The countdown to the end of the school year has officially begun. Backpacks feel lighter, the days feel longer, and kids can almost taste summer freedom. For parents and guardians, that excitement is often followed by one big question: what are we going to do all summer?
If a summer camp experience is part of your plan, you already know the options can feel overwhelming. Day camp or overnight? One week or all summer? Sports, STEM, arts, enrichment? The good news is that with a little planning and a few smart steps, you can find a camp that keeps your child happy, engaged, and growing all summer long.
Involve Your Child From The Start
One of the biggest mistakes families make is choosing a camp without their child’s input. Even the most well designed program will fall flat if a child has no interest in being there.
Start the conversation early. Ask what they are curious about. What would they love to try? What skills do they want to build? If a camp offers a catalog, review it together and let your child highlight programs that catch their attention. This simple act builds ownership, confidence, and excitement. When kids feel heard, they are far more likely to walk into camp on the first day ready to participate.
Match The Camp To Their Interests And Personality
Not all camps are structured the same way. Some allow campers to choose activities daily, while others focus on a single topic like drama, coding, sewing, or sports.
Think about what fits your child best. Do they thrive on variety or prefer diving deep into one passion? Are they eager to try something brand new, like programming a drone or preparing a five course meal?
The right structure makes all the difference. When a camp aligns with both your child’s interests and your family’s needs, everyone wins.
Ask Smart Questions
Once you narrow your options, take time to learn more. Talk with other families. Visit social media pages. Reach out to camp staff.
Consider asking:
- What does a typical day look like
- What is the staff to camper ratio
- How are instructors selected and trained
- What safety procedures are in place
- How does the camp support different learning styles
- The more informed you are, the more confident you will feel in your decision.
Look For Growth Not Just Busy Time
Summer should be fun, but it can also be meaningful. The best camps combine hands-on learning, social development, and confidence-building in an environment that still feels like summer.
When kids are challenged in the right ways, they return to school more independent, more curious, and more self assured.
Explore our InZone Camp
Harper College InZone Enrichment and Sports Camp offers hundreds of programs for ages 6 to 14, from June 8 through August 14. Check out our 2026 InZone catalog and choose experiences that spark interests, build skills, and make summer unforgettable. Learn more at harpercollege.edu/inzone and start building a summer your child will love.