Sunday, March 8, 2026
GUIDE
• Outdoors
• Recreation
• Sports & Activities INSIDE:
• The Arts • Music • Theatre • Creativity
• Education • Science • Faith Based • Families
Locate and learn more about area camps, classes and activities available this summer for children and families.
ABOUT THIS SECTION
The Omaha World-Herald has created a comprehensive guide to summer camps, activities, and educational opportunities available throughout the Omaha metro. This guide is designed to help parents and guardians explore local options and make informed decisions when choosing the right summer experience for their children. Inside, you’ll find helpful articles on selecting the right camp or activity, advertisements from participating organizations, and a comprehensive directory of programs available at the time of publication.
To learn more or participate in next year’s issue, please contact Tierney Clifford, 402-450-5299 or tclifford@owh.com.
Screen-free summer: What happens when kids unplug over the summer
By Korey Huyler - BRAND AVE STUDIOS
Video games. Phones. Tablets. Yes, kids love devices. And while some technology is necessary during the school year, summer is a great time to turn off the screens, connect with nature and discover new passions with new friends.
Here are four great things that happen when kids unplug during the summer.
1. Confidence grows
When screens disappear, it allows time for new experiences and challenges. At summer camp, for example, kids try new things every day — activities like climbing a rock wall, paddling a canoe, performing in a talent show or even sleeping away from home for the first time.
Without the instant gratification of a “like” or the click of a remote control, kids learn to figure things out on their own. They discover they can solve a problem, finish a hike or master a new skill. All these little wins can boost confidence.
2. Social skills strengthen
At camp, friendships aren’t built through group chats or online communities. They’re built in bunk beds, on hiking trails or while passing the ball on a field.
When kids unplug for the summer, they may learn how to read facial expressions, navigate disagreements and talk face-toface. They’ll see how it feels to join a game,
make a new friend and resolve conflicts without hiding behind a screen.
These moments might be scary at first, especially for kids used to mainly online communication. But that initial discomfort can change to genuine connection. Laughing around a campfire or working together on a scavenger hunt can build bonds far beyond virtual friendships.
3. Creativity comes alive
Without constant digital stimulation, boredom can lead to increased creativity and thinking outside the (digital) box.
During the summer, there’s time for imagination to run wild. A stick becomes a magic wand. A rainy afternoon turns into a skit-writing session. A blank sheet of paper can transform into a bright, bold masterpiece.
Screens deliver ready-made entertainment. Summer lets kids create their own activities and plans. Whether the kids attend summer camp or are just playing in the neighborhood, parents may see their child return home with new passions, from photography to archery to songwriting.
4. Their stress levels drop
Even kids feel the pressure of constant notifications, social comparison and the fast pace of digital life. Summer camp offers a much-needed reset.
With traditional summer camps, nature has a calming effect. Time outdoors, physical activity and structured daily routines help regulate mood and improve sleep. Without the pull of social media, kids aren’t checking who posted what or worrying about being left out. They’re fully present and focused on the next activity, the next laugh, the next adventure.
When kids unplug at camp, they don’t lose anything essential. Instead, they gain resilience, friendships, creativity and confidence that can last long after the devices power back on.
Is your child ready for summer camp?
(A self-assessment for parents and guardians)
By Korey Huyler - BRAND AVE STUDIOS
Summer camp can be a magical and memorable milestone. It’s a place where kids build independence, try new activities and form friendships that can last for decades.
But if you’re wondering whether your child is truly ready for camp, you’re not alone. Sending kids to camp for the first time is a big deal. Take this simple self-assessment to see if they are ready. (And don’t worry. There are no right or wrong answers!)
1. Can your child handle short separations from you?
If your child has successfully managed sleepovers at a friend’s house, a weekend with grandparents or even just full days at school with no tears, that’s a great sign. If goodbyes are still tearful but they recover quickly, that’s okay, too. In most cases, camp will build on their already-discovered bravery — especially if camp is themed around their favorite topic (think: art or baseball).
Ask yourself: If they start a separation with tears, do they eventually calm down? Or does the sadness continue?
