Summer Camp Guide 2026

Guide 2026

Creativity Powers Coast Sports Summer Camp: Where Kids

Twenty-six years of unforgettable summers have made Coast Sports a staple on the Westside.

For founder Steve Morris, that longevity comes down to one simple idea: give kids the freedom to have fun.

More than two decades ago, Steve started the summer camp on a whim, unsure of its future beyond one summer when just 17 kids enrolled.

But years of refining the high-energy program has helped Coast Sports grow and achieve a daily attendance range of 170215 kids at Brentwood Science Magnet.

Each day, kids can expect a creative

Can Be Kids

theme or special event — like Survivor Day, Superhero Day or Medieval Day — that emphasizes humor and imagination.

Scavenger-style games, themed competitions, messy events like color runs and water battles create a lively experience for children ages 4 through 15.

In an increasingly structured world, programs like this offer what many kids are missing: imagination, socialization, resilience and the freedom to play.

“Kids today are more structured. They don’t always get the chance to just be kids anymore. We give them that space — to use their imagination, to play, to be creative,” Steve said.

Mornings are largely unstructured, allowing children to move freely between activities for as long as they are engaged. Afternoons shift to a more organized format, with campers grouped by age and

rotating through themed activity stations. Younger campers have their own designated space and staff, while older teens can take on leadership roles as counselors-in-training or assistant coaches.

The camp’s strong community culture brings former campers back as mentors and staff, with many families returning across generations.

Year after year, Coast Sports has evolved to stay relevant to kids’ interests, adding new attractions such as laser tag, a ravestyle dance tent, baking activities and interactive games.

Flexible scheduling and financial assistance ensure no child misses camp, giving every child the opportunity to laugh, explore, create and build friendships.

After more than two decades, Steve said the camp’s impact is best reflected in what the kids call him.

“The greatest joy in my life, through this whole experience, is having my name go from Steve Morris to Coach Steve. Not something I could have ever predicted, but the blessings have been manifold,” he said. This summer, the fun begins on June 22. Camp is scheduled Monday through Friday from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. through Aug. 5. To register for camp or see more photos of the endless fun, visit CoastSports.com.

Camp Integem: Step into the Future

Build, Create and Launch!

This summer, kids are invited to make magic as they journey into the fun-filled, hands-on world of exploration, creation, and making at Camp Integem.

They can ride a spaceship to the stars; meet dinosaurs up close; create magical game worlds and step inside them; bring their art to life; build intelligent AI robots; design and fly AI space drones; and launch your creations to the stratosphere as high as 100,000 feet!

In weekly sessions, kids and teens ages 5-18 will learn artificial intelligence, holographic augmented reality (AR) design, coding, robotics, drones, 2D and 3D game design and animation, interactive storytelling, space exploration, and more.

This summer, Camp Integem has many programs for campers to choose from: coding, game design, and STEM; AI & robotics engineering; AI space drones and space technology; and art & animation. From beginner to advanced, all are invited to explore and create.

“At Camp Integem, we focus on handson learning and creation so students can

design something and then demonstrate it to others. They don’t feel they’re working hard or studying — they feel like they’re solving problems and building something exciting. Kids learn how to turn their imagination into something tangible,” said Jane Lean, Integem coordinator.

The camp’s small class sizes — eight students per teacher — mean that every young creator receives the time and attention they need to thrive at their own pace.

There’s no end to the stories waiting to be told at Camp Integem. One moment, a student might be charting a course to Mars or time traveling to meet dinosaurs; the next, they are bringing art to life with the help of intelligent tech. Each creation is not a final masterpiece but one of many steps along an exciting, ongoing journey of discovery.

In the Integem specialized AI space drones and space technology program, campers get to build, code, and pilot their very own AI-powered drones, launch stratospheric balloons, and dive into advanced aerospace concepts — all while earning hands-on experience.

“It’s difficult to teach this sophisticated technology at home. Our program gives them the tools and capability to show their

creativity and explore,” Lean said.

Camp Integem celebrates the magic of creation in every form — each project, every discovery, and every imaginative leap unfolds a new chapter of wonder.

