Big Book of Camp 2026: New Jersey Family Magazine

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TIME TO VOTE!

Do you love your child’s dentist or orthodontist? Tell us why and help another New Jersey family get the best care.

ROBERT PETERMAN, DMD, MDS

Orthodontist | Hillsborough, Skillman, Somerville

Dr. Peterman is wonderful. He is very patient and kind and always takes his time with parents and patients. He worked with our older daughter, whose teeth look amazing, and is now helping our younger daughter. We can’t recommend him enough!

—R.S., SOMERVILLE

MELISSA ROBERTO, DMD

Orthodontist | Rockaway

We travel all the way from Sparta to Rockaway just for Dr. Roberto. She has an amazing bedside manner. My daughter always gets excited to go to the orthodontist because of her. She does her job amazingly well, and I wouldn’t recommend anyone else.

—T.H., SPARTA

ELISA VELAZQUEZ, DMD

Pediatric Dentist | Cream Ridge, Manahawkin, Toms River

My daughter has special needs with a very rare seizure disorder, and Dr. Velazquez has been her doctor since she was very young. My daughter is now 24 and has been part of her care team, learning right along with us about the best care for her dental needs. She is always available, and we discuss together what the best approach to treating her is.

—C.R., LANOKA HARBOR

MICHAEL P. LATEINER, DMD

Pediatric Dentist | Cedar Knolls, Hackettstown, Newton

Dr. Mike has been amazing since day one. He’s made my son feel at ease and takes his time to get to know his patients. They chat about the New York Yankees during every visit. Not only does he ensure his patients are comfortable, but he also helps parents understand the treatments that may be needed. So thankful we found Dr. Mike!

SPECIAL ISSUE | NJFAMILY.COM

BIG BOOK OF CAMPS 2026

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR | DINA EL NABLI

EDITOR@NJFAMILY.COM

ART DIRECTOR | LEEZA HERNANDEZ

MANAGING EDITOR

JENNIFER AMATO

CONTRIBUTORS

JENNIFER SALVATO DOKTORSKI

RONNIE KOENIG

JENNIFER LESSER

JESS MICHAELS

NAYDA RONDON

ARRICCA ELIN SANSONE

PRODUCTION DESIGNER

ROSA M. JOSEPH

BUSINESS/PROJECT MANAGER

ERICA BARTON

DIRECTOR OF ADVERTISING

MARCY HOLETON

ADVERTISING REPRESENTATIVES

ANN CUSACK

CATHY GROTE

DEBBIE LUBRANSKI

PAMELA PETERSON

ERIN SALMAN

ANDREA THORNE

FOUNDER | CINDY MIRONOVICH

The acceptance of advertising by New Jersey Family does not constitute an endorsement of the products, services, or information being advertised. We do not knowingly present any products or services that are fraudulent or misleading in nature. Editorial inquiries, calendar information, advertising rates and schedules, and subscription requests may be addressed to Kids Monthly Publications, Inc., P.O. Box 669, New Providence, NJ 07974-0669 The team at New Jersey Family can be reached by emailing editor@njfamily.com, or by visiting our website, njfamily.com. New Jersey Family is a woman-owned business and has been recognized for editorial and design excellence by the Parenting Media Association.

New Jersey Family is published monthly by Kids Monthly Publications, Inc., P.O. Box 669, New Providence, NJ 07974-0669. Reproduction of New Jersey Family in whole or in part without written permission from the publisher is prohibited. All rights reserved. Copyright 2026 by Kids Monthly Publications, Inc. Circulation audit by CVC, Circulation Verification Council.

A COUPLE OF HILARIOUS SLEEPAWAY CAMP LETTERS FEATURED IN P.S. I HATE IT HERE! KIDS’ LETTERS FROM CAMP BY

Summer, Unplugged

We just dug out from 16 inches of snow, and as I write this, New Jersey is bracing for the possibility of another storm. My high schooler is in the thick of studying for midterms, and summer can’t come soon enough. Every winter, we put together our camp issue for families who, like us, are counting down the days to warmer temps and a reset. Summer may feel far off, but now’s the time to plan for camp, and the much-needed break it brings.

The importance of disconnecting from screens and social media has never been clearer. More parents are delaying giving their kids cell phones, and New Jersey’s law banning them in public school classrooms takes effect in September. We know how important it is to cut back on screen time, and camp is one of the places where unplugging isn’t just encouraged—it’s often required.

At many sleepaway camps, phones aren’t allowed, and kids’ main form of communication with their parents is good old-fashioned handwritten letters. The benefits of taking pen to paper are extensive and why NJ is bringing back cursive writing instruction to elementary schools this fall. My daughter spent a few summers at sleepaway and we still have all her letters. From spotting a garden snake in the shower (and in her bunk!) to urgent pleas to bring a Playa Bowl and gyoza on visiting day, getting her letters was the absolute best! In the spirit of the brutal honesty (and hilarity) of those letters, we’re sharing some funny ones on page 56.

Beyond a break from screens, camp helps children build confidence, resilience and a sense of community. Kids learn to make decisions, solve problems and navigate friendships away from the cliques of school. Whether you’re looking for a day, sleepaway or specialty camp—devoted to STEM, sports and more—you’ll get to know the area’s leading camps in our special section on page 27. Need a good summer fit for your child with disabilities? We offer guidance from a mom who’s been there on page 23.

From preschool camps to opportunities for your teen, this issue showcases camps and programs for every age. However your child spends the summer, we hope it includes time to unplug, to try something new and to come back with stories worth writing about.

SUN SAFE A cap that turns blue when UV rays appear lets you know when it's time for sunscreen. It's water resistant for up to 80 minutes and comes in spray, lotion and stick formulas. Kids Mineral SPF 50 Sunscreen Lotion, Blue Lizard. $14.98 (sale price), amazon.com

RAIN READY These rugged camo ankle boots are built for rainy, muddy days. They're waterproof, and have a cushioned insole and slip-resistant outsole that help keep kids steady on wet ground. Little Kids Ankle Deck Boot, XTRATUF. $75, xtratuf.com

PACKED & Prepped

SMART FINDS FOR SUMMER CAMP

TICKED OFF Made with picaridin, this odorless, non-greasy DEET-free mosquito repellent provides up to 14 hours of mosquito and tick protection and is safe for kids, pets, and gear. Stay Away Mosquitoes, EarthKind. $15.80, earthkind.com

HARDWORKING BAG This expandable duffel bag has a spacious main compartment that holds several days of essentials, plus a hidden expandable section to keep shoes or laundry out of sight. Lightweight, durable, and easy to carry, it’s ideal for weeklong camps. Expandable Travel Duffel, Knack Bags. $165, knackbags.com

ITCH FIX These hydrocolloid patches protect bug bites from scratching while soothing skin with witch hazel, aloe and chamomile. Steroid-free, they’re easy to pack, too. Bug Bite Patches 24-count, Sarna. $6.99, amazon.com

CAMPERS Happy

FROM ALLERGIES TO SUNBURNS, HERE’S HOW TO MAKE SURE EVERYONE’S READY FOR A SAFE AND FUN-FILLED SUMMER

BY ARRICCA ELIN SANSONE

Summer camp is a big deal—for kids and for parents. There’s the excitement, the nerves, and the inevitable “Did we forget something?” moment. A little planning goes a long way since both sleepaway and day camps have specific requirements and rules, like what kids should bring, so make sure you read through them ahead of time.

Camp counselors and staff are trained to keep children safe, but be sure to remind your kids about your family’s safety rules too, along with these tips from the American Academy of Pediatrics, the American Academy of Dermatology, and the American Ophthalmologic Association:

Schedule checkups before camp.

Many day and sleepaway camps require health forms filled out by your child’s pediatrician. You’ll need to submit these before drop-off day, so get on your pediatrician’s schedule ASAP. Make sure kids are up-to-date with immunizations, too. If your child wears braces, check in with the orthodontist to confirm they have extra supplies and are current on adjustments before camp starts.

Get them prepped with the right gear.

Most sleepaway camps have a packing list on their website, so check to see what’s required. The list will include basics like bath and beach towels, a sleeping bag, a pillow, a laundry bag, a flashlight, and optional things you'll want to buy in advance. Label everything with your child’s name with sew-in or iron-on labels or permanent marker.

Pack closed-toe shoes.

Many camps only allow flip-flops or water-type clogs, such as Crocs, for use by the pool or in the shower. But they require athletic shoes and socks for most other activities to protect toes. Make

sure kids break in new shoes before camp to avoid blisters or pinching.

Send a sturdy water bottle.

Many camps ask you to send a reusable water bottle to keep kids hydrated in the heat. Let your child help choose one they’ll actually want to use—insulated stainless-steel bottles are great for keeping water cold longer—and don’t forget to label it with their name.

Know the rules about electronic devices.

Many camps don’t permit cell phones, tablet devices or game systems. The whole point is to help kids enjoy nature, make new friends, and disconnect from technology, so don’t send these items—no matter how much your kid begs—if they're against camp rules.

Protect kids from the sun.

Teach kids to wear sunscreen every day, rain or shine. Look for SPF-30 products that contain zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, and don’t forget lip balm with SPF as well. Teach kids to apply sunscreen everywhere, especially forgotten places such as the tops of the ears. Sun-protective clothing, such as long-sleeved swimshirts, are another option. Don’t forget sun hats and sunglasses.

Pack plenty of bug spray.

Bugs of all sorts are a part of camp life. Make sure kids are protected with EPA-approved insect repellents that contain DEET, picaridin, IR3535 or plant-derived ingredients such as oil of lemon eucalyptus or 2-undecanone. Use permethrin products to pre-treat clothing, shoes, socks, hats and camping gear to keep ticks away. Avoid the use of combination sunscreen/bug spray because sunscreen needs to be reapplied every two hours,

Show kids how to inspect themselves (for ticks) every day, especially in areas such as behind the ears, on the scalp and under waistbands.

while bug spray should not be used that frequently.

Teach kids to do a nightly tick check.

Even with careful application of bug spray, your kid can miss a spot. While diseases such as Lyme were down in New Jersey in 2025, other tickborne illnesses such as babesiosis and anaplasmosis increased slightly. Show kids how to inspect themselves every day, especially behind the ears, on the scalp and under waistbands. If they find a tick attached, instruct them to ask a camp counselor or camp nurse to remove it.

Remind kids about your family’s safety rules. Of course, you won’t be there to supervise, so you’ve got to teach kids that it’s a family rule to wear protective gear for all activities, such as helmets for riding bikes or horses, eye protection for activities such as baseball or softball, and life jackets for boating and other water activities.

Connect with the camp’s healthcare providers.

If your child has special medical needs or requires prescription medication, talk to the camp nurse ahead of time. Ask where medications will be stored and how they will be given. For example, can older kids use an asthma inhaler on their own?

Also, inform everyone if your child has allergies to peanuts or insect stings, and send two EpiPens because one often isn’t enough.

Encourage kids to speak up for themselves.

Talk to your kids about telling the nurse or counselor if they’re not feeling well. In a new setting, some children are shy and may be hesitant to say anything. But reassure kids that they should tell someone if they’re injured, if their stomach hurts or if they’ve found a tick attached.

Keep the camp informed.

Make sure anyone who is authorized to pick up your child is listed on camp intake forms. Most camps check IDs, and the pickup person should be on the list to save everyone time and frustration.

Little Campers,

BIG SOCIAL GROWTH

How preschool camp supports your child’s development

By JENNIFER AMATO

Preschool camp has many benefits for your little one: they continue to learn over the summer, develop friendships, foster independence, and find confidence. Through smallgroup play and daily routines, kids develop habits that stick with them long after summer ends. We asked early childhood education experts about how a summer spent at preschool camp can strengthen your little one’s social skills.

ENCOURAGING INDEPENDENCE

Without Mom or Dad nearby, a preschool camper has to make their own decisions. They can often choose their meals and snacks, decide what materials to use in art class, figure out where to go on the playground, and dress themselves (i.e. putting on their shoes or jacket and carrying their own water play towel).

“By offering meaningful choices throughout the day, children learn to listen to themselves, feel capable, and develop confidence in their decision-making, all while knowing supportive adults are right beside them,” says Laura Hubschman-Scuderi, M.Ed, executive director of Palisades Country Day School & Camp, a family-run, early childhood camp in Closter that enrolls toddlers as young as 21 months. “Counselors also encourage children to make choices about the order they complete tasks, which friends they’d like to work with, or whether they’d like to observe first and join in later. … Children are guided with support, but we intentionally step back when appropriate so they can try on their own.”

They’re also expected to transition from one activity to another. Counselors use songs, games, call-and-response, movements like hopping or jumping, and even stretches to make things more fun.

“By keeping things consistent, supportive and engaging, children feel secure, confident, and ready to move from one activity to the next...”

“To help young campers manage transitions, staff create warm, predictable routines that make changes feel safe and manageable,” says Alanna Steinberg, director of Camp Ruach at the Shimon and Sara Birnbaum Jewish Community Center in Bridgewater. “By keeping things consistent, supportive and engaging, children feel secure, confident, and ready to move from one activity to the next with ease and a smile."

And when kids feel successful, they’re happy. Staffers often celebrate wins, big and small, so kids build their confidence. That could mean a high-five or a hug, a celebration with their parents, or giving kids a tangible reward.

“These experiences allow campers to feel proud of themselves, see their progress, and know that their effort is valued,” HubschmanScuderi says.

BREAKING BOUNDARIES

Of course, not every child is an extrovert. Some need encouragement before they feel ready to break into a group. Counselors often will smile, sit down at their level, speak quietly and offer comforting words to make them feel more at home.

“Counselors support children who are shy or new to group settings by first helping them feel comfortable and seen. They take the time to personally connect with each child, getting to know their interests, personality, and what helps them feel safe,” says Hubschman-Scuderi.

She says that staff can introduce a shy child to another camper or small group with similar interests to help them adjust.

“By building this one-on-one relationship, counselors can thoughtfully redirect children who may be unsure of what to do and intentionally create opportunities for connection," she says.

NAVIGATING CONFLICT

One of the biggest benefits of preschool camp is how it encourages cooperative play, sharing, turn-taking, and teamwork—but sometimes, kids just don’t get along. There are ways staff teach preschoolers how to navigate disagreements that don’t call for a timeout. That means using their words, roleplaying, reading relevant stories or asking them to share.

It also means supporting kids when they need a break, and teaching them how to respond when they feel overwhelmed, either physically or emotionally.

“Staff have been trained to help children understand their feelings

and name them. They will discuss alternatives like taking turns or using terms like ‘we only use gentle hands’ and offer clear choices so children can participate in resolving the situation in a way that makes sense to them. Often, staff will divert children and show them other activities to change the climate around them. By responding patiently, consistently, and truly listening, staff help children feel their feelings are valued and understood while helping them to learn early problemsolving, empathy, and self-regulation skills,” says Adena Feinstein, director of the Blaustein Early Childhood Center, where Camp Ruach takes place.

BUILDING LASTING HABITS

Camp is not just a fun summertime activity for the kids that gives you a break—it helps transition them into the new school year, too. They learn to be part of a group, be away from their families, trust new adults, and rely on others. They also become comfortable with routines, schedules and transitions.

"They learn how to move from activity to activity, follow group expectations, and manage change in a playful, supportive environment. This familiarity makes the routines of the school day feel natural rather than new,” says Hubschman-Scuderi. “Socially, the gains are enormous. Campers build friendships, learn to communicate with peers, share, take turns, and solve conflicts with guidance. Many children begin school already feeling comfortable among peers and confident in group settings.”

It's also about your child developing lifelong, successful habits that will help them at home, at school, and in any public environment. A camp program can help your kid grow as an individual, develop relationships, and feel connected to a community.

“Without fail, families always reflect on the immense growth and independence they notice in their campers at the end of a summer season," Steinberg says. "They comment on their ability to dress themselves, growth in maturity, self-articulation, and more. In addition, the added benefit of remaining in an environment complete with structure and routine helps them have a seamless transition between the school and summer months.”

FINDING A CAMP THAT

CLICKS

These expert-backed tips will help you choose a specialty camp your child will love

By NAYDA RONDON

If you’ve watched your child glow while building a LEGO robot or belting out a back-seat ballad, you know kids bloom when immersed in what they love. Specialty camps tap into that energy, giving children focused, passion-driven experiences alongside others who are just as enthusiastic. As Alicia Skovera, chief executive officer for the American Camp Association, New York and New Jersey (ACA), puts it, “there truly is a camp for every child; success comes down to finding the right fit.”

Start with your child. What naturally draws them in—performing, tinkering, exploring, coding, writing or solving puzzles? Let kids help

choose; when the spark is theirs, engagement follows.

Dayna Mancuso of Jersey City saw that with her son, Evan, 10, whose curiosity leans firmly toward STEM. Liberty Science Center (LSC)’s themed summer weeks felt like a natural choice. Mancuso says Evan, who has low-support-needs autism, has thrived there since 2022 thanks to the program’s predictable structure and hands-on discovery.