2. Can they manage basic self-care tasks?
Camp counselors guide and supervise, but campers should be able to:
• Get dressed independently
• Brush teeth and shower (with reminders)
• Keep track of basic belongings
• Follow simple hygiene routines
Perfection isn’t required, but the ability (and knowledge) to start tasks should make them ready for camp.
Ask yourself: Can they take care of the basics without constant prompting?
3. How do they handle new situations?
Camp is full of firsts: new friends, new foods and new schedules.
Kids who are excited to try new things — even cautiously — usually do great at camp. If your child needs time to warm up but eventually joins in, that’s a good sign, too.
Ask yourself: Do they shut down in unfamiliar settings, or do they adapt with time?
4. Can they follow group rules?
Camp runs on teamwork and structure. Listening to counselors, lining up for activities
6. How do they handle minor setbacks?
Camp isn’t perfect. It might rain on lake day. They might not win the relay race. A friend might choose a different activity.
For some kids, resilience matters more than confidence. If they can handle a day where things don’t go their way all day long, they are probably ready for camp.
Ask yourself: When things don’t go their way, can they recover?
7. Are you ready?
Let’s face it: Sometimes it’s not about the child — it’s about the parent. Letting go (even for a few hours) can be scary.
In many cases, children start to become more independent when parents show confidence in them. (Yes, kids are always watching their parents.)
Ask yourself: Can you send them off with trust and encouragement?
Final thoughts: Are they (and you) ready?
and respecting cabinmates are daily expectations.
Ask yourself: Are they able to follow instructions in school, sports or group activities?
5. Do they show interest?
This may be the most important question. Are they curious about camp activities? Do they ask questions? Even nervous excitement counts.
If the idea of camp — whether day camp or a specialized theme camp — is exciting for your kids, that’s a positive signal.
Ask yourself: Is the desire coming from them, or mostly from you?
• Mostly yes answers: Your child is likely ready — even if they’re a little nervous.
• A mix of yes and maybe: Consider a shorter camp session or a day camp to start.
• Mostly no: Maybe try some local classes (outside of school) during the summer. This will get them ready for summer camp next year.
Remember: Camp readiness isn’t about fearlessness. It’s about flexibility, curiosity and small steps toward independence.
Hello, independence!
How summer camp can teach kids to solve problems on their own
By Korey Huyler - BRAND AVE STUDIOS
When parents think of summer camp, they probably picture canoe rides, campfires and color wars. While those traditions are part of the magic, something a bit deeper also happens at camp.
Summer camp is one of the few places designed specifically to give kids a break from constant adult direction and let them learn how to solve problems on their own.
In a world where parents can text their kids constantly, check grades instantly and step in at the first sign of struggle, camp offers a space where independence can begin to grow.
Challenge accepted!
At camp, “challenges” are everywhere — from figuring out how to organize a messy bunk space to resolving disagreements with cabin mates. While these aren’t dramatic crises (they’re more like everyday hurdles), they are great chances to grow and learn.
Unlike school or home, camp counselors don’t typically rush to fix problems. Instead, they ask questions like, “What do you think would work?” or “How could you handle that differently next time?” This approach teaches children to pause, reflect and act thoughtfully rather than immediately looking to an adult for a solution.
Because camp is intentionally structured to be supportive and supervised, kids can try, fail, adjust and try again — all within a safe environment. That repeated cycle builds resilience and confidence.
Decision-making without a script
At home, routines are often predetermined: what to eat, when to sleep and how to structure the day. At camp, kids encounter dozens of small decisions daily.
“Should I try archery or swimming during free period?”
GREAT SUMMERS START AT THE Y!
Weekly Camps: May 26 - August 14
YMCA Day Camp offers a wide range of engaging summer day camp options that accommodate all families. You’ll find programs convenient to home & work and programs that meet your child’s interests & abilities. Enroll in just a few weeks of camp or spend the entire summer with us!
“How should I divide responsibilities during cabin cleanup?”
“Do I speak up about something that’s bothering me?”
These choices may seem minor, but decision-making is an important life skill. Camp provides practice in evaluating options, considering consequences and owning the results (just like adults!).
When children realize their choices matter (and that they can handle the outcomes), their sense of independence deepens.
