Honestly, we find that the kids benefit the most from having down time over the summer and not doing many, if any, camps at all. The school year is so busy that I like to have the kids spend time being bored (which I consider a life skill!), learning to self-regulate, and contributing more to the household (i.e., chores) over the summer rather than a bunch of camps. I know that isn’t an option for all, particularly younger kids, but I have found that while my kids always enjoyed their camps, they prefer their summers without all of the commitments. The time allows for spontaneous meet-ups at the pool with friends, creativity in the kitchen, healthy amounts of rest, etc.
Honestly, we find that the kids benefit the most from having down time over the summer and not doing many, if any, camps at all. The school year is so busy that I like to have the kids spend time being bored (which I consider a life skill!), learning to self-regulate, and contributing more to the household (i.e., chores) over the summer rather than a bunch of camps. I know that isn’t an option for all, particularly younger kids, but I have found that while my kids always enjoyed their camps, they prefer their summers without all of the commitments. The time allows for spontaneous meet-ups at the pool with friends, creativity in the kitchen, healthy amounts of rest, etc.