But kids often default to familiar interests, cautions Crystal Bobb-Semple, Ed.D, CEO of Maplewood-based Mythik Camps. She encourages parents to check in to see what new passions might be emerging so nothing’s missed. She also suggests asking camps how they support children who discover a specialty isn’t what they expected.

Strong programs build in flexibility without derailing the experience.

Why they matter. Beyond fun, specialty camps let kids dive deeper than the school year typically allows. Andrew Herrmann, LSC’s director of Out-of-School Time Programs, sees campers light up when science connects to real life (think cooking, chemistry or wearable electronics).

Bobb-Semple emphasizes that depth fuels more than academics. “When campers choose their own adventures and engage deeply,” she says, “they develop confidence, resilience, and a sense of ownership.”

What makes a camp great. The strongest programs provide handson projects, instructors with specialty-specific expertise, small groups, and inclusive environments. Skovera notes that ACA accreditation signals quality and safety.

Herrmann says standout camps continually evolve—upgrading labs and refreshing activities. Bobb-Semple adds that emotional development is equally central, recommending parents ask how camps support kids with behavioral, social, or sensory challenges.

For Jersey City mom Michelle Missaggia, variety has been key. “A camp that offers week-to-week options is great for kids to experiment,” she says. Her sons, Apollo, 11, and Bodhi, 9, have attended LSC Science Camp for four summers, loving everything from drone flight to escape room design.

Community counts, too. Even knowing one other camper can ease first-day jitters, says Maplewood mom Carol Ann Koert, who suggests checking local Facebook groups to see who else is going.

Koert’s two children have spent years at Mythik Camps, drawn in by their love of the Percy Jackson series. They embraced imaginative outdoor quests and role-playing, and she loves that their days are spent outside, immersed in creative play. Counselors, she says, go all in—right down to pre-season mailings with foam swords and camp

T-shirts to build anticipation.

Check the culture. “Research camps and make sure their style matches your child’s,” advises Jersey City dad Numa Romero. "Know if your child thrives under structure or prefers something more freeform. Do they like big projects or shorter activities? We’ve found that a smaller student-to-counselor ratio works best for keeping our kids involved."

Programming may draw you in, but people and values shape the day-to-day experience. Bobb-Semple suggests asking whether campers return year after year and how many weeks they generally attend. Before enrolling, clarify: What do days look like? How are beginners supported? What is the staff-to-camper ratio? How are allergies and sensory needs handled? Are equipment or materials provided? What are safety procedures, training standards, the cell phone policy, and emergency plans?

Joanna and Sean Kennedy of South Orange emphasize communication. “Before camp starts, make sure you’re receiving camp communications and have the correct site contact information,” Joanna says. The Kennedys love how Mythik Camps foster reading and storytelling, enhanced by a companion podcast they listen to in the car. “Episodes connect to the week’s theme—Medusa, Zeus, etc.—building excitement while teaching mythology.”

Sean adds, “Balance is important to us; Mythik Camps keep our boys active and engaged with non-screen-related activities.”

Start early. Skovera says it’s never too soon to start looking; some camps fill up a year in advance, and visiting while camp is in session can be especially revealing. Herrmann says that programs reinventing their curriculum annually often vary their enrollment, so keep an eye out. The ACA Camp Finder helps compare options and timelines, while camp parent groups offer insider insights brochures often miss.

Joanna suggests easing in. “Start slow—one or two weeks—just in case it’s not the right fit. But check whether you can add weeks if your kids love it.” Her sons, Archer, 11, and Leo, 8, have attended Mythik Camps for several summers. “They came home exhausted but full of stories,” she says. “We love how it sparks their creativity and how each week explores a different mythology.”

Match interests to camps:

STEM and robotics camps, like Liberty Science Center (Jersey City) or iD Tech (Princeton), suit tinkerers and problem-solvers.

Arts and design programs, like Visual Arts Center of New Jersey (Summit) or One River School (multiple locations), nurture makers and dreamers.

Outdoor adventure camps, like Pine Grove Day Camp (Wall Twp.), or Camp Riverbend (Warren), are ideal for explorers.

Performing arts camps, like NJPAC Arts Education (Newark) or Paper Mill Playhouse Summer Musical Theater Conservatory (Millburn), build confidence and technique for spotlight seekers.

Culinary camps, like Montclair Culinary Academy (Montclair) or Classic Thyme Cooking School (Westfield), delight mini chefs.

Sports camps, like Rutgers Summer Camps (New Brunswick), or STACK Summer Basketball Camp (Mahwah), sharpen athletic skills. For kids who crave variety, try sampler-style programs offered by YMCAs and JCCs.

When your child comes home buzzing about what they built, cooked, created, explored, or performed, you’ll know you’ve nailed it!

—Nayda Rondon is a lifestyle and parenting writer based in New Jersey.

LESSONS Life

FROM NAVIGATING FRIENDSHIPS TO SOLVING PROBLEMS ON THEIR OWN, CAMP GIVES KIDS A COMMUNITY THAT HELPS THEM GROW

CBY JESS MICHAELS

amp is so much more than learning a new sport, swimming, or performing on stage. It’s a place where children grow, stretch, and gain life skills that help them thrive long after summer ends. Below are just a few of the life lessons children learn through camp.

INDEPENDENCE

Some skills can only be learned when parents aren’t around. At both day and overnight camps, children gain independence by making everyday decisions on their own—choosing what to eat from the salad bar, deciding what to wear in the morning, or selecting their elective activities. These small choices become important stepping stones, helping campers learn self reliance.

CONFIDENCE

Camp offers countless confidence-building opportunities each day. Whether it’s riding the bus to camp for the first time, conquering a fear of heights on the zip line, or standing up for the first time on a paddleboard, campers grow by trying new things in a safe, supportive environment. Each success, no matter how small, strengthens their belief in themselves and their abilities.

SOCIAL GROWTH

At camp, children get the chance to form friendships on their own, without parents guiding their social interactions. They meet kids from other towns and with different interests, learning how to connect, communicate, and choose their own friends. These experiences help campers build social confidence and start to make their own decisions on who they spend their time with.

PROBLEM-SOLVING

While counselors are there for support, campers quickly learn

to figure some things out for themselves. From deciding what to do when they left their swimsuit in their bunk before swimming, to deciding whether to stay for another session, children develop problem-solving skills by navigating challenges independently.

UNPLUGGING FROM TECHNOLOGY

One of the greatest gifts of camp is the break from screens. Camps are phone- and tablet-free, giving campers the chance to spend time outdoors and engage with friends face to face. Although many children feel uneasy at first about leaving technology behind, most quickly appreciate the freedom from the pressures of social media and the constant need to stay connected with peers.

RESILIENCE

Resilience grows when children face challenges and learn to overcome them. While no parent likes to see their child struggle, those moments—like feeling homesick or disagreeing with a bunkmate—help campers develop emotional strength and coping skills. With guidance and support from staff, they discover that they can handle tough situations on their own.

TEAMWORK AND COMMUNITY

Camp is all about working together as part of a team and community. Whether through Color Wars, living in a bunk with others, or participating in camp-wide traditions, children learn what it means to collaborate, support others, and contribute to something bigger than themselves. These shared experiences foster belonging and help campers feel part of a warm and caring community.

So, while your children will certainly learn a new sport, create ceramics in art, and play lots of gaga, the true magic of camp is in the life lessons your children will carry with them for a lifetime.

From sword fighting to nature-scouting and riddle-busting, Mythik Camps inspire your child to build new skills, forge friendships, and engage with mythology from all over the world. Break from the ordinary — choose adventure. (You’ll be their hero, too.)

THRIVING AT CAMP

HOW TO FIND AN INCLUSIVE CAMP THAT NURTURES YOUR CHILD’S STRENGTHS, NEEDS AND SENSE OF BELONGING

By RONNIE KOENIG

Finding the right summer camp can be daunting, especially if your child has a disability. You want to make sure they’re safe, and that they’ll be in a place where they can have fun and thrive. Thankfully, there are a few things you can do as you start your camp search to make the process a lot smoother.

CAMP FIT AND COMPATIBILITY

Renee Flax, director of camper placement at the American Camp Association, New York and New Jersey, says it’s a good idea to have a picture of what you're looking for and what you're trying to achieve when you start your search. “Be able to describe your child accurately and fairly to a camp director so that they will know whether or not

your child is a good fit for their program,” she says. “Visit the camp if possible, have a conversation with the camp director and get a tour of the facility. Understand what population they are serving and who their staff is, including qualifications and ratios of counselors to campers.” If you can present the camp with your child’s diagnosis and past experiences in social situations, this will be very helpful for the camp director, Flax says.

Kristie Thomas-Enyeart, owner and director of Harbor Haven, a summer camp that serves children with mild special needs located in West Orange, says it’s essential to identify which components of camp are important for the specific child. “For children with special needs in particular, staff-to-camper ratio, size of camper groups, training of

“This is a difficult situation for a family to find themselves in. There are definitely a limited number of special needs camps and sometimes finding the appropriate program is very difficult.”

staff to support camper needs and the kinds of specific programming available are great foundational areas to begin an exploration of what camp might be the perfect match,” Thomas-Enyeart says. From there, she says, it's time to get more specific—ask yourself, would your child thrive in a very structured environment or would a camp with more choices work better? Would a full-day program be a good fit? These are just some of the questions to consider before committing to a camp.

WHAT MATTERS MOST TO PARENTS

The top concern parents of all campers have is safety—we all want to feel secure that our kids will be supervised and well taken care of after we drop them off or wave goodbye at the bus stop. The best way to know this is to have open conversations with the camp director and staff, to speak to other parents whose children have attended the camp you’re considering, and above all, to trust your gut. If the place doesn’t feel right or you have misgivings, it's time to look elsewhere.

“All parents want their child to thrive in an environment where they can be successful, safe and happy,” says Thomas-Enyeart. Honest conversations that happen before camp starts are crucial to avoid bumps in the road. “As heartbreaking as it can be, as a camp director I’d rather be honest about camp not being a fit than end up in a position where we have to make a change later,” she says. “At Harbor Haven,

every parent has an intake conversation with a director, and every camper attends an open house or meet-and-greet session before enrolling.”

Flax says she can’t stress enough that parents must be honest with the camp about their child and how much support they will need.

“You should also ask for recommendations from other parents whose children attended the camp. Parents are very forthcoming with each other and will answer your questions thoughtfully,” she says. “If you can find an accredited American Camp Association program, that will be your best assurance that a camp is safe and well-run.”

WHAT TO DO WHEN CAMP OPTIONS ARE LIMITED

Unlike with mainstream summer camps, parents in the Garden State may find there are few or no appropriate options in their area. As a mom of a daughter with autism, this is a problem we’ve faced every summer, and it’s frustrating that there aren’t better choices.

“This is a difficult situation for a family to find themselves in,” says Flax. “There are definitely a limited number of special needs camps and sometimes finding the appropriate program is very difficult.” Flax suggests asking your local school district staff if they are aware of any programs, and also talking to therapists or outside providers to see if

they know of any options from other patients that have been successful. “You can also look into camps that offer a shadow, which is a one-onone counselor-to-camper ratio. This person will be with your child throughout the day and can offer support and guidance if needed.”

While we’ve been able to push into day camp by providing our own one-to-one for our daughter, this isn’t always ideal or viable for families. And now that our daughter is getting older, finding a good summer option will be even trickier. It’s the reality parents with kids of disabilities face, which makes sharing information with other parents even more important.

A PARENT’S PERSPECTIVE

Danielle, a mom in Princeton, believes sleepaway camp has been beneficial on many levels for her 14-year-old son who has autism.

“Camp gives him a structured, focused environment to work on daily living skills and IEP goals with a dedicated 1:1 aide—support that’s hard to replicate at home with the normal demands of family life,” she says. “The intensive routine has helped him make real progress, and it provides the kind of childhood experiences—time away from home, peer interaction, typical camp activities—that kids with profound autism often miss.”

Her son attends Cross Roads Camp and Retreat Center in Port Murray through his school, Eden Autism in Princeton, and this will be his fourth year camping. While he now goes for three weeks, the duration started at just five days for his first year, and then he went for two weeks in his second and third years there.

“I’ll be honest, the first few years were hard for me,” says Danielle. “I’m very cautious about who I leave him with, and I was extremely anxious. I had trouble enjoying the time off because I worried constantly.

He was a little anxious that first year, too—but now he asks regularly when he can go back. Camp has given him confidence, independence, and something exciting to look forward to. It truly became one of the best decisions we’ve made for him.”

Danielle says that camp has also benefited the whole family. “It’s also been good for our other children. Because he can’t fly due to anxiety and can’t sleep in hotels, camp gives us a rare window to travel with our other kids and give them dedicated attention they don’t always get.”

THE REWARDS OF A CAMP EXPERIENCE

Perhaps the best reason to send your child to camp is the opportunity for them to have fun and grow. As a parent of a child with a disability, the most rewarding moments are the ones where you see your child happy and participating, and trying new things you never thought they could do.

“We love to see our campers learn new skills like riding a twowheeler bicycle and making progress in swim skills,” says ThomasEnyeart. Another major benefit is the chance to make friendships. “We love seeing our campers enjoy playdates during the school year.”

“First and foremost, you want them to have fun,” adds Flax. “At a successful camp program, a child will come home feeling better about themselves, feeling a part of a community and making new friends while gaining skills.”

While it can be scary to let your child enter a new and unfamiliar environment, the potential benefits make it worth taking the leap. No matter which camp you choose, know that a safe, fun and skill-building summer is possible for your child.

— Ronnie Koenig is an NJ mom of twins. Follow her at Facebook.com/AutismGirlMom.

SUMMER SMILES

[Meet the Camp]

Choosing a summer camp is a big deal—it’s where your kids will make friends and try new things. You want to find the right fit, with a welcoming community and a focus on safety, health, and fun. Here’s a look at some of the best summer camps in New Jersey and beyond.

ADIRONDACK CAMP

Lake George, NY • 518-547-8261

Where Kids Unplug and Find Their Authentic Selves

Set on a private peninsula with 1.5 miles of waterfront on Lake George, the team at Adirondack Camp believes that summer should be a true reset where children can unplug, play and return home transformed. Founded in 1904, the traditional sleepaway co-ed camp for kids ages 7-16 is orchestrated by a team of educators and youth development professionals who strive to bring out and develop the whole person.

NEW ADVENTURES AND LIFELONG FRIENDSHIPS

Last year, campers hailed from 33 states and 15 countries to experience all that Adirondack Camp has to offer. “We’re a nurturing, community-oriented camp that welcomes kids who want to try new activities, go on adventures and build close friendships—we’re all about campers having the opportunity to find their authentic selves,” says Shawn Carraher, president and chief child advocate.

Campers can choose from more than 25 activities in the arts, land sports and water sports; options include culinary fun, movie making, ceramics, fencing, archery, rock climbing, sailing, SUP, wakesurfing and more. With 1.5 miles of waterfront, swimming is built into every camper’s daily schedule. The camp’s Wilderness and Trips program offers multiple trips each week, and its location in the Adirondacks means opportunities for hiking, canoeing, fishing and kayaking abound.

WHERE KIDS CAN UNPLUG AND RECONNECT

“Parents value their kids having the opportunity to increase their confidence, independence and social skills—and all while being outdoors and unplugged,”

Carraher says. “We create opportunities for kids to build on their skills over the course of a summer; a camper might start with kayaking by learning to paddle, and then move on to rolling, and then be approved to go on a mini whitewater trip.”

The No. 1 rated camp in New York per CampRatingz.com, Adirondack Camp is rich in meaningful traditions and has become known as a place for kids to experience a true digital detox—from its open-air cabins

sans electricity to its lack of televisions and cell phone reception. “It’s not uncommon to see older campers carrying little kids on piggyback to the dining hall or cheering each other on from the sidelines when someone is getting up on water skis for the first time—our camp truly feels like one big family,” she says. “Kids learn to slow down, appreciate nature and make lifelong friends in our completely unplugged camp experience.”

DEERKILL DAY CAMP

A Family-Owned Camp Rooted in Tradition

third-generation, familyowned camp celebrating its 69th year, Deerkill Day Camp was built around the belief that summer camp is about more than buildings, equipment and scenery—it’s about community. Founded in 1958 and still owned and directed by the Rhodes/ Rothman family, Deerkill continues to be a place where kids are happy to explore their curiosity, develop new skills, form friendships, and have fun.

DOWN-TO-EARTH CAMP EXPERIENCE

Deerkill’s camper families and staff hail from all different locations and a variety of ethnicities, religions and socioeconomic backgrounds. “Our diversity and the very personal nature of everything we do resonates with people looking for a downto-earth, traditional camp experience for their children,” says Owner/Director Todd Rothman. “We provide a personal family feel in an intimate setting with all the modern amenities and facilities you would expect from a current private traditional camp program.”