Building confidence through new activities
Nothing builds independence like trying and succeeding at new things. Camp introduces new skills that many children wouldn’t encounter in their daily routines (think tying knots, paddling a canoe, performing in a talent show or trying a zip line).
When a child struggles on a ropes course and finally reaches the top, they gain more than bragging rights. They think: “I can do hard things.”
This belief can become a foundation for future problem-solving. A child who has conquered physical or social challenges at camp may begin to approach new obstacles with a different mindset.
That shift in perspective is an important part of growing up. And it all comes from camp.
Space from parents (and what happens next)
Perhaps one of the most transformative aspects of camp is separation. Without immediate access to parents for reassurance or solutions, kids must learn to rely on themselves.
When campers return home, parents may notice subtle but meaningful changes.
For many kids, independence truly does start at camp — in cabins, STEM classrooms and mess halls. Those small moments add up to something powerful: a young person who knows they can figure things out.
And that confidence can last a lifetime.
SUMMER READING PROGRAM
June & July 2026
Read for fun
Choose two free books and spend time reading anything you like.
Volunteer (ages 11+)
Help out at a branch to earn service hours, or just for fun!
Attend a program
Find educational and entertaining programs that interest you by browsing OPL’s online events listing.
The benefits of music education
And the studies that support these findings
METRO CREATIVE
A classroom can be a formative space for children. In a healthy classroom environment, children can discover passions for a wide range of interests, including music. Opportunities outside the traditional school setting, such as taking music lessons at a summer camp, can further nurture these interests by allowing children to explore music in a creative and immersive environment.
Music education is a vital component of a well-rounded academic experience. Unfortunately, music education programs in public schools are often among the first cuts to be made when funding issues arise. For example, a 2018 report from the American Federation of Teachers indicated that 42 percent of schools in Georgia eliminated art and music programs in the aftermath of the recession that struck in 2008-09. Budgetary constraints pose significant problems for educators and administrators. However, an examination of the many benefits of music education may compel more parents, teachers and education professionals to advocate for the continued inclusion of music education in school curricula.
• Music can contribute to improved academic performance in other subjects. Some may feel that music education takes time away from other subjects that students will need to master to fulfill their academic potential. However, a 2019 study published in the Journal of Educational Psychology found that high school students who take music courses score significantly higher on exams in certain subjects, including math and science, than their peers whose curriculum does not include music education.
• Music education can facilitate language development. A recent study from researchers in Beijing found that piano lessons improved kindergartners’ ability to distinguish different pitches, which in turn led to improvement in the youngsters’ ability to discriminate between spoken words. That’s
perhaps not too surprising to researchers, as Play Matters Australia reports that music and language share various structural similarities, including rhythm, pitch and tone. Children who engage in music play and education strengthen the same neural connections necessary to process language.
• Music education provides a workout for the brain. Dr. Eric Rasmussen, who chairs the Early Childhood Music Department at Johns Hopkins University, notes that children who engage in music and music education have larger growth of neural activity than those who do not participate in music training. That’s because playing music requires musicians to use more of their brain than they otherwise might. That workout pays notable dividends, and one study led by researchers at Boston College found that children who underwent 15 weeks of music instruction and practice experienced improved sound discrimination and fine motor tasks.
Music education programs are often on the chopping block when school budget cuts are made. However, the multifaceted benefits of music education suggest children have much to gain from the continued inclusion of music programs in school curricula. Experiences like summer music camps also demonstrate how musical learning can strengthen confidence, collaboration, and creativity, reinforcing the value of sustained access to music education both inside and outside the classroom.
SAT. APRIL 11 • FREE COMMUNITY DAY FREE ACTIVITIES ALL DAY.
Celebrate the grand opening of the Tenaska Center for Arts Engagement with a day of free, family-friendly fun at the new building.
• Instrument Petting Zoo
• Bounce House
• Live Performances
• Dance & Music Classes
• Theater Workshops
• Interactive Arts Experiences
• And more!
PLUS! JOIN A MASTER CLASS.
Participate in unique dance and theater classes with professional artists! PRE-REGISTRATION REQUIRED.
What a day at summer camp really looks like… and why kids love it!
