It's that time of the year again, to start thinking about Summer plans! 

Consider choosing creativity and signing your Kid or Teen up with One River School of Art + Design in Hartsdale, NY. Parents and Students love our program because they can customize their child’s summer program by building a menu of camps around preferred dates and camp types.  The experience is based on the students' wants and needs, they can stack multiple classes for a full day and enjoy their lunch amongst other One River students. Taking classes at One River School of Art + Design is a great social and learning experience. Your child will be working amongst other Students ranging in different experience levels. They will end the summer with new artistic skills and new classmates! 

All of our teachers are incredibly professional and friendly with backgrounds in the arts. Our classes are so different and unique, each one has something different to offer. Your student will be guided through instruction and learn step by step how to create or design in the given medium. One River Summer Camps are a great opportunity for your child to experiment in different artistic expressions to find the perfect fit. 

Choose from 90+ Half & Full Day Weekly Options
Camps designed for Pre-College, Teens and Kids
Some of our favorite camps: Drawing, Painting, Street Art, Cartooning, Sculpture, Animation, Illustration, Game Design & Video Production

Are you a previous member? If so, welcome back! If your account is frozen, Summer Camp is a perfect time to use the credit you may have on your account!
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Use Promo Code SUMMERFUN to get $100 off 3 Camps. 
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Camp space is limited and camps sell out every summer! Use Promo Code SUMMERFUN to get $100 off 3 Camps.

For more information please visit hartsdale.oneriverschool.com/camp or call 914-893-4229​

We can't wait to see you this summer!

Maybe it's all of this cold weather, or the fact that we're stuck inside A LOT, but I cannot stop thinking about summer! I cannot wait for my kids to get outside with old and new friends for long days of swimming, arts and crafts, ice cream, soccer games and all the fun stuff that summer brings.

Camp gives children a unique opportunity to try new things, make new friends, get fresh air, learn new skills, foster interests and be active! So they can grow, become more independent, sharpen their social skills, gain confidence and learn the value of teamwork.

It's not too early to start your day camp search. In fact, registration is open at most camps. To kick off your camp search we are providing a list of 34 amazing day camps that serve Westchester County families. Many of these were recommended by moms in our community.

If you are feeling overwhelmed about which camp to choose, think about what criteria is most important to you and make that your priority. Things to consider include:

• Price
• Location
• Fellow friends attending
• COVID health and safety measures
• Activities
• Facilities
• Swimming program
• Director
• Vibe, mission, values
• Staff to camper ratio or group size
• Transportation
• Extended hours
• Lunch 
• Feedback from friends, reviews or referrals

Beth El Day Camp
1324 North Avenue, New Rochelle, NY 10804

Ages 2-8
Ages 9-12 Art and Theater Camp


For over 30 years, Beth El Day Camp has been providing a fun-filled and exciting summer for young children ages 2-9. Camp will run from Monday, June 28th- Friday, August 20th. 

The summer days, with convenient extended hours, are spent swimming, playing tennis, singing songs, creating art, STEM, tennis, discovering nature and sometimes sitting on the grass eating popsicles with friends. The flexible schedule provides all of your favorite camp activities plus special events like Carnival, Stomp Rocket Day, and Ice Cream Truck Day. The outdoor pool is supervised by American Red Cross Certified Lifeguards, providing morning instructional swim followed by afternoon recreational swim daily. Scrumptious, kosher lunch, snacks and towel service are all included. Transportation is not provided. Beth El Day Camp follows all guidelines set forth by the CDC, ACA, and New York State Department of Health to keep our campers safe and healthy.

New this summer...calling all 9-12 year old budding artists, for a creative Arts and Theater program, offering calligraphy, painting, jewelry-making, Radio Control. improv, free swim and more. 4 or 8 week options.

​Camp Combe YMCA
684 Peekskill Hollow Road, Putnam Valley, NY

Ages 4-16

The Camp Combe YMCA is a traditional summer day camp located on 80 acres of pristine wilderness in Putnam Valley. Serving campers ages 4 to 16 it is a perfect mix of fun, challenge, and support. Low ratios, pick-your-own price structure and an emphasis on the YMCA’s core values; Caring, Honesty, Respect, Responsibility & Inclusion, make Camp Combe a unique summer camp. Your camper will come home the same way every day… tired, dirty, and happy!
 
Amenities include a large capacity swimming pool, sports fields, archery range, playground, alpinetower and zipline, giant hillside slide, giant swing, a 30 foot water slide, a brook for nature study and is conveniently located one mile off the Taconic Parkway. Learn more about their Academy Care, Early Learning Center or School Age Childcare programs at ymca-cnw.org.

Camp Echo Bay
On the Campus of Salesian High School , 148 Main Street, New Rochelle, NY 10801

Ages 4-14

Camp Echo Bay is located on 19 acres of beautiful and private waterfront property. Older campers will participate in organized sports and team competitions, including soccer, cheerleading, swimming, basketball and softball to keep them active and fuel a healthy competitive spirit.  Younger children will enjoy a different art or craft every day, as well as story time, short hikes, playground activities and much more.

As a Catholic Day Camp, through their daily chapel values program, weekly Mass and Christian environment of our daily camp life, they encourage the campers' inner spirit and help them build strong character. Camp Echo Bay is open to all regardless of race, gender, creed or ethnic origin. Extended day options are available. Lunch and snack is included. Transportation is available.

Camp Pinebrook
1000 Pinebrook Blvd, New Rochelle, NY 10804

Ages 3-8

Camp Pinebrook provides an intimate community in which young children make new friends, develop life skills, and have fun in a nurturing environment infused with Jewish values. Camp Pinebrook provides a full activity day, which includes a diverse array of outdoor and indoor activities including daily semi-private swim lessons, free swim, athletics, science, nature, yoga, martial arts, and art & crafts. Hot kosher meals are provided. Extended care is available daily from 7:00am to 6:30pm. Transportation will not be provided in 2021.

Challenge Camp
555 West Hartsdale Avenue Hartsdale, NY 10530

Ages 4-14

The Challenge Camp offers summer enrichment learning opportunities for bright and curious children. They are dedicated to providing meaningful opportunities for children to realize their intellectual and personal potential.

They offer over 100 courses ranging from 3D printing to architecture to chess to cooking to magic to model rocketry to video production and many options in between. There are also sports options as part of the Afternoon Challenge as we encourage students to challenge both their mind and body. They also offer bus transportation and early drop-off /extended day options for families that require flexibility.

Discover Camp
180 Bradhurst Avenue, Hawthorne, NY 10532

Ages 5-15

Discover Camp is an enrichment day camp for children. The program was created to give children the opportunity to explore their own interests in science, technologies, arts and sports through hands-on learning. 

There are over 100 classes to choose from! Choose from things like 3D printing, Coding, virtual reality design, chess, RC car and truck racing, skateboarding, arts and crafts, K -1 program, pokemon, ninja warriors, rocketry, MINI-Z racing and more. All of their instructors are educated professionals or NYS certified teachers. Lunch is provided and a kosher option is available. Extended day options are also available.

Elmwood Day Camp
900 Dobbs Ferry Road, White Plains, NY 10607

Ages 3-12

Elmwood’s mission is for each child to discover, celebrate and be who they are supposed to be. Consistent, caring relationships, small group sizes and a comprehensive activity program are essential to achieve their mission.

Children will take part in swim (3 heated pools learn to swim program and Certified American Red Cross Lifeguards), athletics (soccer, softball, basketball, tennis, lacrosse, gymnastics, archery, yoga and golf), hiking, creative arts (painting, drawing, sculpting, ceramics, mixed media, woodworking, photography and jewelry making) and performing arts (drama, dance, music, puppetry and storytelling in the Performing Arts Center).

There is also natural play, an Adventure Park & Sky Park (low ropes course, 2 zip-lines, a climbing wall and a jump platform) and team building. Science & engineering include robotics, environmental science, life sciences, and physics. Other great activities include gardening, cooking, gaga and street games. As children get older they get to choose a significant portion of their daily activity program. Transportation is available. Nutritious snacks and lunch are provided.

Harvey Summer Camp
260 Jay Street, Katonah, NY

Ages 6 - 14

At the Harvey Summer Camp children in grades 2-9 will choose from one of five concentrations in either Art, Sports, Dance, Performance, or General Studies (a schedule that offers a little of everything).  These concentrations will allow campers to explore the depths and dimensions of each discipline, with 14 different classes a week. To further personalize their schedules, students will choose nine electives outside of their concentration, giving them the opportunities to explore new interests. 
 
They also offer a program for first graders and week-long specialty camps in Robotics, Circus Arts, and Basketball. 
 
Join them for up to eight weeks of summer fun and activity or simply just come for one week. Their summer program is flexible and designed to accommodate family vacation time and other summer commitments. Located in Westchester County in Katonah, New York, Harvey Summer Camp is located 50 minutes north of New York City and 20 minutes from the Eastern border of Connecticut.

JCC of Mid-Westchester Camp Gadol
999 Wilmot Road 
Scarsdale, NY 10583

Ages 2-10

Camp Gadol offers a traditional summer camp experience at the JCC. Children will enjoy a combination of indoor and outdoor activities including swimming (indoors), soccer, baseball, gymnastics, martial arts, music, nature, themed days and more. Daily kosher lunch is provided as well as extended day care. 

Kiwi Country Day Camp
​825 Union Valley Road, Carmel, NY 10512

Ages 3-15

Kiwi Country Day Camp has provided campers with an authentic traditional camp experience since 1952. Their program offers campers a variety of sports, adventure, performing & creative arts and daily instructional swim led by professional educators. Activities include everything you can imagine— zip-line, ropes, archery, fishing, boating, waterslides, swimming, athletics, golf, ninja warrior course, arts, theater, cooking, woodworking, mining, gaga and more. Transportation and daily hot lunch is provided. Extended day programs are available.

Next Day Level Camps
Iona Prep, 173 Stratton Rd, New Rochelle, NY 10804 (boys)
The Ursuline School, 1354 North Avenue, New Rochelle, NY (girls)

Ages 5-14

Next Day Level Camps For Girls (at The Ursuline School) and for Boys (Iona Prep) offer a perfect mix of skill-based individual and team sports, STEM academic enrichment, exciting events, and special electives such as DJ, Magic, Martial Arts, Yoga, Visual Arts, Drama, and Dance plus a lot more. Next Level is an elective based program where campers choose their schedule on a daily basis. 

Each day camp allows boys and girls to feel free to develop their talents and pursue their passions. Supported by a mature staff of highly trained teachers, counselors, coaches, parents, and collegiate athletes, campers in grades one through nine will become part of a community that values respect, responsibility, teamwork, communication, sportsmanship, and friendship.

Next Level’s commitment to character-focused camp programs and flexible scheduling has rapidly made them Westchester’s favorite day camps for girls and boys. Camp sessions allow for full or half-day enrollment, for one or more consecutive or non-consecutive weeks and even offers daily passes. 

NORY
142 N Central Ave, Hartsdale, NY 10530 

Ages 5 - 10

NYC’s number one STEM summer camp is now in Westchester! Summer is a time when kids should be trying new things, asking crazy questions, and exploring wild possibilities, even if it sometimes means failing along the way. At least that’s what the two dads who founded NORY believe.

NORY offers a summer filled with robots, circuity, engineering design challenges, outdoor experiments, and lifelong friendships. Kids ages 5-10 can sign up for STEM-focused programs with weekly themes that are totally worth geeking out over, like woodworking, kitchen science, and chemical engineering, and explosions. The 5 to 1 ratio of curious campers to inspiring instructors helps to keep kids totally engrossed in the hands-on curriculum. This summer, enjoy New York's most well-rounded playground for innovators.

Oasis Day Camps
Masters School, 49 Clinton Avenue, Dobbs Ferry, NY 10522 (K-1)
Mercy College, 555 Broadway, Dobbs Ferry, NY 10522 (grades 2 and up)

Ages 3-15

Oasis Day Camp provides all a broad range of activities including soccer, flag football, softball, and lacrosse in addition to court sports such as tennis and basketball. Children can also enjoy swimming and swimming lessons, dance, arts & crafts, music, theater, games, outdoor adventure, and academic enrichment.

Campers are split into Lower Camp, Upper Camp, and two specialty programs for the youngest (Early Start) and oldest campers (Teen Travel). The scenic campuses have beautiful newly renovated athletic facilities including Astroturf playing fields, tennis and basketball courts, outdoor  swimming pools, nature trails, large indoor gym, theatre and other spacious indoor air-conditioned facilities. Transportation and an extended day option are available. Lunch is provided.

Purchase Day Camp
3095 Purchase St, Purchase, NY 10577

Ages 3-15  

Purchase Day Camp is located on 8 scenic acres in suburban Purchase, NY. The 22,000 square foot William A. Read Memorial house stands at the center of their two campuses. They provide a broad based program with sensitive, enthusiastic and encouraging staff.

The American Red Cross Learn-To-Swim program is provided in one of their 4 heated pools. Activities include a range of sports, cooking, arts & crafts, music, science, nature, theatre and special events. Some highlights include a 100' zip-line, woodworking shop, nature trails and a 18 hole mini golf course. Transportation, towels and lunch are all included. Extended days, mini days and full days are all options.

River Friends Day Camp at Harold & Elaine Shames JCC on the Hudson
371 S. Broadway, Tarrytown, NY 10591

Ages 2 – 6

River Friends Day Camp, located in the heart of the Rivertowns, is all of the adventure and excitement of big-kid camp with focus on the needs of young campers. Their program, designed by educators and counselors, understands the developmental needs of children 2 – 6 and uses their expertise to create engaging and age-appropriate experiences—sports, playground time, animal experiences, STEM, music, nature, gardening, yoga, water-play, and crafts are just a sampling of what’s in store. The program runs on the grounds of their Early Childhood Center—the playgrounds and play areas are designed for this age group. After a year of isolation they understand the importance and are excited for this summer!

