Learn About Summer Programs and Camps for Children in Grades K-12 in the U.S. Summer is a good time for young people to try new activities, learn new skills, and make happy memories.
In the United States, many different summer programs are available for students from kindergarten through 12th grade. Some programs are free or cost very little. Others focus on special skills and may cost more. This guide will help you understand what kinds of programs your family can find.
1. Free and Low-Cost Programs
Programs at Public Schools and Summer Learning
Many local public schools offer summer programs for free or at a low cost. These programs can help students who need extra support in their school subjects or want to improve their English. Some schools also provide free meals and transportation (like a bus) to and from the program.
Libraries and Community Centers
Public libraries and community centers in your area often have free summer activities. These can include reading programs, workshops to learn about science and technology (sometimes called STEM), art classes, and other events where children can attend.
YMCA and Boys & Girls Clubs
These are well-known organizations across the country. They offer affordable summer day camps. A day camp is a program where children go for the day and return home in the evening. These organizations may also offer financial help. The amount you pay may change based on your family’s income (this is sometimes called a "sliding scale fee"). Programs often include sports, art, science, and activities that help children become leaders.
City Parks and Recreation Departments
Your local city government may offer day camps, sports teams, and outdoor activities that are low-cost or free, especially for residents of that city.
2. Mid-Range to High-Cost Options
These programs usually cost more but are often less expensive than highly specialized camps.
- Day Camps through Private Groups or Schools
These day camps focus on specific interests like sports, art and theater, coding or robotics (learning to program computers or build robots), and nature activities. The costs can be different, but they are usually less expensive than camps where children stay overnight.
- Religious or Cultural Camps
Some churches, mosques, synagogues, and cultural centers offer summer programs. These programs might focus on teaching values, traditions, or a specific language. They often try to keep the prices affordable for families.
- Specialized Nonprofit Programs
Groups like 4-H, Girl Scouts, and Boy Scouts offer both indoor and outdoor activities. These programs can range from single-day events to a full week. They often have low-cost options and may offer financial help.
- Overnight Camps (Sleepaway Camps)
These camps offer traditional outdoor activities like hiking, swimming, and team sports. Some last for a week, while others run all summer. While generally more expensive, many offer financial aid to help with costs.
- Academic and College Preparation Programs
Universities or private schools offer these programs. They focus on subjects such as writing, STEM (science, technology, engineering, math), or business. These programs are often for middle and high school students. While they can be expensive, they are important for college readiness and building resumes.
- Specialty Camps (Performing Arts, Technology, Advanced Sports)
These camps are for children with a deep interest in a specific skill, such as dance, theater, advanced coding, sports training, or e-sports (competitive video gaming). They are often expensive because they provide expert instructors and specialized facilities.
Financial Help and Ways to Lower Costs (Scholarships)
Many camps — even private or expensive ones — offer financial help or income-based pricing. Always ask the camp staff directly if they offer:
- Financial aid (help to pay fees)
- Sibling discounts (a lower price if you send more than one child from your family)
- Lower prices for registering early (sometimes called early registration deals)
How to Sign Up (Register)
Each camp or program has its own way for families to sign up. Generally, you should:
- Visit the camp’s website. You can usually find this by searching for the camp's name online.
- Look for a "registration form" or "application form." This is the form you fill out to sign up your child.
- Find out when you need to submit the form (the application deadline).
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Learn how to pay any fees. For some programs, you may need to provide:
- Medical forms (information about your child’s health).
- Proof of residency (a document that shows you live in a certain area, like a utility bill or a rental agreement). The camp will tell you what they accept.
It is always a good idea to sign up early if you can. Popular camps can fill up quickly, and you want to make sure your child gets a spot.