By Korey Huyler - BRAND AVE STUDIOS
Curious about what a summer camp really looks like? Consider this article your guide to the summer camp experience. Whether your family chooses a local day camp, a traditional sleepaway camp or a themed summer session, here’s a sneak peek at what camp can look and feel like.
The morning buzz:
Starting the day with energy
At most camps, the day begins early. For sleepaway campers, mornings might start with the sound of a bell ringing across the campgrounds or a counselor leading a wakeup call. In day camps, families arrive with backpacks in hand, sunscreen applied and a mix of excitement and anticipation.
After check-in or cabin cleanup, campers usually gather for a morning meeting or assembly. This might include songs, announcements, silly skits or team cheers. It sets the tone for the day: upbeat, inclusive and full of possibility.
One thing that the kids notice quickly? Camp feels quite different from school. There’s structure, but it’s relaxed. Kids are encouraged to participate, laugh and be themselves.
Action-packed activities:
Trying new things
The heart of camp life is the activities. Depending on the camp, kids may rotate through:
• Swimming or water games
• Arts and crafts
• Sports like soccer, basketball or archery
• Nature hikes or outdoor exploration
• Drama, music or dance
• STEM or themed workshops (like coding, cooking or robotics)
The magic of camp lies in exploration. A kid who has never picked up a paintbrush might discover a love for art. A nervous swimmer might build confidence in the water. A shy child might volunteer to lead a cheer. Camp is designed to be a safe place for all types of children, and it’s exciting for parents to see how their kid grows and acts during camp.
Lunchtime, plus new friendships
By midday, campers are ready to refuel. Lunchtime is more than just eating; it’s social time. Kids gather at picnic tables or in dining halls, sharing stories about the morning and excitement for the afternoon.
For sleepaway camps, meals often feel like big family dinners. There might be themed food days, birthday celebrations or camp
traditions that turn an ordinary lunch into something a bit more special.
For many campers, it’s during these everyday moments (sitting together at lunch, cleaning up the tables, planning their afternoons) that many of the strongest friendships form.
Afternoon adventures
Afternoons usually bring a new set of activities or larger group events. Some camps schedule “choice periods,” where kids can choose what to do. This small act of decision-making builds independence and confidence.
There might be team challenges, scavenger hunts, color wars or special events like talent shows. The energy can be high, but so is the encouragement. Counselors are there not just to supervise, but to mentor, cheer on and support.
Evenings at sleepaway camp: Some extra magic
For sleepaway campers, the day doesn’t end at a pickup time but instead the fun continues. After dinner, evenings often bring some of the most cherished traditions: campfires, storytelling or night games.
Cabin time allows campers to wind down. They might talk about their favorite part of the day, share jokes or write letters home. While some kids feel homesick at first, counselors are trained to help them adjust. By midweek, many campers feel proud of their growing independence.
The final verdict:
Camp is a special place!
A day at summer camp is busy, joyful, sometimes messy and always fun! It’s a place where children build resilience, develop new interests and create friendships that often last far beyond the final day.
METRO CREATIVE
Millions of adults have lots of great memories of summer camp. The right summer camp keeps kids engaged during a time of year when parents may be all too familiar with the phrase, “I’m bored.”
Finding the right summer camp can be challenging. A range of variables, including budget, availability and accessibility, must be considered before making a decision that’s right for each family. As summer camp season approaches, families can consider these tips to narrow down their options for prospective campers.
Involve children when narrowing down your options Kids will be the ones spending time at camp, so it’s best
to include them in the selection process. Camps cater to various interests, so kids who play musical instruments might get more out of a band camp than they might out of a sports camp. Some kids also might thrive on a more structured camp, while others may benefit from one that offers a range of activities each day and lets kids choose which ones they want to participate in.
Seek recommendations
Family members, friends and neighbors can be great resources when looking for a summer camp. That’s especially true for families who have never sent a child to camp before. Ask around about each camp you’re considering. Fellow parents may offer insight into the structure of the camp, its
atmosphere, the attitude of staff members, and additional information that might be hard to glean from an open house.
Determine your budget
Budget is a notable variable, as some camps may cost thousands of dollars for a single session. If that’s beyond your budget, then you can narrow your focus to less expensive offerings or consider sending children for fewer weeks or even half days (when camps allow it). While it can seem as though all camps are budget busters, that’s not the case. Many local government recreation offices offer affordable summer camps. Local churches also may offer camp options that won’t stretch parents thin. The earlier parents begin exploring their options, the more likely they may be to find a camp that won’t break the bank.