Students grade six and above can earn

a NVIDIA AI certificate, a rewarding and celebratory credential.

To enroll your student in Camp Integem this summer, visit: https://camp.integem. com.

Registration is Open for HarvardWestlake Summer Programs

By Susan Payne

Summer programs at HarvardWestlake are open for registration.

Participants can experience renowned programs in academics, visual arts, performing arts, film, debate and athletics, divided into six different program areas: North Faring Exploration, Coldwater Prep,

Coldwater Arts, Debate LA and Wolverine Sports.

“Students in and outside of the HarvardWestlake community look forward to the range of summer programs we offer,” said Jim Patterson, director of summer programs. “Each program gives them a choice of offerings that align with their interests and summer schedule.”

New this year is a competitive speech option within the Debate LA program alongside Lincoln-Douglas and Middle School Public Debate, offering a number of preparative and impromptu events throughout the summer.

“Regardless of the topic, summer camp gives students an opportunity to try something new without academic pressure. They can join camps that challenge or enrich them, or help them improve in certain areas, or simply try something new for fun,” Patterson said. “If you’re wondering what our school is like, this gives you a real chance to see for yourself.”

Open to the wider community, HarvardWestlake summer programs include North Faring Exploration, a three-week academic and arts enrichment program for grades five through seven; Coldwater Prep, a mix of academic preparation and enrichment

Sunshine Beach Volleyball Camps Open for Summer Registration

Summer is coming.

For young athletes serious about improving their volleyball IQ, work ethic, and competitive edge, that means one thing: Sunshine Beach Volleyball Camps are back on the sand.

Registration is now open for both the

Westside and South Bay summer beach programs, offering players ages 8–15 an opportunity to train in a focused, high-contact environment that develops complete volleyball athletes.

From beginners discovering the sport to advanced players refining strategy and decision-making, Sunshine’s beach training model emphasizes skill growth,

communication, and competitive confidence.

For Kyle Weindel, associate club director, longtime coach, and architect of Sunshine’s championship culture, beach volleyball is not simply an offseason activity. It is a developmental advantage.

“Indoor and beach may share the same game, but they challenge athletes in

for the upcoming school year; Coldwater Arts, a variety of art classes for grades seven through 12, including sewing, dance, photography and film; Debate LA, for students interested in debate, both beginner and advanced; and Wolverine Sports, a summer sports program.

To learn more about Harvard-Westlake Summer Programs, visit https://www. hw.com/summerprograms.

different ways,” Weindel said. “Training outdoors builds resilience, focus, and problem-solving. It rounds out a player’s

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Rolling Robots Camp Helps Students Ignite

Lifelong Enthusiasm for Technology

An afterschool learning center for robotics and STEM is hosting weekly camps this summer designed to encourage open creativity, deep exploration and project-based learning.

Rolling Robots, founded by aerospace engineers Bing Jiang and Dr. George Kirkman in 2008, is hosting more than 20 engaging technology camps in Los Angeles and Orange County.

Year-round, the organization is known for its world-class robotics competition teams.

Summer camp enrollment is open now for young innovators from the age of 5 to 15 to ignite their lifelong enthusiasm for technology and exploration beyond competition.

Because of its many flexible and dynamic learning options, Bing said summer camps typically serve as an early introduction to engineering and innovation, helping students discover interests that may shape their future education and careers.

This summer, Rolling Robots has expanded to include new artificial intelligence and robotics and engineering programs designed to introduce more hands-on STEM learning, including a 3D printing with AI camp, where students design objects and use artificial intelligence tools to convert their ideas into printable models.

Another new offering is Young Inventor Camp, which focuses on creativity and prototype design.

Other returning favorites include Battle Robot Building, inspired by combat

robotics competitions, and Robots Rock, a revived program that allows students to design and build their own metal-frame robots.

A mainstay is Jr. Robot Builder camp for young inventors.

“If your 5-to-7 year old likes technology or robots, the Jr. Robot Builder camp is hands down everybody’s favorite,” Bing said. “They build a motorized robot and get to take it home. It’s really rewarding for them.”

