.
- Learn more: iD Tech Camps
- Mad Science Camps: Fun experiments and activities for younger kids.
- Learn more: Mad Science Camps
- iD Tech Camps: From coding to robotics, these camps are perfect for tech-savvy kids.
- Who It’s For: Ages 6–17.
2. Art and Creativity Camps
Why It’s Awesome: Let your little Picasso explore painting, drawing, or even digital design. Creative camps are great for kids who thrive on self-expression.
- Examples:
- Camp Invention: Combines creativity with STEM for a unique experience.
- Learn more: Camp Invention
- Young Rembrandts Art Camps: Focuses on teaching kids to draw step by step.
- Learn more: Young Rembrandts
- Camp Invention: Combines creativity with STEM for a unique experience.
- Who It’s For: Ages 5–15.
3. Outdoor Adventure Camps
Why It’s Awesome: Perfect for energetic kids who need to burn off some steam while exploring the great outdoors. These camps teach teamwork, resilience, and environmental awareness.
- Examples:
- YMCA Summer Camps: A classic choice with options for outdoor activities, sports, and arts.
- Learn more: YMCA Camps
- Camp Wilderness: For kids who want to learn survival skills and explore nature.
- Learn more: Camp Wilderness
- YMCA Summer Camps: A classic choice with options for outdoor activities, sports, and arts.
- Who It’s For: Ages 7–16.
4. Language Learning Camps
Why It’s Awesome: Language camps immerse kids in a new language through games, songs, and cultural activities. These camps are perfect for families raising bilingual kids or looking to introduce a second language.
- Examples:
- Concordia Language Villages: Offers immersion in multiple languages, from Spanish to Mandarin.
- Learn more: Concordia Language Villages
- Studycat Summer Language Program: Fun, interactive language learning for younger kids.
- Learn more: Studycat
- Concordia Language Villages: Offers immersion in multiple languages, from Spanish to Mandarin.
- Who It’s For: Ages 4–18.
5. Performing Arts Camps
Why It’s Awesome: Perfect for kids who love to sing, dance, act, or perform. Performing arts camps help build confidence and creativity.
- Examples:
- Broadway Bound Kids: A theater-focused camp for aspiring actors.
- Learn more: Broadway Bound Kids
- School of Rock Summer Camps: For kids who want to learn to play an instrument or join a band.
- Learn more: School of Rock
- Broadway Bound Kids: A theater-focused camp for aspiring actors.
- Who It’s For: Ages 8–17.
6. Academic Enrichment Camps
Why It’s Awesome: These camps are for kids who love to learn and want to get ahead in school. From math to history, they offer a mix of learning and fun.
- Examples:
- Who It’s For: Ages 6–18.
Tips for Choosing the Right Camp
- Know Your Child’s Interests: Are they more into art or science? Do they love group activities or prefer working solo?
- Check Reviews: Sites like Care.com and Common Sense Media often have parent reviews.
- Set a Budget: Camps can vary widely in price, so find one that fits your budget.
- Ask About Safety Measures: Especially with outdoor camps, check what protocols are in place.
A Personal Note
Last summer, I signed my niece up for a STEM camp where she built her first robot (she named it Sparky). Meanwhile, her little brother had the time of his life at an outdoor camp, hiking trails and learning to roast marshmallows. Camps aren’t just about keeping kids busy—they’re about helping them discover new passions and grow in ways you might not expect.
What camps are you considering for your little ones this summer? Let me know—I’d love to hear about them!
Love,
Emily
Resources to Explore
- American Camp Association – Comprehensive directory of accredited camps across the U.S.
- Summer Camps for Kids – Find camps by interest, location, and age group.
- Common Sense Media: Best Educational Camps – Reviews and tips for choosing camps.