Avoid making it all about cost.
Safety should be parents’ foremost priority when choosing a summer camp. When exploring options, ask about staff and staff training. Are adults on staff, or is the camp predominantly staffed with local high school students on summer vacation? Even if a camp is staffed exclusively by adults, ask about the safety requirements necessary to be hired. That’s especially important at camps where kids will be swimming and engaging in other physical activities that can lead to accident or injury. Even free play outside in summer can be dangerous if temperatures rise and staff members are not trained to spot the signs of dehydration or heat exhaustion.
Millions create lasting memories at summer camp every year. Finding the right place for kids to spend the summer requires careful consideration of a host of variables.
Signs of bullying
METRO CREATIVE
Bullying is a considerable problem that currently affects many students. The National Center for Education Statistics notes one of every five students reported being bullied in 2022. In a multi-national study across 83 countries, 30.5 percent of adolescents reported being bullied, according to eClinical Medicine.
Bullying always has been troubling, but children now face the threat of cyberbullying as well as in-person bullying. The connectivity offered by the internet and social media enables bullies to be relentless, even reaching children when they are at home and physically distant from their peers. The 2023 Youth Risk Behavior Surveillance System from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention indicated that an estimated 16 percent of high school students were electronically bullied in the 12 months prior to the survey.
Parents and caregivers can be diligent in recognizing bullying in an effort to protect children. Here are 10 signs a child may be a victim of bullying.
• Unexplained injuries
• Lost or destroyed personal belongings
• Frequently expressing not feeling well or faking illness
• Changes in eating habits
• Difficulty sleeping and experiencing nightmares
• Decreased self-esteem or feelings of helplessness
• Self-destructive behaviors like harming themselves or talking about suicide
• Fear of going to school
• Changes in school performance, including declining grades
• Asking for money or stealing money
These are some of the indicators that a child is being bullied. Bullying can occur at school or during extracurricular activities. Bullying also can occur online. Kids may hesitate or even refuse to ask for help, which means that adults may need to intervene at the first signs of bullying.
Bullying comes in many forms
Bullying can affect both children and adults. Bullying typically involves an imbalance of power, when one person acts superior to another or holds a higher title than another. Being the recipient of bullying never feels good, and it is something that should not be tolerated in schools, businesses or other settings. There are many different types of bullying, so much so that it can be difficult to discern what constitutes bullying and distin-
guishes it from good-natured teasing. Here’s a look at some of the forms of bullying that can cause pain and distress.
Physical bullying
This type of bullying involves any assault on a person’s body, which can include hitting, kicking, pushing, tripping, stealing personal possessions, or breaking an individual’s belongings. Verywell Mind says that males are more inclined to engage in physical bullying than females.
Verbal bullying
Verbal bullying takes place when someone engages in name-calling or using cruel words that are disrespectful or full of vitriol. Verbal bullying may be employed to attack a person’s beliefs, mock a disability, disparage someone’s appearance, and more.
Social bullying
This type of bullying can include excluding others from a group or getting others to exclude, gossip or spread rumors. Setting another person up to look foolish in front of others or damaging reputations or relationships are additional examples of social bullying. Sometimes this bullying is called emotional bullying.
Cyberbullying
As the name implies, cyberbullying is bullying behavior that takes place through electronic means, says Stomp Out Bullying. Cyberbullying occurs in chat rooms, over social media, through email, and more. It has become a large problem for school-aged children in recent years, as the bullying can follow a child home through their devices. Research by the Cyberbullying Research Center shows that 15 percent of 9- to12-year-olds and 37 percent of 13- to 17-year-olds have experienced cyberbullying at some point in their lives.
Racist bullying
Uttering racial slurs, mocking a person’s cultural customs, making offensive gestures, and spray painting graffiti with offensive, racially charged images or words are all forms of racist bullying.
Bullying can lead to isolation, depression and anxiety and can even contribute to thoughts of suicide. Taking prompt action and asking for help if bullying is suspected can get individuals the assistance they need.