Rush Day Camp
12 Wilgarth Road, Bronxville, NY 10708

Ages 4-13

Rush Day Camp has been around since 1971 and is located at Sarah Lawrence College. They offer air-conditioned facilities, indoor swimming pool, playing fields, classrooms, and state of the art technology. Their traditional day camp experience includes swimming, performing arts, artistic expression, games, STEAM, music and computers. They also offer an all sports camp and a one-week Specialty Camp programs. Extended hours are available.

Rye YMCA Day Camps
Kinder Camp, Gymnastics Camp and Teen Fitness Camps - Rye YMCA, 21 Locust Avenue, Rye, NY
Discovery, Sports and STEAM camps - Resurrection School, 946 Boston Post Road, Rye

Ages 3-14

Rye Y Camps are led by a team of full time, qualified professional directors and are accredited by the American Camping Association. As an ACA accredited camp, strict ratio policies based on campers age are followed. 

Safety is the #1 priority for Rye Y Camps and this summer protocols will be followed from the CDC, ACA anad NY State Health Department to keep campers and staff safe. 

Kinder Camp campers enjoy the air conditioned Rye Y facility and an outdoor playground area.  Activities are programmed around weekly themes. 

Discovery Camp is an off-site camp program is located at the Resurrection School in Rye to allow for the full use of our outdoor programs and curriculum. Campers will participate in arts & crafts, music, sports and much, much more! 

The Sports Camps, located at the Resurrection School in Rye, are for sports enthusiasts who want to develop both their individual and team skills. 

STEAM Camp (located at the Resurrection School) challenges campers to question, explore, plan, discover, analyze, and understand the world through the lenses of Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math.

Gymnastics campers (located at the Rye Y)  will participate in the Olympic events and tumble trak, mini trampoline, rope climb and much more. There are also several teen camp options. ​Extended day options are available.

The Rye Y also offers Teen Fitness camp and Leaders in Training and Counselors in training. 

Squire Camps
Maria Regina High School, 500 W Hartsdale Ave Hartsdale, NY 10530

Ages 4-14

Squire Camps is a family owned enrichment and sports day camp located in the Maria Regina High School in Hartsdale, NY. They value family, fun, and learning! Activites are held in air-conditioned classrooms, art studio, and dining hall.  Swimming is held at the indoor collegiate-size climate controlled pool at EF academy in Tarrytown. 

They offer four different camps: Advantage Primary Camp, Advantage Choice Camp, All Sports Academy and Squire Tennis Academy. Lunch is provided. Transportation and extended day options are available. 

Summer Trails Day Camp & Baseball Camp
93 Mahopac Ave Granite Springs, NY 10527

Ages 3-14

Two Programs at one Top notch facility. Summer Trails Day Camp is located on a private 20 acre facility with a wildlife-filled lake, two heated swimming pools, nature trails, spacious ball fields, as well as athletic and creative arts facilities. Since 1974 Summer Trails Day Camp & Baseball Camp has offered quality programming facilitated by committed staff that teach, inspire, entertain, and create lifelong memories and friendships within a flexible program designed to meet each individual family's needs. 

Swimming lessons are provided via our American Red Cross certified swim program. The Summer Trails Baseball Camp is Westchester’s only baseball specific day camp program, and is an ideal choice for the true baseball enthusiast. Call today to set up a private family tour.

Westchester Summer Day Camp
856 Orienta Avenue, Mamaroneck, NY 10544

Ages 2-13

Westchester Summer Day, located on a 26-acre campus beachfront on Long Island Sound, provides a unique experience infused with Jewish culture and Tefilla as part of the daily activities. WSD ruach (spirit) is a part of every program.

Their athletic program features soccer, tennis, hockey, baseball, softball, kickball, gaga, basketball, volleyball, yoga, zumba, and more. Their aquatics program features daily American Red Cross swim instruction in three heated pools. There is also boating, knee boarding, wake boarding, water skiing, water slides, and a water trampoline. Creative arts such as arts and crafts, ceramics, jewelry making,
drama, dance and music allow children of all ages to express themselves and develop important life skills and unique personalities. The WSD Challenge Course features a climbing wall and full ropes course. Kosher lunch and snacks are provided as well as transportation. 

Young Judaea Sprout Westchester Day Camp
6 Sprout Lake Camp, Route 82, Verbank, NY 12585
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Ages 4-11

In 2016, Young Judaea Sprout Westchester Day Camp was founded. They began not just as a summer day camp, but as an inclusive Jewish community in Northern Westchester. A place where a Jewish child could thrive and be at their very best. 

Activities include an American Red Cross based swim lesson daily, creative arts (ceramics, painting or general arts) and performing arts (drama, dance, and singing), adventure (ropes, archery), nature (hiking, fishing), Making a Difference Club (Campers make packages to send to those in need) and an assembly. Camp provides lunch on Fridays as well as snacks daily.

YWCA Summer Camp
515 North Street, White Plains, NY 10605

Ages 4-15

Swimming, sports, art, musical theater, and so much more... the YWCA camp offers an individualized, nurturing, and safe environment for the next generation of campers to enjoy a true Funkist experience. Co-ed. Ages turning 4 through teens. Early drop off & late pick up until 6 pm available.

Camp Ramaquois
30 Mountain Rd Pomona, NY 10970

Ages 3-15

Camp Ramaquois is not like every other camp. Their day camp for boys and girls ages 3 to 15 in Pomona, NY (only 30 minutes from the George Washington Bridge and 15 minutes from the Mario Cuomo Bridge) provides a truly authentic camp experience.

Their magnificent 44 acres, 5-acre lake, 9 heated swimming pools, and exceptional facilities and programs allow them to provide children with a dynamic and memorable summer filled with love, warmth, and being part of a special community. Their campers are encouraged to take healthy risks, learn new skills, develop relationships with their peers and counselors, develop independence and assume responsibility.

Deer Mountain Day Camp
63 Call Hollow Rd, Pomona, NY 10970

Ages 3-15

Since 1956, Deer Mountain offers children a sleep away camp’s range of activities, facilities, and expert staff in a mountainside setting—with 25 acres and a spring-fed lake. This day camp offers practically everything and includes swimming, sports, fine & performing arts, outdoor adventure, nature (petting zoo, gardening and more), waterfront (boating, fishing and more), STEM & special events. Transportation is provided. Lunch, snacks and towel service are also included.

ESF Camps
Riverdale Country School, 5250 Fieldston Road, Bronx, NY 10471
Greenwich Catholic School, 471 North Street, Greenwich, CT 06830

Ages 3-16

ESF Camps deliver a unique assortment of camps for children of all ages and interests, while providing a safe and fun environment. With over 60 expertly-designed activities, they ensure that your child is continually exposed to a variety of new experiences. Their award-winning camps are filled with the perfect blend of education, sports and fun. They offer mini camp, tennis camp, tech camps, daily swimming instruction, sports, arts & crafts, science, ecology & nature, team building, imagination playground, an Apprentice Program and Young Leaders Program, special events and more. An optional lunch program is available and everyone enjoys new, worry-free enrollment.

Greenwich: A beautiful 38-acre campus with inspiring learning spaces and state-of-the-art facilities. The extensive indoor and outdoor amenities allow the camp to offer a unique blend of activities, sports and special events throughout the summer, rain or shine. There are indoor and outdoor pools. 

Bronx: The 27 acre campus of Riverdale Country School campus features state-of-the-art facilities that provide the perfect setting for our camps. The extensive indoor and outdoor facilities allows the camp to offer a unique blend of activities, sports and special events throughout the summer, rain or shine. Includes a brand new Aquatic Center. Transportation is available.

Ramah Day Camp in Nyack
Christian Herald Rd, Nyack, NY 10960
Ages 4-14 (Entering PreK-9th grade)

Explore a magical Jewish summer at Ramah Day Camp in Nyack. At Ramah, they provide children who are entering Pre-K through 9th grade with the very best camping experience… in a setting of love, friendship, wonder and discovery, a setting where Judaism is integral to daily activities.

Your child’s well-being is their most important consideration. They make sure that each camper is safe, happy and secure and that summer will be a time of growth, excitement, learning and lots and lots of fun!

Their Rockland County, New York campus, located just minutes from the Cuomo (formerly Tappan Zee) Bridge, offers the best in rural tranquility combined with suburban convenience, close to major highways and easily accessible to the areas they serve — Westchester, Riverdale, Manhattan, Rockland, Bergen and Essex counties. Air-conditioned bus service is available. Whenever possible, they provide door-to-door transportation.

Woodmont Day Camp
420 Phillips Hill Road, New City, NY 10956

Ages 3-15
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Last but certainly not least is Woodmont Day Camp, a camp where each child will feel the warmth and comfort of home. Children will experience a dynamic program in an environment fostering growth and independence.

Their breath-taking waterfall welcomes you to 50 acres of beautiful woodlands, streams, trails and open space. Activities include archery, swimming, farm, athletics, film, cooking, ceramics, nature, fishing,  boating, theater, zip-line and so much more. Swim Directors and pool staff are certified American Red Cross Lifeguards and Water Safety Instructors. Transportation and lunch are included.

You can also contact your town recreation department to see if they will be offering day camp this summer. Town camps are typically lower in price and are a great way for kids to make new friends, or reconnect with old friends, right in your community. Westchester County Parks also provides a variety of summer programs for children.

Another idea is to check with your preschool, school, church, synagogue or community center. They typically have programs as well. Also, many pool clubs, athletic clubs, recreation centers and country clubs offer camps.

Entertainment venues, art schools, museums, adventure centers, sports venues, nature centers and just about anywhere your child can take a class or activity, offer camps. Just keep in mind they may not have a robust outdoor full day, full summer program like the ones on this list. ​If you are looking for a specialty camp, like a tech camp, sports camp or art camp, check out our camp page!

After a year of limited activities and significant isolation, summer camp is more important than ever. And, not just for the big kids, camp is vital for the under 5 crowd just as well, if not even more! As Co-Directors of the Shames JCC’s River Friends Day Camp, we understand the importance of the early childhood camp experience and are so excited for this summer! Camp provides thrilling and unique activities that not only get children out of the house and moving but, in parallel, provide a foundation for development and growth—which promotes success in school and beyond. Need some specifics? Read on for our take on why camp is right for your young child this summer:

1. Camp Expands Your Child’s Social Circle. 
This year, many young children were exclusively at-home with one or more caregivers. Some children connected with a few others in a “pod” set-up that rotated from one family’s home to another. And, then there were some that attended school or daycare, albeit in a “bubble” or “closed cohort” model. Bottom-line: Not much exposure to new faces, diverse personalities, or fresh opportunities to build friendships or to resolve challenges. Camp groups enable children to connect with peers from other towns and other school districts. Camp resets children’s social dynamics and fosters fresh, new relationships; a valuable opportunity and learning experience at any age!

2. Camp Introduces Your Child to New Activities 
Unlike school, or another playdate at the park, camp offers children a wide array of activities and experiences that they might not have been exposed to before. Maybe your child finds out she loves soccer? Or gardening? Or yoga? By sampling all that camp has to offer, your child may discover a new passion that brings them joy and can be extended beyond the summer with extracurricular activities.

3. Camp Promotes Children’s Independence. 
After a year of being largely at home, with parents and siblings often no further than one room away, now is a great time (and camp isa perfect setting) for young children to explore and learn an age-appropriate sense of independence. At camp, while guided by nurturing counselors, children themselves make choices and take-on new responsibilities. From choosing to play in the mud-kitchen rather than go down the slide, to independently unwrapping a cheese stick for the very first time, these are the moments when children are developing their independence and there are so many opportunities for these important moments during camp.

4. Camp Promotes Children’s Social & Emotional Development. 
In recent years, the concept and importance of “Emotional Intelligence” has gained widespread acceptance and there is no better place to begin developing this life-skill than at camp. While schools must satisfy particular academic standards, at camp we have magnificent flexibility to focus on interpersonal skills like sharing, taking turns, and demonstrating patience. At camp, a child’s experience is multi-layered; life skills like self-awareness, teamwork, and empathy are built on camp’s fields, art tables, and play spaces.

5. Camp Gets Children Active and Outside! 
During the pandemic, closed playgrounds and cancellation of typical extracurricular activities like sports, dance, and gymnastics, led to cooped-up kids! And camp is the perfect outlet for all of that pent up energy. During camp, children engage in activities that involve all kinds of movement and build gross motor skills. Children practice determination, develop confidence, and take pride in accomplishing goals like climbing to the top of the playground or helping their team complete a relay race. We have heard parents say that they know their kids are having a good time at camp when they come home tired and with dirt on their clothes—and we tend to agree. We can’t wait to play outside at camp!

6. Camp is Fun! 
Let’s face it—the past year has been anything but fun and we all need some levity. Camp actively invites campers and counselors to be silly and laugh. Camp is for lightning up with spontaneous dance parties, bubbles, making funny faces, and sharing jokes! Having made it through a year without birthday parties, vacations, and more, this is the summer to find a camp program you are comfortable with and to reacquaint your child with fun!

7. Camp is Good for Parents Too! 
Many parents have spent the entirety of the past year in close reach of their children. Stressed about enrolling their children in a school program and unsure about the safety of bringing a babysitter into the home, the parent’s “grown-up” time has faded away. Even activities like grocery shopping no longer provide an hour of grown-up time because it's all delivered or loaded into the car at curb-side now! When parents send their kids to camp, they can have peace of mind that they are doing something positive for their children and for themselves. Self-care is critical; let camp help make it possible for you!

8. Camp is a Gentle “On-Ramp” to Re-Engaging in Activities. 
Approaching re-entry to everyday activities is not as simple as it might sound. There is separation anxiety for children and for parents! It feels a bit like first steps on a new planet—our footing feels unsteady and there are different gravitational pulls. But, camp can be your oasis in this landscape. Camps often offer flexible schedules with various sessions and half-day options. Want to try out the “new normal” and see how it feels—start with camp!

