Six interesting summer camps on Long Island that offer kids unique experiences in a limited amount of time. Most of these camps are week-long programs.
When I was a kid, my mother used to threaten my siblings and me with sending us to summer camp if we didn’t behave. Now, my kids are begging me to sign them up for a variety of summer programs. Some of my fondest childhood memories are of long summer days, running through the neighborhood, swimming in the pool and weekend trips to the beach. I love the unstructured nature of summer and wanted that for my kids.
To me, summer camp is something that people do when they need full-time childcare. But after doing a little research, I realized that there is so many fun, enriching programs out there to fit every family’s needs and maybe a little structured time will make the summer more fun. Below I have compiled a list of interesting summer programs that offer kids a unique experience in a limited amount of time. Most of the camps are week-long programs.
6 Interesting Summer Camps On Long Island
1.) Science Camps
Science camps are popping up all over Long Island. Kids can simulate wild weather conditions, build robots, and make slimy, gooey concoctions. Many of these camps get high ratings from campers. The best part is that the kids are learning while having fun and making a mess in someone else’s space. To find locations, check out Mad Science, Camp Invention, and Destination Science. Locations vary.
2.) Local Colleges
I was amazed when I saw the programs offered for kids as young as preschool at the local colleges. These camps were the most flexible in terms of time. They offered camps ranging from one week to the entire summer with courses like Marine Biology, writing, acting, art, and musical theater. Most offered traditional sports camps as well as unique sports experiences, such as dodgeball, cheerleading, and adventure education. Check out Hofstra University and LIU Post summer camps on their website or check the website of the college closest to you.
3.) Museums
These were by far some of the coolest programs around. Imagine having your child spend a week interacting with marine life at Atlantis Marine World, making dinosaur models at the Long Island Science Museum, or attending space camp at the Cradle of Aviation. These were also some of the priciest camps so check out the pricing before asking your kids.
4.) Community Centers
Your local YMCA offers a variety of classes for kids of all ages. Many offer everything from sports to baking and art. The Suffolk YJCC in Commack even offers a filmmaking class for kids. These classes tend to fill up quickly, so check out the schedule before summer starts.
5.) Suffolk County Farm / Cornell Cooperative
The camp at the Suffolk County Farm and Education Center is perfect for your nature lover. Campers get to work on the farm, tend the animals, take tractor rides, and participate in crafts. There is water play for those hot days and the kids get to see the Butterfly House. They even offer Mommy and Me for the littlest farmers. For the marine lover, Cornell Cooperative Extension offers a Sea Explorers Marine Camp. You do not have to be a town resident to attend.
6.) Libraries
The Summer Reading Program at your local library offers a variety of programs. My library has everything from cupcake decorating to live animal shows. Programs vary, but the best part about these programs is that they are free and they get kids reading!
More Great Ideas
7.) Bible Camp
Many churches offer week long bible camps. I signed my kids up for one and it was their favorite week of the summer. Many focus on team building activities.
8.) Surf Camp
Bunger Surf Shop in Babylon offers lessons for all ages.
9.) Musical Theater
Check your local playhouses.
With a little planning, your kids can have a fun, learning experience that they will always remember, and maybe you can actually enjoy a beach day with your friends.
Happy Summer!
Anne Davis
Help your children avoid the summer slide with these great articles!
- barnes and noble summer reading program for kids: earn a free book!
- 4 tips to encourage summer learning
- what can kids learn from nature? everything.
- 5 tips to help your child master multiplication facts
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