Campers can take advantage of athletic facilities in addition to 15 different specialty programs, which include gardento-table cooking, yoga, movie making and a climbing tower, Deerkillimanjaro (with two tandem 250-foot zip lines), along with traditional camp activities such as nature, archery, ceramics, dance, drama and music.

Deerkill also hosts weekly theme days and shows from visiting entertainers, several off-campus trips for older campers and a unique Counselors in Training (CIT) program for rising 10th graders.

BUILDING A FOUNDATION FOR INDEPENDENCE

Each individual group is led by mature

adults, typically a teacher, and assisted by college students. The camp offers an exceptional swim program led by experienced instructors who provide 40 minutes of personalized instruction daily in heated pools with a small group of peers at a similar skill level.

Social opportunities for campers and staff abound, from a weekend pool club to an annual Fall Fest. The camp also hosts several “Deerkill Cares” events within

the community to raise funds for camp scholarship programs and provide an opportunity for campers and staff to give back.

“A lot of camps can have great facilities and innovative programming…but what matters is do children (and staff) leave feeling that they’ve grown as an individual?” Rothman says. “We’re trying to build the foundation for years of independence to come.”

SUMMER EXPLORATIONS: THE ELISABETH MORROW SCHOOL

435 Lydecker St., Englewood • 201-568-5566 ext. 7333 • elisabethmorrow.org/summer-explorations

Where Exploration Meets Innovation

Summer Explorations at The Elisabeth Morrow School transforms the traditional camp experience into a season of curiosity-driven discovery. For more than 60 years, the program has paired certified, expert educators with a philosophy of student-led learning, giving campers the freedom to pursue unique passions within a supportive environment. The program runs from June 22 to August 7 for children ages 2 through ninth grade, offering flexible half- and full-day options.

A 14-ACRE LIVING LABORATORY

The program unfolds across a sprawling 14-acre certified wildlife habitat that serves as an expansive outdoor classroom. Students explore nature trails, community gardens, a pond and a brook while having access to state-of-the-art science and technology labs. While kids enjoy classic summer staples like water slides and carnival games, the core curriculum remains deeply immersive.

“We pride ourselves on allowing kids the space to try new things in a safe and supportive environment,” says Director of Auxiliary Programs Liza Hards. Daily activities include sports, arts and crafts, and field trips.

INNOVATION AND AI

This year’s programming emphasizes practical, future-ready skills, headlined by the new EMS AI Summer Institute from June 22 to 26 for students in grades 3–9. This initiative moves beyond theory, introducing campers to the creative potential and ethical use of artificial intelligence.

“The focus will be introducing kids to AI and helping them understand how to use it in a positive way,” Hards explains. Students will engage in hands-on technical workshops, ranging from coding and

robotics to game design and stop-motion animation.

The Summer Explorations curriculum is carefully designed to evolve alongside the campers as they grow. For the youngest learners (ages 2 through grade 1), the program centers on weekly themes that blend outdoor activities with creative projects. Students in grades 2–6 enjoy a more customized experience, choosing from

workshops in fields as diverse as app design, cooking, drama and nature exploration. For those in grades 7–9, the school offers an intensive three-week Leaders in Training program designed to build real-world leadership skills.

“Our goal is to ignite a sense of possibility, where students leave camp with the tools and inspiration to turn every new interest into a learning opportunity,” Hards says.

FLEUR DE LIS CAMP

Fitzwilliam, NH • 603-585-7751 • fleurdeliscamp.org

A Summer of Joy, Belonging and Friendship

Aclassic sleepaway summer camp for girls ages 8-15, Fleur de Lis Camp is located on the shores of beautiful Laurel Lake in Fitzwilliam, New Hampshire. For more than 95 years, girls have made new friends, developed selfconfidence and independence, and tried new things—and all while having fun and being their unique selves within a caring, supportive community.

NEW CHALLENGES AND SELF DISCOVERY

“One of the first things visitors notice when they come to our camp is how happy the girls are—they can immediately feel the sense of inner joy and the fact that our campers know that this is a place that they can let loose, explore their interests and enjoy the experience,” says Diane Foster, interim executive director.

Fleur de Lis Camp brings girls together for summers filled with play, adventure and growth. The program empowers girls to take on new challenges and discover themselves. With a maximum of 100 girls per session, campers will forge close friendships, and staff get to know each camper as an individual to support her unique interests and needs.

“We’re proud to be a camp where everyone truly gets to know each other, and the girls are able to build mixed-age friendships that last a lifetime,” Foster says. Fleur de Lis allows campers to choose their own activities—they can do a little bit of everything, or focus on their interests—to develop a sense of independence and confidence.

A COMMUNITY ROOTED IN JOY

The camp features a full range of waterfront activities, including swimming, kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding, waterskiing, tubing and sailing, as well as options

such as ceramics, sewing, knitting, stained glass and crafts. Theater is a special activity for all age groups, and the camp offers fire building, outdoor cooking and day or overnight trips.

After the regular camp season, Fleur de Lis offers a program known as Circle Week for girls who have had a parent pass away. The week is filled with typical camp

activities designed to help girls grow in their strategies for coping with their loss.

“Part of what makes Fleur de Lis so special is that we truly emphasize the idea of joy, belonging and friendship,” Foster says. “A lot of the pressures that girls face at school are just not part of their camp world—it’s a safe place where they can feel accepted for who they are.”

FROST VALLEY YMCA

Where Kids Find Friendship and New Adventures

Frost Valley YMCA is dedicated to creating a diverse and inclusive camp community where every camper is accepted for who they are. The camp offers one- and two-week programs from late June to August for campers in grades 2-10; and features a traditional overnight camp and teen and pre-teen adventure trips, as well as an array of specialty camps such as an equestrian camp, farm camp and more.

BONDING WITH FRIENDS ON NEW ADVENTURES

Along with museum visits and camping trips, Frost Valley is offering a variety of new adventures for campers this summer, including multi-week trips to Maine and the Adirondacks, and a sailing and paddling trip for teens.

“Our campers can grow in a safe, engaging environment where they develop independence, gain skills as young leaders and bond with new friends on mountain hikes, swimming and boating in Lake Cole, ziplining, and sleeping beneath the starry Catskill sky,” says Callie Radday, executive director of camping services.

Along with its values-driven programming, Frost Valley YMCA offers a unique tiered pricing structure that allows families to pay the price that works best for them, as well as financial assistance so that no child has to miss out.

“The one phrase we hear over and over again is: ‘Frost Valley is my home away from home,’” Radday says. “Campers learn how to step out of their comfort zones, try new things and work together as a cohesive community.”

VALUES-DRIVEN PROGRAMMING AND COMMUNITY ATMOSPHERE

Frost Valley YMCA was founded in 1885

as The Boys’ Camping Society, and after several iterations, held its first camp in 1958 on the former estate of Julius Forstmann. The original 2,200-acre piece of land in the Catskill Mountains has since expanded to 5,500 acres.

Today, the camp offers a traditional overnight experience including waterfront activities, nature and outdoor learning, and art specialties, plus fun and unique camp games and traditions. It’s all driven by eight

core values designed to support campers’ social and emotional growth.

“Our camp is best known for its valuesdriven programming and community atmosphere,” says Jen Dresdow, associate director of specialty camping. “We’re always innovating and incorporating new activities into our camp experience to meet the changing needs of kids today— and provide exciting adventures they couldn’t do anywhere else.”

GIRL SCOUTS HEART OF NEW JERSEY

201 E. Grove St., Westfield • 908-515-4400 • gshnj.org

Where Girl Scouts Discover & Build Lifelong Friendships

Girl Scouts Heart of New Jersey’s (GSHNJ) summer camp program inspires leadership, confidence, independence and a sense of community. Whether it’s a traditional day camp experience at The OVAL at South Mountain Reservation in Maplewood or sleepaway camp at the picturesque 300-acre Camp Hoover in Middleville, campers discover their potential, develop life skills and create lifelong friendships within a welcoming and diverse community.

ROOTED IN TRADITION

“Girl Scouts Heart of New Jersey is deeply rooted in tradition—from friendship circles and sing-alongs to cookouts and badgework,” says Camp Director Deborah Hooker. “A summer experience with us reflects the moments that have long defined Girl Scout camp. These traditions connect us to our shared history while also giving us the space to evolve and grow each year, allowing each camper and staff member to decide how they want to participate in and embrace the Girl Scout movement.”

Both general and specialty programs are offered, with activities ranging from outdoor skills, archery and challenge courses to swimming, boating and hiking. General programs provide a little bit of everything, while specialty programs delve into areas like creative arts, adventure, and horseback riding. New programming this summer includes Camp Fix It, where campers will have an opportunity to learn how to use hand tools for woodworking and complete a service project that uses their new skills. Other exciting options include sewing and engineering for youth in grades 4-6. Campers also have the chance to earn badges, and the camp’s

progressive programming ensures that each camper learns at their own pace and skill level.

DEVELOPING LEADERSHIP SKILLS

“Many of our camp’s staff members grew up within the Girl Scout movement, so they’re passionate about recreating their experiences and embody a deep connection to the organization’s values,” Hooker says. Counselors also hail from overseas,

exposing the campers to traditions and cultures from all over the world.

A program for older campers allows them to step into more active roles and gain hands-on experience supporting younger campers. “They learn how to communicate clearly, support activities and contribute to positive camp experiences—and all while gaining a deeper understanding of teamwork and collaboration,” she says.

GIRL SCOUTS OF CENTRAL & SOUTHERN NEW JERSEY

40 Brace Rd., Cherry Hill  • 856-795-1560

Where Magic Grows Outdoors All Summer

The Girl Scouts of Central & Southern New Jersey’s summer camps foster confidence, independence and a love for the great outdoors. Nestled amidst nature’s beauty, Camps Inawendiwin, Kettle Run, Oak Spring and Sacajawea offer a diverse range of activities tailored to ignite campers’ curiosity and create lifelong memories. All of the camps are staffed by experienced leaders and professionals committed to creating a safe, secure, healthy and enriching space for all; additionally, the camps are all certified by the American Camp Association (ACA).

LAUGHTER, LEARNING AND LIFELONG FRIENDSHIPS

From archery and arts and crafts to storytelling and stargazing, there’s something for everyone at Girl Scout Camp. Whether it’s the zip line at Camp Inawendiwin, the pool at Camp Oak Spring or the hiking trails at Camp Sacajawea, this summer will be filled with laughter, learning and lifelong friendship.

Camp Sacajawea’s 186-acre property is nestled in the Pine Barrens of Gloucester County and offers a variety of camping styles (family, troop and day). “Campers can enjoy day camp for one or all of our themed weeks while they make new friends, build confidence and have a great summer to remember,” says Camp Operations Executive Bruce Skversky. Camp Kettle Run is a 158acre Pinelands camp in Burlington County that includes an 11-acre lake surrounded by sandy trails and has become famous for troop and family camping.

CREATE YOUR OWN ADVENTURE

Camp Inawendiwin, a sprawling 395-acre camp in the Pine Barrens of Burlington County, offers a range of day camp opportunities for the independent Girl Scout who wants to try a variety of activities

designed for skill building and self-discovery. Sleepaway camp is available for campers who want to push boundaries, explore new heights and live their greatest summer experience yet.

Oak Spring Day Camp is 120 acres of grass and hills bordering the Delaware & Raritan Canal where campers have opportunities to create their own adventure, develop a lifelong

appreciation for the outdoors and learn kindness and compassion for themselves, others and the environment.

“As Girl Scouts, we know that loving the outdoors is not only fun but also a great way to develop leadership and problem-solving skills,” he says. “This summer, watch your camper become a team player and develop skills they will use for the rest of their lives.”

THE GRAVITY VAULT—CAMP ROCKS

Multiple locations in NJ • gravityvault.com

Where Kids Build Strength, Confidence and Connection

Camp Rocks at The Gravity Vault combines adventure, skill-building and community in a unique way for kids of varying ages and abilities. With locations in Chatham, Hoboken, Jersey City, Montclair, Princeton and Upper Saddle River, the camp centers around indoor rock climbing and giving campers hands-on, problem-solving experiences through learned techniques and safety skills.

REACH NEW HEIGHTS

Campers learn from certified instructors who are passionate about climbing and youth development, ensuring a safe and supportive environment. Kids will spend their days scaling walls, learning real climbing techniques and tackling exciting challenges designed for all skill levels. “The camp emphasizes personal growth, encouraging kids to challenge themselves, build confidence and work together to reach new heights—literally and figuratively,” says Sarah Reppert, director of marketing.

Each day at camp is packed with physical activity, games and creative challenges that keep campers energized and excited. The camp includes off-site trips (with the exception of the Princeton location), such as visits to other Gravity Vault locations and an outdoor treetop ropes course. The low 5-to-1 staff-tocamper ratio ensures that instructors create a safe, supportive environment where campers can push their limits and celebrate every success. Multi-week discounts are available, as well as early drop-off and extended pick-up options.

NEW FRIENDS AND LASTING MEMORIES

Building a strong sense of belonging and

community is at the heart of everything at Camp Rocks, which welcomes many town programs and large camp group field trips as a way to integrate climbing into summer programming, help introduce more kids to the sport and strengthen connections with the local community. “From group challenges to communicating with your belay buddy, teamwork is at the heart of every activity—helping campers form strong friendships and lasting memories,”

Reppert says.

Camp Rocks fosters a welcoming, inclusive atmosphere where every camper feels part of a team and leaves with new friends and lasting memories. “It’s not just a camp—it’s an adventure that inspires confidence, courage and a lifelong love for climbing,” she says. “Camp Rocks is a place where kids discover their strength and conquer new heights—and have a blast doing it.”

MMANHATTAN FENCING

A Unique Blend of Fencing and Chess

anhattan Fencing’s summer camp blends worldclass coaching in fencing and chess with a genuinely welcoming environment designed specifically for kids. Campers train with Olympic-level coaches and mentors who have guided athletes to national and international success.

BLENDING PHYSICAL SKILLS WITH STRATEGIC THINKING

“We offer a rare blend of fencing and chess, helping kids build not only physical skills like footwork, bladework and bouting, but also strategic thinking, focus and decision-making,” says Julia Gelman, executive director. “We believe fencing truly is physical chess—campers move seamlessly between the strip and the chessboard, learning how to think ahead, recognize patterns and make smart decisions under pressure, both mentally and physically.”

Training is structured yet fun, with games, drills, mock tournaments and ageappropriate sports psychology incorporated into each day to build confidence, resilience and a love for the sport.

“We’re most proud of seeing how fencing becomes a tool for growth beyond the sport itself; campers gain confidence, learn new skills and form real friendships, but they also develop discipline, resilience, focus and the ability to handle challenge and failure,” Gelman says. “These are lessons they carry with them into school—and, later, adult life.”

ACCESSIBLE

AND ENGAGING FOR ALL LEVELS

All equipment is provided and activities are designed for ages 7–13; programs are intentionally structured by age,

experience and long-term development to make the camp accessible, engaging and developmentally appropriate for every level. The camp fosters a strong sense of belonging by connecting kids to the wider fencing community at every level, as Manhattan Fencing partners with local elementary schools to bring fencing into gym classes and after-school programs so children can discover the sport in an accessible, familiar environment.

“Above all, our camps are known for their friendly, inclusive atmosphere—kids leave not just stronger athletes, but more confident individuals who feel encouraged and supported,” Gelman says. “One of the strongest pieces of feedback we receive is how often campers want to keep fencing after camp ends. Many families transition into our after-school programs and competitive programs because their children fall in love with the sport.”

ABILITY SCHOOL SUMMER PROGRAM

75 Knickerbocker Rd., Englewood • 201-871-8808 • abilityschoolnj.org

The Ability School’s summer camp program blends all the pleasures of summer—from outdoor adventures to arts and crafts—with opportunities for children ages 4-12 to enhance their skills in reading, mathematics, writing, science, study skills and more.

Students can either catch up or get ahead with their academics in small classroom settings in the morning while enjoying exciting camp activities in the afternoon. From picnics, nature walks and water fun to games, theater activities and weekly field trips, there’s no shortage of fun, but parents appreciate that their children can also keep their study skills fresh all summer long.

“Our camp is unique in that we blend academics with fun and play,” says Headmistress Joan Marrazzo. “We conduct assessments and consult with parents to determine each child’s strengths and weaknesses and decide what they might

want to work on over the summer.”

Morning classes are taught by Ability School teachers, who provide individualized instruction in small classroom settings. Camp runs from June 23 through August 8, Monday through Friday, from 9 am to 4 pm. Three- to sevenweek sessions are available, each with their own unique themes and activities.

“Parents love the fact that their children are learning in a relaxed classroom

ACTING OUT

Acting Out is more than just a summer camp—it’s a proven launchpad for young performers. The camp experience combines laughter, movement, imagination and play with structure, intention and expert guidance so that kids have the time of their lives while parents see real growth.