9. Camp is Screen-Free. 
No screens. Really, no screens.

10. Camp Builds Lasting Community. 
​We have all been through a tough year, privately and in our homes, experiencing the challenges of life during a global pandemic. While “in it together” is often said, the isolation imposed by the pandemic sometimes makes “together” hard to believe. But “together” through camp is easy to imagine. Camp offers a shared experience for children and their families to collectively re-engage. With this shared experience, we can better understand and support one another—in current times and beyond. Camp families have opportunities to connect during the summer and throughout the year; camp has a lasting impact for everyone.

Written by Helen Berni & Stephany Olivieri, Co-Directors of River Friends Day Camp at the Shames JCC on the Hudson. Learn more about  their camp on their website.

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Does your child enjoy robotics, musical theater, coding, painting, ceramics or fashion? Then this list of Art, Digital Arts, STEAM & Performing Arts Summer Camps in Westchester is for you! These programs are made specifically for creative kids who enjoy design, technology, science, art creation and drama. These camps can give children the opportunity to embrace their creative side, pursue their passions and connect with like-minded friends this summer.

All camps have COVID health and safety protocols in place like social distancing, masks and disinfecting. For specifics check with the camp of interest.

Read on to learn more and for a complete list of summer camp ideas in Westchester County visit our Camp Page. Here's to a great summer!

Featured Camps

A Maze in Pottery
76 North State Road in Briarcliff Manor, NY

Summer Camp 2021 will be A Maze In Pottery's 11th one! Sessions runs 3 half days: Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday 9-12. Each week children will work on a different project. All projects are high-quality pottery pieces that the kids and families can use at their homes. They also incorporate some canvas and wood board painting plus some gardening ( in the pots) this year. 

Children will be working on their project while learning several pottery painting techniques, they also will learn about pottery process; glazing, firing. They will have games and trivia based on a theme of the camp. This year's themes are Elements Room Decor, Star Wars room set, Mexican Fiesta dinner set, Beach Picnic snack set, “time to Pig Out”-breakfast set.  Ages; 6 years and up, sibling discounts are available. Camp runs all summer long. 

Art XO Studio
9 Main Street, Irvington, NY
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Art XO Studio’s Summer Art Camps have something for every creative kid. Enjoy tie dye, painting, mixed media, clay sculpture, mosaics, and more. Plus, entertaining activities like hydrodip, paint archery and chalk rockets! They even do specialty projects like piñata making, paper mache' hot air balloons, and model building. It's the perfect balance of learning, growing, and freedom to enjoy what ever is inspiring you that week. 

Convenient sign-up by the week, choose 1 or all 10 weeks of camp fun! All COVID protocols will keep your kiddos safe. Camp runs Monday–Thursday, either 10:00am–1:00pm or 1:30-4:00pm depending on camper age group. Morning camp is for ages 5-10 years, and afternoon camp is for ages 8-12. For full-day options, campers ages 8 and up may register for both camps, and enjoy a supervised break. Registration is open: artxostudio.com/camps.

Fashion Arts Studio of Westchester
​168A Irving Ave. Suite 300A, Port Chester, NY

Summer activities at the FAS of Westchester will include two Summer Fashion Design Intensives for two age groups:
July 5th- 9th Group A ages 7- 12
July 12th -16th Group B ages 13-18.
TIME: 9:00am-3:30pm

The Summer Intensive at the Fashion Arts Studio is a week-long project. Students will be learning how to create an original garment to wear from sketch to sewing it up. This is truly fun yet requires critical thinking and problem solving. It combines left/right brain activity, creativity with technical skills. Each student will figure out how to make their idea from a fashion sketch to wearing it! And have an amazing time learning this! It is challenging and rewarding. 

They will also offer Introduction to Interior Design intensive the week of July 19th -23rd.

Their instructors are industry professionals, professors at top design colleges such as Parsons and FIT. Their studio located in Port Chester is a renovated sewing factory from the early 1900s. The lofty feeling of the 20-foot high ceilings transport you to somewhere cool like Chelsea!

MADE: my art + design experience

Join MADE: my art + design experience for the ultimate creative camp experience in their bright, colorful, art space in Mamaroneck, NY! 10 weeks, 10 unique themes.  Pick one week or join them for all your faves - themes include Sweets & Treats, At the Zoo, Mythical Creatures, Around the World, and more! Each session features a mix of projects, from painting to hand-building with wet clay, mosaics and even tie dye. They make sure to keep a balance of teaching techniques and just plain having fun for a good time with beautiful finished handmade products.  


Sessions are limited to 8 artists per week to allow for social distancing. Masks are required.  MADE Summer Art Workshops are recommended for ages 7+ and run weekly Monday through Thursday from 10a - 1p.  Visit their website at madeartstudio.com to register, and use code SUMMER21 to save $25 on registration through March 31. Sibling discount automatically applied at checkout.

One River Art School
112 S. Central Ave, Hartsdale, NY
2081 Boston Post Road, Larchmont, NY

Summer camps at One River offer students of all ages (Kindergarten through Teens) a series of progressive and creative courses across art, digital art, design, photography, filmmaking and portfolio development.

Weekly camps run from mid June through the end of August, with over 70 innovative camp themes to choose from- from Street Art Painting to Short Film Creation. Camps are offered in the morning and afternoon sessions and students can bundle classes for a full day option. Instructors are professional artists and designers in their field - providing students with a fun and hands on exploration of new media, ideas and techniques. This year new Advanced Intensives for older teens are offered in the late afternoon hours.

For more information please go to larchmont.oneriverschool.com or call 914-893-6111.

RAD ART School Summer Art Classes and Mini Art Camp
217 E Hartsdale Ave., Hartsdale, NY

RAD ART School's summer art classes and mini art camp are now open for registration for kids age 7 through high school. All of their classes are grouped by age. For high school students, they offer special college portfolio instruction. RAD ART follows all COVID safety protocols and offers in person studio classes as well as online classes. 

Located in Hartsdale, NY, RAD ART teaches drawing technique in pencil, charcoal, colored pencil, and pastel, and painting in watercolor, acrylics, and oil paints. Their main focus is to teach technique, usage of all media, creativity, and expression of individuality. Whether the student is a beginner, intermediate, or experienced artist, we provide instruction within the subject matter and medium of the student’s choice. RAD ART also offers graphic design classes, teaching the skills of Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator.

For more 35 years, RAD ART School has served as an integral institution in the Westchester community. Our teachers have decades of experience teaching students of all ages and artistic backgrounds. RAD ART School is designed to provide personalized focus for each student, accomplished through small class sizes where each student receives one-on-one, individualized attention.

To inquire about and sign up for RAD ART summer classes, email them at [email protected], call 914-723-3131 or visit their website radfineart.com/.

Sew Happy
154 E Boston Post Rd, Mamaroneck, NY

Sew Happy is offering seven weeks of mini camps for kids ages 7-13 in their creative studio in Mamaroneck, New York. Camps are for small groups (max kids 10) and include hand sewing, machine and hand sewing combo, machine sewing and fashion design. Themes include Selfie Time, Chill Out, Mouse-In-A-Tin, Sew Happy Fox, Me & My Doll and Fashion Design camps include fashion drawing, draping and fun fashion challenges. Each weekly camp runs for 2 hours per day and kids are encouraged to sign up for multiple camps. 

Most projects are designed by Sew Happy, made in the USA, and the fabrics used are mostly made from recycled materials. Hand picked instructors are taught not only how to teach sewing but how to encourage and motivate children whilst overcoming obstacles and challenges. Sew Happy is teaching a traditional life skill but with a modern twist so that more children are interested in learning how to sew. For more info please check out their website sewhappyusa.net.

The Art Academy of Westchester
145 Palisade Street, Suite 401, Dobbs Ferry, NY 
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The Art Academy of Westchester, in Dobbs Ferry, is the home of the Young Academists Program (advanced art classes for children ages 10 and up) and portfolio development coaching for high school students. Summer classes run every other week in late June and July.

Drawing and painting classes, Summer 2021 classes are for children ages 10 and up. All levels welcome. Students sign up for each four-day week and are welcome to bring ideas of what they would like to create. The teacher will present to the class options of imagery to work from. Working from real still lifes is encouraged. Line, shape, value, texture, space, and principles of strong composition are some of the concepts we explore. Each week’s goal is to finish an entire drawing or painting.

Subjects for drawing: still lifes, portraits, landscapes, figures in actions
Subjects for painting: still lifes, landscapes, animals, other subjects. 
Materials are included
Class times: Monday to Thursday, 10 am to 11:45 am

For more information please visit the Art Academy webpage artaw.org or call (914)-844-9063.

Additional Local Art Schools & Organizations To Consider

• Arts Westchester
• Bethany Arts Center
• Blue Door Arts Center
• Cedar Lane Arts Center
• Clay Art Center
• D.I.Y. Slime ​
• Katonah Art Center​
• Ossining Arts Council
• Pelham Art Center
• Purchase College
• RiverArts
• Rye Arts Center
• Scribble Art Workshop​​
• Westchester Art Studio
• Young at Art
• Full program camps- see article: The Best Day Camps in Westchester County & Nearby 2021

Featured Camps

Camp Hudson
185 Old Broadway, Hastings-on-Hudson, NY

Camp Hudson is a hands-on STEAM camp based on the 26 acre campus of Hudson Lab School in Hastings-on-Hudson.  Camp runs in theme-based 2-week sessions from 9:15am to 3:15pm daily.
 
Campers in K-5 rotate through different activities each day led by Specialist Educators: artists by training and profession, with backgrounds in fine arts, animation, performance art, industrial design, coding and more. They share a passion for working with children and support kids to “go deep”. Using real tools and lots of grit, campers capture the excitement and fun of invention by working through large scale collaborative projects, and smaller individual ones. Daily choice leaves plenty of time to explore the woods, play soccer or try some gardening.
 
Parent of a middle-schooler? Check out the 2-week design intensives, featuring small groups, award winning STEM educators, and exploration galore in areas ranging from woodworking and engineering, to circuitry and robotics, and so much more.  Information on our summer programs can be found at hudsonlabschool.com/summer.

Challenge Camp
 The Leffell School, 555 West Hartsdale Avenue, Hartsdale, NY

Challenge Camp is an ACA-accredited day camp in Hartsdale, NY offering summer enrichment learning opportunities for bright, curious children ages 4-15. Our cohort model of STEM & Arts project based electives includes active options enabling campers to challenge their minds and bodies. Courses range from 3D Printing, Chess, Coding, Cooking, Drones, Escape Room, Fashion, Lego, Magic, Makerspace, Minecraft, Music, Photography, Roblox, Robotics, Rocketry, Theater, Video Production, VR, YouTube and more!

Their Discover, Imagine & Create program is for students entering Kindergarten in the Fall. The Challenge Camp advantage is a customized program of selections based on the child’s interests, students follow their course selections for an entire session. Join them for a Summer of Fun & Learning!

Code Ninjas Mount Kisco
41 S. Moger Ave, Mount Kisco, NY

Do your kids love playing video games?  At Code Ninjas, we teach kids to code by building their own.  We help teach kids become creators of content and not just consumers.  

This summer, we are offering camps for ages 7-14 as well as a 1 week JRs camp for ages 5-7.  Kids can learn to create worlds in Minecraft and Roblox, or learn to code games in Scratch and Python.  We also have 3D Printing camps where they learn the basics of designing printable 3D models or they can learn to build their own websites using HTML, CSS, and Javascript.

An estimated 1 million coding jobs go unfilled every year.  Coding is an essential skill that helps develop creative problem-solving skills, resilience, and teamwork and it isn't being taught in 50% of the schools in the US.   

At Code Ninjas, Kids have fun!  Parents see results.

NORY
142 N Central Ave, Hartsdale, NY

​Give your child the MOST-FUN-SUMMER-EVER through NYC's #1 STEM camp for 5-12 years old!

Your child will engage as makers and creators to build once-in-a-lifetime weekly projects! Woodworking, Roblox Coding, Mechanical Engineering... learning is endless to develop their own inventions to make a positive impact. Check out both Virtual and In-Person Camps.

Summer camp highlights: Soccer add-on, All-star NORY Educators, Emphasis on Soft Skills (resilience & empathy). Flexible schedule, for more info contact [email protected] or (914) 557-8694.

Additional STEAM & Digital Arts Schools To Consider

• ArchForKids​
• Computer Adventures
• Curious On Hudson
• Destination Science
• Digital Arts Experience
• Future Stars
• Girls Who Code
• i2Camp
• iD Tech
• Mad Science
• New Era Creative Space
• Play-Well TEKnologies
• Purchase College
• Robocracy 4H
• Snapology
• STEAM Works Studio
• Think Space Studio
• Full program camps- see article: The Best Day Camps in Westchester County & Nearby 2021

Featured Camps

Arc Stages 
147 Wheeler Avenue, Pleasantville, NY

Arc Stages is running their 16th summer of SummerStage theatre camp this year in Pleasantville! SummerStage comprises four groups: Little Theatre (K-1st graders), Young Actors Camp (2nd-4th graders), the Tween Workshop (5th-8th graders) and the Teen Intensive (9th-12th graders). Arc SummerStage meets Mondays through Fridays from 9am - 3pm, with two different three-week sessions in July and August. 

Camp days are structured with classes in Acting Technique, Choreography, Improv & Theater Games, Stage Combat, Music and Vocal Technique, and more! The skills learned in these classes are incorporated into the musical theatre shows that are performed at the culmination of each respective section. Actors spend part of each SummerStage day in these fun classes, and part of the day in rehearsal for their performances! They choose and create their shows specifically with their actors in mind, and each actor is showcased on stage. Every group also receives Master Classes throughout SummerStage - including Shakespeare, On Camera, Mask and more - and exciting Special Event Days throughout. Every day is unique at Arc SummerStage, an experience not to be missed! More info at arcstages.org.