Age-based chores guidelines
METRO CREATIVE
As children grow up, giving them more responsibility can be good for their development. Though some kids may embrace chores more readily than others, youngsters have much to gain from being given a little more responsibility around the house.
The American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry notes that children given age-appropriate chores can learn time management skills and how to balance work and play from a young age, among other lessons. The AACAP also notes that chores can help to establish a good foundation for functioning independently.
When choosing chores for children, it’s essential that parents find age-appropriate tasks. If kids are asked to perform tasks that are beyond their abilities, they likely won’t reap the rewards of doing chores and might even hesitate when presented with new chores down the road. With that in mind, parents can follow these age-based chores recommendations, courtesy of the AACAP.
Two- to three-year olds
The AACAP notes that kids in this age group can be tasked with putting away their toys and even pitch in when Mom and Dad put groceries away. Kids who help put groceries away should be given lightweight, non-breakable items (i.e., steer clear of jars of tomato sauce).
Four- to five-year-olds
Around this time kids can start making their own beds, though it’s important that parents recognize kids likely won’t make the bed perfectly. Four- and five-year-olds also can help feed pets (parents can watch initially to ensure pets aren’t overfed) and help to clear the table after dinner.
Six- to seven-year-olds
Kids in this age group can wipe tables and counters, put their laundry away and even pitch in when cleaning floors with a broom. If six- and seven-year-olds are tasked with putting away their laundry, just make sure they don’t need to climb dressers to place items in the uppermost drawers, which can lead to accidents and injuries. If kids have taller dressers, limit this chore to putting away only those clothes that go in lower, easily accessible drawers.
Seven- to nine-year-olds
The AACAP notes that children in this age bracket can load and unload the dishwasher, help prepare meals and pack their own lunch for school. When kids are assigned these tasks, parents should keep sharp knives beyond kids’ reach, and some may want to check lunch boxes after kids go to bed to ensure the midday meal they prepared is not exclusively candy.
10- to 11-year-olds
Youngsters around these ages can change sheets, clean the kitchen or bathrooms and be given some light yard work.
12-years-old and older
Art CAmps: Ages 4–12 & teens
Summer art camps take young artists into the galleries and gardens for inspiration and get them drawing, painting, printing, and constructing in the studio. Museum members receive a 15% discount on all studio programs.
Scan to find all camp descriptions & register
oThe AACAP notes children 12 and older can wash the car and help look after younger siblings. Teens can help shop for groceries and run errands.
Parents know no two children are the same, so it’s important to be subjective when considering these guidelines. Parents can watch children perform new chores the first few times to ensure they’re up to the tasks. More information about chores can be found at aacap.org.
Joslyn Art Museum 2200 Dodge Street Omaha, NE 68102 (402) 342-3300 joslyn.org
today!
2026 OMAHA AREA SUMMER
CAMP & ACTIVITIES GUIDE
[COMPREHENSIVE EDITION]
Camp and activity details reflect the most recent information available at time of publication. Families should confirm final dates, hours, and pricing with each organization.