For older students interested in competitive robotics, the camps offer preparation courses for programs such as VEX Robotics and FIRST Tech Challenge.

Beyond summer programs, Rolling Robots has also seen significant success in competitive robotics. This year, nearly all of the organization’s teams qualified for regional VEX Robotics championships, with two teams advancing to the VEX Robotics World Championship in St. Louis this April.

But Bing said the biggest goal isn’t trophies — it’s confidence.

“We allow kids to build their confidence,”she said. “They struggle, they learn, they overcome their doubts and realize they can achieve something if they don’t give up.”

Many former students advance to study engineering at top universities, proving that summer camp can spark a lifelong passion, Bing said.

To learn more about Rolling Robots and find a camp location near you, visit RollingRobots.com.

ASTEME Camps Explore Science, Technology, Math and Engineering

Another fun-filled summer of learning is ahead for ASTEME Academy.

Summer camps with a mix of familiar favorites and expanded learning opportunities for kids are open for enrollment.

ASTEME, a nonprofit program in its 18th year, offers a variety of summer camps that emphasize project-based learning and hands-on activities for children interested in science, technology, engineering and math.

While Harry Potter and LEGO camps draw a strong interest from students, one camp in particular stood out last summer, founder Allan Yu said.

“What became really popular was the Math Guild,” he said. “This camp bolsters students’ confidence and proficiency in mathematics while helping them develop a deeper understanding of how math is used everywhere.”

In addition to themed camps like Pokemon and KPop Demon Hunters, ASTEME’s award-winning robotics and coding camps are available for beginning to advanced coders.

Featured weekly camps include preASTEME for transitional kindergarteners, math intensive camps for third through ninth graders, robotics and coding, wilderness survival, interstellar exploration, media arts and more.

“Students enjoy our camps for two reasons:

the first because our teachers are incredible, and secondly, they have fun. It’s not just play or unstructured time; our lessons engage the students in a dynamic, yet academic way,” Yu said.

A key part of the camp’s appeal, Yu said, is the balance between learning and entertainment. While many academicfocused camps can feel rigid or classroomlike, ASTEME aims to create a more dynamic environment.

“Our goal has always been to inspire kids to love learning,” Yu said. “The summer camp is kind of a snapshot of what we do during the school year.”

Camps are offered in a weekly format for students entering transitional kindergarten up to ninth grade. Families who sign up for four or more camps get 15% off pricing. Extended care may be available. Scholarships and daily rates are also available.

Registration for ASTEME Academy Summer Camps is open now. For more information and registration, visit asteme. com/summer.

Saint Monica Prep: Weekly Summer Camps

Focus on Fundamentals

It’s been another banner year for Saint Monica Preparatory’s Mariner teams as both girls and boys soccer won league titles and four winter teams — boys and girls soccer and basketball

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skill set while keeping the joy of the game front and center.”

The beach environment naturally reinforces those principles: fewer players, more responsibility, and more touches on the ball.

— advanced to the playoffs.

Starting June 15, the same coaches that led Saint Monica Prep’s sports teams to victory are offering weekly camps, focusing on fundamentals, skill-building and confidence.

“Each summer, we’re proud to welcome 3rd through 8th graders to campus for a dynamic, hands-on experience with Saint Monica Prep Athletics,” said Kaitlen Murphy, director of marketing communications for the school. “Our Mariner Sports Camps are designed to be both fun and skill-building, giving students the chance to train with dedicated

Development Through Environment Sunshine Beach Camps operate with small-group training to maximize repetitions and individualized coaching. Players are grouped by age and ability, ensuring instruction meets athletes where they are in their development.

Beginners learn foundational movement patterns, ball control, and game understanding. Advanced players train in areas critical to high-level performance: reading opponents, doubles systems, serve strategy, and tempo control, all elements that translate directly back to indoor success.

“The most important part is that players love being there,” Weindel said. “Our role is to provide opportunities to learn, to compete, and to grow.”

Summer 2026 Locations & Registration

coaches and varsity players, grow their confidence, and discover the strong sense of community and opportunity that makes SMPREP special.”

Hosted in the school’s state-of-the-art gymnasium and campus turf, facilities will be open for co-ed athletes for basketball, soccer and volleyball camps.