Broadway Training Center
10 Washington Avenue, Hastings-on-Hudson, NY

Broadway Training Center (BTC) hosts their 29th year of summer programming in their beautiful outdoor classroom! They have open-air instruction scheduled throughout the summer. If circumstances dictate, a transition indoors to their historic high-ceilinged Studio complete with air purifiers and a Covid spaced grid (or Zoom), as needed. Summer at BTC hosts SEVEN incredible workshops to choose from for performing arts enthusiasts grades K-12. Join them for their one-week workshops: Rise And Shine, Stage to Screen, The Comedy Of Errors, One Act Festival, and Dance Collective; or their two-week musical theater programs: Young Actors Workshop and Teen Intensive! Visit their website for more about BTC COVID protocols including a limited course size of 11 participants per program.  

BTC is a not-for-profit 501c3 Organization; Tuition assistance is available based on demonstrated financial need. Register before April 20 for 10% off AND receive a FREE piece of BTC Swag when you mention Westchester NY Moms!  

​Mike Risko Music
144 Croton Avenue, Ossining, NY

For 21 years Mike Risko Music in Ossining has been offering opportunities for kids to rock in a band from concept to concert during Summer Rock Band Camp. Kids are placed in bands and learn how to write and play songs, they name their band, create a music video and perform in a rockumentary at the end of the week. Music themed art projects and other music activities round out this really fun program in which you can register for one week or more, half day or full day.

If musical theater is more your style, Mike Risko Music’s musical theater camp program is not to be missed! Kids can choose from one week programs in which they create a show complete with singing, dancing and acting. For kids who want to be in a musical theater production, they can join us and be part of a Broadway style show. This program rehearses in the evenings and a show is performed at the end of the summer. For info on either program, email them at [email protected] or call 914-762-8757. Visit their website anytime at Mikeriskomusicschool.com.

The Play Group Theatre
One North Broadway, White Plains, NY
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The Play Group Theatre is thrilled to hold its inspirational and exciting Camp PGT in person and on-site for Summer 2021! At Camp PGT, you can jump into the performing arts in a safe and fun environment at our beautiful home in downtown White Plains. With BOTH indoor and outdoor rehearsals and classes, Camp PGT is the perfect place to spend your summer! 

Camp PGT offers programs for students ages 4-17 with classes in Musical Theatre, On Camera, Shakespeare, Design/Tech, Playwriting/Playmaking, Sketch Comedy, Improv, and more. With offerings in 1, 2, 3, and 4 week programs, you can mix and match your perfect summer with PGT! Visit playgroup.org/summer to find out more about all of their Summer 2021 offerings and to register for Camp PGT today!

White Plains Performing Arts Center’s Summer Theatre Academy
11 City Place, 3rd Floor, White Plains, NY
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Professional Theatre Training in a Professional Theatre. Now in its 17th year, WPPAC's annual Summer Theatre Academy is the region’s top professional theatre training program for young actors.

This summer, they are delighted to offer a wide array of programs for students ages 7-17 and all levels of experience. Their camps, which range from one to three weeks, give students the chance to shine in new Broadway hits and beloved musical theatre classics. Students spend their days training with their team of theatre professionals, working towards a performance in their state of the art theatre. All camps end with a full production including lights, sound, costumes – the works!

Their location in downtown White Plains, along with their Before and After Care program, make STA the perfect fit for working parents. Summer 2021 shows include Legally Blonde, Disney's The Little Mermaid, Peter Pan and Annie! For more information visit wppac.com.

Yorktown Stage
268 Veteran’s Road, Yorktown Heights, NY 

Yorktown Stage offers Summer Theatre Camp Workshops in one-week sessions from 9:00 am - 3:30 pm weekdays (extended hours available from 8:00 am - 6:00 pm) during the summer.  No previous experience necessary. Children will develop a productive and positive attitude, advance self-esteem, expand communication skills, establish confidence, experience the thrill of performing, discover exciting new interests, make new friends, and enjoy traditional camp activities.  Every camp week concludes with a performance Where Every Child Has a Chance to Shine!  To find out more about camp, visit their website at yorktownstage.org and select ‘CAMP’ then ‘SUMMER CAMP WORKSHOPS’.

Yorktown Stage Kids produces three productions annually featuring future theatre stars aged 6-18.  YSK productions are guided by the professional Yorktown Stage staff, including director, choreographer, music director, lighting designer and sound designer.  Exciting production values are added with sets and costumes.  The experience for our young actors is nothing short of fantastic!  To get involved just SIGN UP.  No previous experience necessary.  All registrants are guaranteed a role in the show.  Prior experience and training are not required. During the rehearsal process, hidden talents are magically revealed. Visit their website at yorktownstage.org and select 'YORKTOWN STAGE KIDS' the 'PRODUCTIONS'.

Additional Performing Arts, Drama and Musical Theater Schools To Consider

• ​Class Act Studios
• Future Stars
• Purchase College
• Random Farms' Kids Theatre
• SOOP Theatre
• Standing Ovation Studios at Lighthouse Youth Theatre
• TADA! Youth Theater
• Theatre O
• Westchester Sandbox Theater
• Westchester School of Speech & Drama
• Full program camps- see article: The Best Day Camps in Westchester County & Nearby 2021

To learn more about all of the amazing camps being offered in Westchester County this summer head to our Camp Page!

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March has arrived, and with it the one year anniversary of COVID 19 fundamentally changing how young people learn, grow and play. After a year of Zoom meetings and social distancing, what could be better than a summer of live theatre, where kids can connect, collaborate and create together? Luckily, White Plains Performing Arts Center is offering a robust program of in-person theatre arts camps for students of all ages. There will be no screens at WPPAC this summer—just kids working together to make theatre magic in WPPAC’s state of the art facility, in a COVID safe environment. 

Now in its 17th year, White Plains Performing Arts Center (WPPAC) is proud to present its annual Summer Theatre Academy (STA). The region’s top professional theatre training program for young actors, STA is the perfect solution for kids who have been cooped up for the last 12 months.
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This summer, WPPAC is offering a wide array of programs for students of all ages and levels of experience. The camps, which range from one to three weeks, give students the chance to shine in new Broadway hits and beloved musical theatre classics. The camps for this summer are:

• Legally Blonde Jr. (Grades 6 - 12), June 28 - July 17
• The Little Mermaid Jr. (Grades 2 - 10), July 19 - August 7
• Peter Pan Jr. (Grades 1 - 8), August 9 - 21
• Annie Kids (Grades 1 - 8), August 23 - 27

Students will spend their days training with a team of theatre professionals who have worked everywhere from on and off Broadway to regional theatres and educational institutions across the country. All while working towards a performance on the WPPAC stage that ends with a full production including lights, sound, costumes—the works! The WPPAC Education motto is Professional Theatre Training in a Professional Theatre, and the staff strives to give the campers the experience of a real, professional production. Parents of WPPAC Education campers are always blown away by the production values of the shows!

WPPAC’s location in downtown White Plains, along with our Before and After Care program, make STA the perfect fit for working parents.

The WPPAC Education Department is deeply committed to providing excellent theatre training in a safe and healthy environment. You can a detailed list of our safety protocols and venue upgrades on our website. However, WPPAC will continue to practice strong health and safety protocols, including:

• Temperature checks and health screenings at drop off
• Masks/face shields at all times,
• Regular cleaning and disinfecting,
• Limited enrollment, and
• Social distancing.
  
  

Visit https://wppac.com/education/summer-theatre-academy/ for more information.

To learn more about camps being offered this summer head to our Camp Page!

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Soccer is a great sport for kids. There are so many benefits— fun, exercise, teamwork, stress relief, social development, physical development and more! Staying active, getting fresh air and socializing has never been more important. The pandemic has forced children on screens and isolated many.  Soccer is a great way to get connected safely and have fun doing it.

This spring and summer there are a number of soccer programs and camps your child can take part in right here in Westchester County. Health and safety measures are in place so get out and enjoy.

A-Game Sports
856 Main St, New Rochelle, NY

A-Game Sports offers soccer programs for children and adults. They range from 1-on-1 lessons, group lessons, team training and more. Ages 2 and up! They offer a robust range of sports summer camps as well.

Cardinal Soccer Camps
Cos Cob Park - 22 Sound Shore Drive, Greenwich, CT

CSC provides camps and coaching services to players in Lower Fairfield and Westchester Counties to boys and girls aged 3-17. coaches live locally and are full-time licensed youth soccer coaches, physical education teachers, high school coaches, college coaches and coaching directors. They are actively involved at the grass roots level in developing soccer programs and curriculum that focus on whole-player development. Half day and full day camps are available and registration is open.


Footbik Soccer School
Jefferson Valley Mall, 650 Lee Blvd, Yorktown Heights, NY

Children ages 18 months- 10 years old can take part in year round programs to learn technical soccer mastery and much more. Lessons promote personal skills growth and teach children an ambitiousness to succeed, a sense of responsibility, and independence. The first class is always free. No summer camps are offered.


Future Stars Summer Camp
SUNY Purchase College, 735 Anderson Hill Road, Purchase NY ​

Future Stars Soccer Camp program is for kids ages 6-16 and creates an atmosphere that encourages and develops players to reach their full potential. Throughout each week campers of all levels are arranged in an appropriately challenging group and will cover all facets of the game including technical, tactical, physical, and psychological concepts.  Camp runs June 14 - Aug 20 (10 Weekly Sessions) from 9am - 4pm and extended hours are available.


Golden Touch Soccer Club
Greek Church, 10 Mill Rd, New Rochelle, NY  

Golden Touch Soccer Academy is a premier youth soccer organization. The offer training programs for children as young as 4. Summer Camps offer week-long programs for boys and girls ages 6-15 of all abilities looking to develop their fundamental or advance technical  tactical skills. 2021 details are not posted yet.
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Go Team Soccer
Location of your choice (public and private soccer in and around Ossining, ages 2-10, for classes, pods, parties)
 
Go Team offers soccer fundamentals in a fun, safe and supportive environment. Your child will be motivated with creative, high energy and level appropriate activities, serving as a great introduction to soccer, and helping your child master developmental milestones. Their specially designed soccer curriculum is age-appropriate, and incorporates individual, partner and team activities. They keep their classes small (4-12 kids per class), so that every child receives the attention they need to thrive. In addition to soccer skills, kids will learn discipline, sportsmanship and teamwork, in a personalized setting where all children are valued.  
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House of Sports
1 Elm Street, Ardsley, NY

The House of Sports offers a Multi-Sport class for children ages 3 to 5 where they will learn the basic fundamentals of soccer, baseball, basketball and football. Each class focuses on one sport at a time to let children learn a variety of sports. They also offer Soccer (House Kickers) for children ages 3 through 2nd grade. The class focuses on developing soccer skills lime fundamental ball skills and social interaction. League classes are designed to focus on drills and game-play.  In addition they will offer a variety of weekly summer sports camps for children of all ages and abilities. They are taught by our full-time athletic training staff and are designed to have your child dramatically improve their on-court/on-field skills while having a positive, fun experience. Camps take place on a weekly basis at the House of Sports starting in June and continuing through August. 


i9 Sports
White Plains, NY

i9 Sports offers a 5-7 week soccer program for kids as young as 4. Teams are organized in divisions based on the age of the child. Depending on age group and format, teams consist of 9 - 10 players on rosters. Practices are conveniently held on game day - just prior to the game. Games are played outdoors. Registration deadline is 3/27/2021.

Joe Palumbo Soccer Academy
7 Bryant Pond Road Putnam Valley, NY

JPSA is a place that fosters and promotes youth soccer development for children of all ages and levels. It is a soccer SCHOOL whose main focus is on the individual and collective development of each student. Spring Academy program, Spring Break Camp, In-house Tournaments and Summer Camp programs are all available at this time. There are full-day and half-day options for camps!

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​Kids in Sports
365 Central Park Ave, Scarsdale, NY

​Kids In Sports offers a variety of programming and camps for young children ages 1-12. Multi-Sport Athlete classes are specifically designed for all age levels. These classes teach the fundamentals of baseball, basketball, floor hockey, football, soccer, and volleyball. This spring there is a Soccer Clinic for kids ages 5-7. One-week Mini and Summer Multi-Sport Camps offer children the chance to continue honing their skills. Camps can be indoors or outdoors, depending on the time of year and age of the children. Camps focus on soccer, baseball, football, basketball, floor hockey, and volleyball.
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Never Stop Moving 365
Location of your choice

Never Stop Moving 365 is a team of PE teachers, athletic trainers, personal trainers and fitness enthusiasts who provide completely customized sports and exercise tutoring and small group training. Your child does not have to be a competitive athlete to enjoy their Juniors sessions. In fact most of their clients do not play travel soccer or even town rec soccer. They design sessions for success and joy so kids build confidence and character through sports and fitness as well as a positive association with feeling good when they move. Their services are super convenient — they bring the equipment and travel to your home.
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​Soccer Shots
Multiple Locations 

Children ages 2-8 will love Soccer Shots' engaging children’s soccer program that focuses on character development. Kids will learn fundamental soccer skills, fitness and sportsmanship. Spring and summer programs are available.

Super Soccer Stars
7 Locations Across Westchester / Fairfield
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Backed by 20 years’ experience, Super Soccer Stars is Westchester’s most popular youth soccer program for kids ages 2-12+. Certified coaches work safely in small groups using an age-specific curriculum, providing each player with individual attention. Choose from FUNdamentals, Advanced Training, or Multi-sport.Currently they are offering spring and summer in-person classes and camps, as well as one-on-one and private group sessions. Virtual classes also available.  


The Play Place
11 Clearbrook Rd, Elmsford, NY

The Play Place’s and Westchester Soccer Pro's have teamed up to create a fun and exciting class format that is developed to give our budding soccer stars a familiar framework in which they can excel from class to class. Each class focuses on skill-building activities and games. Individual, partner, and group activities are introduced in a non-competitive environment to optimize the experience for each child. Indoor and outdoor sessions are available. They are offering a multi-sport summer camp as well for kids ages 4 and up.

