The term “year-round school” is enough to strike fear in even the most intrepid grade schooler. Yet each summer, hundreds of students flock to area high school and college campuses. Why are these kids so anxious to go to school during the height of pool season? Soccer, basketball, lacrosse, rowing and swimming are a few of the reasons, but those merely scratch the surface of activities offered at local school’s summer programs. While some of the most popular options are hosted by private institutions, camp directors insist the doors are open to anyone.
“Each year we have a good mix of students and non-students,” says Carol Huckaby, director of summer programs at The Baylor School. “Our summer program provides an opportunity to experience our campus in a fun and different setting.”
This month is one of the busiest for area camp sign-ups. And with more than 50 day and overnight camps within 90 miles of Chattanooga, the options seem endless. For a well-rounded experience, many parents opt for a day camp, which includes a steady stream of activities including swimming, field sports, arts and crafts, scavenger hunts, nature hikes and more. Summer programs also consider current trends when designing their curriculum.
For example, Baylor will offer a yoga session this year in its day camp program, Raider Days.
Of course, not all camps are hosted by schools. The City of Chattanooga Parks and Recreation Department’s “Kidz Kamp” offers typical day camp activities with a new wellness focus. Kids ages 6-12 can experience things like Zumba classes and laughter yoga, as well as presentations by nutritionists and local chefs.