School will be out soon, which means some parents are scrambling to find summertime childcare or camps for their little ones.
Pre-pandemic, there were an estimated 26 million school-aged children going to summer camps, said Tom Rosenberg, president and chief executive officer of the American Camp Association.
“That leaves about 29 million school aged children who may not have access to summer camp,” he told USA TODAY.
He stressed that summer programs help youth feel safe and try new things, and it’s helpful to start looking early. But if looking earlier is not possible or life happens as it often does, there are other options, including widening your search.
For example, pediatricians are great to ask about summer programs, and guardians should also consider asking other community members who work with kids, Rosenberg said.
Some health organizations also serve groups impacted by specific disabilities, special needs or conditions. There are oncology camps, diabetes camps and muscular dystrophy camps.
And don’t forget college campuses, he said.
“I’m talking to someone from Ohio State University and they have over 700,000 minor children who are served in day camps or overnight camps and other kinds of summer programs on their campuses each year,” he said. “That’s a lot of young people.”
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Try using online databases
Some organizations have created tools that allow guardians to search their state and find programs at churches, schools and other facilities.
A few options include:
Ask someone who works with kids
If you’re having a hard time finding options for your kids this summer, don’t be afraid to ask people you know, especially community members who work with kids, Rosenberg said.
Consider asking people such as:
- Pediatricians or other doctors
- Nurses
- Clergy
- School counselors
- Teachers
Look into hospitals, colleges and other local organizations
While there widely-known programs such as the YMCA, Boy Scouts of America and Girl Scouts of the USA, it’s possible that there may be summer options in your community that you’ve long overlooked.
Rosenberg said businesses sometimes offer programs for children to come during the summer months, including:
- Zoos
- Science centers
- Museums
- Hospitals
- Churches or religious centers
Look into summer jobs or volunteering options
If your kids are older, consider looking at volunteer programs or summer jobs.
Rosenberg recommends www.youthjobsconnect.org/youthxjobs, which helps individuals find jobs specifically for young people.
These programs, he said, help teens learn how to problem solve, manage conflict and develop valuable work skills that definitely come in handy in the future.
He also had some encouraging words for frustrated parents and guardians looking to set their kids up for a nice, enriching summer:
“A lot of times, people know what they know and they don’t know how to go beyond what they already know. Widen your search. Don’t give up.”
Saleen Martin is a reporter on USA TODAY’s NOW team. She is from Norfolk, Virginia – the 757 – and loves all things horror, witches, Christmas, and food. Follow her on Twitter at @Saleen_Martin or email her at sdmartin@usatoday.com.