During the school year, Saint Monica Preparatory also offers Core Prep Academy where 6th, 7th and 8th graders take academic classes in a traditional setting, while elevating their game and character through supplemental athletic training and life skills programs.

Weekly Mariner Sports Camps are scheduled 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. through August 7 and cost $425 per week. Early

Westside Beach Camp

Location: Will Rogers State Beach — Tower 15

Session Dates: June 9 – August 15

Registration Options: Daily or Weekly Cost: $80 per day | $340 per week

South Bay Beach Camp

Session Dates: June 16 – August 8

Registration Options: Daily or Weekly Cost: $75 per day | $300 per week

Families can enroll by the week or select individual training days based on summer schedules.

More Than Summer Training

arrival and late pickup may be available at an additional cost. To learn more about the camps, visit https://www. saintmonicaprep.org/camps.

Beach volleyball demands adaptability, leadership, and accountability, traits that extend far beyond the court. For Sunshine athletes, summer on the sand is not simply about staying active. It is about building the habits that define championship competitors.

Sunshine continues expanding opportunities for athletes across indoor and beach programs.

For registration and full program details, families can visit https:// sunshinevolleyballclub.com

Performing Arts Workshops Summer Camp Open for Registration

Get ready for a musical summer with all that Performing Arts Workshops (PAW) has planned for Summer 2026.

The program offers four two-week musical theater camps and eight oneweek specialty camps across its fourteen Los Angeles locations, designed to build confidence, creativity, and a love of the arts while keeping the experience positive and pressure-free for children.

Along with exploring acting, dance and voice technique, this summer PAW’s

Musical Theater campers will have the opportunity to perform in children’s adaptations of The Sound of Music, Wicked and Wicked 2, or even Lilo & Stitch.

Parents often combine a two-week musical theater session with a one-week camp in specialties such as Actors Sizzle Reel, Debate, Guitar, Stand-Up Comedy, Photography, Stage FX Makeup, Writers Room, and Top Pop Choir, depending on the interest of the child.

New this summer is an academic component of PAW’s language arts mission that is both creative and educational for kids: The Writer’s Room. Students will learn scriptwriting, storytelling, brainstorming and story development.

Cheryl Appleman, founder and president, said PAW is dedicated to providing children with the ultimate arts experience.

“Performing Arts Workshops is proud to offer a child-friendly approach to the

performing arts. Our camp is not just for kids who want to be on stage. Our goal is to offer an inclusive, well-rounded arts experience which introduces a child to new passions within the arts. With our dedication and commitment to children’s growth and fostering a non-competitive creative safe space, many families call PAW their favorite summer camp tradition!”

From ages 6 to 14, PAW camps are designed with the child in mind and auditions are not required.

“We welcome anyone who signs up as long as they are in our age range. Over the first few days of musical theater camp, our instructors work with the kids to gauge their strengths and comfort levels. On the third day, the campers are assigned a role based on what they would be most comfortable playing. We feel this approach to theater bolsters every child’s self-confidence and love for the arts,” Appleman said.

Cali Camp Offers Traditional Camp Experience: Horseback Riding, Zip Lines and More

Roam streams, meadows and oak trees in the heart of rock-lined Topanga Canyon this summer at Cali Camp, a welcoming adventure for campers ages 4 to 14.

Offering three different camp experiences for classic fun, horse wranglers and leadership, Cali Camp is a daily American Camp Association accredited camp that runs weekly sessions from June 15 to August 14. Registration for the camp is now open for activities and outdoor fun that launches every camper’s experience.

Kassandra “Blaze” Wilsey, the executive director at Cali Camp, recommends campers register for the minimum of two weeks during the summer. The first week, reserved for acclimating new campers, and the second, to fully immerse themselves in the fun.

“The best way for campers to fully immerse themselves into the camp experience is to have at least a two week enrollment, but it doesn’t have to be consecutive. We want them to get a sense of our program and then really dive into their camp experience.

Everything from horseback riding to zip lining, to arts and crafts” Wilsey said.

