Enriched Family Austin-Area Summer Camp Roundup 2020
Hey Austin-area parents! I have been holding off on my normal Enriched Family Summer Camp Features as it was completely unclear what was going to happen this summer with camps. On Monday, May 18th, Gov. Abbott gave the green light to reopen child care centers, youth clubs, and scouting immediately. In addition, day and overnight camps were allowed to begin operating again on May 31 (@statesman full article here).
For many parents, this news creates mixed emotions. On the one hand, our children need to be physically and mentally engaged through play and exploration with other children. Many of us are also worried about the social-emotional and mental health impacts this isolation is having on our children. Parents are also in need of a break after over ten weeks of sheltering-in-place at home with kids. Work + homeschooling + child care has put a tremendous burden on parents. At the same time, we are anxious and uncertain if our kids will be safe at camps or child care centers.
I also recognize that for some parents, it may not seem like there is much “choice” in the matter. Maybe your job is on the line or you are an essential worker and have to send your children to camps or some form of child care. Or maybe your child or someone in your household has a serious condition or is immunocompromised and therefore exposing your children to some form of risk through camps or childcare is simply not an option. Or maybe you are so financially strapped that camps or childcare seem impossible.
This is a tough situation for parents. I do not pretend to have the answers. I believe this is a very sensitive, subjective, and individual decision. To help you in this decision-making calculus, Enriched Family created this blog post rounding up a list of Austin-area camps. The roundup includes online camps, in-person camps (both indoor and outdoor), free or reduced cost camps, overnight camps, and other childcare options. For each category, I will highlight the safety and hygiene measures each camp is stating they will follow, as well as CDC guidance about reopening camps and child care locations. My goal is to provide you with the information you need to make the best decision for your unique family circumstances. I am a researcher by nature and training, so some of this will get into the weeds a bit, but I think we need to get into the details to make these hard decisions.
Hope this helps! Remember, if you ever want an Enriched Family consultation on these topics, please feel free to reach out. All services are currently being provided remotely (via Zoom or telephone).
Please note, the following is provided for informational purposes only; the information is accurate and true to the best of my knowledge, but there may be omissions, errors or mistakes, and no guarantees are made.
A Note on Risk
Emily Oster, Ph.D., is a Harvard-educated Economist, Professor at Brown University, and bestselling author of the books Expecting Better: Why the Conventional Pregnancy Wisdom Is Wrong--and What You Really Need to Know and Cribsheet: A Data-Driven Guide to Better, More Relaxed Parenting, from Birth to Preschool. I greatly appreciate her mission to provide parents with data-based guidance on all things parenting, and have found her bi-weekly newsletter ParentData to be highly informative during COVID-19. Dr. Oster recently published a great newsletter, Grandparents & Daycare, on the issue of risk and how to think through risk and various child care options. The full article is highly worth a read, but I will include a summarization of the general framework and her main points below.
Decision Framework:
1. Frame the Question & Ask What the Alternative Would Be. For example, “Should I send my kids to xyz camp? Are there other alternatives?”
2. Mitigate Risk: How can we do this activity as safely as possible?
3. Evaluate Risk: What is the actual risk of serious illness from doing this?
4. Evaluate Benefits (this will be specific to your unique situation).
5. Decide.
Grandparents: May be easier to mitigate risk (be creative), serious illness risk higher.
Child care: Accept it is very hard to fully mitigate risk, but serious illness risk low.
I highly recommend reading the full article and using this framework to help guide your decision-making about childcare.
Of course, there is also the greater question of societal risk and public health. Staying home as much as possible, avoiding crowded areas, wearing a face covering in public, washing one’s hands regularly and vigorously, and staying home if we are sick are all ways that we can help prevent the spread of COVID to the most vulnerable among us.
CDC Guidance on Camps & Childcare
In addition to Dr. Oster’s framework, I want to include the main guidance provided by the CDC on camps and childcare. Please note that this guidance may not fully match up with the State of Texas Protocols listed further below.
CDC Guidance on childcare, Camps, & Youth programs
✓ Reopening consistent with state and local orders.
✓ Protect children and employees at higher risk for severe illness.
✓ Importance of screening children and employees upon arrival for symptoms and history of exposure, as feasible (including temperature checks and symptom monitoring).
✓ Promote healthy hygiene through frequent hand washing and employees wearing cloth face covering, as feasible.
✓ Intensify cleaning, sanitization, disinfection, and ventilation (including of transport vehicles and buses in the case of camps or youth programs).
✓ Encourage social distancing through increased spacing, small groups and limited mixing between groups, if feasible.
✓ Adjust activities and procedures to limit sharing of items such as toys, belongings, supplies, and equipment.
✓ Train all employees on health and safety protocols.
✓ Encourage anyone who is sick to stay home.
Plan for if children or employees get sick.
Monitor child and employee absences and have a pool of trained substitutes and flexible leave policies and practices.
✓ Regularly communicate and monitor developments with local authorities, employees, and families regarding cases, exposures, and updates to policies and procedures.