Train Like A Pro
300 Executive Blvd., Elmsford, NY

Train Like a Pro runs soccer programs all year around, including private lessons, small group training, team training, camps and holiday clinics. They have worked in the Westchester community for over 10 years. They focus on building a complete athlete, which is more than just the physical aspect of training. Programs start as young as 3 years old and work with athletes well into high school, college, and beyond. Spring clinics begin the first week of April and they will be running 6 weeks of camp this summer from 9am-12pm Monday through Friday. Camp is for boys and girls 6-12 years old at Kingsland Point Park in Sleepy Hollow NY. 

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US Sports Institute
Multiple Locations 

The US Sports Institute's Squirts programs are designed to introduce children aged 2-8 to a variety of sports in a safe and structured environment. All games and activities will encompass hand-eye coordination, balance, agility and movement – all key factors to the early development of children in sport. US Sports also offers a variety of Summer sports camps for children ages 5-11, from their flagship multi sports camps to their sport specific soccer or tennis camps. For more information on our Westchester County programs please visit their website. 

In addition to the above soccer programs and camps, there are a variety of local town and village recreation programs as well as travel teams that you can enroll in. 

• County, Town or Village Programs- Check with your local town or village recreation department to see if there are any soccer clinics, camps or teams that you can join. 
  
  
• Schools- Many local public and private schools have soccer clubs, clinics and teams that you can enroll in.
  
  
• Summer Camps- There are a number of summer day camps that offer soccer as one of their activities. Check out this list of county favorites.
  
  
• Leagues and Elite Programs- There are several local elite leagues and programs you can also explore, here are a few:
  • Armonk Indoor Soccer Leagues
  • FC Westchester
  • Hudson Valley Showcase Camp​
  • Westchester Flames​
  • Westchester United Football Club​
  • WYSL

Did we miss any? Share your favorite places to play soccer in the comments below.

To learn more about camps being offered this summer head to our Camp Page!

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Does your child love plants, animals, ponds, wilderness and the environment? Then a nature camp may be right for them! There are a variety of nature-specific summer camp options right here in Westchester County— the perfect environment for hiking, climbing, hands-on exploring and adventure!

Nature camps have implemented health and safety measures like temperature checks, distancing, capacity limits and mask wearing to ensure your child has a healthy and fun summer. And since the odds of outdoor transmission of COVID-19 is so much less than indoors, these programs are a safer choice. Check each program for additional details.

Here's our list of Westchester County nature summer camps where kids can get in touch with the natural world, discover the magic of the earth and experience all of its amazing creatures and bounties! These camps offer flexibility with short sessions, and in some cases partial days, so find the one that is right for you. Enjoy the great outdoors!

Westchester County Parks Conservation Division Camps
Multiple Locations

Westchester County Parks is offering a variety of outdoor summer camps and registration is now open! Full details are available on their website.

Boys and girls entering grades Pre-K through nine can explore and discover the natural environment of Westchester County with fun, hands-on experiences at our nature centers. Each camp will focus on different aspects of nature and teach youngsters about animals, insects, plants and more with a new theme each week. 

Camps will operate outdoors, safely under New York State COVID-19 guidelines. A maximum of 10 campers permitted in each group; six per Pre-K group. Face masks are mandatory and social distancing protocols will be followed at all times.

One and two-week sessions are offered beginning Monday, July 5 through Friday, Aug. 26, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. with Pre-K operating as a half-day from 9 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. at the following locations.

• Cranberry Lake Preserve, North White Plains
• Edith G. Read Wildlife Sanctuary, Rye
• Lenoir Nature Preserve, Yonkers
• Marshlands Conservancy, Rye
• Muscoot Nature Camp and Young Farmers Camp
• Trailside Nature Museum at Ward Pound Ridge Reservation, Cross River

Greenburgh Nature Center
99 Dromore Rd., Scarsdale, NY

The Greenburgh Nature Center is offering two camps this summer July 6th-August 27th. First, the Naturalist School is for children entering K-1st. Kids can become a mini Naturalist at their Naturalist School! Children will be able to enrich their traditional school year curriculum with exciting and educational programming in a fun and safe environment. Their own expert Naturalist Educators will lead and inspire kids through STEAM-influenced nature activities to expand their point of view.

Their second camp is Summer Nature PODs for children entering 1st-4th. Budding nature lovers can enjoy small group experiences that have all the fun of their typical camp experience along with educational aspects of STEAM learning. PODs are designed to meet the guidelines required during this pandemic and allow your children to safely explore, discover, and connect with our natural world. Each week, kids will participate in engaging, STEAM influenced activities supervised by their Naturalists.

The Nature Place Day Camp
​285 Hungry Hollow Rd, Chestnut Ridge, NY

If you are looking for a nature-oriented, non-competitive summer day camp for children ages 5-15  this may bet your place! Located on 200 beautiful acres in Rockland County, they offer offer a 5-week-long camp experience from July 5 – August 6, 2021 and a single week option from August 9th to the 13th. Outdoor play, adventure, and hands-on experience in nature is the heart of their camp. Activities include swimming, hiking, canoeing,  Earth art, farming, cooking and more! Busing from Westchester is available. Registration is open!

Teatown Lake Reservation
1600 Spring Valley Rd., Ossining, NY

Teatown Lake Reservation offers their Natural Science Summer Day Camp every summer for kids ages 4-14. This camp brings kids outside to learn about and explore the natural world on their 1,000-acre preserve. In four two-week sessions, age-specific activities encourage the spirit of discovery! The camp's mission is to provide a safe, non-competitive summer haven where kids can be kids. Children spend their days learning by exploring, discovering new things about themselves, each other and the earth, and developing friendships and respect for all living things. Please visit  their website or call 914-762-2912 to learn more.

Westmoreland Sanctuary
260 Chestnut Ridge Rd., Mount Kisco, NY

At Westmoreland, they strongly believe in student-led, experiential learning. Their outdoor, hands-on nature camps will foster a lasting curiosity and passion for nature in your child. Campers learn about wildlife, environmental science, and develop a lifelong love for the outdoors. All of their camps are run by our professional Naturalists and are kept to a 1:10 staff to camper ratio or less. Registration is now open!

Kids ages 7-14 can explore the many wonders that nature has to offer at Nature Explorers Camp. Naturalists will encourage campers to follow their interests in wildlife, the outdoors, and the environment. This camp is perfect for curious free-thinkers and nature lovers. Kids ages 10-16 can sign up for Survive the Wild Camp—  for those who love the outdoors, emergency preparedness and wilderness survival skills are essential. Naturalists will teach campers how to navigate and understand our natural environment.

The following nature centers typically offer camps but have not announced any details yet... stay tuned!

Rye Nature Center
873 Boston Post Rd., Rye, NY

Sheldrake Environmental Center
685 Weaver St., Larchmont, NY

If you are looking for more summer camp options, check out our list of The Best Day Camps in Westchester County & Nearby. It features over 30 local camps that moms in the county recommend. Or head to our Camp Page!

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Did you know The United States Tennis Association is headquartered in White Plains? Yeah, tennis is kind of a big deal here. Many children and adults enjoy the game and why not. Tennis has so many benefits. 

Tennis is an excellent source of exercise to help children stay fit and maintain an active lifestyle. It provides plenty of activity and can improve muscle tone, strength and flexibility. Playing tennis strengthens children's bones and has been proven to help prevent osteoporosis later on in life. Plus developmentally it helps kids develop hand eye coordination, agility, balance, strength and both fine and gross motor coordination.

Tennis provides a great social opportunity for young athletes. Group lessons, clinics, camps and matches all are great ways for kids to connect with other kids. Playing and learning tennis will give kids a first-hand experience to learn the value of good sportsmanship, teamwork, and camaraderie.

Another nice thing about tennis is that there is not a ton of equipment required to get started— just grab a racquet and a ball and you're ready to go. Tennis is easy to enjoy. 

Last but not least, tennis is not a high contact sport which has a few benefits of its own. First, there is a low risk of injury. Second, because tennis does not require any direct person-to-person contact it is easy to socially distance—  a critical must-have as we continue to find safe ways to stay healthy and have fun during the pandemic. In fact, tennis is considered a low-risk sport overall... especially when played outdoors. 
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There are a number of local tennis facilities where children can learn to play tennis, improve their game and master their skills through competition. There is no shortage of group classes, camps and tennis programs for children in Westchester County— check out our list below.

Armonk Tennis Club
546 Bedford Rd, Armonk, NY

The Junior Tennis Academy at the Armonk Tennis Club offers programs for all ages and skill levels. For dedicated, high-level players there is an intensive program that allows them to set and attain individual goals. The AITA summer program consists of Advanced and Junior Camps so that elite and casual players alike can reach their tennis goals. They also offer Camp Armonk, a premier sports and enrichment experience for children entering kindergarten through 5th grade. 


Chestnut Ridge Racquet Club
30 Snyders Hill Rd, Mount Kisco, NY

The CRRC offers a variety of programs including Junior Groups, Tournament Training, Summer Camp, Match Play and Private Lessons. Their pros are certified and have a world class background in playing and teaching tennis. CRRC's Junior Summer Tennis Camp  provides intensive training for the serious junior player who is regularly competing in tournaments and matches.


Club Fit Briarcliff
584 North State Road, Briarcliff Manor, NY
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Club Fit has a number  of Junior Development Tennis Programs serving kids ages 3-18. They also offer a Junior Ladder program, Kids Play Days and a Tournament Training Elite Program. In addition there is a Summer Tennis Camp for all levels aimed to provide a comprehensive, solid foundation of tennis knowledge. Emphasis is placed on stroke-production, tactics and strategies during match-play. 


Club Fit Jefferson Valley
600 Bank Road, Jefferson Valley, NY

Club Fit offers programs for all ages and skill levels with their goal being for each student to have fun and enjoy being on the court while learning and developing their game. In addition they have Junior Ladder Match Play, QuickStart 10&Under, Varsity & Junior Varsity, Junior Competitive Programs – 10 & Under, 12 & Under and 14 & Under and Private & Semi-Private Lessons. Their Summer Camp lets you choose from choose daily, weekly or a full 9-weeks. The tennis camp is run and taught by certified and experienced tennis staff. Emphasis is placed on stroke-production, technique, tactics and strategies during match-play. All levels are welcome from the beginner to the advanced.


College Racquet Club at Concordia
171 White Plains Rd, Bronxville, NY

Clinics for juniors (kids through high school) are available throughout the year. Their 10 and under program follows USTA designed red, orange and green ball play. They also offer a Competitive Ladder Pathway for older and competitive juniors ranging from beginner to advanced. Private lessons are available as well. While they do not have a summer camp they do offer individual and family memberships for the summer months. 


Grand Slam: An Ivan Lendl Tennis Center
​One Bedford-Banksville Road, Bedford, NY

Grand Slam Tennis Club features a wide variety of junior tennis programs including their exclusive IGNiTE Junior 10 and Under Tennis Program for children. Their programs are great for beginners through experienced players of all ages. Their Tennis Whizz program is for children ages 3-5 learning basic tennis for toddlers including motor skills development and tons of fun. Junior development programs are taught using the "Hitting Hot" tennis system founded by tennis champion Ivan Lendl.


Greenburgh Indoor Tennis
600 Dobbs Ferry Rd, White Plains, NY

Their highly regarded Junior programs runs for a 31-week season from September to May. Registration is ongoing. Classes will be prorated if you join after the session has started. Programs are for children ages 5-18. Children will be evaluated and placed in a class based on age and skill level.

Life Time Fitness
480 N Bedford Rd, Chappaqua, NY
1 Westchester Park Dr, West Harrison, NY 

Life Time’s SMART tennis matches your child’s development with appropriately sized balls, racquets and court sizes. Using world-class teaching techniques, SMART allows the sport of tennis to grow with your child. Kids start playing with other kids right away, learning as they go. New SMART sessions begin every three months. Winter session starts in January, Spring in March/April, Summer in May/June and Fall starts in August/September.  Open to non-members.

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New Rochelle Tennis Club
114 Valley Rd, New Rochelle, NY

The New Rochelle Tennis Club is situated on two acres in Wykagyl Park in New Rochelle and includes eight well-maintained outdoor har-tru courts open May through November. Membership is not required to book a lesson. Their Summer Tennis Camp is an eight week program (select the weeks you like) for kids ages 12-18. In addition they offer LittleTennisLand, a program designed for the 10 and Under players to introduce them the tennis fundamentals, the grip, swing, and stance.


​Old Oaks Country Club
3100 Purchase St, Purchase, NY

Open to non-members, the Old Oaks tennis program includes dynamic and fun programs for younger children eager to learn how to play tennis, as well as programs geared for older youth players who are interested in further developing their game. Their instructors are specifically trained to work with children and teens to make learning the game of tennis fun and engaging. Facilities include 9 Har-Tru tennis courts with 4 courts under 2 'bubbles' for winter play.


​Pinebrook Fitness /  The New Rochelle Racquet Club
130 Rhodes St., New Rochelle, NY

The club's Junior Development Programs is a blocked program consisting of multiple courts with three levels: Red Ball, Orange Ball, or Green Ball. This program is designed to challenge kid's skills and work on problem solving; a segue to their Tournament Training Program (TTP). They also offer a variety of tennis camps throughout the year including Vacation Mini-Camps and Summer Camp, which runs June through August. There are age appropriate games and activities for all ages and skill levels divided into three separate camps.


Pleasantville Tennis Club
57 Willow Street, Pleasantville,  NY

Founded in 1916, PTC is a club for tennis enthusiasts of all ages and abilities. PTC is a small, not-for-profit, member-supported, private outdoor tennis club located in historic Pleasantville, NY. The Club welcomes new members – families, women, men, juniors and seniors of all ability levels. Technique, singles, and doubles strategy, scoring, match play, sportsmanship and fitness will be covered in their Spring Junior Program that lasts nine weeks. Summer program details have not been announced yet.