This summer, Cali Camp is offering its traditional camp experience, Classic Camp, packed with swimming, arts and crafts, ropes courses, zip lines, aerial arts and more.

For horse lovers, Wrangler Camp offers horseback riding and horse care including halter, groom, tack, handle and bath skills. Junior Leader Program provides training experiences for teenagers ages 14-15, giving them opportunities to gain leadership skills, build positive self-images and enhance selfesteem.

“Junior Leaders get a sense of what it’s like to give back to the community and show leadership to younger campers in different age groups and activities. It’s a fantastic program that prepares them for possible employment with us when they turn 16,” Wilsey said.

Whether campers are enrolling with a friend or a sibling, or alone, Cali Camp’s programming is specifically designed for campers to foster friendships by spending time in nature and exploring outdoor activities.

“We view it as an educational experience. Your child might not understand or know they’re going through an educational process, but there’s much to be gained from the camp experience. Camp is the perfect place to foster new friendships. Our staff are trained on how to have kids connect with one another,” Wilsey said.

To register your camper for Cali Camp this summer or book an upcoming camp tour, visit CaliCamp.com.

To schedule your summer of performing arts, visit https://www. performingartsworkshops.com/. Family discounts, scholarships and payment plans are available.

Thissummer, aherowillemerge…..

School of Rock Builds Momentum for Spring Season, Summer Camps

Learning music teaches lessons that go beyond the notes themselves, especially at School of Rock.

The school is a place for all ages — as young as 4 — to shine, connect, belong and build confidence.

More than 95% of parents reported their children were happier after attending, according to a recent School of Rockcommissioned study. Parents have also reported improvements in teamwork, confidence, emotional regulation and creativity.

After a busy start to the year, School of Rock’s Los Angeles-area programs are building momentum for what’s to come this spring and summer.

That momentum was on display in late February, when the organization hosted its second annual battle of the bands fundraiser at Lucky Strike Hollywood.

Performers from six School of Rock locations — Venice, West LA, South Bay,

Burbank, Pasadena and Santa Clarita — performed in support of the community.

Collectively, the event raised funds for the Chuchen Foundation’s “Hold it Down” scholarship, a merit-based award that helps young musicians access lessons, performance opportunities and advanced programs.

“It’s an amazing cause, an amazing organization,” School of Rock West LA general manager Justin Salmons said.

“This is a scholarship that helps kids achieve their goals and their dreams.”

Opportunities to perform live exist yearround for advanced students. Younger students build skills through individual lessons and group practices, gaining confidence as they progress.

From beginner to advanced, students build musical proficiency through performance-based, song-driven learning that develops technique, stage presence and confidence.

They learn what it takes to step on stage and share that passion with others.

“The power of music is the power to inspire,” Salmons said.

Spring Season School of Rock’s spring season runs through mid-May, offering a range of classes for ages 4 and higher, including

beginner instruction, group rehearsals and performance-based programs.

This season’s themed shows include tributes to artists such as David Bowie, Radiohead, KISS and Led Zeppelin, along with full-album performances designed to challenge more advanced students.

Adult programs are also growing, allowing parents and community members the chance to take the stage.

Camps Open for Registration

Spring and summer camps are now open for registration. The school’s updated online features make it easy to filter camps by age and skill level.

“We’ve made it easier than ever to find your perfect camp,” Salmons said.

For many families, camps serve as an entry point into a larger community built around music, Salmons said.

“We enrich lives, we impact lives and sometimes, we even save lives,” Salmons said. “Community and music are two things that help every kid thrive.”

How to Get Involved

School of Rock’s tiers of programming include Little Wing, for ages 4 to 5; Rookies, for ages 6 to 7; Rock 101, for ages 8 to 13; and Performance, for ages 8 to 18, in addition to AllStars, Songwriting and adult programming.

Mythik Camps: Register for Outdoor Storytelling, Adventures and All Things Mythology

Mythik Camps

is a home for every hero.

Join Mythik Camps this summer for an experience designed to spark imagination and unleash your child’s inner hero.

Mythology, storytelling, outdoor adventure and more. During week-long sessions, campers participate in story-driven quests, taking on the role of heroes, solving mysteries and completing missions in a fully interactive environment.

