Where to Find Great Summer Programs for Your Kids

Summer is a wonderful time of year to explore interests and opportunities that you might not have had time to engage in during the school year. Regardless of the age or preferences of your child or children, there really is a summer program for everyone.

Read on for some great ways that you can find fantastic summer fun for your family.

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Local library

Check with your local library about summer programming. Oftentimes, libraries offer reading incentive programs or special events for children like craft days, story times or book clubs. Check your library website for details, or stop by in person to check the schedule.

Libraries often also have community bulletin boards, so if yours does, be sure to peruse it for other activity postings in your area.

Nature centers

If there is a nature center in your area, check with them about summer programs. Nature centers are great places to engage in bird and flowers walks, and outdoor learning days. Some centers feature summer camps split by age where children can learn about topics such as animal adaptation.

Activities and summer programs can also be found at aquariums and zoos. If you have a nature enthusiast in your family, this type of activity is sure to be a hit.

Theaters

Local and community theaters often offer learning-intensive summer programs for children, and also offer shows geared to delight children of all ages. If you have a theater buff in your midst, be sure to follow up on this type of summer programming by calling, or viewing your local theater website.

For older children, you may also be able to get them involved in actually acting in community theater.

Sports programs

Various venues such as local recreation centers, parks, and churches, offer summer sports programs and camps. Check with locations near you to find out if they offer this type of event. Sporting programs run through the city are generally inexpensive and a great way for kids to get exercise.

If you live in a warm climate, swimming lessons are a great way to cool off. You can find venues for swimming lessons at just about every public pool or recreation center.

Recreation department

Some communities offer summer-long kids camps, as well as half-day playground camps for children residing in the municipality. Check with your community recreation director, or your township website for details.

Crafts stores

Many craft stores offer free or low-cost summer programs for kids. Check store flyers, store websites, or call craft store numbers for details. If you have a creative child, this is a great option especially because many schools are cutting out art programs, so finding outside arts programs is essential.

Festivals and fairs

Keep an eye out in your local newspaper or online for kid-friendly festivals and fairs to attend.

Visitor’s centers

If you want to explore another part of your state, contact their visitor’s center and inquire about summer programs or ideal locations to venture to with your children. You may have lived in the same city for years without exploring all the small towns and historic sites in the area.

Summer programs come in a wide price range, including free. Keep your eyes and ears open, and think about your child’s innate interests as you explore summer possibilities. Get ready for some super summertime adventures, fun, and learning!

Note: If you are looking for a venue in Houston for swim lessons, I recommend SwimJim.