Be ready to consult with the local health authorities if there are cases in the facility or an increase in cases in the local area.
State of Texas Protocols for Resident/Overnight Youth Camps
For families.
Okay, now that we have considered all of this, let’s move on to information on Austin-area camps…
Online Camps
Austin Tinkering School Online Camps
Details: Austin Tinkering School (ATS) is a Makerspace in East Austin that offers classes, camps, workshops, birthday parties, and events for kids AND adults. For now, they have moved all summer camps online and will be be providing lessons, virtual field trips to maker workshops and studios all over the world, and tons of fun hands-on projects and activities that kids can do at home! For online camps, parents must supply some materials. They will send a complete supply list two weeks before camp starts. ATS will supply certain specialized materials for each camp. Cost of all online camps: $200, plus materials.
Tinkercraft: Art, Tinkering, and SCIENCE! (online): For those who like their tinkering with a healthy splash of ART! The theme for this session is Art, Tinkering, and SCIENCE, and you’ll be tinkering and making art with lots of amazing and curious and educational science experiments, chemical reactions, explosions (!!) and more! Ages 6-10. Jun 22, 2020 - Jun 26, 2020 (5 days) | 10am - 1pm CDT.
Maker Market (online): Work on awesome projects to make sellable wares. Design and build a mini Maker's market, go on virtual field trips, create an online store, and more! Ages 7-11 yrs. Jun 29, 2020 - Jul 3, 2020 (5 days) | 10am - 1pm CDT.
Tinkering Seniors (online). Ages 10-14 yrs. Jul 6, 2020 - Jul 10, 2020 (5 days) | 10am - 1pm CDT.
Maker Scouts: Wizard School (online). Hands-on maker projects inspired by the world of wizardry created by J.K. Rowlings (and beyond)! You will do magic, science, and imaginative hands-on projects that re-create the world of Harry Potter (as well as other wizards!). Ages 7-11 yrs. Jul 13, 2020 - Jul 17, 2020 (5 days) | 10am - 1pm CDT.
Build Your Own Dollhouse Camp (online): Build, paint, wallpaper, decorate, and deck out your very own mini dream house! In this class you will build a beautiful solid wood dollhouse, paint and decorate it, and build and craft miniature furniture, people, pets, and more. Ages 7-11 yrs. Jul 20, 2020 - Jul 24, 2020 (5 days) | 10am - 1pm CDT.
Art, Tinkering, and Technology (online): Dynamic and engaging tinkering and art projects, inspiration, lessons, virtual field trips, and lots more! Ages 7-11 yrs. Jul 27, 2020 - Jul 31, 2020 (5 days) | 10am - 1pm CDT.
Figment Creative Labs Online Mini-Camps
Details: Creative online classes. Class includes price of supply kit (available for pick up in Austin; shipping not included in price). The mini-camps include pre-recorded videos, three hour-long Zoom small group check-ins with Ms. Amber on Monday, Wednesday and Friday, and a supply kit.
Available dates and times:
At-Home Dollhouse Mini Camp (ages 5-14): M, W, F, June 8-12, June 15-19, June 22-26, or June 29-July 3 (three days) from 9-10am CDT. Cost: $70.
At-Home Stop Motion Animation Mini-Camp (ages 6-14): M, W, F, June 8-12, June 15-19, June 22-26, or June 29-July 3 (three days) from 11am-12pm CDT. Cost: $55.
At-Home Polymer Clay Sculpting Mini-Camp (ages 6-14): M, W, F, June 8-12, 15-19, 22-26, or June 29-July 3 (three days) from 1pm-2pm CDT. Cost: $70.
At-Home DIY Game Board Mini-Camp (ages 6-14): M, W, F, June 8-12, 15-19, 22-26, or June 29-July 3 (three days) from 3pm-4pm CDT. Cost: $70.
Life Ki-do Martial Arts Virtual Summer Camp
Details: Life Ki-do helps your child find happiness & confidence from within themselves rather than looking to others for validation and self-worth. And, they have a BLAST doing it! Virtual summer camp: Martial arts, yoga, theater, art, & more! Ages 5-10. All levels welcome. Each week will have a different theme, making the activities fun & fresh! Two-hour online camp daily on Zoom from 10am-12pm.
June 8-12: Around the World Excursions.
June 15-19: Superhero Powers.
Cost: $140/week.
*My oldest daughter took an after school class weekly at Life Ki-do for several years. We love their teachers and approach. Voted Best After School Activity 2013 by Austin Chronicle, Best Martial Arts for Youth by Austin Family and Austin Fit Magazine, and Favorite Sports Education 2017 by Kids Out and About.