“Hundreds of our students have gone on to work professionally on Broadway, television and in film, and we bring that same level of training, care and professionalism to every camper, whether they’re brand-new or seasoned performers,” says Roberta Loew-Isgro, owner and creative director.

From the first rehearsal to the final curtain call, campers experience what it’s like to be in a professional production. Campers will perform in a high-quality main stage show with full staging, lighting and ensemble collaboration to build confidence while creating unforgettable memories. In the Broadway

environment that’s geared toward building their confidence and foundation in areas that they may want to strengthen before the next school year, but they’re also having a lot of fun and going on trips in the afternoons,” Marrazzo says. “Our camp students come back year after year because they know they’ll have a fun and productive summer and never once feel as though they’re spending their time in summer school.”

Stars Master Class, campers have the rare opportunity to learn directly from working Broadway performers to gain insider knowledge, inspiration and mentorship. “Families love that Acting Out is both professionally run and deeply nurturing—a place where kids are encouraged to take risks, express themselves and grow without pressure or judgment,” Loew-Isgro says. Community is at the foundation of

everything at Acting Out; from the very first day, campers are welcomed into an ensemble-based environment where collaboration, kindness and mutual respect are actively taught and modeled. “For families seeking a camp that combines toptier arts education with heart, warmth and real results, Acting Out is truly the place to be—and we can’t wait to welcome you into our theater family,” she says.

BERGEN DEBATE

Glen Rock, Fort Lee, Livingston • 201-421-8621 • bergendebate.com

Aleading public speaking and debate academy, Bergen Debate offers half- and fullday summer camps for 5th–12th grade students in Bergen and Essex counties. Campers work with dedicated, full-time instructors in engaging morning and afternoon modules that emphasize creative collaboration, thoughtful discussion and skill-building in a fun, supportive environment.

New this summer, Intro to Debate offers a welcoming entry point for 5th–9th grade students who are curious about debate and public speaking. The program helps students find their voice while learning foundational skills that make debate both approachable and rewarding.

“Students come to debate for different reasons,” says Executive Director Sam Azbel. “Our summer programs are designed to introduce students to debate in a structured, supportive way while helping them

understand the skills they’re developing and the pathways available as they progress.”

Bergen Debate also offers advanced summer programs for students; the August Intensive Program supports experienced competitors preparing for state- and national-level tournaments, while PF Labs are designed for 7th–9th grade students with prior debate experience planning to compete in the fall. For students not quite ready for debate, a Young Entrepreneurship

CAMP CLOVER

Asanctuary for grieving children in New Jersey, Camp Clover provides a haven for children who have lost a loved one. Sponsored by Atlantic Visiting Nurse, this four-day bereavement day camp is free of charge and is designed to support children in grades 1 through 8 who have experienced a loss.

Camp Clover offers more than just summer fun—it provides a safe space where kids can learn resilience and healthy coping skills, led by trained grief counselors, and alongside peers with similar experiences. Camp Clover combines summer activities like swimming and arts and crafts with grief education and emotional support, ensuring that every camper leaves with more than just pleasant memories. One camper shared, “I love that I’m not alone. I love that I’m with other kids who get it.” Being with peers who understand can be deeply comforting. “When you’re

at Camp Clover, it brings hope and happiness to everyone who has lost someone,” says Camp Counselor Michael Kavouras, who lost his mother to cancer.

The camp’s staff and volunteers include clinicians, social workers and therapists who are trained to guide children through the grieving process. “We equip these children with the tools they need to navigate their loss,” says Camp Coordinator Diane Coloney. “From

program blends similar skills with business concepts through Shark Tank–inspired activities. The Model UN program gives beginners exposure to public speaking, advocacy and global issues.

“It’s so rewarding to watch students find their voice, learn to express themselves and come out of their shell while developing skills they can use no matter what they want to do later in life,” Azbel says.

day one to day four, they bond with peers, learn healthy coping skills and have a great time.”

With support from Atlantic Health System and dedicated volunteers, Camp Clover blends fun with emotional healing. It’s not just about surviving a loss; it’s about thriving despite it. Camp Clover runs from August 17-20 at Camp Riverbend, located at 116 Hillcrest Rd. in Warren.

CAMP INVENTION®

Multiple Locations in NJ • 800-968-4332 • invent.org/save/summer-camp

For more than 35 years, the National Inventors Hall of Fame® has brought hands-on STEM experiences to rising K-6 students across the country through its flagship summer program, Camp Invention®. With an all-new program each summer created to ignite the spirit of innovation, the 2026 program, Spark, empowers campers to explore everything from robotic capybaras to space exploration through four dynamic experiences.

“As children collaborate to take on fun, hands-on challenges, they discover their potential as creators, innovators and entrepreneurs while building persistence and creative problem-solving skills,” explains Corey Nielsen, marketing coordinator for the Hall of Fame. This year’s highlights include Fur-ensics™, where campers sharpen their detective skills and team up with their own robotic capybara to investigate a series of mischievous pranks. In Make Waves™, campers dive into the

world of entrepreneurship as they splash into hands-on physics experiments and design an eye-catching billboard boat. In The Infringers™, campers team up with Hall of Fame inductees to spark their innovative superpowers as they identify and solve challenges in their community and around the world. Sparking their imagination in Space Morphers™, children build a DIY space rocket and launch a mission to transform a new planet’s

CAMP MASON YMCA

Eatmosphere, terrain and ecosystem for future habitation

“Parents and families consistently share that their children continue creating and inventing long after camp ends,” Nielsen says. “They see an increased interest and understanding of STEM concepts, improvements in self-confidence and a renewed spark of creativity.”

Visit invent.org/save/summer-camp to learn more.

23 Birch Ridge Rd., Hardwick • 908-362-8217 • campmason.org

very parent wants their child to grow into a confident, capable, and joyful young person. But in today’s world, filled with screens, pressures, and constant noise, children rarely have the chance to simply be kids. Camp Mason is a place where they can disconnect from distractions, rediscover themselves, and have the best summer ever!

Children are welcomed into a safe, supportive community where they are known, included, and encouraged. They’ll build friendships that feel like family, rooted in shared adventures, late-night laughter, and the powerful feeling of belonging exactly as they are. These relationships boost confidence, selfesteem, and emotional resilience, giving kids the courage to try new things and trust in their own abilities.

Camp Mason is also a place that encourages healthy challenge. Whether it’s reaching the top of the climbing tower,

jumping into the pool, trying archery, or mastering a new skill, every experience teaches perseverance, independence, and pride. Kids learn to set goals, overcome fears, and celebrate their achievements, lessons that travel home with them and show up in their schoolwork, friendships, and daily lives.

Parents can feel confident knowing that physical, emotional, and social safety is at the heart of everything at Camp Mason.

A highly trained staff and well-designed programs ensure that each child is cared for and supported from the moment they arrive.

At YMCA Camp Mason, children will come home happier and more confident, independent, and connected to the world around them. They’ll have a summer filled with growth, adventure, and lifelong memories. And they’ll discover who they are and who they can become.

JCC CAMP RUACH

775 Talamini Rd., Bridgewater • 908-725-6994 • jcccampruach.org

JCC Camp Ruach is more than just a nine-week summer camp—it’s a place where families stay connected all year. Along with its exciting summer camp, the Bridgewater JCC offers family programs and enrichment opportunities, with Camp Ruach welcoming kids from age 3 through rising ninth graders.

Campers through third grade receive daily swim lessons, and all campers enjoy free swim daily. JCC Camp Ruach offers a robust art program, including pottery, ceramics and woodworking and a comprehensive athletics program. Beginning in fourth grade, day trips to beaches, amusement parks, boat cruises and more are available.

Color war, camp-wide challah bakes and entertainment are among the other activities. One of the highlights of each summer is the camp musical – a beloved tradition!

“We take great pride in creating a camp

program that focuses on both individual growth and fosters a strong sense of community and togetherness” says JCC Camp Ruach Director Alanna Steinberg.

camp’s Inclusion Program provides custom support for campers with disabilities.

For older campers, Road Rulz is a teen travel program that includes daily trips as well as two weeklong trips to Cleveland/ Pittsburgh and Virginia Beach, and two one-night overnights. The LIT (Leaders in Training) program helps grow leadership skills in eighth and ninth graders. The

CAPITOL DEBATE

Y“At the end of each summer, we ask families to share what impact they feel camp had on their children-and increased independent, social skills, confidence, and a sense of belonging are at the top of the list,” Steinberg says. “We believe every camper should have the opportunity to experience the power and magic of camp.”

Multiple locations • 800-450-5012 • capitoldebate.com

our child might become a doctor, lawyer, engineer, or entrepreneur—and all these paths requires the ability to communicate with confidence. Today’s teens can text fluently but struggle to articulate ideas in college interviews, presentations, and future job settings. Capitol Debate was created to bridge that communication gap. Through debate and public speaking, students learn to confidently participate in class, stand out in college interviews, pitch ideas professionally, and navigate conflict effectively. In an AI-driven world, the human ability to communicate persuasively has never been more valuable.

Established in 2006, Capitol Debate is led by professional educators who work year-round perfecting instruction, refining curriculum, and ensuring expert teaching. Whether naturally outspoken or more reserved, campers of all experience levels are supported with personalized learning

plans that meet them where they are.

Families choose Capitol Debate for its strong track record. With more than 20 years of experience, the program has 10,000+ alumni from 1,500+ cities worldwide. Alumni have earned admission to Yale, Harvard, and Stanford; landed positions at Goldman Sachs and Morgan Stanley; and have become physicians, attorneys, engineers, and leaders.

Named a TeenLife Top 100 Summer Program, Capitol Debate operates in 19 locations, including on prestigious college campuses such as Yale, UCLA, and Berkeley. Locally, it offers programs at the Hun School in Princeton, Lawrenceville School, and Rider University. Both residential or day camp options are available, and spots fill quickly. To schedule a free assessment, go to capitoldebate.com.

CODE NINJAS

3130 Rt. 10 West, Denville • 973-370-4570 • codeninjas.com/nj-denville

The high-tech, hands-on summer camp options at Code Ninjas in Denville provide countless opportunities to transform your child’s love for technology into an exciting learning adventure. Guided by a team of Code Senseis, Code Ninjas’ camps empower kids to develop valuable technology skills while making new friends and engaging in an unforgettably fun learning experience.

“Code Ninjas teaches kids how to write computer code through video game development, and in the summer months we kick things up a notch,” says Darlene Kotteles, center director. At Code Ninjas, it goes beyond learning coding— kids gain creativity, problem-solving, critical thinking and STEM skills in a fun and safe environment.

Code Ninjas’ summer camps focus on specific STEM and coding activities, from Minecraft modding and building worlds in

Roblox to 3D printing and LEGO Robotics. The curriculum is always built with creation in mind so students can express their imagination and experiment with innovative ideas. Other summer camp topics include video game development, creative design, digital drawing and 3D editing.

“Each weeklong camp is a different topic, and by Friday kids go home with a completed project—or three—to

take home,” she says. Both full-day and half-day camp options are available and include time for free play so kids have opportunities to engage in board games or other STEM toys with new friends.

“You have to see it to believe it—many students will book just one week of camp and then end up signing up for several more weeks because they had such an incredible experience and can’t wait to learn more,” Kotteles says.

EDGEWOOD COUNTRY CLUB SUMMER CAMP

The Edgewood Country Club Summer Camp provides the ultimate summer experience.

Located on the beautiful grounds of the Edgewood Country Club in River Vale, the camp provides a safe, welcoming and memorable summer experience for kids ages 4-12.

Edgewood’s summer camp offers flexible half-day and full-day sessions throughout the summer, which are all led by experienced and certified counselors who remain actively engaged with campers throughout the day. Each camp day is thoughtfully planned to foster exploration, skill-building and friendships, with the goal of creating an enriching and enjoyable environment where every child feels secure and supported.

“Our staff works very hard to ensure that our campers are fully experiencing all there is to do here at Edgewood— and, ultimately, that they have the best summer of their lives,” says

Marilyn Tineo, camp director. “Parents appreciate that their kids come home dirty and tired, and our only hope is that our campers enjoy their time with us as much as we enjoy experiencing the summer with them.”

Daily camp activities include tennis and swimming, including swim lessons. Specialized activities such as karate and yoga, as well as group sports like soccer, are also available, and the camp’s

screen-free policy for campers and staff ensures that everyone remains engaged in daily activities and can fully enjoy the outdoor fun. “We ensure that our campers always feel comfortable to explore new sports and activities, but we don’t place limitations or expectations on them—our one-and-only expectation is that they are always happy, having fun with friends and excited to return to camp the next day,” Tineo says.

FAIRVIEW LAKE YMCA CAMPS

1035 Fairview Lake Rd., Newton  • 973-383-9282 • fairviewlakeymca.org

From classic campfires to canoeing, kayaking, horseback riding, sailing, backpacking and farm life, Fairview Lake YMCA Camps offer something for every kind of camper.

Founded in 1915 and now proudly co-ed, Fairview Lake has grown into a welcoming community where tradition and adventure thrive. With more than two dozen traditional and specialty camps, it’s a place that proves summer after summer that there is truly “no place like this place.”

Set on 660 beautiful acres in Sussex County, Fairview Lake surrounds campers with forests, fields and a sparkling 110acre lake that defines daily life at camp. Campers in grades 2–10 enjoy a classic sleepaway experience in comfortable cabins, choosing between traditional camps or focusing on a special interest, from rock climbing and backpacking to sailing and horseback riding.

Fairview Lake is rooted in the YMCA mission of youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. Generations of families return year after year, and many campers grow into leaders through counselor-in-training and junior counselor programs. A diverse staff, including counselors from around the world, helps create a culture of belonging, confidence and care—especially for firsttime campers finding their place.

SUMMER AT FAR BROOK

RFairview Lake continues to invest in unforgettable summers. New highlights include a 31-foot floating iceberg on the lake and a $2.2 million renovation to the dining hall. More than a camp, Fairview Lake YMCA Camps is where memories are made and friendships grow.

“Fairview Lake is where kids discover who they are and feel like they belong,” says Summer Camp Director Maya Gujral. “There’s truly no place like this place.”

52 Great Hills Rd., Short Hills • 973-379-3442 • farbrook.org/summer

ooted in deep traditions and experiential programs, Far Brook School’s summer camp aims to provide students with a meaningful experience that reflects the school’s educational approach of being hands-on and inquiry-driven, intentionally diverse within a small community, arts-infused and STEAM-powered, as well as grounded in nature.

Since 1948, Far Brook’s progressive approach has provided a unique combination of inquiry-based learning that’s intrinsically connected to high academic standards. “These values inspire campers to fuel their passions and awaken their curiosity by creating a supportive and caring camp community that cherishes a love of learning, movement, creativity, diversity and individuality,” says Director of Strategic Operations Melissa Williams.

Far Brook’s beautiful wooded nine-acre campus feels more like a small village than

a traditional school. Facilities include an indoor climbing wall, multi-purpose spaces, a music and arts building, walking paths and a nature trail. Camp sessions run over nine weeks for preschoolers through tenth graders.

Program options include a traditional day camp, weeklong “master classes” taught by Far Brook faculty, and athletic programs. Day campers also have the option to participate in swim lessons at Swimquest

Millburn, adding another opportunity for skill-building and confidence in a safe, structured setting. Lunch is available for purchase, and the camp offers both morning and afternoon extended care.

“Parents often tell us they value our welcoming campus, outstanding facilities and dedicated staff, but what resonates most is how our program encourages children to play, think and grow with purpose,” Williams says.

HEALTHBARN USA

1057 Hillcrest Rd., Ridgewood • 201-444-2955 • healthbarnusa.com

With more than 20 years of summer camp experience, HealthBarn USA offers a hands-on, fun and educational garden-totable summer camp that helps set children up for a healthy future. Designed to build strong bodies and healthy minds, the program blends outdoor adventure, cooking from scratch, and meaningful connections with nature—all in a joyful, supportive environment.

Located in Ridgewood, HealthBarn’s organic teaching garden features more than 50 varieties of fruits, vegetables, herbs and edible plants. Campers plant, harvest and carry fresh produce straight into the kitchen, making the connection between food, health and the environment tangible and exciting.

HealthBarn’s camp encourages curiosity, teamwork and confidence. “The kids quickly become open to trying new foods—they feel incredibly proud after harvesting their own fruits and vegetables and cooking a delicious

lunch to enjoy with friends,” says Stacey Antine, MS, RDN, founder and director of HealthBarn USA. “Our camp is 100 percent unplugged, and the children are genuinely happy, engaged and excited to bring home new pasta, cake pop and granola recipes to share with their families.”

Lunchtime is a daily highlight, thanks to HealthBarn’s kitchen team led by professional French Chef Pascal, who makes wholesome, farm-fresh meals irresistible—

even for picky eaters. Campers prepare food each day, learning essential culinary and life skills.