ANIMAL LOVERS
Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium Day Camps
Where: Omaha, NE
When: June 1 – July 31, 2026 (varies by camp)
Who: Ages 3–18
Cost: $80 one day, $135 two day, $265 five day, $170 Kinder Safari half day
Information: omahazoo.com/day-camps
Nebraska Humane Society – Camp Kindness
Where: Omaha, NE
When: Summer 2026 (see website for dates)
Who: Ages 6–13
Cost: Varies by session
Information: nehumanesociety.org/summer-camps
American Legacy Complex
Where: Elkhorn area, NE
When: Summer 2026 (multiple sessions)
Who: Ages 4–13
Cost: Approximately $300 morning, $400 full day Information: americanlegacycomplex.com/ summer-camp
Wildlife Safari Park Programs
Where: Ashland, NE
When: Seasonal programs spring through fall 2026
Who: All ages
Cost: Per vehicle admission
Information: wildlifesafaripark.com
ART & MUSIC
Omaha Children’s Museum Summer Camps
Where: 500 S 20th St, Omaha, NE 68102
When: Summer 2026 (weekly sessions listed in registration portal)
Who: Ages 3–10 (varies by camp)
Cost: Member and non-member pricing listed in registration portal
Information: ocm.org/summer-camps
The Durham Museum – Camp Durham
Where: 801 S 10th St, Omaha, NE 68108
When: June 1 – August 7, 2026
Who: Grades 1–5 (2026–2027 school year)
Cost: Half day $110 members / $120 non-members; Full day $220 members / $240 non-members; Specialty weeks $240 members / $260 non-members Information: durhammuseum.org/summer-camp
Omaha Community Playhouse – Theatre Academy Camps
Where: 6915 Cass St, Omaha, NE 68132
When: Summer 2026 (see education calendar for session dates)
Who: Elementary through high school (varies by program)
Cost: Varies by camp and session Information: omahaplayhouse.com/education/ theatre-academy/elementary
Omaha Performing Arts – Camps & Classes
Where: Orpheum Theater & Holland Performing Arts Center, Omaha, NE
When: Summer 2026 (session dates listed in portal)
Who: Preschool through high school (varies by program)
Cost: Varies by class or camp Information: o-pa.org/learn-engage-category/ camps-classes
KANEKO Creative Camps
Where: 1111 Jones St, Omaha, NE
When: June 15 – July 24, 2026
Who: Grades 6–12
Cost: $25 registration + $225–$275 tuition Information: thekaneko.org
Omaha Conservatory of Music
Where: Omaha, NE
When: Summer 2026 (see program calendar)
Who: Ages 3–18
Cost: Varies by program
Information: omahacm.org/summermusic
School of Rock Omaha
Where: Omaha, NE
When: Weekly sessions June–July 2026
Who: Ages 7–18
Cost: Approximately $450 per week Information: schoolofrock.com/music-camps
The Rose Theater Camps
Where: Omaha, NE
When: Late May – Early August 2026
Who: Ages 3–18
Cost: $130 half day, $220–$275 full day
Information: rosetheater.org
Joslyn Art Museum Camps
Where: Omaha, NE
When: Summer 2026
Who: Ages 5–12
Cost: $200–$300 per week
Information: joslyn.org
McGuigan Arts Academy
Where: Omaha, NE
When: Summer 2026
Who: Ages 5–12+
Cost: $100–$150
Information: mcguiganartsacademy.com
THE GREAT OUTDOORS
Fontenelle Forest Camps
Where: Bellevue, NE
When: June – August 2026
Who: Ages 5–13
Cost: $200–$250 per week
Information: fontenelleforest.org/camps
Lauritzen Gardens Summer Adventure Camp
Where: Omaha, NE
When: May 26 – July 24, 2026
Who: Ages 5–12
Cost: $200–$280 per week
Information: lauritzengardens.org
Camp Rivercrest
Where: Fremont, NE
When: June 7 – July 24, 2026
Who: Grades 1–12
Cost: $225–$695 depending on session Information: camprivercrest.org
Carol Joy Holling Camp
Where: Ashland, NE
When: May 31 – July 2026 sessions
Who: Grades 1–12
Cost: $225–$475 depending on program
Information: nlom.org
City of Omaha Parks & Recreation Camps
Where: Omaha, NE
When: May – August 2026
Who: Ages 5–12
Cost: Varies by program
Information: parks.cityofomaha.org
Camp Legacy
Where: Omaha, NE
When: Summer 2026 (weekly sessions)
Who: K–5
Cost: Varies
Information: camplegacyomaha.com
SCIENCE, SPORTS & EDUCATION
YMCA of Greater Omaha
Where: Multiple metro locations
When: May 26 – August 14, 2026
Who: Ages 5–12
Cost: $180 members, $205 non members Information: metroymca.org
UNL Big Red Summer Camps