Moolah U Live Online Entrepreneur Camp
Details: Time to step into the business start up world! In just one week, your kids will turn their clever idea into a real money making business! Suddenly they will find it more fun to MAKE money than to spend it. During the week, kids will get daily interactive live sessions with a business coach. They will be guided by Mentors through the process of designing a real business plan and launching their business! On the last day, they will pitch their businesses to the "Barracuda Tank," with a chance to win cash prizes to start their business. Moolah U is a kid-proven program that over 3,000 kids have attended. Now it's available live online to do at home! The mission of the program is to equip kids with the tools and experience to apply to any business idea they have. For ages 8 and up. Over the course of 5 days campers will will:
Develop your idea into a business plan; Participate in group mentoring calls; Meet with Entrepreneur Mentors; Launch Your Business!; Pitch to the "Barracuda Tank."
Each session includes an introduction to a business concept and open discussion about creating a business plan. Afternoon sessions are an open discussion forum. In small groups with Business Start Up Mentors, students will share the progress of their business planning and get ideas from the other young entrepreneurs. Great questions and comments lead to expanded learning for everyone! Final business presentations take place on the second Friday. Founders will present their business plans to real entrepreneurs for a chance to get funding!
The experience will develop campers’ confidence in knowing they can accomplish anything they choose!
Dates & hours: Weekly camp sessions available June 8-August 21, Monday - Friday, consisting of morning and afternoon sessions (10:00am & 3:00pm) with an entrepreneur leader. Between sessions, campers will do the research and planning to move your their businesses closer to reality.
Cost: $190. Total enrollment is capped at 20 young entrepreneurs.
My Coding Place Virtual Half-Day STEM Camps
Details: From Coding to Robotics and AI, virtual camps will take place in one of three virtual classrooms and will be limited to six students. Virtual camp options include:
Amazing AI (ages 8+): June 22-26, M-F | 9-11:30am OR 12:30-3pm.
Confident Keyboarding (ages 7+): June 29-July 2 OR Jul 6-10, M-F | 9-11:30am OR 12:30-3pm.
Grand Games (ages 7+): June 8- 12 OR Aug 3-7, M-F | 9-11:30am OR 12:30-3pm.
Great Graphics (ages 9+): July 20-24, M-F | 9-11:30am OR 12:30-3pm.
Java Jam (ages 12-18): Aug 10-14, M-F | 9-11:30am OR 12:30-3pm.
Marvelous Mobile (ages 8+): Jun 29-Jul 2, M-F | 9-11:30am OR 12:30-3pm.
Minecraft Mania (ages 7+): Jul 27-31, M-F | 9-11:30am OR 12:30-3pm.
Python Party (ages 9+): Jun 15-19, M-F | 9-11:30am OR 12:30-3pm.
Winning Wearables (ages 9+): July 6-10, M-F | 9-11:30am OR 12:30-3pm.
Wonderful Web II (ages 9+): Jul 13-17, M-F | 9-11:30am OR 12:30-3pm.
Cost: $249 for virtual half-day camps, with the exception of Marvelous Mobile which can include a phone and Winning Wearables which includes the device.
Neuron Garage Summer Online Building Camp for Kids
Details: Ages 7-12 years old. Campers join the Neuron Garage virtual community, led by a LIVE, trained Guide, and get hands-ons guidance repurposing their recycling to solve fun, weekly engineering challenges. Through the process, they have fun, make new friends, and build the foundation for a vibrant future. Full and half day online camps available (with optional pre/post activities).
Available dates: June 1-July 3 (full day sessions); June 1-12 (half day sessions for two weeks).
Themes:
June 8-12: Mission Possible (full day)
June 15-19: Invention Convention (full day)
June 22-26: Medieval Construction (full day)
June 29-July 3: Marble Rollercoasters (full day)
June 1-12 : Cardboard Arcade (two weeks; half days)
June 15-26: Invention Convention (two weeks; half days)
Hours: Full day (8:45am-4pm); Half day (8:15am-12pm or 1-4pm). See schedules here.
Cost: Week of full day sessions: $195; Two weeks of half day sessions: $195. Cost is per device. Siblings join for FREE on one device. Use Code: TOGETHER. Plus the cost of a Build Box (you can purchase these needed items or they will ship to you for $90. Each Build Box is designed to last 1 child for up to 5 weeks. Build Boxes include everything your child will need (just add recycled materials).
*My daughters did in-person camps with Neuron Garage last summer and loved it.
Details: An amazing new STEAM camp experience you can host at home! This flexible camp option is for pre-K-5th graders and comes as a pre-packaged camp kit with ten age-appropriate STEAM activities that can be done at home. Thinkery educators have selected some of the most engaging activities from their in-person camps and tailored them for independent exploration. Each Camp at Home ticket includes: a kit of ten step-by-step activities with supplies included and access to the online learning platform (Seesaw).
Step-by-step instructions in English and Spanish.
Virtual engagement opportunities and “office hours” with Thinkery educators for questions and encouragement!
Available dates: Camps will be offered from June 1 through August 14. Each Monday at 10am Thinkery staff will host an unboxing session to introduce the activities in the kits and provide a layout of the week. The kit and online components are intended to provide an integrated experience, but each can function independently; campers can choose to do as much of each part of camp as they like, and work at their own pace. Choose from kits for Pre-K through 1st grade or 2nd through 5th.
Cost: $135 per week.
