My kids recently returned from camp, full of stories, songs, and memories – not to mention a lot of pine needles and sand! They have the glow that only comes from weeks spent outside with friends and no phones in sight. They are healthy, relaxed, and so happy. The tears shed from leaving their summer friends are real, but they know that they will see each other again next summer.
As an adult, we know all too well that the carefree summers of our youth are fleeting, and the real world creeps in real fast. Personally, I would love one more summer at camp – I can still sing all the songs, I would happily perform in a camp skit, and I’m definitely game (I think?) for an early morning island swim across the lake. I have a chart that is a good reminder of just how many summers are left before a child heads to college. In 4th grade, there are 9 left, but fast forward through middle school, and the same child in 8th grade only has 5. What to do with these precious summers?
The great news is that there is so much to do! Traditional sleepaway camp is just one option. There are specialty camps like sports, arts, music, theater, sailing, and horseback riding. There are travel opportunities like adventure trips, teen tours, community service, language immersion, and deep cultural dives. Academic and career exploration on college campuses throughout the U.S. and abroad are also great options. And there is so much more!
We adults may be past those amazing summers (sniff!), but our kids still have this incredible time. Tips on Trips and Camps advisors are here to help you find the perfect overnight camp, trip, or academic experience for your child – ask us how!
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