“Mythik Camps is a family of camps that create immersive adventures for campers to bring ancient stories to life and become the heroes they were meant to be,” said Alex Tissiere, the camp’s Director of Story.

In an entirely outdoor experience, Camp Half-Blood combines traditional camp activities with imaginative role-playing inspired by mythology and fantasy in Los Angeles’ Cheviot Hills Park and Brand Park.

Designed for a wide range of children, the camp welcomes both imaginative, story-driven kids and those simply looking for outdoor play. Through the experience, campers are encouraged to try new activities, build confidence and expand their interests.

In teams of 12, campers are led by a dedicated counselor each week in groups named after mythological cities like Athens or Sparta. As the group develops its own identity through chants, banners and shared experience, each week is unique and offers a different story to tell.

“Some kids come in already loving mythology, and others have never experienced it before, but they all get immersed in this world of magic, heroes and adventure,” Alex said. “The kid who comes for sword fighting might discover they love the story, and the kid who comes for the story might discover they love the action.”

Kids experience learning through immersive play. Some activities include a custom-role playing game called “Mytho,” which blends storytelling with reading, writing, math, critical thinking and problem solving. Through this experience, kids become more engaged in reading and storytelling during and after camp and often want to quickly sign up for more.

The variety of quests and narratives expose campers to diverse cultures and narratives — not just Greek or Roman traditions. Mythik Camps blends outdoor play, creativity and storytelling to create a

unique summer experience.

“We don’t want camp to feel like school — it’s an escape — but there are so many learning opportunities built into the experience,” Alex said. “We offer this camp because we didn’t have camps like this when we were kids. We’re creating the kind

Use code TAKE10CAMPS2026 for 10% off spring and summer camps. The offer expires April 1.

To learn more about School of Rock or activate your free trial, visit Venice.SchoolofRock.com or WestLA. SchoolofRock.com.

Perfect Day Surf Camp Offers Surfing,

Water Safety and Beach Fun

A long-running summer tradition for many local families returns in its 26th year helping young beachgoers build confidence in the water while learning the fundamentals of surfing and ocean safety.

Perfect Day Surf Camp, founded by Robbie French, offers a mix of surfing instruction, beach activities and ocean education designed to meet kids, ages 4 to 17, at different experience levels.

Older campers spend more time learning to surf and improving their skills while younger children participate in a beach and surf hybrid program that introduces them to the ocean and swimming in a safe and supportive way.

Perfect Day Surf Camp maintains a four-to-one camper-to-instructor ratio, and younger or less experienced swimmers receive one-on-one support in the water.

Boogie boarding and classic beach games such as dodgeball and capture the flag keep the experience active and fun while helping campers gradually become more comfortable in the water.

“We teach them how to be safe in the ocean and safe on the beach,” Robbie said. “Even if it’s just a surf camp experience, they’re learning something that can help them for the rest of their lives.”

Robbie said the camp also provides

something many kids need during the summer: a chance to disconnect from screens and spend time outdoors.

“It gets them out of the house and into a new sport,” she said. “Some kids aren’t drawn to team sports, and surfing can give them a sense of belonging and confidence.”

Perfect Day Surf Camp runs from early June through late August, with flexible scheduling options that allow families to enroll by the day or week. In Santa Monica, Perfect Day is located at 530 Palisades Beach Road. Other locations include Manhattan Beach, Redondo Beach and Torrance Beach.

To learn more or register your camper, visit https://www.perfectdaysurfcamp. com/all-programs-summercamp

BRENTWOOD ART CENTER

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Summer Art Camps begin June 15th

Summer at Crossroads: A Place to Create, Explore and Thrive

Summer is a time for discovery— and Summer at Crossroads offers students an inspiring place to learn, create, and have fun all season long. Our newly released catalog of programs and classes invites students to dive into an immersive summer experience filled with academic exploration, handson enrichment, creativity, and community.

Open to the public, Summer at Crossroads welcomes students from across Los Angeles to join a vibrant and inclusive environment where friendships grow and curiosity thrives. Our programs are designed to foster meaningful connections between students and teachers, encouraging collaboration, confidence, and creativity in a setting where every student feels supported and inspired.