Virtual Yoga & Mindful Art Camp
Details: Brought to you by Bliss Kid Yoga and ATX Yoga Girl, Virtual Yoga & Mindful Art Camp is a virtual way for kids to enjoy a camp-style community gathering live on Zoom and a private Facebook group with parent resources (including class recordings if you miss), all from home. The kids will practice yoga, meditation, gratitude, art, and mindfulness that will support their wellbeing. They will incorporate music, song, breath awareness, deep connection, and relaxation into each gathering while keeping it accessible to all abilities. This is a safe space in which your child can be themselves and spend summer time with others their own age. Two-week virtual camp meets two days each week (total of four days). Ages: 2nd-5th grade. Please complete the registration form here. After your registration and payment (due 48 hours after registering) are complete, they will send you the links to join the camp. Tuition includes an art and supply kit that will be mailed to you. 50% of your tuition will go towards the mindfulness programs at the non-profit, Bliss Kid Yoga (tax deductible donation).
Dates and hours: Camp 1: June 1-12; Camp 2: June 15-24. Class option: M/W or T/TH | 3-5pm CST.
Cost: $100
In-Person Indoor/Outdoor Camps
North
Details: Camp Doublecreek features horseback riding (extra cost), all kinds of sports, miniature golf, baby animals, arts and crafts, archery, tennis, tumbling, a playscape, and many other games and activities. Camper ages: 4-14.
Covid-19 Safety Measures: In-person camp. They require the completion of a medical screening questionnaire and other documents prior to anyone attending camp. They will also perform daily screenings of all campers and staff before allowing anyone on a bus or on campus. Campers will be spaced out on the buses. More information here.
Location: 800 Doublecreek Drive, Round Rock, 78664 (all campers arrive and depart from the campus by bus; camp transportation is available free of charge from several locations around Austin. Check website for the bus stop closest to you.).
Available dates and hours: June 1-12th (more weeks will be posted soon) | M-F, 7:30am-5:30pm.
Cost: $395/week.
*Received the Austin Family Magazine 2017 Readers' Poll Favorites Award for “Overall Fun” in camps category.
Spicewood Country School & Camp
Details: Spicewood Country School was established in 1980. Its unique settings, with grazing horses on the grounds, creates the atmosphere of a friendly farm while close to the heart of city life. This is an outdoorsy camp with lots of structured activities. Spicewood campers engage in the following activities: Swimming instruction (a swim assessment is conducted at the outset of the camp; swim lessons and swimming are included in the camp fee); sports and games; arts and crafts; visiting with barnyard animals; horseback riding; music and movement; hiking and fishing; nature experiences. Camper ages: 3 1/2* (fully potty trained) to 10 1/2. Campers are divided by age and grade.
Covid-19 Safety Measures: In-person camp. Click here for more information.
Camper drop-off and pick-up will be outside, limiting entry of building, playground, and camp activity areas to campers, staff, and authorized personnel only. No camp tours or visits. Parents or caregivers are to remain in their car at drop-off and pick-up for the safety of all children, parents, and staff.
Daily temperature checks and Covid-19 health questions for staff and campers. All campers and staff will wash hands when entering camp, after each activity, after using the restroom, and before and after snack and lunchtime. Face masks are optional for campers and must be provided by their family. Most Spicewood Country Camp activities are outside in the Texas summer heat where social distancing will be in place from other groups and therefore children are not required to wear face masks. Camp staff will wear personal face masks during certain times of the day.
Campers’ group size and daily camp schedule will be altered to help with social distancing and to comply with group size recommendations/requirements. Each group will be a small and controlled “cohort,” socially distancing from other camp groups or “cohorts” during camp activities. Within each small group, there will be interaction and play.
Increased daily cleaning and disinfecting of the facility and equipment.
Available camp dates: Summer sessions are two weeks long, Monday-Friday. 2020 session dates are as follows:
Session 1: June 1-June 12.
Session 2: June 15-June 26.
Session 3: June 29-July 10
Session 4: July 13-July 24
Session 5: July 27-August 7
Session 6: August 10–August 14 (one-week session; cost is $350).
Hours and cost: 9am-3pm ($700 per two week session) or 7:30am-5:30pm ($850 per two week session). Checks or cash only. On-site registration. Registration and enrollment form here. Sibling discount available.
Location: 6102 Spicewood Springs Road, Austin.
In-Person Indoor Camps
South Austin
Details: At All-Star Sports Camp, the main goal is to keep kids active throughout the summer. They promote teamwork and sportsmanship through healthy competition via sports and active games. Teaching children basic skills and game rules allows every child the chance to discover new talents and push themselves to refine their natural abilities. Above all, they want to ensure that every kid has fun exploring a variety of sports while making friends and memories along the way! Activities include soccer, kickball, basketball, flag-football, capture the flag, arts & crafts, ultimate frisbee, dodgeball, bounce house, volleyball, wiffle ball, obstacle course, splash day, and more! Activities vary slightly between locations. Sibling discounts available. Camper ages: 5-13.