Where: Lincoln, NE
When: Summer 2026
Who: Grades 9–12
Cost: $500–$650 residential Information: 4h.unl.edu
Aim For the Stars – UNO
Where: Omaha, NE
When: Summer 2026
Who: Grades vary
Cost: Varies by session
Information: unomaha.edu
Metropolitan Community College – College for Kids
Where: Omaha metro campuses
When: Summer 2026
Who: Ages 5–18
Cost: Varies by course Information: mccneb.edu
Brownell Talbot – Camp Discovery
Where: Omaha, NE
When: June–July 2026
Who: Preschool–Grade 8
Cost: $100–$315
Information: brownell.edu
Camp at the MAC
Where: Omaha, NE
When: June – August 2026
Who: Ages 8–12
Cost: $250 per week
Information: mapleathleticcomplex.com
Jewish Community Center – J Camp
Where: Omaha, NE
When: Summer 2026
Who: K–12
Cost: Varies
Information: jccomaha.org
Approach Climbing Gym
Where: Omaha, NE
When: Summer 2026
Who: Ages 6–15
Cost: $120–$180 Information: omaharockgym.com
Creighton Prep Summer Camps
Where: Omaha, NE
When: Summer 2026
Who: K–Grade 9
Cost: $110–$140
Information: creightonprep.org
Marian High School Summer Camps
Where: Omaha, NE
When: Summer 2026
Who: Varies by sport
Cost: $90+ depending on camp Information: marianhighschool.net
Camp Mount Michael
Where: Elkhorn area, NE
When: June & July 2026 sessions
Who: Boys
Cost: $300–$400
Information: mountmichael.com
First Tee Omaha
Where: Omaha, NE
When: Summer 2026
Who: Ages 5–18
Cost: Varies
Information: firstteeomaha.org
Evolution Soccer Club
Where: Omaha, NE
When: Summer 2026
Who: Ages 5–16
Cost: Varies Information: evolutionsocceromaha.com
Omaha Sports Academy
Where: Omaha, NE
When: Summer 2026
Who: Ages 6–18
Cost: Varies
Information: omahasportsacademy.com
CHURCH & FAITH
BASED PROGRAMS
King of Kings VBS
Where: Omaha, NE
When: June 8–12 & June 22–26, 2026
Who: Elementary ages
Cost: See website
Information: kingofkings.org
Westside Church VBX
Where: Omaha, NE
When: June 1–5, 2026
Who: Elementary ages
Cost: See website
Information: wchurch.tv
Lifegate Church Kids Week
Where: Omaha, NE
When: June 8–12, 2026
Who: Elementary ages
Cost: See website
Information: lifegate.church
FAMILY SUMMER ACTIVITIES – NOT CAMPS
Fun-Plex Waterpark & Rides
Where: Omaha, NE
When: Memorial Day – Aug. 2026 season
Who: All ages
Cost: Daily admission or season passes Information: fun-plex.com
Eugene T. Mahoney State Park
Where: Ashland, NE
When: Open year-round
Who: All ages
Cost: State park permit required Information: outdoornebraska.gov
Platte River State Park
Where: Louisville, NE
When: Open year-round
Who: All ages
Cost: State park permit required Information: outdoornebraska.gov
Lake Manawa State Park
Where: Council Bluffs, IA
When: Open year-round; beach seasonal Who: All ages
Cost: Free entry; rentals vary Information: iowadnr.gov
Omaha Children’s Museum
Where: Omaha, NE
When: Open year-round
Who: Primarily ages 2–10
Cost: Daily admission Information: ocm.org
The Durham Museum
Where: Omaha, NE
When: Open year-round
Who: All ages
Cost: Daily admission
Information: durhammuseum.org
Allow Us a Moment of Pride!
The Omaha World-Herald was recently recognized by its parent company, Lee Enterprises, for outstanding overall performance.
Lee Enterprises, which operates newspapers and news websites in 77 markets across the United States, named the Omaha World-Herald its Enterprise of the Year.
In 2025, the World-Herald earned top honors in the Tier 1 category, competing against markets including St. Louis, MO; Buffalo, NY; Richmond, VA; and Tulsa, OK.
This recognition underscores the strength of our promotional products, audience
reach, and the measurable ROI we deliver for our clients and advertisers. It reflects our commitment to providing proven, results-driven solutions that help businesses connect meaningfully with their audiences.
Today, the World-Herald serves as the agency of record for many large companies and organizations — an achievement that speaks volumes. It’s simple: when our clients succeed, we succeed. Together, Lee Enterprises and the Omaha WorldHerald are raising standards and setting a new benchmark. Join us in 2026, and let’s grow even more — together.