Summer camps tend to be a big expense for the parents sending their kids, but there are some other ways in which you can guarantee that your child will have a great summer, full of activities, socializing and learning, without having to give too much of your wallet away. Here are some tips on how to find free summer camp options near you.
Look within your community .
Community centers and local organizations like churches, libraries and schools, often offer some type of subsidized or free programs for your kids to attend in summer. Check in with your local institutions and enquire about their summer programs, your findings might surprise you.
Non-profit organizations.
A lot of non-profit organizations, especially the ones focused on helping children in need, offer free or low-cost programme options. Some of these organizations may include Boys and Girls Clubs, YMCA, museums and food service programmes.
Speak to the ones in charge.
Governments and local counties sometimes are a good choice for summer programmes; it may be hard to believe, but some departments, such as city counties, park counties, recreational departments and even the police department offer an affordable summer programme option.
Back to School .
Maybe summer doesn't mean a time away from school, as some may even offer different activities for their students in the holiday period. From whole programmes to educational and recreational activities, schools are a great place to check out summer camp options, especially if you consider that your kid is already familiarized with this environment and maybe can even get together with some of their friends.
Youth Clubs .
Get in touch with your local youth programmes like the Scouts Organizations, 4-H clubs, Youth Sports Leagues, Police Athletic Leagues, among others that you may find. They most likely have a well designed programme for your kids to participate this summer and learn different skills.
Summer Food Programmes .
There are different organizations that provide free meal plans for children during the summer, those same organizations may have other activities and projects for your kids to experience in the summer, usually non-profit focused and with the intention to lend a hand.
Animal Shelters.
If your kid is an animal lover then you might want to check out the animal shelters. Some of them may offer programmes in which they teach the kids how to take care of the animals and they get to interact with them while helping them recover from certain situations and grow up healthy and strong.
Volunteer .
Volunteer organizations always need a pair of extra hands, so it is likely that some of them will offer summer programmes in which kids can go, support the cause, learn and have fun. It is always good to teach children the importance of helping each other and giving what you can to those in need, and there is no better way of doing this than by letting them experience volunteer work in a safe and fun environment.
Didn’t find what you were looking for? .
There are other places in which you can search and enquire for free or subsidized summer camp options near you. Look in your local newspapers and magazines, ask school counselors, churches and attend camp fairs. It is very likely that you will find what you’re looking for and guarantee a money-saving and fun alternative for your kid to seize summer.