COVID-19 Safety Measures: Not listed on website. Call for more information: 512-280-2244.
Available dates: Summer camps run June through August. Campers can register for a single week, multiple weeks, or days at a time. North location camps run June 1-August 19 and South location camps run from June 1-August 17.
Hours: M-F, 8:30am-4:30pm (full day). M-F, 1-4:30pm or 8:30am-12pm (half day). Extended care at 8am and until 5pm available for $25/wk, each (AM and PM).
Locations: Camps available at North location - SoccerZone Lakeline, Cedar Park (920 Old Mill Rd., Cedar Park) and South location - SoccerZone South Austin (9501 Manchaca Rd., Austin)
Full Day Cost: $299/week for full day weeks (5 days); $268 for four full days, $189 for three full days; $139 for two full days; and $79 for single days.
Half Day Cost: $199/week for half day weeks (5 days); $168 for four half days, $119 for three half days; $98 for two half days; and $49 for single half days.
*Received the Nurture My Child/Happi Camps 2017 Best of Camp Award for "Best Sports Camp."
Details: Champions Westlake is dedicated to creating a safe, fun, and nurturing environment where students not only conquer new skills, but learn valuable life lessons. Athletes train in an atmosphere of support and encouragement that fosters confidence, respect, and discipline. Their synergistic and instructional approach focuses on the whole student in an effort to enhance their social, mental, and physical development. Their goal is that students experience success not only as athletes, but also as individuals. Campers are divided into age-based groups.
Covid-19 Safety Measures: In-person camp. Click here for information.
Dates: Weekly camps run June 1-Aug 7.
Camp details by age:
Champ Camp (ages 2-10): June 1-August 7, 9am-1pm ($229/week for five day camps). Early bird drop-off is available from 8am-9am for $60/week.
Skills Camp (ages 6-14): June 1-August 7, 1-3pm ($175/week for five day camps). Sign up for Champ Camp and Skills Camp for full day (9am-3pm).
Crew Camp (ages 11-14; Crew Campers learn leadership and responsibility by training alongside Champ Camp coaches and receive partial reimbursement at the end of week): June 1-August 7, 8am-1:30pm ($155/week for five day camps).
Location: 2805 Bee Cave Rd., Suite 405, Austin.
Hill Country Indoor Summer Wipeout Camps
Details: Wipeout Camp is the traditional day camp program that provides sports, games, crafts, and recreational activities for kids ages 5-12. Each week is a different theme and uses a variety of features within the facility including the climbing walls, playscape, courts, and turf. The facility is indoors, cool, and lots of fun. Your camper is sure to come home WIPED OUT! They also offer sports camps. Check the website for details and weekly themes.
Covid-19 Safety Measures: In-person camp. Click here for more information.
All staff will be wearing masks during each camp.
All staff, campers, parents, and individuals who enter the camp program must first complete a health screening, including a health intake form and temperature scan.
Reduced number of campers in each group and campers will be spaced out appropriately during activities. Groups will remain with the same staff and campers throughout the week.
Lunch will not be served. Campers must provide their own lunch to camp each day.
Enhanced cleaning and disinfecting efforts.
Available dates and hours: Summer camps run weekly, June 1-August 7, M-F, 9am-4pm, early drop off option (7am-9am) and late pick up option (4pm-6pm) available for $35/week, each.
Location: 13875 Bee Cave Parkway, Bee Cave
Cost: Sports camps are $315 for members; $365 for non-members. Wipeout camps are $340 for members; $390 for non-members.
Details: Gymnastics, arts and crafts, games, special guests, open play, and zen time. Children are organized into two separate camp groups, divided by age (*3-10; *must be potty trained). Half, full, and extended day options are available.
Covid-19 Safety Measures: In-person camp. Click here for more information.
All staff will be evaluated by a doctor one week before camp. A survey screening all campers for any symptoms or exposure will be sent to families every Friday and Tuesday. Staff and campers’ temperatures will be taken and they will be screened for any symptoms upon arrival.
Staff will be assigned to a group and rotate with them. Campers will be kept in stable groups of nine children or less. Siblings stay together reducing the number of households per group. Campers coming multiple weeks will be grouped with others signed up for the same weeks.
Staff and Campers will sanitize their hands upon arrival. Sanitizing stations will be set up every 30 feet inside facility. Rooms will be sanitized between room transitions. Staff and campers age 6+ are required to wear masks and others encouraged to do so. Art supplies will not be shared between campers. MERV-13 air filters will be changed weekly. Built outdoor area at both locations to get more time out in the fresh air.
Location: Locations in South Austin (6800 Westgate Blvd., Austin) and North Austin (2117 W Anderson Ln., Austin).
Available dates: Camps run weekly at both locations from June 1-August 21 (full day); June 15-July 10 (half day). Click here for camp themes by week (at both locations).
Hours: Regular camp/full day is 9am-3pm; extended day is 9am-6pm (for an additional fee); and 8am drop off is available for an additional fee. Half days are 9am-1pm.