Summer camp is offered for ages 4–5, 6–8, and 9–12, with a Summer Seedlings program for ages 3–5. Dietary allergies can be accommodated.

“We teach children to respect nature and one another,” Antine adds. “The HealthBarn experience is truly beneficial for the whole family.”

THE HUN SCHOOL OF PRINCETON

176 Edgerstoune Rd., Princeton • 609-580-1001 • hunschool.org/summer

The Hun School’s Day Camp is designed by campers, for campers—the student-based and directed camp invites kids to choose their activities for the next day and customize their summer experience. Day campers at Hun can enjoy swim lessons and free swim every day, explore nature on the school’s 45-acre campus, learn through STEAM activities, create LEGO builds and arts and crafts, take part in new games, and build friendships.

“Our campers love playing games, going to the creek to explore nature, and taking daily swimming lessons, while our parents love the flexibility of having before- and after-care, choosing full or half days,” says Director of Summer and Auxiliary Programs Patrick Quirk. Campers and parents also appreciate the provided buffet-style lunch, which offers an array of options to accommodate dietary restrictions—not to mention softserve and Dole Whip for dessert.

The school also offers one-week sports camps taught by its championship coaches in all-gender soccer and field hockey, boys’ basketball, and girls’ volleyball and dance. New this summer, Hun will host Discovery Camps hosted by CoderSchool and Drobots Company for grades 3-8, which offer fun with drones, coding, 3D printing, and Roblox; as well as the Summer Leadership Institute taught by Spaceship < > for grades 9–12.

Traditional for-credit and enrichment courses in math, science, test prep, writing and other subjects are also available for students in grades 9–12.

“We’re proud that our camp connects campers with our Hun School community,” Quirk says, noting that all of the junior counselors and lifeguards are students and/or former campers. “Their connection to Hun builds belonging— which is a key goal of the school itself.”

THE JOHNS HOPKINS CENTER FOR TALENTED YOUTH

McAuley Hall, 5801 Smith Ave., Ste. 400, Baltimore, MD •410-735-6277 • cty.jhu.edu

The Johns Hopkins Center for Talented Youth offers day, residential, and online academic programs for students in grades 2-12. Advanced learners from around the world can dive into unique classes they might not find in school.

During three-week, in-person summer programs, students can explore humanities, math, science, bioethics, engineering, public health, and more while participating in social activities and traditions like dances, themed days and talent shows.

“While it might be a specific course or area of academic interest that brings someone to CTY, I’ve heard from parents, students and alumni that what they find most memorable are the friendships they form with other CTYers,” says Amy Lynne Shelton, PhD, CTY’s executive director. “Whether students bond over forensics or Fortnite, in the classroom or

in the residence hall, or during dances and games of Foursquare, they find their people at CTY.”

CTY provides a holistic learning experience that emphasizes intellectual and personal growth. Courses focus on facilitated learning instead of lecturestyle instruction, as instructors engage alongside students as fellow learners. At CTY learning is about having the time and freedom outside of school to explore

interests and discover new academic passions, from anatomy and zoology to Arduino prototyping and advanced math.

“At CTY, students sequence DNA and tackle tough philosophical topics. They engage in lively discussions and handson opportunities to discover, question and create,” she says. “And they do it all surrounded by peers and instructors who share and support their sense of curiosity and love of learning.”

LAKELAND HILLS FAMILY YMCA

100 Fanny Rd., Mountain Lakes • 973-334-2820 • lakelandhillsymca.com

The Lakeland Hills Family YMCA summer camp is committed to delivering a summer full of adventure, growth and lasting memories for every camper. With more than 35 years of excellence, the camp provides a safe and enriching outdoor experience for campers in grades 1-11 and embodies the Y’s core character values: respect, responsibility, caring and honesty.

Lakeland Hills’ school-age summer camp program offers a variety of ageappropriate activities, from swimming (including lessons) and arts and crafts to sports and science, all designed to foster character, independence and friendships. Exciting specialty programs are also available for campers in grades 4-7, and include dance, STEM, Esports, travel basketball and sailing.

The safety and well-being of campers and staff are top priorities; the camp adheres to the latest health guidelines from the

CDC, state and local authorities, and the American Camp Association, ensuring the highest standards of care. Led by dedicated, caring staff, each camper can safely build new skills, explore the outdoors and create unforgettable memories.

“Parents appreciate that their children are coming home from camp every day tired and sweaty, and can’t stop talking about how much fun they had,” says Linnea Berry, Camp and Youth Program Director.

Along with engaging activities, Lakeland Hills YMCA emphasizes social-emotional learning. The camp’s professional counselors encourage children and teens to exchange screen time for fresh air, outdoor adventures and active play as they discover new interests and grow their self-esteem. “It’s always rewarding to see campers building friendships while also building their character,” Berry says.

LANDMARK COLLEGE

19 River Rd. South, Putney, VT • 802-387-6718 • landmark.edu

Landmark College (LC) in Putney, Vermont, is renowned as the first college for students who learn differently, and offers a variety of summer programs for high school and college students with learning differences (LD) or executive function challenges

Landmark’s summer programs help students identify their strengths and differences, build social skills and learn strategies to be successful in the classroom and beyond, whether it’s writing and study skills, social development, or the ability to selfadvocate.

“Students learn how to overcome their challenges, but also how to tap into their unique talents. It’s very empowering for them,” says Eve Khan, academic director for LC’s Summer Bridge Experience.

Landmark’s summer programs emphasize executive function skills,

including time management, activation and organization, while offering opportunities for personal change and growth and facilitating a smooth transition to college. Students build a sense of community and belonging through collaborative assignments and extracurricular activities.

Students do not need an official diagnosis to attend Landmark College Summer Programs, and financial aid is

available. At the end of each program, students receive written evaluations that help them carry the lessons over into the next step of their education journey.

“Many students leave our college program feeling confident for the first time, and they’re proud to be able to take the skills they’ve developed with them— whether they choose to remain here at Landmark or move on,” Khan says.

LIBERTY SCIENCE CENTER SCIENCE CAMP

222 Jersey City Blvd., Jersey City • 201-253-1380 • lsc.org/camp

Liberty Science Center’s (LSC) Science Camp encourages kids entering grades 1-8 to learn, solve problems and push innovation to the next level. The weekly STEM-focused camp program is accredited by the American Camp Association (ACA) and features hands-on activities that invite campers to explore various weekly topics; this year’s topics include medical science, magic, pop culture and a celebration of the FIFA World Cup.

“We offer a high-tech, cutting-edge educational camp in an atmosphere to match, and our ACA accreditation demonstrates our commitment to safety and program excellence,” says Andrew Herrmann, director of Out-of-School Time programs. “Our goal is to help kids develop an understanding and appreciation for STEM while having fun.”

Along with academics, Science Camp sparks new friendships. While campers

are having fun, they’re also learning to collaborate, communicate ideas and think creatively. A weekly science fair allows campers the opportunity to present their projects of the week to friends and family, then explore the facility together.

“Parents have told us how engaged their children become with everything they’re learning at camp, and how eager they are to replicate concepts at home,” Herrmann says. “They love that their kids are excited to go

back to school in the fall to learn even more.”

The camp includes daily structured museum exploration as well as outdoor fun and games. Tuition includes an inquirybased STEM curriculum, professional instruction, course materials, snacks and museum access.

“We’re a cutting-edge, high-tech science program, but it still feels like summer camp—we take kids outside to run around, play games and have some fun,” he says.

MAINE CAMP EXPERIENCE

Camps throughout Maine • 877-92-MAINE • mainecampexperience.com

At Maine Camps, kids can water ski and sail on crystal-clear lakes, play ball on pine-tree-lined fields, get creative in the arts, and more. Maine Camp Experience (MCE) is a community of more than 40 summer camps throughout Maine and a camp-planning resource with a Campcierge® that helps families choose their best camp.

With unparalleled natural beauty and top-notch land and water sports, arts, special events, trips and traditions, Maine Camps are the natural choice. “Maine Camps are set on stunning lakes and have incredible directors, facilities, activities, instruction, trips and more,” says MCE Director Laurie Kaiden.

Steeped in tradition, many of the camps have run for over 100 years. With a focus on Maine’s natural beauty, camps blend arts, sports and nature activities with trips to places like Boothbay Harbor and Acadia National Park. Campers ages 7-17 can attend

full- or half-summer or shorter sessions.

Every summer, 65,000 campers come to Maine Camps “to unplug, connect with nature, have fun, make lifelong friendships and learn new skills—all while gaining confidence, independence and resilience,” says Kaiden, a New Jersey mom whose children attended an MCE Camp. “Campers look forward to returning each summer to build on those experiences.”

Maine Camps impart values of

cooperation, respect, teamwork, integrity and loyalty, and engage campers in social action initiatives to learn about helping others. Campers feel connected to their camp and the greater Maine Camp community.

“Kids benefit immensely from summers spent at Maine Camps, where they have fun, enjoy nature, expand their horizons, realize their potential, and become who they are,” Kaiden says.

OMEGA INSTITUTE FAMILY WEEK

Rhinebeck, NY  •  800-944-1001  • eomega.org/family-week

Since 1977, Omega Institute has been a gathering place for world-renowned thought leaders, spiritual teachers, scientists, artists and creative visionaries. Each year, more than 15,000 adults come to Omega seeking lifelong learning and growth, and during Family Week, the campus is open to children and teens. “There’s something special about families stepping into a place that’s been shaped by decades of big ideas, wisdom and curiosity,” says Mary Allen, program developer at Omega.

Located on a 250-acre campus in Rhinebeck, NY, Omega’s wooded paths, open fields and quiet gathering spaces foster a rhythm that invites people to slow down and be present. Family Week has been part of Omega for more than 40 years and is designed for families of all ages.

“Parents can invest in their own growth and restoration while their kids are having an unplugged summer camp experience,” Allen says. “Kids and teens build confidence,

friendships and independence, while adults are learning, reflecting and reconnecting with themselves.”

Adults choose one workshop for the week, which may include yoga and mindful movement, pickleball or singing, while kids and teens choose from camp experiences such as sports of all sorts, stop-motion animation stories or the Wayfinder Experience (a role-playing adventure).

In the evenings, the whole community comes together to enjoy campfires, musical performances and opportunities to share their talents.

“There’s something about Omega that works magic on people of all ages,” says Elizabeth Lesser, Omega’s co-founder and founder of Family Week. “It gives each of us permission to be ourselves, accept others and create community.”

PALISADES COUNTRY DAY CAMP

248 Herbert Ave., Closter • 201-784-7600 • palisadescountryday.com

Palisades Country Day Camp (PCDC) is an incredible summer experience designed exclusively for young children, from 21-monthold “Tiny Tots” to 8-year-old “Senior Campers.” Conveniently located in Closter, PCDC provides a nurturing environment where campers thrive under the care of seasoned camp professionals and educators with extensive early childhood expertise.

“What sets us apart is our American Camp Association accreditation, beautiful campgrounds, exciting activities, and the nurturing staff who return year after year,” says Niki Livanis, Enrollment Coordinator.

PCDC’s swim program is a standout feature. American Red Cross-certified lifeguards teach age-appropriate aquatic skills and water safety, helping young swimmers gain confidence and empowering more experienced swimmers to refine and master new

techniques. Campers swim twice daily in heated pools, starting with morning lessons and ending with recreational swim or splash park fun.

In addition to swimming, campers enjoy theme days, arts and crafts, ceramics, sports, nature, and music. Senior campers also participate in enrichment activities such as cooking, science, LEGOs, robotics/coding, dance, and woodworking.

YMCA CAMP BERNIE

A“Our camp is more than a place to play—it’s a close-knit community where strong connections and lifelong friendships are built,” Livanis shares. Many former campers return as counselors, spreading the PCDC magic to the next generation.

At Palisades Country Day Camp, every moment is designed to inspire joy, build confidence, and create memories that last a lifetime!

327 Turkey Top Rd., Port Murray • 908-832-5315 • campbernieymca.org

t YMCA Camp Bernie, summer is more than fun—it’s a chance for children to grow in confidence, character and connection. Guided by the YMCA’s core values of caring, honesty, respect and responsibility, Camp Bernie creates a welcoming environment where kids feel safe to explore, try new things and be themselves.

“Camp Bernie is a place where kids can unplug, explore and grow into their most confident selves,” says Cara Apsley, senior vice president of Childcare + Camps for Camp Bernie and the Ridgewood YMCA. “What truly sets us apart is our intentional focus on character development alongside fun, adventure and discovery.”

Campers enjoy classic camp experiences like swimming, hiking, biking, archery, arts and crafts, and campfires, along with outdoor education programs focused on forest, stream and habitat ecology. These hands-on experiences spark curiosity,

encourage respect for nature, and help campers build meaningful friendships. Adventure-based programming, including the ASE challenge courses, climbing and rappelling tower, zip line and giant swing, supports teamwork, communication and confidence.

“Campers are encouraged to try new things and take healthy risks at their own comfort level while learning to support and encourage one another,” Apsley says.

At Camp Bernie, summer memories are just the beginning. Families consistently share how much growth they see in their children—from stronger social skills to greater independence. “I’m most proud of the sense of belonging campers gain here,” she says. “Through our Summer Camp for All scholarships, we ensure every child can experience the joy and community that define Camp Bernie.”

SADDLE RIVER DAY SCHOOL SUMMER ACADEMY

147 Chestnut Ridge Rd., Saddle River • 201-327-4050 • saddleriverday.org

Is your child looking to get ahead, earn high school credits or explore exciting new interests this summer? The Saddle River Day School (SRDS) Summer Academy offers a focused, challenging curriculum that allows students in grades 5-12 to advance their studies and gain credits in an enriching, inspiring and dynamic environment.

“Students leave our program with increased self-confidence, newfound skills and a sense of accomplishment. Our curriculum provides a rigorous summer learning experience that emphasizes both depth and academic advancement,” says Erica Rose Cohen, director of enrichment programs at SRDS.

The SRDS Summer Academy provides a range of academic advancement opportunities, including full-credit, semester-credit and elective courses at honors and college prep levels in the sciences, mathematics, world languages

and humanities. In addition, students can explore dynamic elective topics such as research and writing and speech and debate. Students engage meaningfully and creatively, whether mastering

Periodic Table elements in chemistry or exploring innovation with 3D printing in design thinking. The academy also offers competency-based classes for middle school students that are designed to strengthen foundational skills and prepare them for

future success.

Post-academy surveys consistently highlight the strong, supportive relationships between students and staff, with instructors working closely to ensure participants feel encouraged, motivated and connected. SRDS educators are celebrated for their patience, unwavering support and clear, effective teaching, empowering students to approach their coursework with confidence.

SCOUTING AMERICA: ALPINE DAY CAMP

Scouting America’s Alpine Day Camp focuses on getting children outside into nature. Open to non-scout families, campers can enjoy a beautiful property featuring a swimming pool, playgrounds, miles of trails, and acres of land to explore.

“The opportunity for socializing and the growth that comes with outdoor activity and imaginative play is so important for youth development,” says Alpine Day Camp Director Kimberly Merry. “Our camp has become an opportunity for children who may not have thought of themselves as nature lovers or outdoor enthusiasts to explore, play in the dirt and experience the great outdoors without the pressure of being far away from home.”

The camp features a diverse schedule of activities, including swimming, archery, BB guns, a range and a pirate ship. Each week revolves around themed days, from “Meet-yah Mondays” featuring team-

building exercises to “Finale Friday” where parents are invited to join in on the fun with family swim, barbecues and talent shows. The camp also hosts visitors throughout the summer from local nature centers and entertainers from the area, and leads hikes to nearby historical landmarks.

“Introducing everyone to each other each week, regardless of how many weeks into the summer we are, offers each camper the opportunity to talk

with someone they might not have been interacting with and help them break out of their shell if they haven’t already,” Merry says.

The camp’s staff is comprised of scout leaders, teachers and after-school program staff who all have extensive experience in either camp or education. The camp also offers transportation across all five boroughs and locally in New Jersey with flexible stops.

THE SHAKESPEARE THEATRE OF NEW JERSEY

Madison & Florham Park • 973-845-6742 • shakespearenj.org

The Summer Shakespeare Academy blends professional acting instruction with classic literature to help students develop their self-confidence and creativity within an acclaimed regional theatre. “The Academy provides a welcoming and inclusive space for students to come together and build relationships that last far beyond the final bow each summer,” says Molly McCarthy, Education Programs Coordinator.

Participants receive high-caliber training and mentorship from professional actors, directors, and teaching artists. Through a combination of class work, rehearsal, games, exploration, and play, students grow as collaborators, creative thinkers, and artists. “Our programs engage young imaginations in a unique way — students get to bring royalty, magical creatures, warriors, witches, and other fascinating characters to life,” McCarthy says. “They

become fully immersed in some of the most exciting and beloved plays and stories in the world.”

preparing an abridged production of a Shakespeare play.

