If you’re like most parents, you’re probably wondering how to keep your child active — and actively learning — throughout the summer months. Luckily, many summer camps in the Dallas area offer late registration. Even if you haven’t yet found the perfect solution, you still have plenty of options to choose from. Whether your child’s interests encompass sports, science, art or outdoor adventure, organizations across the city are here to help them further explore their passions.
Of course, the classic, traditional summer camp — think sitting around a bonfire, racing down zip lines and playing in the water — is a great place to start. If that sounds like your child’s thing, then check out Kidventure. Kidventure offers day programs in the Dallas area for pre-K to high school kids. Each one focuses on four cornerstones: creativity, physical activity, exploration and reflection. If you want your child to enjoy an even more idyllic summer camp experience, then sign them up for Kidventure’s overnight option. It was recently named “Texas’ Best Overnight Camp.”
What if your child prefers a day of studying over a day spent running around outside? Look into ClubSciKidz, which offers 25 day camps across the city. ClubSciKidz believes every child has a scientist within them and camp themes range from chemistry and meteorology to Minecraft game design and deep space rocketry. Programs involve engaging hands-on learning and supervised experiments, so your child is sure to acquire new skills.
Meanwhile, the Perot Museum’s extremely popular Discovery Camp returns this summer. As part of this experience, children receive hands-on instruction from trained scientists in topics like astronomy, paleontology and marine biology — not to mention full run of the museum. Whether your child is an animal-lover or a born engineer, the Perot has something to offer, with programs available for children in pre-K to sixth grade.
Summer is also the time to take advantage of Dallas’ world-class athletic programs. The Dallas Mavericks Hoop Camp offers a day or overnight option. Either way, your budding hoops legend will receive training in the sports’ fundamentals — from basic agility to the official rules of play — along with lessons in sportsmanship and responsibility. The camp is open to children ages 8 to 18. On the “non-contact” end of the spectrum, PGA Junior Golf Camps offer half-day, day and even a competitive overnight program for golf enthusiasts. All classes are taught by certified PGA of America professionals, and camps are available for children ages 6 to 17.
Is your child looking to feed their imagination this summer? The Dallas Museum of Art is a great destination for any child who has a strong desire to express themselves creatively. Available June to August for kids ages 4 to 12, the museum’s programs last one week and last half a day, meaning you can choose from a morning or an afternoon schedule. Although individual themes vary, all participants will get to spend quality time in the museum’s galleries, make their own art objects and form connections with their fellow campers. The whole experience culminates in an exhibition (or performance) for loved ones.
What other area summer programs do your kids enjoy? Share your recommendations with fellow parents on our Facebook and Twitter.