Cost: Full day is $295/week; extended day is $395/week; early drop off (8am) is $50/week; and half day sessions are $245/week. $60 Lifetime Membership Fee is required if you are not already a member of Jump! $100 deposit per week/per child. Multi–camp and sibling discounts available.
*Jump! received the Austin Family Magazine Readers' Poll Favorites Award in 2011, 2014, 2015, and 2018.
Details: Kidventure’s mission is to help build the lives of kids, provide them with opportunities to grow strong, and demonstrate that they can make a real difference in the world. For 25+ years, they have chosen to do so through the power of camp. Alongside the most dedicated and passionate team of counselors, your child will not only enjoy the time of his or her life, but be learning the kind of lessons that will serve them well the rest of their lives. Kidventure provides summer day camp programs at four locations around the Austin area including Westlake, Lakeway (2 locations), and Steiner Ranch.
Covid-19 Safety Measures: In-person camp. Click here for more information.
All campers will have their temperature checked prior to entering camp. Parents must answer the COVID-19 Health Questions each day to satisfy admission into camp.
Parents must remain in the car for drop off and pick up. Campers will be escorted into camp by camp staff.
All campers must wash hands at a designated handwashing station upon entering camp each day. Campers must bring their own water bottles. Refill stations will be available throughout the day. Face masks for campers are optional and must be provided by the family.
Staff members must answer the COVID-19 Health Questions each day to satisfy admission into camp. All staff will have their temperature checked prior to entering camp. All staff members must wash hands at a designated handwashing station upon entering camp each day. Consistent with the actions taken by many employers across the state, camp staff will wear personal face masks during the day with the exception of certain outdoor camp activities. Gloves will be used during specific times at camp.
Camp details by location and age:
Camp Barton Creek at Barton Creek Elementary (1314 Patterson Rd., Austin) - Discoverers (Ages 3* [potty trained]-5 Yrs.) & Explorers (entering grades 1-6).
Camp Rough Life at the Highlands Community Center in Rough Hollow, Lakeway (903 Highlands Blvd, Lakeway) - Explorers (entering grades 1-6)
Camp Lakeway located at Lakeway Activity Center (105 Cross Creek, Lakeway) - Explorers (entering grades 1-6)
Camp Steiner located at the Towne Square Community Center (12550 Country Trails Ln., Austin) - Explorers (entering grades 1-6)
Available dates & hours: June 1-Aug 7 (you can select the weeks you want), 8am-3pm (pre- and post-camp options available for an additional fee).
Cost: $265 week, plus $35 registration fee; sibling discounts available.
*2018 Winner of the HappiCampr “Best Camp” Award. My children have participated in their summer camps for years and have always enjoyed them.
Sportball Indoor Camps - see north section for information on south camps.
Central/East Austin
Details: Get ready for the most exciting weeks at Crux Climbing Center! Crux Crushers Climbing Camps will provide youth with a safe environment to explore their skills in rock climbing, while making new friends and building confidence. On top of it all, campers will participate in yoga, crafts, and fun games!
Covid-19 Safety Measures: In-person camp. Click here for more information.
Available dates and ages:
Week-long, half day camps (M-F, 9am-1pm) for ages 6-9: July 13-17, July 27-31, & Aug 10-14. $225 members; $275 nonmembers.
Week long, full day camps (M-F, 9am-3pm) for ages 9-12: July 6-10, Jul 20-24, & Aug 3-7. $300 members; $350 nonmembers.
Location: Crux Climbing Center (121 Pickle Rd, Ste 100, Austin)
North
All-Star Sports Camp - see South section above for North location camp information.
Details: Teaching life skills and confidence through magic, juggling, and puppets to kids ages 5-12 since 1993. Campers are grouped by age and experience.
Covid-19 Safety Measures: In-person camp. Click here for more information.
They will never have more than 25 campers in one location. To maximize space, they will hold sessions both at the Journey IFC and First Cumberland Presbyterian, a few minutes from each other. Campers will not be traveling between locations. Each class will be made up of groups of ten or fewer campers.
The common areas, where the kids watch magic shows, eat lunch, and other activities, will be large enough for ample space between campers.
Campers will be encouraged to bring a personal facial covering to camp every day. Staff members and counselors will be required to wear facial coverings whenever possible.
Staff members and counselors will be evaluated with a 12-step personal health screening at the beginning of every day. Everyone who enters the building will have their temperature checked with a no-touch scanner.
All families to participate in curbside drop-off and pick-up.
Available dates and hours: See below for dates | M-F, 9am-4pm (extended day rehearsal time available from 4-6pm for an additional fee).
Two-week sessions: June 8-June 19 (Wizard School); June 22-July 3; July 6-July 17 (Wizard School-sold out); July 20-July 31; August 3-August 14.
Magic Camp Jr. dates (week-long camps for campers 6 years old and under): June 8-June 12; June 15-June 19; June 22-June 26; June 29-July 3; July 6-July 10; July 13-July 17.
Location: 7500 Woodrow Ave., Austin.