Both the Shakespeare’s Players and Shakespeare’s Players, Jr. programs culminate in public performances on the Main Stage. In just two weeks, the Junior Players (ages 10-14) put together a 20-minute ensemble-based performance of a classic tale, while the Players (ages 14-18) spend three weeks

To round out the Summer Shakespeare Academy, the Theatre is debuting a playful and supportive week-long program for ages 6-9 called Camp Shakespeare!

“We often hear our students express gratitude for the passionate community of bright, silly, and imaginative young artists that the Summer Shakespeare Academy brings together,” McCarthy says.

SPORTSPLEX AT METUCHEN

215 Durham Ave., Metuchen • 732-494-3000 • sportsplexatmetuchen.com

The Sportsplex at Metuchen MultiSport Summer Camp blends traditional camp programming with specialized training in sports, ranging from basketball to soccer to hockey. The camp incorporates STEM activities, Nerf games, as well as exciting field trips to provide campers with a well-rounded summer experience as they enhance their skills and gain experience in various sports.

Throughout the summer, campers will have an opportunity to play soccer, basketball, wiffleball, kickball, dodgeball, football, camp games and more. The daily schedule includes breaks and lunchtime, and activities are always planned around the interests of campers to ensure a fun and engaging experience for all.

Parents appreciate the flexibility to customize registration around what works best for their family and choose the number of days and weeks to enroll

their child; aftercare options are also available, as well as sibling discounts and other discount programs for families who qualify.

The camp’s experienced and knowledgeable counselors are committed to providing an enjoyable experience and fun-filled summer for each and every camper. Highly trained and licensed coaches are trained in CPR/ first aid and come to camp with one goal:

development.

“We love it when kids come back year after year and tell us that their exposure to different sports during summer camp gave them the confidence to join the baseball or soccer team at school,” says Brandon Meyers, director of youth operations at Sportsplex. “We love being able to help them build their skills and introduce them to the world of sports in an exciting and engaging way.”

WARDLAW+HARTRIDGE SUMMER ADVENTURES

1295 Inman Ave., Edison • 908-754-1882 • whschool.org

Designed for ages 3-17, Wardlaw+Hartridge’s Summer Adventures offerings range from traditional day camps and specialty camps to sports camps, creative arts programs and high school courses for credit.

“Families can truly customize their summer; a camper can take a two-week course in cybersecurity in the morning and then create their own afternoon of fun, including both indoor and outdoor activities and swimming,” says Brian Junger, director of auxiliary programs and transportation.

Traditional day camp activities include arts and crafts, cooking, STEM, sports/games and swimming. W+H is also home to a thriving performing arts camp, and new this summer are swim lessons for Funshine and Adventure Campers.

Two weeks of a Teen Travel Combo Camp will be offered for rising 9th and 10th graders, with campers heading out on adventures three times a week, including

trips to Madame Tussauds in NYC, laser tag, and rock climbing. The other two days spent at camp will be a C.I.T. (Counselor In Training) program for campers to learn the ins and outs of being a counselor for future employment.

W+H is also offering a new College Prep Performance Intensive (CPPI) designed to support students interested in developing their musicianship to a higher level. In this two-week program, students

will be trained as solo performers and attend classes to supplement their musical skills.

“I’m most proud of creating a safe space for campers of any age. If families and campers feel safe, the learning, building relationships and gaining confidence all come together,” Junger says. “I take great pride in telling our families that a lot of fun will be had here at Summer Adventures.”

THE WINSTON SCHOOL OF SHORT HILLS

The Winston School of Short Hills

Summer on the Hill camp is geared toward students in grades 1-8 who have learning differences such as ADHD, executive function challenges, dyscalculia and dyslexia. Founded in 2010, the camp offers a blend of academic support and enrichment opportunities in a fun, relaxed and supportive learning environment.

“Our summer camp features highly trained teachers, flexible schedules and specialized programming that allow parents to hone in on the support their child needs in the classroom while at the same time exposing them to a traditional summer camp experience,” says Heather Heycock, director of the Winston Center for Learning.

Students receive instruction in subjects such as reading, writing, math and executive function skills in the morning, and then in the afternoon, campers are

invited to choose their own schedule with enrichment activities like STEM, art, baking and performing arts. Small class sizes allow campers to receive individualized instruction catered to their unique learning style.

The six-week camp is located on the campus of The Winston School, which has served students for more than 40 years. The curriculum places a strong emphasis on phonics, reading, writing and language

arts. The Summer on the Hill camp aims to offer students the opportunity to maintain skills acquired in their previous school year and sharpen them for the fall.

“Parents especially seem to appreciate our multi-sensory approach and encouraging instructors who are meeting kids where they are to help bridge gaps, build their confidence and prevent the ‘summer slip’—and all while having some fun along the way,” Heycock says.

WILLOW IN THE WOODS AT THE WILLOW SCHOOL

1150 Pottersville Rd., Gladstone • 908-470-9500 • willowschool.org

Discover a summer of adventure, creativity, and wonder at The Willow School’s Willow in the Woods nature camp! Nestled on a breathtaking 34-acre campus in the New Jersey countryside, this unique camp invites children to explore the great outdoors as their playground and classroom. Campers can build forts, splash in the campus stream, get their hands dirty in the school garden, and enjoy the timeless joys of summer camp—arts and crafts, music, games, and fun!

Designed for children in kindergarten through eighth grade, Willow in the Woods offers mixed-age groups where kids can freely choose their activities, encouraging creativity, independence, and collaboration. For our youngest campers, the preschool program provides a nurturing introduction to the joys of nature and the chance to engage

with older peers.

“Our forest school-style camp allows children to make their own decisions about the activities they participate in, so while they’re outside connecting to nature they’re also developing their creativity and executive functioning skills,” says Head of School Francisco Ayala. “Students tend to have busy schedules during the school year, so this is a way for them to have time to explore

their interests uninterrupted.”

Led by Willow’s expert faculty and staff, the camp also incorporates the energy and enthusiasm of junior counselors—many of whom are proud Willow alumni. With thoughtfully designed experiences that are both fun and purposeful, Willow in the Woods is more than just a camp—it’s a summer filled with growth, connection, and unforgettable memories.

WINSTON PREPARATORY SCHOOL: SUMMER PROGRAM

901 Rte. 10 East, Whippany • 973-500-6480 • winstonprep.edu/new-jersey

Winston Prep New Jersey’s Summer Program supports students in grades 3-12 with learning differences such as dyslexia, executive functioning difficulties, ADHD, or non-verbal learning disabilities (NVLD).

The robust four-week academic day program, extracurricular activities, and unique 1:1 Focus program are designed to help each student strengthen their academic skills, stay social, and foster independence. Winston Prep NJ welcomes current students and students from other private, public, mainstream, and special education settings to join the program.

Along with daily 1:1 Focus sessions, students participate in small-group academic courses, focused on reading comprehension and semantics, organization and study skills, written expression, mathematics, decoding, encoding, and reading fluency.

“We often hear from parents that their

child feels understood in a way they never have before at Winston Prep,” says Chris Bishop, the summer program’s coordinator. “Our long-standing expertise in understanding and analyzing learning profiles allows us to help teach parents about their child’s cognitive strengths and weaknesses, how they learn best, why they struggle in the ways they do, and how to access their personal best.”

The optional Extended Day Program

provides students with the opportunity to participate in a less structured environment, with exciting offerings tailored to students’ interests and needs. Activities will range from art, social skills, baking, sports, and SAT prep.

The program runs from June 29 to July 24, 2026. Visit winstonprep.edu/ nj-summer-program or contact njsummerprogram@winstonprep.edu to learn more.

IS IT TIME FOR A CAMP CHANGE?

So your child doesn’t want to go back to the camp you thought they’d love forever—now what? From decoding their concerns to exploring new options, here’s how to handle the shift with confidence.

SWITCHING CAMPS IS A BIG DECISION AND ONE THAT YOU SHOULD TAKE TIME TO FIGURE OUT.

HONEST CONVERSATIONS WITH YOUR CHILD

AND CAMP

DIRECTORS, PAIRED WITH YOUR OWN

INSTINCTS,

WILL HELP GUIDE THE NEXT

STEPS.

YBY JESS MICHAELS

ou did your camp research: you spoke with directors, toured camps, and called references before choosing what you thought would be your child’s “forever” overnight camp. But after a summer—or even a few— your child comes home saying they don’t want to return. Often, this comment can put parents into a tailspin. They begin wondering what could have gone wrong, and if their child doesn’t go back to camp, what will they do next summer? Corey Dockswell, director of Camp Wicosuta, an all-girls overnight camp in New Hampshire, advises parents to give it a beat. “At the end of the summer, children feel a mixture of emotions. As parents, we may wait for the thumbs up to re-enroll as the endorsement of our child’s experience. When they don’t provide that and are ambivalent or reluctant to return, that gives us an obvious pause. We recommend giving your child some space, and time, and then talk it over with them.”

When you do talk, try to uncover what’s truly bothering your child. Understanding the root issue will help you determine whether it can be addressed—or if it’s time for a change. “If, after speaking with your child, they are still reluctant, their reason isn’t clear or you’d like more context, reach out to the camp director. They want to partner with you and share their observations and suggestions,” says Dockswell. “The camp director can provide more insight and a complete sense of your child’s experience so you can evaluate whether this camp is the best fit for your child. Sometimes, it’s not about fit, but about normative homesickness or bunk placement. Those challenges can often be addressed. Other times, hindsight is 20/20 and knowing more, you may want to reevaluate your goals and find a camp that better suits your child’s needs.” Depending on the situation and after speaking with the director, you may decide it’s time to move on from the camp.

Jenny Gold, a mom from Essex County, realized after a few

summers that her daughter wasn’t clicking with the campers at the camp she was attending. “Making lifelong friends was really the top reason we wanted to send her to overnight camp in the first place. When I looked around the camp, I realized there really weren’t a lot of ‘her people’ so we realized it was time for a change.” When she began researching again, Gold focused on finding a camp that better matched her daughter’s personality and interests. “I wanted a camp with a good mix of kids with different interests and not just a cookiecutter camp. It was also important for me to find a place where she could focus on her personal interests and a camp that truly focuses on kindness, not just one that says they do.”

The second camp search often looks different. Where you may have been driving the search the first time around, your child will want to be even more involved now. Your child is also older, their interests more defined, and their personality more developed. Talk about what they loved about their previous camp and what they’d like in a new one. If your child is now in middle school or older, ask the directors whether there are other new campers their age and if the campers in the division your child will join are welcoming and open to new friendships.

Switching camps is a big decision and one that you should take time to figure out. Honest conversations with your child and camp directors, paired with your own instincts, will help guide the next steps. “Camp directors view themselves as partners,” says Dockswell. “We understand that camp is wonderful and also imperfect at times. We welcome the opportunity to work with parents as they evaluate the kind of experience they’d like for their child. Our goals are the same: we want each child to have a wonderful experience at camp.”

— For more than 14 years, Jess Michaels has worked for the American Camp Association, NY and NJ, a not-for-profit organization dedicated to enhancing the summer camp experience.

Sealed, Stamped and

Slightly Dramatic

A look at kids’ brutally honest letters from sleepaway camp

BY JENNIFER SALVATO DOKTORSKI

Lakeside cabins and late-night bunkbed chatter, campfire songs, and the great outdoors. Each year, millions of kids in the U.S. head off to sleepaway camp for unplugged fun, hoping for a taste a freedom and friendships that last a lifetime. But in between the kayaking, crafting, swimming and hikes, are the sunburns, bug bites, homesickness, and bunkmates who snore. Parents hear about it all—the good, the bad, the exaggerated—in those letters home.

One parent, whose kids both attended sleepaway camp, says she remembers writing to her own folks, “Someday I’ll forgive you for sending me here, but no time soon.” Her son, on the other hand, sent her a note saying, “I had to write this to get into dinner.” Another mom said when her son was at scout camp he sent her a single letter home: the letter “E” written large enough to cover the entire page.

The correspondence is as unique as the campers. Someone could write a book about the things kids say in letters home. And someone did! Two, in fact. Diane Falanga is the author of P.S. I Hate It Here! Kids’ Letters from Camp and P.S. I Still Hate It Here! More Kids’ Letters from Camp. A mother of two inspired by the funny letters from her own kids, Falanga pored over thousands of letters in writing both books. “These letters reveal that kids are wittier and more sophisticated than we might assume, and that the experience of being away from home for the first time creates hilarious and lasting memories,” she said. Read on for a sample of letters, aka a collection of sleepaway camp's most honest reviews!

NEGOTIATOR

THE DESPERATELY HOMESICK

ALL LETTERS (EXCEPT THE HAPPY CAMPER) EXCERPTED FROM P.S. I HATE IT HERE! KIDS' LETTERS FROM CAMP BY DIANE FALANGA, ABRAMS BOOKS, 2010.

EDELMAN FOSSIL PARK & MUSEUM

OUT & ABOUT

New Jersey and its neighbors are home to zoos, planetariums, living history sites, art gardens, museums and more that make for amazing summer day trips!

ADVENTURE AQUARIUM

1 Riverside Dr., Camden 844-474-3474 adventureaquarium.com

The aquarium is home to more than 15,000 aquatic animals— including the largest collection of sharks in the Northeast that you can see from the shark tunnel. See hippos up close, or take a peek at the recently hatched African penguins. Kaleidoscope Cove dedicates an area to bioluminescent sea creatures.

ALICE PAUL CENTER FOR

GENDER JUSTICE

128 Hooton Rd., Mt. Laurel 856-231-1885 alicepaul.org

Named after NJ-born suffragist Alice Paul, the institute offers opportunities to learn about how she dedicated her life to gender equality initiatives through K-8 programs, teen education and a Girls Leadership Council.

ALLEY POND

ENVIRONMENTAL CENTER

229-10 Northern Blvd., Douglaston, NY

718-229-4000 alleypond.org

Explore nature with a walk outside, spend time with animals, and take a lesson on everything from endangered species to animal adaptations.

AMAZING ESCAPE ROOM

Multiple Locations amazingescaperoom.com

Test your skills by trying to crack the code to unlock the room in under 60 minutes.

AMERICAN MUSEUM OF

NATURAL HISTORY

200 Central Park W., NYC 212-769-5100 amnh.org

At this uber popular museum (thanks in part to the movie series), The End of the Age of Dinosaurs is now open, Encounters in the Milky Way continues, and the Apex Stegosaurus is back on view.

AMERICA’S GROW-A-ROW

150 Pittstown Rd., Pittstown 908-662-6304 americasgrowarow.org

This non-profit donates over 4 million pounds of fresh produce each year to regional hunger relief agencies and farm markets. Volunteer trips invite families to harvest crops at farms in Hunterdon County.

AVIATION

HALL OF FAME & MUSEUM OF NEW JERSEY

400 Fred Wehran Dr., Teterboro 201-288-6344

njahof.org

Kids will take flight (literally) as they explore a rocket engine, aircraft, airplane models and other displays at the country's first aviation museum.

BATTLESHIP NEW JERSEY

62 Battleship Pl., Camden 856-966-1652

battleshipnewjersey.org

Take a self-guided tour through the sailors’ quarters, administrative offices and mess hall aboard the decommissioned U.S. Navy ship docked in the Delaware River.

BAYSHORE CENTER AT BIVALVE

2800 High St., Port Norris 856-785-2060

bayshorecenter.org

Look for the A.J. Meerwald, a former oyster schooner that now serves as a hands-on sailing classroom. The Delaware Bay Museum offers shore-based programs on campus and along the scenic Maurice River.

BELL WORKS

101 Crawfords Corner Rd.,

Holmdel

732-226-8818

bell.works

The main atrium of the metroburb, called The Block, has areas for shopping, eating, entertaining (like VR and an escape room), exercising and relaxing—plus weekly markets.

BIG BROOK PARK

Main Entrance: 521 Rte. 520, Marlboro

Activity Center: 80 Boundary Rd., Marlboro

732-842-4000, ext. 4312 monmouthcountyparks.com

Families come to hike, cycle or look for wildlife along the rolling hills and open meadows, especially along the southern extension of the Henry Hudson Trail. The real attraction is fossil collecting in Big Brook, where you can hunt for prehistoric treasures.

BRONX ZOO

2300 Southern Blvd., Bronx, NY 718-220-5100 bronxzoo.com

Listen to the roar of tigers, feed animals in the farmyard, watch red pandas from the monorail and see dozens of butterflies in the greenhouse.

BROOKLYN BOTANIC

GARDEN

990 Washington Ave. Brooklyn, NY 718-623-7220 bbg.org

While exploring these gardens filled with stunning blooms, use your senses in the Fragrance

Garden, learn about soil in the Herb Garden, or go for play-based learning in the Discovery Garden.

BURY THE HATCHET

Multiple Locations burythehatchet.com

Have you ever wanted to be a lumberjack? Throw axes while you work on team-building skills.