Students have the freedom to explore new interests, challenge themselves, and make lasting summer memories while learning in a safe, nurturing environment where emotional and physical well-being are always a priority.

Programs fill quickly, so we always encourage families to enroll early to secure their preferred classes.

Elementary School

Our youngest learners entering grades K- 5 enjoy a joyful balance of learning, creativity, and play. With six one-week all-day sessions, each week includes instructional swimming lessons, giving students the opportunity to build confidence and skills in the water.

Midday brings the entire community together for an energetic gathering filled with songs, friendly competitions, brainteasing games, and themed dress-up days that spark laughter and connection.

Middle School

Middle school students entering grades 6-8 begin each day with engaging academic

enrichment designed to keep their minds active over the summer. Through writing, math exploration, and collaborative problem-solving, students strengthen key skills while building confidence.

With six one-week all-day sessions, the rest of the day is dedicated to handson classes and interactive learning, where students dive into topics that excite them and discover new passions alongside their peers.

Upper School

High school students entering grades 9–12 can choose from one-week intensives or three- and five-week academic credit courses, offering opportunities to deepen knowledge, explore new subjects, and prepare for the year ahead.

For the second year, Summer at Crossroads will also offer its Junior Lifeguard and Lifeguard Certification Training Program, where students gain valuable aquatic safety skills along with CPR and First Aid training, building confidence and real-world responsibility.

Summer 2026 Program Dates

June 15 – July 24

Families can explore the full catalog of programs and classes at www.xrds.org/ summer-at-crossroads/home

For questions, email summer@xrds.org

How to Pick the Best Summer Camp for Your Child

Choosing a summer camp can feel overwhelming, but focusing on a few key questions makes the decision much easier. Start with your child, not the brochure. Ask what excites them: sports, art, science, nature, or just being with friends. Their interests and personality should drive your search, whether they’re shy and need a smaller, nurturing environment or outgoing and ready for a big, bustling camp.

Think next about **camp** format: day camp or overnight camp. Day camps work well for younger kids, first-timers, and families who need to stay local for work and schedules. Overnight (sleepaway) camps can build independence and confidence, especially for kids who are ready to be away from home and eager for adventure. Talk honestly with your child about how they feel sleeping away, and do a short trial sleepover with relatives or friends if you are unsure.

Location and schedule matter more than most families expect. Look at drive time, drop-off and pick-up windows, and how camp dates line up with your summer vacations or childcare needs. Some camps offer flexible weekly enrollment, while others require full sessions. Make a simple calendar of your summer, add work commitments and trips, and see which camps realistically fit. Convenience can be the difference between a smooth summer and daily stress.

Safety should be a non-negotiable priority. Ask about staff-to-camper ratios, staff training, and background checks.

Find out how they handle medical issues, allergies, and emergencies. Reputable camps will gladly share their safety protocols and any accreditation they hold, such as from the American Camp Association. Read reviews, ask for references, and talk with other parents whose children have attended recently to see if the camp follows through on its promises.

Programming and values are the heart of the experience. Review the daily schedule: Is there a balance of structured activities and free time? Are screens limited?

Does the camp emphasize competition, creativity, character building, or a mix? Look for alignment with your family’s values, whether that is inclusivity, nature connection, faith-based programming, or academic enrichment. If possible, visit an open house or watch camp videos to get a feel for the culture.

Budget is another practical filter. Add up tuition, registration fees, extended care, transportation, and any extras like lunches or field trips. Some camps offer early-bird discounts, sibling discounts, or financial aid. Decide what you can comfortably

spend before you fall in love with glossy marketing materials, and compare a few options side by side.

Finally, involve your child in the decision. Narrow the list to two or three realistic choices and show them photos, sample schedules, and any videos the camp provides. Let them share what feels fun, what feels scary, and what questions they still have. When kids feel heard and included, they’re more likely to embrace the experience and grow from it.

Our talented teachers and staff have developed a variety of innovative summer programming, with a range of opportunities for students to pursue their studies, explore new experiences, learn and have fun!