Cost: Cost for each one-week session is $325. The price for each two-week session is $650. For tuition assistance, please see the scholarship page before registering.
*Received the 2018 HappiCamper Award for “Best Small, Local Camp.”
Jump! Gymnastics Summer Camp - see South section above for North location camp information.
My Coding Place Studio STEM Camps
Covid-19 Safety Measures: In-person camp. Enrollment will be limited to six kids for each in-person camp, and children should bring their own snack and lunch. Computers will be distanced and assigned for the week, and staff will wear masks.
Details:
Grand Games (ages 7+): June 8-12 OR Aug 3-7, M-F
Python Party (ages 9+): Jun 15-19, M-F
Amazing AI (ages 8+): June 22-26, M-F
Marvelous Mobile (ages 8+): Jun 29-Jul 2, M-F
Wonderful Web II (ages 9+): Jul 13-17, M-F
Great Graphics (ages 9+): July 20-24, M-F
Winning Wearables (ages 9+): July 6-10, M-F
Minecraft Mania (ages 7+): June 22-26 OR Jul 27-31, M-F
Rocking Robots (ages 7+): Aug 10-14, M-F
Hours: 9am-3pm (Extended hours 8am-5pm can be added for an additional $10/hour).
Location: 3616 Far West Blvd., #109, Austin.
Cost: $499 for studio full-day camps.
Details: Sportball offers a variety of week-long, half day camps at a number of locations across Austin. Their camps build upon their renowned Multi-Sport program for expertly coached sessions filled with creative, fun, exciting games and skill-based sports.
Covid-19 Safety Measures: In-person camp. Information not listed on website. Call for more information: 512-407-8814.
Details by location:
North: First Presbyterian Day School (8001 Mesa Dr., Austin). After VBS Indoor Multi-Sport Camp, August 3-7 (ages 3-11; children must be potty-trained). M-F, 12-3pm. Cost: $115.
North-Round Rock: Clay Madsen Recreation Center (1600 Gattis School Rd., Round Rock). Multi-Sport Indoor Camp, June 15-19, July 6-10, or August 10-14 (ages 4-10). M-F, 9am-12pm. Cost: $180.
Southwest:
Riverbend Centre (4214 N Capital of Texas Hwy., Austin). Multi-Sport Indoor Camp, July 27-31 (ages 3-9). M-F, 9am-1pm. Cost: $250.
Steiner Ranch-Bella Mar Community Center (12401 Bella Mar Trail, Stiener Ranch). Multi-Sport Indoor Camp (ages 3-9), July 20-24 ($190), August 10-14 ($190), or August 10-12 ($120). 9am-12pm.
Lakeway Activity Center (105 Cross Creek, Lakeway). Multi-Sport Indoor Camp, July 6-10 or Aug 3-7 (ages 3-8). M-F, 9:30am-12:30pm. Cost: $250.
West Central: West Austin Youth Association (1314 Exposition Blvd., Austin).
Multi-Sport Indoor Camp, June 29-July 3, July 27-31, or Aug 17-24 (ages 3-9). M-F, 9am-1pm. Cost: $250.
*Sportball is also offering an innovative at-home camp experience: Sportball “Backyard Camps” allow you to provide a camp experience for your kiddos and kiddos in your family’s “bubble” right in your backyard!
Details and Covid-19 Safety Measures: A minimum of four children is required, with a maximum of nine. These camps can be customized to fit the needs and interests of your particular group of children. Sportball typically runs multi-sport camps which include basketball, soccer, football, baseball, volleyball, hockey, tennis, and golf. They can tailor your backyard camp to play only one specific sport, all eight, or your own customized selection. Children attending the backyard camp would be assumed to be allowed to have some contact with one another and play activities where they at times are sharing equipment. The coach will clean and sanitize the equipment before & after each day, and leave the equipment on site for the full week to limit contact. Coaches will maintain proper distancing measures from children when possible and feasible, and are happy to wear a face mask during camp, if preferred. A parent for each child must sign a waiver of health and intent to maintain appropriate social distancing for the week while not in camp.
Available dates and hours: Camps will run Monday thru Friday in 2 or 3 hour sets, with morning or afternoon camp options available. To avoid the heat of the day, it’s usually best to start camps early between 8-9am or later in the afternoon around 5pm, with some flexibility allowed to fit your needs. June dates are booked up, but there are openings in July and August.
Cost: Two hour camps will be charged at the rate of $125/child and three hour camps will be charged at the rate of $175/child. Your backyard camp will have its own secret link on their website, which all participants must register through to sign up. Camp location will be added to Sportball liability insurance for further protection. Call Alyssa for more information: 512-653-2583.
In-Person Outdoor Camps
North
Round Rock Express Baseball Camps
Details: Round Rock Express Camps offer big league quality instruction on the fundamentals of the games of baseball and softball. Express Camps range by age (6-18) and offer opportunities for all skill levels. Round Rock Express prides itself on providing high-level baseball and softball instruction from knowledgeable and experienced coaches. Express Camps aim to develop the complete ballplayer by not only focusing on the physical skill sets, but by encouraging growth in leadership as well as the mental side of the game.