CAPE MAY COUNTY PARK & ZOO

707 Rte. 9 N., Cape May Court House

609-465-5271 capemaycountynj.gov/1679/ park-zoo

This zoo is a gamechanger because admission is free every day! Aside from hundreds of animals, there’s a huge playground on the 220-acre property.

CAPE MAY POINT

STATE PARK

303 Rte. 629, Cape May Point 609-884-2159 dep.nj.gov

Climb to the top of the giant lighthouse, which is 199 steps from the base to an all-around view of the southernmost area of the state. Explore the Nature Center, a small aquarium-meetsmuseum; bird watch along a wooden path to the beach; and check out World War II bunkers.

CENTENARY STAGE CO.

715 Grand Ave., Hackettstown 908-979-0900 centenarystageco.org

Kids can watch professional theater performances, live music and dance events. If they feel inspired, they can join the touring company or take a Young Performers workshop.

CHARLES J. MUTH MUSEUM

Hinchliffe Stadium, 186 Maple St., Paterson thehinchliffestadium.com/ museum

The New Jersey Jackals’ home stadium is one of the country’s

last remaining Negro League ballparks. Inside the museum, learn about Paterson’s Larry Doby, the first Black player in the American League; see tons of baseball artifacts; and watch a documentary inside the theater.

CIRCLE LINE SIGHTSEEING CRUISES

Pier 83, W. 42nd St., NYC 212-563-3200 circleline.com

From the outdoor deck you’ll have unmatched views of NYC’s landmarks as you sail toward the Statue of Liberty.

COOPER GRISTMILL

66 Rte. 24, Chester Twp. 908-879-5463

morrisparks.net/parks_trails/ cooper-gristmill

Nathan Cooper built this gristmill in 1826, and it’s one of the only remaining restored water-powered mills in NJ. During a 45-minute tour led by a costumed master miller, you’ll see the machinery run in action.

DA VINCI SCIENCE CENTER

PPL Pavilion, 815 W. Hamilton St., Allentown, PA 610-841-1875

davincisciencecenter.org

See what your muscles, organs and ligaments look like from the inside at the temporary Body Worlds: A Journey Under the Skin exhibit. Other sections include Lehigh River Watershed, Science in the Making, and Curiosity Hall.

DEMAREST FARMS

244 Werimus Rd., Hillsdale 201-666-0472

demarestfarms.com

Grab a map of the activities for the day and take a self-guided tour of the farm, including a hayride, visit to the petting zoo and stop inside the farm market.

DINOSAURS ROCK

Multiple locations 917-375-4248

dinosaursrock.com

The museum comes to you—

whether at a school, camp, library, or your kid’s birthday party—with info on dinosaurs, oceans, sharks, gems, minerals and insects.

THE DISCOVERY CENTER AT POINT BREEZE

101 E. Park St., Bordentown 609-924-4646

drgreenway.org

The 200-year-old houseturned-museum is located on land that was occupied by Lenape tribe members for thousands of years. Joseph Napoleon Bonaparte, the exiled King of Spain, took residence in the 1880s. Inside, there are archaeological displays; and outside, 27 heritage crops that were grown by the earliest settlers are still thriving.

DREAM WHEEL NJ

1 American Dream Way, East Rutherford 833-263-7326

dreamwheelnj.com

It may look like a Ferris wheel, but it’s actually a 300-foot-tall observation wheel experience that offers views of the NYC skyline.

DRUMTHWACKET

Stockton Street (Rte. 206), Princeton

609-683-0057

drumthwacket.org

The official residence of our governor, the mansion was built around 1834 for Charles S. Olden, the governor during the Civil War. The building is open for free tours on Wednesdays.

DUKE FARMS

1112 Dukes Parkway W., Hillsborough

908-722-3700

dukefarms.org

Considered a “living lab” among 2,700 acres, nature activities include birding, outdoor classrooms and field journaling. Schedule a trip around the grounds with an instructor, or take a self-guided tour for free.

EDELMAN FOSSIL PARK & MUSEUM

66 Million Mosasaur Way, Mantua 856-284-DINO (3466) efm.org

Get your prehistoric fix here, digging for real fossils outside in the quarry or climbing on a pteranodon-shaped playground. Inside, explore exhibits of dino replicas, play in the Discovery Forest, and challenge others in the virtual reality room.

ESSEX COUNTY

TURTLE BACK ZOO

560 Northfield Ave., West Orange 973-731-5800

turtlebackzoo.com

Take a behind-the-scenes tour to get up close with giraffes, sea lions, penguins and butterflies. Other attractions include mini golf, the Children’s Regatta Playground, paddle boats and the TreeTop Adventure Course.

FOSTERFIELDS LIVING

HISTORICAL FARM

73 Kahdena Rd., Morris Twp. 973-326-7645

morrisparks.net/parks_trails/ fosterfields-living-historical-farm

Kids can experience life as it was in the 1920s when Cara Foster—whose father, Charles, purchased the land in 1881—ran

the farm. They’ll collect eggs, ride on wagons and see antique autos.

FRANKLIN MINERAL MUSEUM

32 Evans St., Franklin 973-827-3481

franklinmineralmuseum.com

Start your visit inside the Fluorescent Room, with its 32-foot-long display of glowing minerals; and then move on to the American Indian Room, which has Native American tools on display.

THE FUNPLEX

182 Rte. 10, East Hanover 3320-24 Rte. 38, Mt. Laurel thefunplex.com

Aside from the indoor amusement park with a boardwalk, arcade, bowling alley and rides, there's an outdoor Splashplex waterpark.

GAME SHOW CHALLENGE

916 Park Ave., Building 9, Ste. 2, Freehold Borough 732-372-0900

gameshowchallengenj.com

Test your smarts, speed and luck in a series of battles that will make you feel like you’re on TV. It's located inside Bury the Hatchet, so plan a doubly fun night of some axe throwing, too.

GREAT SWAMP WATERSHED ASSOCIATION

568 Tempe Wick Rd., Morristown 973-538-3500

greatswamp.org

Sign up for a Nature Detective Hike, go horseback riding or kayaking, lean toward eco-friendly living, and learn about the mission of The Riverkeepers.

GROUNDS FOR SCULPTURE

80 Sculptors Way, Hamilton 609-586-0616

groundsforsculpture.org

Grounds For Sculpture spans 42 beautifully landscaped acres dotted with more than 270 largescale works. Families can sign up for Tots for Art classes or drop in for Family Open Studio days.

THE GROWING STAGE

7 Ledgewood Ave., Netcong 973-347-4946

growingstage.com

Part of The Children’s Theatre of New Jersey inside The Historic Palace Theatre, kids can watch a matinee performance from the main stage. There are Q&As with the artistic team members, plus activity guides for all students.

GUGGENHEIM MUSEUM

1071 Fifth Ave., NYC 212-423-3500

guggenheim.org

In case the incredible collections of Impressionist, PostImpressionist and modern French masterpieces aren’t enough incentive to visit, the building itself is one of eight Frank Lloyd Wright designs designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

HEALTHBARN USA

1057 Hillcrest Rd., Ridgewood 201-444-2955

healthbarnusa.com

Learn about composting, go on an herb adventure, plant peas in a recyclable pot, and test your nutrition IQ during your visit.

HIDDEN BROOK RANCH

ALPACA AND LLAMA FARM

196 State Park Rd., Blairstown 908-543-4808

hiddenbrookranchalpaca.com

The owners love to share their knowledge of the small herd that lives on 10 acres at the foot of Jenny Jump State Park. Make an appointment for a guided walk, meet-and-greet or chores tour.

HISTORIC LONGSTREET FARM

44 Longstreet Rd., Holmdel 732-946-3758

monmouthcountyparks.com

Go back to the farming life of 1890s Monmouth County. Tour the farmhouse (from 1775), milk a cow, play games from the Victorian period, shear sheep, and use a wood stove for cooking.

HISTORIC NEW BRIDGE LANDING

1201 Main St., River Edge 201-343-9492

bergencountyhistory.org/discoverhnbl

This former factory town and battleground during the Revolutionary War is now a living history experience where kids get a glimpse into the 19th century via historical interpreters and weekend festivals.

THE HISTORIC VILLAGE AT ALLAIRE

4263 Atlantic Ave., Farmingdale 732-919-3500

allairevillage.org

Originally known as Howell Iron Works, Co., because it was an iron-producing factory town, the village's original buildings are open for tours of 19th-century life.

HOLLAND RIDGE FARMS

108 Rues Rd., Cream Ridge hollandridgefarms.com

This spectacular springtime tulip farm offers u-pick flowers, weekend markets, hayrides around the fields, and tours of the Dutch windmill.

HOWELL LIVING HISTORY FARM

70 Woodens Ln., Hopewell Twp.

609-737-3299

howellfarm.org

Trips to this farm from the 1700s include hands-on experiences that engage kids in the chores of a working farm, like spring plowing, field work, potato planting and beekeeping.

INFOAGE SCIENCE &

HISTORY MUSEUMS

2201 Marconi Rd., Wall Twp. 732-280-3000 infoage.org

Exhibits about space exploration, electronic warfare, radio technology, military communications, World War II artifacts and the Lenni-Lenape tribe are spread out over 20 museums in six historic buildings.

INSECTROPOLIS

1761 Rte. 9, Toms River 732-349-7090 insectropolis.com

Known as the Bugseum of New Jersey, this is the place where your kids can learn all about tiny insects and creatures.

INTREPID MUSEUM

Pier 86, W. 46th St. and 12th Ave., NYC

877-957-7447 intrepidmuseum.org

Visitors to the legendary aircraft carrier will see the Space Shuttle Pavilion, where they’ll get a close-up look at a retired NASA space shuttle, a former military submarine kids can walk through, and the interactive Exploreum.

iPLAY AMERICA

110 Schanck Rd., Freehold Twp. 732-577-8200 iplayamerica.com

Consider this the indoor answer to a Jersey Shore boardwalk. There are arcade games, go-karts, a giant jungle gym, laser tag, virtual reality, rides, and even a candy shop.

IRON PEAK SPORTS & EVENTS

137 Mountain View Rd., Hillsborough

908-758-2739

ironpeakse.com

Whether the kids like soccer, lacrosse, football, basketball, volleyball or baseball, there’s a sport for them at this indoor and outdoor complex. There are also climbing walls, an arcade, duckpin bowling and aerial ropes.

JENKINSON’S AQUARIUM

300 Ocean Ave., Pt. Pleasant Beach

732-892-0600 jenkinsons.com/aquarium

Aside from seeing the awesome aquatic animals, kids can join the Junior Keepers, Aquatic Adventures or various science programs.

JOHNSON’S LOCUST HALL FARM

2691 Monmouth Rd., Jobstown 609-353-9000

johnsonslocusthallfarm.com

This preserved farm from the 17th century comes alive during the spring with u-pick flowers, a farm market, fruit festivals, and Pick & Play Mornings with Barnyard Buddies.

LAKOTA WOLF PRESERVE

89 Mt. Pleasant Rd., Columbia 908-496-9244

lakotawolf.com

Take a Wolf Watch tour or sign up to see majestic wolves, bobcats, lynxes and foxes at play inside the largest natural-habitat animal preserve in the Northeast.

LIBERTY HALL MUSEUM

1003 Morris Ave., Union 908-527-0400

libertyhall.kean.edu

This 50-room mansion offers a hands-on look into the daily life of a colonial child of the 1700s through their toys, school, games and chores.

LIBERTY SCIENCE CENTER

222 Jersey City Blvd., Jersey City 201-200-1000 lsc.org

The kids will get hands-on experience with electricity,

bounce around an Infinity Climber, crawl through the Touch Tunnel, and see a show in the biggest planetarium in the western hemisphere. The newest display is the 40-foot-long, 13-foot-high SUE T-Rex skeleton, and the Izzo Family Touch Tank is now open.

MACCULLOCH HALL

45 Macculloch Ave., Morristown 973-538-2404

maccullochhall.org

The Federal-style mansion from 1812 is open for the Please Touch Tour, self-guided walkthroughs, access to historic gardens, and a collection of political cartoons.

MANASQUAN RESERVOIR

Visitor Center: 311 Windeler Rd., Howell; 732-919-0996

Environmental Center: 331 Georgia Tavern Rd., Howell monmouthcountyparks.com

Inside the Environmental Center, you’ll find activities for kids, plus live animals like turtles and snakes. Outside, take a hike, rent a kayak or rowboat, or spend time at the playground.

MEDIEVAL TIMES

149 Polito Ave., Lyndhurst 201-933-2220

medievaltimes.com

The “castle” is home to knights, falcons and horses who’ll put on a show complete with hand-tohand combat and jousting. Take a look at medieval weaponry in the Hall of Arms. Then feast on a fourcourse meal fit for the Queen.

MONMOUTH MUSEUM

765 Newman Springs Rd., Lincroft 732-747-2266

monmouthmuseum.org

Kids can climb a replica of the Sandy Hook Lighthouse; learn STEAM concepts through fossils, a paleo lab and recycled arts; check out space gear; and see pollinators in the gardens. This spring brings in a Smithsonian exhibit on the narwhal.

MONTCLAIR ART MUSEUM

3 S. Mountain Ave., Montclair 973-746-5555

montclairartmuseum.org

There are more than 14,000 paintings, ceramics, basketry, sculptures and works on paper you can explore.

MORRIS MUSEUM

6 Normandy Heights Rd., Morristown 973-971-3700 morrismuseum.org

The galleries touch on everything from dinosaurs and Native American art to earth science and model trains. A real highlight is the Spark!Lab, where you can be an inventor for the day.

MORRISTOWN NATIONAL HISTORICAL PARK

30 Washington Pl., Morristown 973-539-2016, ext. 210 nps.gov/morr

Located at the site where the Continental Army survived the winter of 1779 are 27 miles of hiking trails; go on a scavenger hunt to become a Junior Ranger.

MUSEUM OF EARLY TRADES & CRAFTS

9 Main St., Madison 973-377-2982, ext. 10

metc.org

Aside from monthly Makerspace events at the annex where kids can immerse themselves in STEM activities, the museum has its own share of early American toys, simple machines, dragons, and info on the American Revolution in NJ.

MUSEUM OF ICE CREAM

558 Broadway, NYC 866-665-1018 museumoficecream.com

Learn about the beloved treat’s history, play in the colorful sprinkle pool and take a trip down NYC’s highest indoor slide.

NATIONAL MUSEUM OF MATHEMATICS

225 Fifth Ave., NYC 212-542-0566 momath.org

Games and activities at MoMath—like doodling, puzzles, visual effects, formulas, drawing and group theory—are all based on fostering a love of math.

NEWARK MUSEUM OF ART

49 Washington St., Newark 973-596-6550

newarkmuseumart.org

Travel around the world

through exhibits of Asian, African and Mediterranean art. Lie inside a kaleidoscope, stand before a Tibetan Buddhist altar, and admire Native American clothing.

NEW JERSEY HALL OF FAME

1 American Dream Way, East Rutherford njhalloffame.org/entertainmentlearning-center

Express your Jersey pride through a series of interactive exhibits where you’ll learn about our state's heroes. Join a hologram of a famous singer on stage, take a journey to the moon, see Edison's Model T, and host an interview on Late Night TV.

NEW JERSEY SEA GRANT CONSORTIUM

Various locations 732-872-1300

njseagrant.org

Every Kid Outdoors lets kids in grades 3 to 5 learn about NJ's coastal ecosystems—for free! Or check the schedule for Ocean Fun Days, with eco tours, crab races, exhibits and crafts.

NEW JERSEY STATE HOUSE

145 W. State St., Trenton 609-847-3150

njstatehousetours.org

Younger kids learn about state symbols and county flags; while older kids learn about how laws are made, visit the Senate and General Assembly chambers, and explore the building’s architecture.

NEW JERSEY STATE MUSEUM

205 W. State St., Trenton 609-292-1382

nj.gov/state/museum

Dive into fascinating pieces of Garden State history like Native American artifacts and dinosaur and shark fossil records. Visit the planetarium or see gigantic-sized toys from years gone by.

NEW YORK HALL OF SCIENCE

47-01 111th St., Corona, NY 718-699-0005

nysci.org

See the inner workings of architecture at CityWorks, learn about ecology in the animated Connected Worlds, and watch science in action during The Big Bubble Experiment.

OAK HILL FARMS

177 Stillwell Rd., Holmdel oakhillfarmsnj.com

On the first and third Wednesdays of the month, make an appointment to see chickens, alpacas and donkeys play during a farm tour, then peek into the hives to learn about pollinators.

OLD BARRACKS MUSEUM

101 Barrack St., Trenton 609-396-1776 barracks.org

Head to the state’s capital to see where soldiers lived during the Revolutionary War, and experience what life was like in Washington’s Army.

PAINT GROUND

57 S. Broadway, Pitman 856-597-0185 paintground.art

The fully adaptive space lets kids get messy by using water balloons, sponges, spatulas and bubble wrap to paint the entire room (and themselves).