Premier Athletic Club
2127 Albany Post Rd, Montrose, NY

Children of all ages – from beginner’s level to advanced – can participate in the tennis camps at the club. Grouped by age and ability, children will learn basic tennis skills, tennis etiquette and tournament training. Programs are open to non-members. Their Summer Tennis Camp is open to the public and lasts seven-weeks.  Open to children ages 6 to 14, Monday thru  Friday, 9am – 3pm with early drop off and after camp services for additional fee.

Rye Racquet Club
3 South Rd, Harrison, NY

RRC offers a range of tennis programs. Children 12 and under can participate in Red, Orange and Green Ball programs. Children ages 11 and up can join the Junior Development programs. The JG Development program is a high-performance program which has opened up new opportunities for the most competitive junior tennis players in the Tri-State area. The Head Coach and Director of the program, Johnny Gularte, has a proven record of helping young players raise their game to achieve their goals. His successful training system has resulted in student-athletes obtaining scholarships to universities across the US.​ They also offer summer programming for ages 4-18 that is half day and runs as weekly sessions June 28 through August 27.


Saw Mill Club
77 Kensico Dr, Mount Kisco, NY

Saw Mill Club offers numerous children’s tennis programs for tots through teens. Programs include 10 and Under Tennis, Junior Training, EDGE Prep Tennis and EDGE Tennis. They will also offer Summer Camp for kids ages 4 and up. All children's programming is open to non-members.


SPORTIME Harbor Island
W Boston Post Rd, Mamaroneck, NY 

SPORTIME Harbor Island is located in beautiful Harbor Island Park in the Village of Mamaroneck and features 8 beautifully maintained indoor/outdoor red clay courts that are covered by a "bubble" during the indoor season, from late mid September through mid May. The clubhouse includes a lounge, pro shop and full locker room facilities. Programs are for children ages 3 and up. Membership is required to participate in SPORTIME/JMTA program series. They will be offering camp this summer in ten, full-week sessions. Campers will be required to enroll in a minimum of one, full-week session.  There will be half day AM and PM  options for camp as well as extended AM and PM options. They also offer birthday parties.


SPORTIME Lake Isle
660 White Plains Rd, Eastchester, NY

SPORTIME Lake Isle is lower Westchester's premier tennis destination and home to the John McEnroe Tennis Academy. Lake Isle features 8 indoor har-tru (green synthetic clay) tennis courts under 3 state-of-the-art air structures and a 5,000 square foot clubhouse on two levels with superior viewing. Programs are for children ages 3 and up. Membership is required to participate in SPORTIME/JMTA program series. They will be offering camp this summer in ten, full-week sessions. Campers will be required to enroll in a minimum of one, full-week session.  There will be half day AM and PM  options for camp as well as extended AM and PM options. They also offer birthday parties.

 
Tennis Innovators Academy
Delfino Park, 110 Lake St, White Plains, NY

The goal of the 10U & Junior Academy at TIA Westchester, is to modify the court, balls, racket, and net to the size and strength level of the players 10 and under. For players, ages 8-12, an evaluation is required to ensure proper placement in the Junior Academy program. There is also a Summer Camp that will run for 10 weeks with customized summer curriculums for all ages (4 and up) and levels of ability. Sessions are two hours during weekdays with matches on weekends.


Tennis Club of Hastings
100 River St, Hastings-on-Hudson, NY

The curriculum at Tennis Club of Hastings–a combination of well-crafted progressions and stimulating exercises–has been designed by USPTA, PTR, and former touring professionals. Their methodical approach ensures that every child learns the fundamentals and more in an encouraging, nurturing, and fun environment. Developmental programs begin at age 3 and go up to age 18.

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The Play Place
11 Clearbrook Rd, Elmsford, NY

The Play Place aims to introduce young children to the excitement and fun of tennis. They offer 10 and Under Tennis, which is an exciting new play format for learning tennis, designed to bring kids into the game by utilizing specialized equipment, shorter court dimensions and modified scoring, all tailored to age and size. It’s the fast, fun way to get kids into tennis– and keep them playing. This enables kids to practice and play real tennis and allows them to have fun and learn at the same time. Most importantly to fall in love with tennis! They offer a Kids Multi-Sport & Dance Summer Camp that runs weekly for kids ages 4 and up and includes tennis.


Yonkers Tennis  Center
493 Sprain Rd, Yonkers, NY

Enjoy weekly clinics at YTC using USTA's Net Generation curriculum. Juniors are grouped into 4:1 max ratio with a coach to learn the game of tennis in a clean, social, safe, and dynamic atmosphere. Their goal is to help kids learn tennis through a variety of fun skill-building activities with the use of red, orange, green low compression balls and yellow balls. They also offer private lessons and Junior Match Play.

In addition to the above dedicated tennis facilities and clubs there are a number of other local places to play and learn tennis. Many independent tennis instructors would be willing to meet you at public facilities for a lesson.

• County, Town or Village Parks- Check with your local town or village recreation department to see if there are tennis courts that are open for use and/or if there are any instructional programs available. 
  
  
• Schools- Many local public and private schools have outdoor tennis courts available for families.
  
  
• Camps- There are a number of day camps that offer tennis as one of their activities. Check out this list of county favorites.
  
  
• Swim, Tennis & Country Clubs- During the spring and summer many seasonal swim and country clubs have tennis courts available for use. Some offer camps and lessons as well. Membership is typically required to access these courts.

Did we miss any? Share your favorite tennis courts in the comments below.

To learn more about camps being offered this summer head to our Camp Page!

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Do the freezing temperatures have you dreaming of warm summer days? Are you worried about your child’s social and emotional health due to limited time with peers because of COVID restrictions? While summer is still months away, now is the perfect time to plan for summer camp.

While there are questions about exactly how the summer will look, most camps are planning to open this summer and will allow our kids the opportunity to play and bond with friends; an important aspect of child development that has been largely missing from their lives these past 9 months. Choosing the right camp for your child is a big decision.

Below are my top tips for choosing a sleep away camp. I recently went through the same process for my 8 year old and used this criteria.  There’s a lot to consider! 

1. Meet the Directors 
   The camp directors set the tone for camp and are involved in every aspect of how a camp is run. Make sure you feel comfortable with them and don’t be afraid to ask questions!  
   
   
2. Safety First
   The safety of a camp is a top priority!  Particularly in these challenging times, you need to feel confident that the camp you choose has a Health and Safety Plan with which you agree.  You want to know: 
   - Are their nurses and physicians on the premises? 
   - Where’s the nearest hospital?
   - Are kids wearing appropriate safety equipment for sports and waterfront activities?
   - How does the camp hire and train staff?
   
   
3. Know your Non-Negotiables 
   Before touring you need to narrow down your options:  
   - Do you want a co-ed, single sex or brother sister-camp?
   - Can a camp handle your child’s allergies?
   - Do you want a uniform?
   - What location would you like?
   - Do you prefer a religious affiliation?
   ​
4. Camp Culture 
   Each camp is a mini world of its own, complete with traditions, history and culture.  Find out:
   - How does the camp handle bullying?  
   - How is the homesick child handled?
   - Does the camp emphasize cooperation or competition?
   - Will they have enough food choices for your picky eater?

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More good news for parents! Westchester County announced yesterday that county summer camps will open July 6th and registration begins Monday, June 15th. County Executive George Latimer said: “Because of the State’s structuring of summer camps, we are able to open some of our County day camp programs. While the camps have certain parameters that may be a little different – we are opening them and that is the important part.”

This is another step forward in the reopening process following last week's pool opening announcement. Also worth noting is that Bicycle Sundays on the Bronx River Parkway has now been extended to include July and August dates (June 7, 14, 21, 28; 10 am – 2 pm; Additional Sundays Added are July 12, 19, 26; August 2 , 9, 16, 23, 30; and Sept. 13, 20, 27)!

​Day Camps will be open! Locations include Muscoot Farm, Cranberry Lake Preserve, Lenoir Preserve, Marshlands Conservancy (6 week, 5 day sessions, July 6 – Aug 14), Trailside Nature Museum (7 week, 5 day sessions Friday, July 6 – Aug 21), Hole-in-One Junior Golf Camp at six golf courses (6 week, 5 day sessions, July 6 – Aug 14).

For safety purposes there will be a reduction of campers and social distancing and masks required as per New York State Guidance. Registration begins online Monday, June 15th at 2pm https://parks.westchestergov.com/activities/childrens-camps. 


Additional details:

• The camps held at the nature centers will operate outdoors only because of limited indoor space; therefore, the camps will close on inclement weather days. Muscoot Farm camp will be held outdoors and, during inclement weather, inside the large activity building.
• Muscoot’s curriculum will be modified due to State and County Health Department guidelines. Muscoot camp registration is currently full and waitlisted. Tuition is $250 per camper, per week.
• At Cranberry Lake Preserve in North White Plains and Lenoir Preserve in Yonkers, camp groups will be smaller than in typical years, with eight campers per session in order to achieve proper social distancing. Camp runs in six, five-day sessions, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. starting Monday, July 6. Tuition is $350 per camper per week. Camp will be cancelled if heavy rain or thunderstorms are forecast. A make-up day will be scheduled at the end of camp for any missed days.
• At Marshlands Conservancy in Rye, which also begins Monday, July 6 and runs for six, five day sessions. Camp day will be split into two daily sessions: 9 a.m. to noon for children in grades 1 – 3 and 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. for children in grades 4 – 6. Tuition is $175 per camper per week. Camp will be cancelled on days with heavy or thunderstorms forecast. A weather make-up day will be available at the end of camp.
• Age range is grades 1 – 12 at the nature center camps and age 4 to grade 12 at Muscoot.
• A new family camp concept is being introduced at the Trailside Nature Museum at Ward Pound Ridge Reservation in Cross River. There will be seven, five-week sessions starting July 6. Prior to their session, families will pick up a “Family Camp Box” containing materials and supplies for their week of on-site activities, once at camp, each day will consist of one to two hours of self-guided activities combined with one naturalist-led activity. Heavy rain and thunderstorms will cancel camp.
• The Parks Department’s Hole-in-One Junior Golf Camp for ages 10 to 17 will take place at the six county-owned golf courses: Mohansic in Yorktown Heights, Hudson Hills in Ossining, Maple Moor in White Plains, Saxon Woods in Scarsdale and Dunwoodie and Sprain Lake, both in Yonkers. Sessions times and start dates vary with location; tuition is $75 per participant. Registration will be limited to 10 participants per session to assure social distancing.

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STEM, while a short, seemingly harmless word on the surface, can present a variety of challenges for any student or parent who is unfamiliar.

Science, technology, engineering, AND math? That’s a lot to cram into such a simple acronym.

If you’ve been wanting to get your kid or teen more involved in STEM, but have been discouraged by any number of roadblocks, we are here to help!

Believe it or not, sparking a passion for STEM and getting a child started along their journey can begin right now—with robotics.


Breaking into STEM through robotics
One of the most effective ways for any child to get going with STEM is through robotics. Thanks to its hands-on nature, the availability of robotics clubs at school, simple robot toys for home, and nearby robotics classes or summer camps, it has never been easier.

Robotics clubs at school
In case you didn’t know, a robotics club is a gathering of students, who after school, will get together to learn and work with - you guessed it - robots. Such clubs typically take place in a school classroom, and are moderated by a member of the teaching staff or school administration.

Clubs sometimes compete at local robotics competitions, where teams of students are tasked with designing and building a robot to take on opponents in a series of challenges.

The main benefit for those interested in STEM - but unsure of where to begin - is that a robotics club is a relatively easy, low-cost way to get your student involved.

Such clubs help to strengthen your student’s STEM skills, both hard and soft. Creativity and problem-solving are essential in building a 'bot that can overcome obstacles, and your child will have to think outside the box and come up with creative solutions when the robot doesn’t perform as expected.

Last but not least, hanging out with like-minded peers is always beneficial, providing a valuable way for kids to make friends and build their networks.

With robotics toys, at home
Many of today’s “toys” barely resemble the traditional definition of the word thanks to the inclusion of different educational components.

For instance, the SparkFun Inventor’s Kit (SIK) is a great way to get your child started with coding and hardware interaction using the Arduino programming language.

I know what you’re thinking...coding and programming? What does this have to do with robotics? And, I thought this was supposed to be an easy way to get involved?

Well, coding is the underpinning of robotics, providing the instructions a robot needs to read in order to execute actions.

And toys make coding and robotics easy. For example, the SIK includes everything your child needs to complete five in-depth projects consisting of 16 interconnected circuits. These projects teach everything from blinking an LED to reading sensors and more. The culminating project is your child’s very own autonomous robot!

This is just one example of many different available robotics “toys” that are useful in getting kids and teens interested in robotics. LEGO, Cozmo, and VEX are additional options to look into.


At summer camp, with a robotics course
One of the biggest benefits of summer camp is that it allows campers to build a unique interest in something they might not otherwise have a chance to explore.

While many schools don’t offer courses in robotics, summer camps do. They also provide an environment free of pressure, homework, and tests.

Think of a robotics summer camp as a combination of robotics club and school, to an extent, where students get to experience the camaraderie and teambuilding of a club, and the learning aspect of school.

In the end, however, an entirely new experience is created; one that doesn’t really resemble a club or school at all, where kids can explore to their heart’s content, without being bound by curriculum and large, impersonal classrooms.

Instead, they have the freedom to create the projects they want to create, and can receive personalized learning thanks to small class sizes.

Summer camp is a unique venue for growth, allowing kids to become independent and self-confident, while socializing and making new friends, and even learning new skills, like robotics.

Ready to get started?
Summer is just a few months away, and programs are filling up fast!

We encourage you to consider iD Tech, the world’s #1 summer STEM camp for ages 7-19, with over 20 years of experience and 400,000 alumni

Programs are held at 150 prestigious campuses in the USA, Europe, and Asia, including Manhattanville College, Pace University, Iona, Stanford, NYU, HKU, Imperial College London, and University of Cambridge.

