Sleepaway summer camps are the stuff memories are made of. Anyone lucky enough to attend camp still remembers the smell of the cabins and the sound of the campfire.
In this ever-changing world, they’re one of the last pieces of our childhood that we can pass on to our kids.
Today, more than 14,000 camps exist across the country. 8,400 of them are overnight camps.
Not all sleepaway summer camps are the same as when you were younger. Modern technology ushered in new and exciting types of summer camps to appeal to all ages and interests.
That only makes it harder to choose which camp is best for your child. If you’re looking for a sleepaway camp for your son, the decision can be even harder.
Below, we’re giving you 10 of the best sleepaway summer camp ideas for 2019. We’ll also give you a hand convincing your son putting down the video game controller will be well worth it!
Where Do You Start?
If you attended summer camp, you can probably list a dozen reasons off the top of your head why your son will enjoy it. But, with only one in three kids active every day, it may be harder for you to convince him.
The most obvious benefit is socialization. He’ll meet other kids in his age group he wouldn’t otherwise. They’ll share a bond that will last long after their week at camp is over.
Your son won’t only learn about different people and perspectives, but he’ll learn about himself too. He’ll gain a sense of independence since you won’t be there to remind him to brush his teeth!
He may be a little scared at first about attending a sleepaway camp. But once you explain the 10 biggest benefits, he’ll start to warm up to the idea.
Now, how do you choose?
The most important determination is your son’s interests. If you’re thinking, “All he does is play video games!” That’s actually helpful.
What kind of games does he enjoy playing? This could give you a clue as to which camp might suit him best.
You don’t have to go at it alone. That’s why we’re here!
Choosing the Best Summer Camp for Boys
Aside from interest and activities, there are other determining factors.
The first should be the length of time of the sleepaway camp. Some last for a week, while other camps may have two-week sessions. If your son has never been away from home, you may consider sticking with a shorter session.
You also need to decide how far is too far. While your son may drive you crazy sometimes, you really don’t mean it when you say you’re sending him to Timbuktu.
Cost should be your last consideration. Usually, you get what you pay for and summer camp is no exception.
Once you have those questions answered, it’s time to review which of the thousands of sleepaway summer camps fit your son best.
1. Equestrian Camp
If your son loves horses, equestrian camps are a great choice. He’ll learn how to ride horses, of course. But, he’ll also learn how to care for them.
One of the most rewarding things about taking care of horses is the bond they form with their caretakers. Not only are horses intelligent, but they recognize human emotion, too.
If equestrian camp is in contention, make sure you look for the riding style that your son would enjoy. In other words, would he rather learn English or Western riding? Make sure the camp you’re considering offers the one you’re looking for!
2. Adventure Camp
If your son is an avid thrill-seeker, adventure camp may be right up his alley. He’ll go zip lining, white water rafting, and kayaking.
You’ll find adventure camps positioned all over the country, so you should have an easy time finding one close by. Make sure they have the proper accreditation, insurance, and follow all state guidelines.
3. Mountain/Outdoors Camp
Mountain camp and outdoors camp are pretty similar. The biggest difference is that — surprise! — one is in a mountainous region.
Both kinds of camps will offer fishing, hiking, and campfire cooking. Your son may try archery or how to pitch a tent. He’ll learn about nature and conserving it.
4. Performing Arts Camp
Not all boys have interests that lie in the outdoors. Peer pressure at school or among “friends” may make him feel as if he can’t share his artistic talents.
Performing arts camp is an excellent outlet where he can learn to shine!
Building self-esteem in young people is important. It helps shape who they become as adults. Let your son express himself through art, acting, singing, or dancing.
He’ll meet other boys like him who experience the same things he does. He’ll forge bonds and may even learn new techniques.
5. Sports Camps
When you hear “sports camps” you may think of a pro camp, hosted by your local sports star. There are sleepaway summer camps across the country that cater to kids who love all kinds of sports.
They’ll learn more about the fundamentals of the sports they already enjoy and they may find some new interests too!
6. STEM Camp
Between 2017-2027, experts project growth in STEM-related careers will increase by 13%. But, 2.4 million STEM jobs will go unfilled in 2018.
There’s no question that the U.S. is pushing for kids to become more interested in science, technology, engineering, and math. STEM sleepaway camps can help accomplish this.
Your son will spend his days building robots, coding computer programs, and working with a 3D printer. Speakers may come in to speak to the kids about the opportunities they have if they pursue STEM in college.
For the boy who loves video games, what could be better than spending your summer learning how to design them?
Sleepaway Summer Camps Aren’t All Created Equal
Sleepaway summer camps come in different sizes and shapes. But the one thing they all have in common is a commitment to provide an enriching experience for your son.
If you’d like to speak to one of our summer camp advisors about finding a sleepaway summer camp near you, fill out our online questionnaire. We have tons of resources to help you find the best sleepaway summer camps that will interest your son!