THE PALEY MUSEUM

25 W. 52nd St., NYC 212-621-6600 paleycenter.org

The Paley Center for Media focuses on the history of TV, radio and advertisements. There's an exhibit on the 45th anniversary of PAC-MAN in addition to storytimes, radio recreations, and free podcasting workshops.

THE PAPER BAG PLAYERS

1120 Avenue of the Americas, NYC 212-353-2332 thepaperbagplayers.org

This season’s “Hey There, Howdy, Everybody!” is geared toward preschoolers through fourth graders who like dancing, sing-alongs and storytelling.

PATERSON GREAT FALLS

72 McBride Ave., Paterson 973-523-0370 nps.gov

This stunning natural attraction has magnificent waterfalls that you can marvel at while learning about the history of Paterson and its industrial renaissance.

PHILADELPHIA ZOO

3400 W. Girard Ave., Philadelphia, PA

215-243-1100

philadelphiazoo.org

If you want to up your zoo visit, Behind-the-Scenes Experiences are semi-private meet-and-greets with your favorite animals and the keepers who care for them.

PLAY BIG ZONE

300 Campus Dr., Morganville 732-991-1993

playbigzone.com

Super-active kids will burn up energy on The Spin Zone Bumper Cars, playing Human Foosball, inside the Laser Maze, and combatting obstacles in The Amazing Race.

PLEASE TOUCH MUSEUM

4231 Avenue of the Republic, Philadelphia, PA 215-581-3181

pleasetouchmuseum.org

Here, kids are required to get hands-on by exploring new exhibits like Shaun the Sheep, Daniel Tiger's Neighborhood and PAW Patrol: Adventure Camp. Special events will be planned for America's 250th birthday.

POPCORN PARK

ANIMAL REFUGE

1 Humane Way, Forked River 609-693-1900

ahscares.org/education-programs

At this sanctuary for injured, ill or elderly farm animals, birds and wildlife, Animal Refuge Outreach Programming includes lessons on NJ’s wildlife, reptiles, and the life of the animal keepers.

QUEENS COUNTY FARM MUSEUM

73-50 Little Neck Pkwy., Queens, NY

718-347-3276

queensfarm.org

The School to Farm Education Programs have a “menu” by season, including springtime animal adventures, compost exploration, rainforest terrariums and beekeeping lessons.

RAMANESSIN CREEK

Holmdel Park, 44 Longstreet Rd., Holmdel

732-946-9562

co.monmouth.nj.us

Walk the Ramanessin Trail along the brook or the Steeplechase Trail near the site’s old farm routes. You can access Bayonet Farm, as well as an area to collect Cretaceous marine fossils and shark teeth.

RAPTOR TRUST

1390 White Bridge Rd., Millington 908-647-2353

theraptortrust.org

Learn about hawks, eagles, owls and other birds of prey that are rehabilitated on site, dozens of which are housed in aviaries you can view along the walking trails.

RARITAN VALLEY COMMUNITY COLLEGE PLANETARIUM

118 Lamington Rd., Branchburg 908-231-8805

raritanval.edu/private-showsplanetarium

Journey through the solar system, ride alongside a star or enter a black hole while inside the planetarium. Sign up for a scavenger hunt, then treat the kids to astronaut ice cream after.

RED MILL MUSEUM

56 Main St., Clinton 908-735-4101

theredmill.org

STEAM-focused tours give kids a glimpse into what life was like in the 1800s and early 1900s through visits to the schoolhouse, mill and quarry. Or, they’ll learn about colonial life in the 1700s with a trip to the log cabin, herb garden and springhouse.

REEVES-REED ARBORETUM

165 Hobart Ave., Summit 908-273-8787 reeves-reedarboretum.org

Wander at your own pace through the gardens and trails of this pretty 13.5-acre arboretum. Kid-friendly education focuses on bugs, food and cooking, seeds and plants, and info on the original Lenape inhabitants of the area.

RISENY

160 W. 45th St., NYC 718-701-4998

riseny.co

Experience the Big Apple from different views: Fly 30 feet above ground on a simulation ride, sit down for an immersive film about the New York subway, and walk around seven interactive exhibits at the museum.

RUTGERS FARM TOURS

College Farm, 65 Sheepfold Ln., New Brunswick farmtours.rutgers.edu

Farm staff or a student farmer will lead you on a tour of the Cook Campus farm to see cattle, goats, horses, sheep and pigs.

RUTGERS GEOLOGY MUSEUM

85 Somerset St., New Brunswick 848-932-7243

geologymuseum.rutgers.edu

Take a guided tour to learn about dinosaurs, geology, the Ice Age and mummies, with special attention given to NJ-based exhibits.

SCHIFF NATURE PRESERVE

339 Pleasant Valley Rd., Mendham 973-543-6004

schiffnaturepreserve.org

Dubbed the place “where wild things happen naturally,” the 12 miles of trails and 780 acres of protected land include the Great Meadow and a plant garden.

SEA LIFE NEW JERSEY

1 American Dream Way, East Rutherford 551-234-6382

visitsealife.com/new-jersey

Kids will come face-to-face

with 3,000 different exotic aquatic creatures in more than 20 marine exhibits—and get closer to some, thanks to the Touchpool. There are also educational workshops covering subjects like habitats and animal behavior.

SOUTH STREET SEAPORT MUSEUM

12 Fulton St., NYC 212-748-8600

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LOCATED IN BURY THE HATCHET FREEHOLD

southstreetseaportmuseum.org

This museum offers tours of historic buildings and ships and interactive learning activities. Kids can ride a tugboat or schooner after learning about the 19thcentury port of New York.

SPACE FARMS ZOO & MUSEUM

218 County Road 519, Sussex 973-875-3223

spacefarms.com

Spread throughout 11 buildings dedicated to American history, you can see 50+ antique cars and motorcycles, a series of dolls, a hand-built train set, a mini circus, and 500 live wild animals.

STATE THEATRE NEW JERSEY

15 Livingston Ave., New Brunswick 732-246-7469

stnj.org

Check the schedule of shows and concerts. The Symphony Scholars program teaches kids about classic music, then lets them experience a live orchestra concert. Milk & Cookies introduces kids ages 3 to 8 to live theater.

STATUE OF LIBERTY

Liberty Island, NYC 212-363-3200

nps.gov/stli

Take the ferry to this crossroads to America, where you can climb the pedestal to access Lady Liberty’s crown, stop by the Statue of Liberty Museum and theater, then head to the National Museum of Immigration on Ellis

Island.

STERLING HILL MINING MUSEUM

30 Plant St., Ogdensburg 973-209-7212

sterlinghillminingmuseum.org

For an underground experience, tour the Zobel Hall Museum, the mine and the Warren Museum of Fluorescence. Sluicing lets kids sift sand for minerals and fossils through the water trough.

TEAM MAKERS

400 Tenafly Rd., Tenafly 201-500-8076

teammakersnorthjersey.com

Kids are divided into teams so they can work on engineering, skills games and experiments at different stations.

TENAFLY NATURE CENTER

313 Hudson Ave., Tenafly 201-568-6093

tenaflynaturecenter.org

Spend time along the Bellflower Faerie, bird or storywalk trails; or bring animal lovers to see frogs, salamanders and birds of prey. Kids can go geocaching, backpacking, letterboxing and wildlife watching on the grounds.

THOMAS EDISON NATIONAL HISTORICAL PARK

211 Main St., West Orange 973-736-0550, ext. 11 nps.gov/edis/index.htm

Your kids may know Thomas Edison invented the lightbulb,

but what about his other works? Here, they can explore his chemistry lab and tour the Black Maria, Edison’s first film studio.

TiLT MUSEUM

1 American Dream Way, East Rutherford 833-263-7326

americandream.com/venue/tiltmuseum

Become one with the art at TiLT, which offers an immersive art experience and optical illusions designed by award-winning artist Tracy Lee Stum.

TOPGOLF

104 Centerton Rd., Mt. Laurel 856-793-4086

1013 Rte. 1, Edison; 732-374-4097 topgolf.com

Test your precision skills at the indoor driving range, or sign up for a golf package that includes swing tips and a science lab curriculum, plus snacks and goodie bags.

TWO RIVER THEATER

21 Bridge Ave., Red Bank 732-345-1400 tworivertheater.org

Arts education supports the artist in each student and builds future audiences. There are student matinees for kids, or lessons on social justice for teens.

VALLEY SHEPHERD CREAMERY

50 Fairmount Rd., Long Valley 908-876-3200

valleyshepherd.com

During a guided farm tour, young cheesemongers will see

lambs and sheep, then take a wagon ride up the mountain to learn about the cheesemaking process.

THE WILDLIFE CONSERVATION AND EDUCATION CENTER

303 Midland Ave., Garfield 201-257-2231

thebatcave.org

New Jersey’s “bat cave” introduces kids to the importance of bats to the ecosystem. They’ll watch presentations on reptiles and rainforest critters, plus see other animals front and center.

YOGI BERRA MUSEUM & LEARNING CENTER

Montclair State University, 8 Yogi Berra Dr., Little Falls 973-655-2378

yogiberramuseum.org

This museum is dedicated to the New York Yankees legend, but also has exhibits on New York City’s Golden Boys and vintage catchers' mitts, plus an interactive pitching mound.

ZIMMERLI ART MUSEUM

71 Hamilton St., New Brunswick 848-932-7237

zimmerli.rutgers.edu

See thousands of pieces of art across several mediums as you go on interactive educator-led discovery tours. Art Together is the museum's free, monthly dropin family art workshop series.

—Jennifer Amato, James LaForge, Sunny Sequeira and Nia Sylva contributed to this story.

Get to Know These Leading Pre-College Summer Programs

These innovative programs give your kids a chance to explore what they love on a college campus. Scan the QR codes to explore each one and find the right fit for your child.

CAPITOL DEBATE

Multiple Locations in NJ & Beyond

SLAY THE SUMMER

FUN, MEANINGFUL IDEAS THAT HELP TEENS BUILD LIFE SKILLS TO MAKE THE MOST OF THEIR SUMMER

BY NAYDA RONDON

ummer is prime time for teens to recharge and explore without the pressure of keeping their grades up. Here's how to help them find the sweet spot between fun and focus, chill and challenge, and self-discovery and social growth.

PASSION PROJECTS

Rather than expecting your teen to be constantly “productive,” encourage them to pursue their passions for the pure pleasure of it. Take the Lalani family. Kim and Al’s son, Ajay, loves writing and movies. At 14, he

penned a script, recruited friends as actors, and enlisted his brother, Austin, for stunts. “We gave them money for props and they spent weeks planning the one-day shoot and backyard screening. They learned teamwork and budgeting, and had a blast,” says the Piscataway mom, adding the experience fueled Ajay’s ambition of becoming a screenwriter.

CAMPS, CLASSES & WORKSHOPS

If your teen likes structure, try programs that combine discovery and skill-building

“Summer experiences don’t have to be full-time or in an office to make a big impact; they should be fun, too.”

in an organized way. Day and away camps abound for every interest. The Montclair Film Summer Academy includes a workshop where students in grades 9 to 12 create their own mini movies. Montclair Art Museum’s SummerART program gives teens (ages 13-17) a chance to explore traditional fine arts and digital design.

Career-minded teens find inspiration in resources like Yes, M.I.S.S. Inc. (YMI). Founder Shanita Perdomo says, “Our free program connects teen girls to female professionals who motivate and mentor them toward their dreams.” Saniyah Orr of Hackensack, a freshman at Ramapo College studying computer science, first joined YMI at 14, participating in company tours, college visits and career workshops. She credits YMI with giving her a look into what’s possible, and the tools and confidence to pursue her goals.

Rising seniors can apply to Princeton University’s free Summer Journalism Program, an immersive crash course in newsroom life. STEM lovers can explore coding, robotics, or AI through NJIT’s Center for Pre-College Summer Program.

WORK IT!

Jobs, internships and volunteer gigs are more than résumé boosters. “They let teens ‘try on’ different careers,” says Kari Solomon, owner of Montvale-based Aspire Résumés. She speaks from professional and personal experience: Her son started as an unpaid intern with the Rockland Boulders baseball team, later earning a paid position that sparked his interest in an arena management career. Her daughter joined a town committee as a teen; now she consults on flood-planning projects.

Teens can “test drive” possible paths—while getting paid— through:

Student Conservation Association’s Urban Green Program, Newark: Teens earn paychecks for environmental jobs.

Focus NJ Summer Youth Program, Monmouth County: Paid local job placements blend learning and earning.

Project Self-Sufficiency, Sussex County: Paid job training for high school sophomores and juniors.

“Summer experiences don’t have to be full-time or in an office to make a big impact; they should be fun, too,” Solomon says. Her son loved his internship because it combined his passion for sports with a lively, social environment. “He wasn’t thinking about a career. It grew organically from something he enjoyed.” Likewise, her daughter, a theater and dance fan, thrived as a local theater camp choreographer.

ENTREPRENEURIAL ENERGY

Some kids don’t just want a paycheck; they want to build something of their own. Kearny teen Nick Drollinger loves designing and selling Jersey-themed T-shirts. “His creativity and hard work shine through in every stitch,” says his mom, Allison. Experts say side businesses like Nick’s can be crash courses in creativity, marketing and money management. They can also

ignite an enduring entrepreneurial spirit.

MIND, MOOD & MEANING

Summer offers space to nurture emotional resilience and growth. At Allendale’s Unbridled Heroes Project, equine-assisted therapy—healing through horses—helps teens rein in anxiety and trauma. Additionally, animal-loving teens can volunteer to care for the nonprofit’s rescue mustangs.

Former broadcast journalist Gina Fata, based in Parsippany, helps shy or self-conscious teens find their voice through public speaking and confidence training.

HEART IN ACTION

Volunteering supports purpose without the “achievement treadmill” feeling. It feels good, too. At Kaplen JCC on the Palisades in Tenafly, teens assist with youth programs and camps while earning service hours. LifeTown in Livingston pairs teens with kids who have special needs in music, sports, and social activities. Mercer County’s Youth Volunteer Connection through the Hamilton YMCA links teens to counselor and/or community projects. Teens can intern at New Jersey Angels in Jackson, which supports foster youth and families; or Ridgewood Social Service Association, a food distribution center serving six towns.

BALANCING ACT

The best summers mix fun, learning and downtime. At 18, Ylia Thumann of Woodbridge taught STEM classes at NYU through Lavner Education—“it was rewarding, and I got paid,” she says—and enjoyed her off-time crafting holiday gifts for family. Her approach proves productivity and creativity can coexist.

To help your teen strike that balance:

Set a rhythm, not a schedule. Maybe work three days, volunteer one, and save one for adventures.

Go screen-smart. Swap scrolling for hikes at Watchung Reservation or Ocean City beach days.

Recharge daily. Journaling, music, and downtime helps reset minds.

FAMILY MATTERS

Teens crave independence and connection. Keep it lowpressure: think family field trips to Thomas Edison National Historical Park in West Orange, or simply chatting about their projects over dinner.

“Ask your teen what matters to them,” Perdomo says. “When I was in foster care, no one asked me that. I missed out on summers where I could have explored entrepreneurship or creative outlets.” Her advice: “Make your kid a boss. Even for a day, let them choose activities that serve them, their family, and their community.”

Be their coach. Celebrate effort, encourage exploration, and remember—summer isn’t just a break. It’s a bridge to who they’re becoming. With the right mix of freedom, fun, and purpose, your teen will head into fall not only rested, but ready.

mar 7

nai-ni chen dance company

Sat, Feb 14 @ 2PM

Sun, Feb 15 @ 2PM

Bring the whole family to welcome the Year of the Horse with the spectacular Nai-Ni Chen Dance Company.

evening with the wizard

Fri, Mar 20 @ 7:30PM

“Hey You Guys!!!” Celebrate 40 years of The Goonies with a film screening and Q&A with Corey Feldman & Kerri Green.

Sat, Mar 28 @ 2 & 7:30PM

The Peking Acrobats will dazzle you with trick cycling, contortion, juggling and balancing acts. Fun for all ages. the peking acrobats

My First Concert Sun, Mar 29 @ 2PM

Join Peppa Pig at My First Concert! Kids will sing, dance, make music and learn all about the orchestra. peppa pig

Sat, May 9 @ 3 & 7PM

Stephen Schwartz & special guests  Sat, Feb 21 @ 7:30PM

The stars come out to perform hits from Godspell, Pippin, Wicked and beyond at this musical celebration led by composer/lyricist Stephen Schwartz.

Bring the whole family to Mutts Gone Nuts, where a dozen talented rescue dogs show off their amazing skills. mutts gone nuts

The American Song series at NJPAC is presented, in part, through the generous support of the Blanche and Irving Laurie Foundation, the David S. Steiner and Sylvia Steiner Charitable Trust, the Joan and Allen Bildner Family Fund, the Smart Family Foundation/David S.