Courses are led by top-tier instructors, so students build in-demand skills for futures in robotics, coding, game development, design, and more. Guaranteed small class sizes ensure personalized learning for all skill levels.

Exclusive to Westchester NY Moms readers, you’ll receive $75 off when you register with code WNYMOMS19 before 8/22/19.
​Courses sell-out quickly. Get started today at iDTech.com or call (888) 709-8324 for personalized course recommendations. Make unlimited updates to your registration up to 3 weeks before your session with no fees.

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​Get ready to LOVE YOUR SUMMER! We’re thrilled to partner with ESF, an award-winning summer camp, to give one lucky reader a free week of camp at Riverdale Country School, Bronx, NY

ESF Summer Camp is where every kid is free to explore their curiosity and power their potential. Through best-in-class curriculum, campers, ages 3-15, ignite their interests and prepare for bright futures in any field, whether it’s sports, science, technology, the arts or all of the above. The ESF community is encouraging and fun, and ESF’s adult staff knows that their most important role in your campers’ lives is to provide a safe place to build character, inspire gratitude and spark friendships.

Mindful of the trust parents put in the camps, ESF has made a huge commitment to safety, health and well-being. ESF has protocols in place from car line and security to handling special allergies or other needs. Families can rest assured that their children are in the best of care. The ESF experienced adult staff possesses a deep commitment to the development of their campers and a profound sensitivity to the unique needs of each and every one of them.  

It’s safe and easy to get to camp! Optional bus transportation is available for families located throughout Manhattan, Riverdale and Westchester County*. Due to state laws, campers must be four years or older to ride. Features of our transportation service include:

• ESF staff members on each bus at all times supervising campers
• Professional bus company with licensed drivers
• Air-conditioned mini school buses equipped with seat belts, two-way radios and cellular phones
• Convenient pick-up and drop-off service
• Community stops within a few blocks from your home address (below 42nd Street- limited bus stops)

​
Before and after care is also available on a regular or a drop-in basis. Campers can start the day as early as 8:00AM and can stay as late as 6:00PM. Club OT campers are divided into groups by age and enjoy sports, games, crafts, chess, book club, drama and much more. Afternoon snacks and refreshments are provided. Flexible scheduling with no pre-payment or pre-registration required. If your kiddo is into tennis, they can try a tennis clinic after camp, Monday through Thursday, until 5:45PM. 
 
Get to know our programs:

Mini Camp for Rising Pre-School. A fun-filled, first camp experience for our youngest campers. Enjoy musical adventures, science and nature, crafts, water play, sports, theme days and more. 

Day Camp for Rising Grades PreK-3rd. Way more than a typical day at camp! Day Camp includes daily Red Cross certified swim instruction and exciting hands-on activities, which include, art, sports, science, drama, special events, theme days, time-honored traditions and more! Campers are grouped by rising grade level.

SportsLab powered by Under Armour. SportsLab powered by Under Armour is Sports Camp reimagined! The NEW SportsLab, powered by Under Armour, offers multiple sports, skills, contests, game play, daily swimming and fun weekly events. Novice and experienced athletes are exposed to a dynamic combination of sports and character. Campers are grouped by rising grade level.

Senior Camp for Rising Grades 4th-10th. Experiences they’ll never outgrow! Reach new heights through innovative True Life Adventures designed to broaden the horizons for our oldest campers. Enjoy fun, award-winning activities: swimming, art, sports, team initiatives, service learning, leadership skills and much more! Campers are grouped by rising grade level.

Specialty Major Camps for Rising Grades K-8th.  Choose a major and begin a journey! Dive into your passions with one of our Specialty Major Camps for varied grades and interests in science, the arts, engineering and more. Campers form collaborative teams by rising grade level. 

Technology + Design + Code Camps for Rising Grades K-8th. Choose from a variety of technology camps for a hands-on experience that allows for imagination, exploration and fun! Campers form collaborative teams by rising grade level

Tennis Camp for Rising Grades 1st-10th. Tennis Camp provides individual and group instruction with match play and continuous improvement for all skill levels. Campers are grouped by skill and rising grade level.  ​

Finally! Spring is just weeks away and now is the time to start preparing for summer camp (hooray)! If you want to stock up on this summer's trendiest camp stuff, you are going to love our Summer Camp 2019 Hot List. Created by local camp expert CABINS AND QUADS in Armonk, this list will get your camper pumped!

Best of all, our readers can get a 10% discount on all 2019 online orders at cabinsandquads.com. Use promo code WMOMS at checkout (valid through 3/31/19).
​

Parents love hearing from their campers, so why not give them something stylish to encourage as much writing home as possible? This Decoupage Style Clipcase for Boys & Girls features the things campers love while providing storage & easy access to Stationery & Pens. Pair it with some of our Favorite Stationery picks for Camp 2019 and you’ll practically guarantee letters home!  Don't forget the stamps!
Camp Fold & Seal Stationery (Girls & Boys Designs 2) $10
Notes from Home- Athletic Pack $15
Clipcase-Custom Decoupage for Boys One Sheet Design $36
Clipcase-Custom Decoupage for Girls One Sheet Design $36
Stationery- Assorted Patterns for Boys $16
Stationery- Assorted Patterns for Girls $16

​A Cozy Blanket is a must have at Camp for those chilly days or nights! Who doesn't want to stay cozy in style? With loads of patterns and designs to choose from, there is something for every camper’s likes... Choose from Traditional Style Blankets, Hooded Blankets & Sleep Sacks.  Personalize your son or daughter's name or camp to make it theirs.
Blanket- Starburst Rainbow Camp Blanket $90
Blanket- Retro Memory Camp Blanket $90
Blanket- The Camp Squad Blanket (Available Personalized) $90
Blanket- Penelope Wildberry Blanket $88
Penelope Wildberry Hooded Blanket for BOYS $76
Penelope Wildberry Hooded Blanket for GIRLS $76
Penelope Wildberry Sleep Sack for BOYS $88
Penelope Wildberry Sleep Sack for Girls $88

Tie dye is the quintessential camp look! And this year it seems to be more popular than ever. From Apparel to Blankets to Water Bottles, your camper will be Summer 2019 Ready!  
Floor Mat for Girls - Penelope Wildberry (Available Personalized) $32     
Tie Dye Designs Water Bottle (Available Personalized) $30
Camp Nail Kit $12
Girls Tank-Tie Dye Drip Demi Halter with V Cut & Side Tie $45
Blanket-Personalized $84
Sweatshirt- Tie Dye Camp Lace Hoodie $74

​Basketball is always one of the more popular sports at camp so why not sport the look? Your Baller will be set with our New Bunk Hoops, Arm Sleeves and Basketball Themed Apparel.  Slam dunk, Mom!
Boys Camp Tee- Baller $40
Boys Camp Tee- Camp Basketball Hoop $36
Boys Shorts- Custom Jumpman Style Shorts $48
Arm Sleeve for Camp- Jumpman $20
Basketball Hoops for Camp- NBA Logo Personalized $32

​Fill your camper's space with style with the latest stuff for the bunk this year! These include Custom LED Alarm Clocks, Dry Erase Boards & Game Boards, Truth Dare or Zit Game Book, Personalized Headphones and New 2019 Personalized Cling It Sheets. And of course, the still ever so popular Reversible Sequin Pillow! 
Cling It- Soccer Personalized Sheet (9 x 12) $25
Reversible Sequin Pillow- CAMP DESIGNS $40
Dry Erase Boards- Custom Design or Logo $22
Truth Dare or Zits $18
LED Custom Alarm Clock $24
Custom Headphones for Boys- Multiple Patterns Available $48

​Show off your Camp Spirit all summer long with these fashionably fun new items for Summer 2019! Some favorites are Custom Sprayed and Splattered Tutus with coordinating Headbands, Camp Heart Shaped Sunnies, Reversible Pinnies, Arm Sleeves and a Spiritwear Storage Box to keep it all Organized!
Camp Heart Sunnies with Logo $20
Reversible Pinnie- Script Camp $50
Spirit Wear Storage Box for Girls $48
Tutu- Camp Drip $32
Arm Sleeve for Camp- Personalized $20
Tutu Scrunchies for Camp $10

Sporty never looked so good. New for boys this year is apparel inspired by brands like FILA, Champion, Adidas and Air Jordan. One of our other standout favorites is THE HOOD, which can be customized with your Camp, Favorite Team or School! 
Boys Camp Tee- Adidas Original $34
Boys Sweatshirt- The HOOD $59
Boys sweatshirt- FILA Inspired Camp Hoodie (Color) $70
Boys Shorts- Champion Style Sweat Shorts $38
Boys Camp Tee- Jumpman $40
Boys Camp Tee- Camp Jumpman $36

​From Good Vibe Bolts to Rainbow Lips, there’s no shortage of Kicks, Lips, Star and Bolt Themed Apparel for Girls this Summer! Here are some of our fashionable favorites for Camp 2019.
Girls Tank- Camp Lips & Stars $38
Joggers- Adidas Star Camp Jogger $65
Girls Tank- As Good as Gold $38
Girls Muscle Tank- Good Vibes Bolt $36
Girls Muscle Tank- Camp Rainbow Lips $36
Girls Muscle Tee-Star Power $39

Don't forget these new and exciting “must have” Accessories for Camp. These are just a few of our favorites for Camp 2019! Camp customized Slippers, Slides, Customized Camp Laces, The Star Stuffer Duffle (Perfect Bus Bag), New Ankle Bracelet and Camp Hair Scrunchies!
Bracelet-Ankle Bracelet Set for Camp $30
​Camp Star Stuffer Duffle $70
Camp Slide $35
Camp Memory Foam Slipper- Splatter Print $35
Camp Shoe Lace Set $16
Camp Hair Scrunchie $14

While not totally new for 2019, these items are the ones your first time camper won't want to be without. Blanket, Clipcase, sticker book or trading card book, boyfriend Pillow, lock box, storage box, jacks and playing cards, zipper letter folder, oval Cling and other cling it’s (removable reusable stickers), caboodle and mini drawers. Shop for chairs, floor mats and more items for your first time camper.

Based out of Armonk, CABINS AND QUADS is your local resource for everything custom for Camp & College! As a local mom of three campers, founder Lori Ceisler knows her stuff.

In addition to shopping on the website, CABINS AND QUADS also offers in-person & virtual appointments as well as  house parties.

CABINS AND QUADS also specializes in gifts for kids, tweens and teens as well as customized college gifts. Beyond the Westchester location, reps are  available in Philadelphia, Long Island and Chicago. 

cabinsandquads.com
Follow CABINS AND QUADS on Instagram and Facebook.

Do the freezing temperatures have you dreaming of warm summer days?  While summer is still months away, now is the perfect time to plan for summer camp.  Choosing the right camp for your child is a big decision. As a Camp Consultant, I encourage families to start the process early.  This allows you to the opportunity to tour camps and see camp-life in real time.  

​Below are my top tips for choosing a sleep away camp.  I recently went through the same process for my 8 year old and used this criteria.  There’s a lot to consider! 
 
Meet the Directors 
The camp directors set the tone for camp and are involved in every aspect of how the camp is run. Make sure you feel comfortable with them and don’t be afraid to ask questions.  
 
Know your Non-negotiables
Before touring you need to narrow down your options:  
Do you want a co-ed, single sex or brother sister-camp?
Can a camp handle your child’s allergies?
Do you want a uniform?
What location would you like?
Do you prefer a religious affiliation?
 
Safety First 
The safety of a camp is a top priority! You want to know: 
Are their nurses and physicians on the premises? 
Where’s the nearest hospital?
Are kids wearing appropriate safety equipment for sports and waterfront activities?
How does the camp hire and train staff?
 
Camp Culture
Each camp is a mini world of its own, complete with traditions, history and culture. Find out:
How does the camp handle bullying?  
How is the homesick child handled?
Does the camp emphasize cooperation or competition?
Will they have enough food choices for your picky eater?

For answers and guidance call me. I’m here to help you start a list and give you guidance every step of the way:

Lauren Lappen
Camp Consultant
CAMP SPECIALISTS
The smart way to choose the right camp
914-882-3486
[email protected]

If you haven’t secured your plans for summer camp yet, it’s time to get them buttoned up! This summer, families near Greenwich, CT and Bronx, NY have six award-winning ESF camps to choose from, with over 60 activities for every age and interest!
 
ESF Camps is pleased to offer Westchester NY Moms readers an opportunity to win a week of ESF Camp at one of their premier campuses.  Read on to learn more about ESF Camps and enter below for your chance to win!

ESF is hosting tours by appointment. RSVP today!

• Tuesday, May 15th at Riverdale Country School – RSVP here Can’t join us on May 15th? Call 718-432-1013 to schedule a personal tour.
• Tuesday, May 22nd at Greenwich Academy – RSVP here Can’t join us on May 22nd? Call 203-869-4444 to schedule a personal tour.

What do your kids want out of summer camp?
Michael Rouse, the co-founder and Executive Director of ESF Camps, and his staff know — because they’re always looking for something new and interesting for today’s kids and teens.  

“We’re really trying to create programs that are cutting-edge for children — the best on the planet,”Rouse said. “We do that with every single program we offer, in every single age group.”

Every year, there’s a new program, or a slightly different take on a tried-and-true idea. That’s how ESF has come to offer everything from day camp for 4-year-olds to business camps for teens (with technology, science, and the arts in between).

Mindful of the trust parents put in the camps, ESF has made a huge commitment to safety. The all-adult staff is trained every year on the latest skills and information. Have a child with a food allergy? They’re welcome at ESF: allergists often recommend the camps, which are welcoming and accommodating.

Even the car line is down to a science. “We’ve been doing this for 35 years, and we try to raise the bar every year,” Rouse said.
 
