“So, what plans do you have for your kids this summer?”
As I sit down with a friend over coffee, enjoying the pleasant spring weather, I can’t help but think about the impending summer break. In just a few weeks, those quiet moments will be replaced by the hustle and bustle of keeping my kids entertained during their lengthy vacation from school.
Summer means finding ways to keep the little ones engaged for 55 long days, filled with boredom and endless pantry raids. It also means navigating sunscreen battles, managing too many hours of YouTube, and enduring the sound of the back door slamming shut thousands of times. And of course, it’s the season for summer camp—if you can afford it.
Honestly, I could probably buy a minivan for what it costs to send my two kids to various local camp programs. The average annual tuition for a public community college is around $3,400, and it’s ridiculous that no sleepaway camp should exceed that cost.
What happened to summer camps?
Back in my day, summer camp was a simple affair. It meant my mom would drop me off at the local community center, where a handful of kids, all dressed in matching T-shirts, would gather. We’d be greeted by enthusiastic teenage counselors, and the day would kick off with crafting friendship bracelets, sipping watered-down Kool-Aid, and playing some good old-fashioned dodgeball.
That was summer camp—affordable, uncomplicated, and full of joyful chaos.
Fast forward to today, and summer camps have transformed into a massive business. The American Camp Association reports that summer camps now represent an astonishing $18 billion industry. Yes, $18 billion for enriching our children’s summer experiences.
Parents are clearly dedicated to providing their kids with memorable summer adventures, with over 14,000 day and overnight camp options available across the U.S. And the variety is astounding, ranging from French Immersion Camps to Etiquette Camps and even Explosives Camps (yes, that’s a real thing).
While my children might enjoy that, I can assure you that my backyard offers plenty of opportunities for “explosive” fun at a fraction of the cost.
As working parents, summer can turn our daily schedules upside down. We desperately need those camps to provide a break from the chaos. However, the prices for these camps are astonishing. I’m sure I’m not the only one feeling a bit queasy as I watch our bank accounts dwindle in exchange for just a few days of summer amusement.
Does anyone know of a camp that costs $50 and lasts the entire summer? #askingforafriend
Given how pricey camps have gotten, I’ve had to get creative with my children’s summer activities. While they will attend a week of scouting camp each, we’ve opted out of most structured camps. Honestly, I’d prefer to save that money for family activities or even a week-long tropical getaway, which often turns out to be cheaper!
Sure, my son would love a Game of Thrones camp, and my daughter would be thrilled to attend Farm Camp in upstate Massachusetts. However, I’m confident they’ll have just as much fun at “Here’s a Popsicle, Now Go Ride Your Bike” Camp and “Get Outside and Find Something to Do Before Mom Loses It” Camp.
I still cherish memories of my simpler camps, but part of me wishes my mom had surprised us with something like Space Camp, which I’m sure was much more affordable.
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In summary, summer camps have grown increasingly expensive, making it challenging for families to afford them. Parents are left searching for alternatives that provide enjoyable experiences without breaking the bank.