Not only are they efficient, they are diverse in their approach to providing different opportunities depending on their age group. Investing in children over time is part of their secret to raising leaders.
 
Note: Programs vary by ESF Camp location.

Mini Camp (Preschool) and Day Camp (Rising Pre-K– 3rd Grade)
These traditional camps are perfect for the youngest campers, starting at age 3 and running through third grade. It’s summer camp the way you remember it: swimming, arts & crafts, sports, science, camp performances, and action-packed, non-stop fun.

This camp is the foundation for your child’s future at ESF Camps. It’s here that kids begin to practice the 8 ESF Virtues, including the value of kindness, teamwork and community — and the joy that comes with it.

“At age 4, they begin to be the leader of their Tribe,” Rouse said. “In addition to having the time of their lives, they are discovering new passions and learning life skills that they will bring to the classroom in the next school year.”

Multi-Sport Camp (Rising 1st – 9th Grade)
It’s so common these days for kids to focus in on a sport at an early age, but research shows that can lead to overuse injuries and burnout. Children who play more than one sport stay healthier, physically and mentally.

ESF’s Multi-Sport camps give kids the chance to learn and play 10 sports weekly, and two to three each day. That means they can try a new sport — and, maybe, discover they love it. From baseball and basketball to lacrosse and soccer, multi-sport camp provides rising first through ninth graders with top-notch instruction and skill development. Campers are grouped by rising grade levels into divisions called Conferences. They discover their inner athlete through game play, instructional clinics, tournaments, and more.

The coaches use sports to keep building character, including fostering trustworthiness, effort, accountability, leadership, and teamwork.
​

Senior Camp (Rising 4st – 10th Grade)
This camp, for rising fourth through 10th graders, is all about what ESF calls “True Life Adventures.” Senior Camp broadens the horizons of the older camper. It’s what kids this age are looking for — and need as they become more and more independent. From comic book design to digital photography and building a carnival from the ground up, these campers continue to learn teamwork, positivity and grit, and to embrace the community around them.

Campers work through team challenges, but keep things light with dance parties and daily swimming. Senior camp has leadership and service opportunities, but still lets kids play gaga, try an American Ninja Warrior course, and cheer their friends through camp competitions.
​

Specialty Major Camps (Rising K-9th Grade)
These specialty camps let kids pick a “major” and then drill down into a subject, and the range is enormous.

Science camps include exclusive partnerships with the Franklin Institute. Technology camps feature NEW and enhanced curriculum and program offerings uniquely designed through a new partnership with BSD (Build Something Different). Programs give campers a chance to dig into 3D game design, coding, and robotics, engineering and more!
​

ESF’s Junior Business Academy, which has an exclusive partnership with the Jack Welch Management Institute, gives campers the opportunity to create their own business in just one week! For rising fifth through eighth graders, business camp helps build the entrepreneurial spirit, and further cements the values of respect, resilience, and trustworthiness by providing campers with a tool belt to be successful.

Tennis Camp (Rising 1st– 10th Grade)
This is how ESF got its start, way back in 1982, and it’s still a cornerstone today. Budding players — whether they’re beginners or experts — get high-quality instruction, practice, and match play. Kids can swim daily if they want, and play “Grand Slam” tournaments weekly!

Ready to register, or want to know more? Get to know ESF Camps’ staff and programs in person at their open house.

ESF is hosting open houses with tour sessions:

• Saturday April 21st  at Greenwich Academy - Sessions 1:00pm, 2:15pm and 3:30pm
• Sunday April 22nd at Riverdale Country School - Sessions 1:00pm, 2:15pm and 3:30pm

 
Parents and children are welcome to meet with counselors and learn more about ESF’s exciting summer offering. RSVPs are strongly encouraged, but walk-ins are always welcome!  You can also visit ESF’s website and use our amazing program finder to discover the perfect fit for your child, or call us at 800-529-CAMP (2267). 
 
WIN IT: We’re giving away a week of ESF Camps at Greenwich Academy or Riverdale Country School to one lucky winner! To enter, complete the form below and comment on this post with your preferred ESF Camps program before 4 pm on Friday, May 4th We’ll pick a winner at random.

​NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED.

1. PROMOTION PERIOD. Promotion begins from April 13, 2018, 8:00 AM (EST) (“Promotion Period”). All entries must be received by May 4, 2018, 5:00 PM (EST) to be eligible for that day’s drawing.
2. HOW TO ENTER: To enter, complete the form above and comment on this article with your preferred ESF Camps program. No purchase necessary.
3. ELIGIBILITY: Open to legal residents of the fifty (50) United States and District of Columbia who are 18 years of age or older at time of entry. Employees of Sponsor, its affiliates, subsidiaries, advertising, and promotion agencies and their immediate family members and/or those living in the same household of each are not eligible to participate.
4. WINNER SELECTION: One winner will be drawn from all entries received during the announced Promotional Period using a randomized computer numerical system, random.org, from among all eligible entries received during the Giveaway. Winners will be emailed directly.
5. WINNER NOTIFICATION AND RESPONSE: The selected winner will be contacted via email at the conclusion of the Promotional Period. A response is required within 6 hours. If no response is received in that time, the selected winner will forfeit their prize and another winner will be selected at random from the list of eligible participants and notified. Subsequently selected winners will also have a 6 hours period to respond. By submitting your email address to this giveaway you agree that ESF Camps may email you with regards to this giveaway and their summer programs.
6. PRIZE APPROXIMATE RETAIL VALUE: One week of ESF Camps at Greenwich Academy or Riverdale Country School, valued at approximately $685-$845 (Does not include Club OT or lunch program. Does not include Optional Bus Transportation at Riverdale Country School).
7. TAXES. All federal, state and/or local income and other taxes, if any, are the winner’s sole responsibility.
8. ODDS OF WINNING. The odds of winning this promotion depend on the number of eligible entries.
9. DELIVERY. Winner will be able to claim their prize through direct contact with ESF Camp’s representatives.

 
Photographs courtesy of ESF Camps.

Today’s best STEM summer camps teach science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) in a fun and engaging way. Kids and teens can learn foundational STEM skills while meeting new friends and building self-confidence.

Trying to decide which summer camps are best for your child? Here are some of the benefits your child can gain from a STEM summer camp:

1. Avoid Summer Brain Drain
Summer brain drain, the term that’s used to describe the fact that many students lose as much as two to three months of math and reading skills each summer, is real. And while certain students are more likely to suffer from brain drain than others, all kids can be impacted by the phenomenon.

STEM summer camps help combat brain drain by keeping students interested and engaged in a variety of topics. Skills like problem-solving, creativity, and if-then thinking encourage kids and teens to think through complex problems and come up with logical solutions. When parents make simple changes like incorporating STEM camps into their summer plans, kids are less likely to suffer from brain drain, and they learn many new skills and ideas.

2. Learn Important New Skills
Speaking of new skills, kids and teens can learn a lot from attending academic camps. In the case of technology, most K-12 schools still don’t adequately teach computer science and other related technology fields. Without the help of summer and afterschool programs, where will kids learn the important tech skills needed to give them an edge in school, college, and future careers?

STEM subjects require students to have a good grasp of foundational concepts that can make them better at many subjects, STEM or otherwise.

3. Prepare for Our Ever-Changing Future
Studies predict that there will be one million unfilled STEM jobs by the year 2020. By unfilled, they mean that there will be numerous job openings, but not enough qualified individuals to adequately fill them. Now that we know there is a huge occupational gap that needs to be filled, it’s time to start equipping our kids with the skills they need to thrive in our ever-changing world.

People are already talking about how robots could assume many of the roles people work in today. And with the advent of 3D printing and other emerging technologies, it’s hard to imagine what new innovations our world will think up in the next 5-10 years. Attending summer STEM camps helps ensure that your child will be interested and knowledgeable about STEM topics, which can make them more likely to pursue a STEM career in the future.


4. Get Inspired
Summers always seem to fly by, but they still have the power to make a lifelong impact. Everyone remembers summers spent at camp or with relatives or traveling to a different state. So while a summer STEM camp might only last a week or two, it can make a lasting impact on your child. It can help kids get excited about STEM, find a lifelong passion, discover new interests, meet inspiring mentors, and so much more. Studies show that kids who are interested in STEM from an early age are more likely to pursue these subjects later in life.

5. A promotional discount from iD Tech
Although there are many technology summer programs to choose from these days, iD Tech continues to stand out as the nation’s premiere program. One of the key factors in choosing the right camp is convenience. iD Tech has locations at Manhattanville College (with overnight stays available for ages 10 and up) and Sarah Lawrence College (day camp only). You can save $75 on a week of camp with the promo code WNYMOMS (code valid through April 30, 2017).

Plus, iD Tech is the only camp to guarantee its low 8:1 student-to-instructor ratio, even if it means flying a talented instructor across the country to ensure your child receives the personalized instruction they deserve. Factor in the company’s year-round online learning platform, Tech Rocket, and professional tutors, and it’s easy to see why so many parents love iD Tech.

More than 275,000 students have attended iD Tech since 1999. Some alumni go on to work at Google, Apple, or Facebook. Others start their own game studios, launch startups, or found nonprofits. But all have become tech savvy, and the doors of possibility have swung wide open. According to iD Tech students, the fun camp culture, next-level instructors, and innovative curriculum make iD Tech the best camp ever.

The winter season is fast approaching, which means lots of cold weather and lots of school vacation breaks.  At Pine Brook Fitness, our amazing facility has a bunch of awesome programs and activities to keep your kids busy, in shape, and having a ton of fun.  ​
​

Rock Climbing at The Rock Club
Bring your kids to The Rock Club for a fun day of indoor climbing in our 10,000 sq/ft. gym. Your kids are guaranteed to have an amazing time, get great exercise, and have a day to remember. Spend the day bouldering or traversing, or top rope climb with our Rent a Belayer.  Kids love rock climbing, as it is such a natural sport and activity full of encouragement, exercise, and good times. 
 
Vacation Mini Camps
At Pine Brook Fitness, we offer a number of Vacation Mini Camps.  These camps typically are scheduled during any seasonal holiday breaks such as Thanksgiving, Holiday Season, and February Break.  It’s a great opportunity to keep the kids busy and give them fun activities to do during the cold winter months. You can choose a tennis minicamp at The New Rochelle Racquet Club or a rock climbing minicamp at The Rock Club.
 
The New Rochelle Racquet Club offers numerous vacation mini camps throughout the year.  These super fun camps function similarly to our summer camps and are typically broken down into three time slots (morning, afternoon, and full day) and by age group.  Any child from the ages of 6-16 is sure is have a great time.  These camps not only keep kids busy during their days off from school but also give them an amazing opportunity to get exercise in a great environment and exposure to the sport of tennis.
 
The Rock Club offers two time slots for vacation mini camps, morning and afternoon.  These camps cater to ages 6-14 and are grouped accordingly. Your kids will have an incredible time climbing and be able to participate in in super fun activities like gaga ball, obstacle courses, crate stacking, and much more!
 
Here are a few we have scheduled so far
 
New Rochelle Racquet Club Camp
Thanksgiving Day Camp Nov. 25-27th
Winter Break Camp
 
The Rock Club
Winter Camp Week of Dec. 26 and Jan. 2
Presidents Camp Week of Feb. 20 ​
​

​Birthday Parties at The Rock Club
Our large and spacious facility at The Rock Club allows us to host all types of events and parties.  Adding climbing to a birthday party will leave you and your guests with a wonderful and memorable experience.  We have plenty of space to accommodate large groups as well as a separate party room for you and your guests to enjoy.
 
Additionally, The Rock Club is able to host Bar/ Bat Mitzvahs as well.  We have hosted numerous Bar/ Bat Mitzvahs over the years and the feedback could not be better.  Our patrons are always thrilled with the unique experience that climbing brings to their special event.
 
Lessons
We offer numerous private, semi-private, and group tennis or rock climbing lessons.  If your child is eager to improve their current skill set and take their game to the next level, this is the best choice for them.  Our professional instructors will help your children to excel and advance in their sport.  These programs are designed for those who wish to improve and take their sport seriously.  The vacation mini camps are geared more for those who just want to have fun while the private lessons build on that base and provide the best opportunity for their personal development.
 
Tennis and Rock Climbing Kids Programming
With the winter season fast approaching, we excited to announce that enrollment for winter is open.  We offer a variety of programs depending on your child’s age and skill level.
 
The New Rochelle Racquet Club offers three basic junior programs: TAUT (Ten and Under Tennis), Junior Programs, and TTP (Tournament Training Program).  Each program is designed to enhance your child’s skill set based on their age and experience.  Whether your child is beginner or seasoned player, we are sure to have a program that suits their needs.
 
Here is a short video with our TAUT Director Dimitri as he explains what make the New Rochelle Racquet Club TAUT Program so special.
 

The Rock Club offers a variety of kids programs to keep them busy and fit during the winter.  We offer a variety of programs to appeal to various age segments and skill levels; Biners (ages 3-6), Rockhangers (7-11), Girls Rockhangers (7-11), and Club Rock (12-16).  Additionally, we offer flash climbing programs, which allow your child a quick 1.5 hour session to get your child to the next level of climbing, quickly and efficiently. 
 
Annual Climbing Competition
We’d also like to announce that we will be holding our yearly climbing competition at The Rock Club in March (exact date TBD).  This is a great opportunity for serious climbers to compete in a great local comp.  This comp will be open to those who are ages 16+. 
 
Keeping the kids occupied during time off from school is always a challenge.  We hope this blog provided you with some ideas and gave you some inspiration for fun and healthy activities for your children. We encourage you to stop by our website or give us a call to learn more about the various programs, winter scheduling, and answer any general questions you may have.  Thanks for reading and hope you all have a wonderful fall and winter season.
 
Pine Brook Fitness
130 Rhodes Street
New Rochelle, NY 10801
914.636.1019
www.PineBrookFitness.com
 
Pine Brook Fitness is The Rock Club, The New Rochelle Racquet Club, and The Studios.