Covid-19 Safety Measures:
Each camp will be limited to 40 total campers; split into five groups of eight campers based on age that will remain consistent for the duration of camp. Each group will have two dedicated coaches that will stay with that group for the duration of camp. Mixing between groups is discouraged and campers will not participate in games/scrimmages with other groups.
Parents/guardians will not be allowed to attend camps, except to drop-off and pick-up campers at designated curbside areas. Assigned coaches/staff will check campers in and out of camp at designated curbside areas.
All camp activities will take place outside and in the event of inclement weather, the camp will be moved indoors where sanitation and social distancing guidelines will continue to be followed.
Water stations, regularly monitored and sanitized, will be available to campers only.
Camp details by session:
Elite Half-Day Baseball Camp, June 10–12, 9am-12pm. Ages 10-14. $250.
Full-Day Baseball Camp, June 22–25, 9am-5pm, except last day of camp ends at noon. Ages 8-14. $450.
Half-Day Baseball Camp, June 29–July 2, 9am-12pm. Ages 6-12. $300.
Elite Half-Day Baseball Camp, July 8-10, 9am-12pm. Ages 10-14. $250.
Full-Day Baseball Camp, July 13–16, 9am-5pm, except last day of camp ends at noon. Ages 8-14. $450.
Half-Day Baseball Camp, July 27–30, 9am-12pm. Ages 6-12. $300.
Half-Day Softball Camp, August 3–6, 9am-12pm. Ages 6-14. $300.
Location: 3400 East Palm Valley Blvd., Round Rock.
Stitch Willo Stables Horse Riding Camp
Details: At the longest running, family operated horse stable in the Austin area, Stitch Willo strives to teach campers basic horsemanship. Campers not only learn how to ride, they learn the basics of colors, horse care, herd dynamics, and much more. During their riding time they make sure that all campers learn how to control their own horse and not just follow in line. They do this through fun games and exercises. Stitch Willo is the only state-certified horse riding camp in the Austin Area. Campers ages 6 to 13 and all skill levels are welcome. Campers are divided into small groups based on age and riding ability. In addition, there is swimming (weather permitting), arts & crafts, and a horse show and ribbon ceremony every Friday so that parents can come and see what their child has learned and accomplished throughout the week.
Covid-19 Safety Measures: In-person camp. No group larger than 8. No other measures were listed on the website. Call for more information: 512-920-0554.
Available dates and hours: Weekly camp sessions in July & August 2020. M (8:30am-4pm), T-F (9am-4pm). Extended care option available for 8am drop off and 5pm pick up (the cost is $10 per slot or $20 per day for both).
Location: 4829 Switch Willo, Austin.
Cost: $410/week.
*Received the Austin Family Magazine 2017 Readers' Poll Favorites Award, the 2017 Expertise Award for Best Horse Boarders in Austin, and the 2017 Nurture My Child/Happi Campr Best Camp Award. Voted best equestrian camp by Austin Family Magazine from 2009 through 2017.
Southwest
Details: Bee Cave Riding Center’s popular summer camp offers a low student-to-instructor ratio from a qualified staff with a positive approach to teaching. Each week of summer camp includes high-quality English and Western riding instruction, as well as classes in horse science and horse management. Camp also includes a fine arts program including pottery and ceramics, and time for swimming and water fun in their lifeguard staffed outdoor pool. Each week of camp ends with a horse show for students to show off what they have learned and achieved during the week. For children 6-16 years old.
Covid-19 Safety Measures: In-person camp. Campers will be washing hands every hour with staff supervision - staff will be putting soap in campers' hands and monitoring for thorough washing per local Health Department's recommended minimum of 20 seconds. Campers’ temperatures will be taken daily upon arrival. For more information, click here.
Available dates and hours:
Partial week camp (3-days, M-W), June 15-17, 9am-5pm. Cost: $300
Full week camps (M-F), available June 8-12, June 22-26, and July 6-31, 9am-5pm. Cost: $500
Location: 15740 Hamilton Pool Rd., Austin.
Southeast - bastrop and Del Valle
Details: Summer Camp at the River Farm is a rare opportunity for your child to become part of an authentic, organic family farm. At the beautiful rural retreat, children ages 5-15 get to relax, explore, play, and help. Everyone eats well thanks to harvesting and cooking farm fresh meals. And all help care for livestock (rabbits, chickens, pigs, ducks), while having plenty of time for fun! Programming changes each week so you can sign up for multiple weeks! Campers may also enjoy:
Exploring woods along the Colorado River at the farm’s edge; Fishing; Climbing trees; Birdwatching; Making flower bouquets; Learning how to whistle with your fingers; Building — a clubhouse, solar oven, go-carts; Setting up a campsite, cooking over a campfire; Art; Archery; Volleyball, soccer, and other group games; and Learning from area experts about nature, sustainability.
Covid-19 Safety Measures: Outdoor camp, limited to 25 campers per week. No further information available on website.
Available dates & hours: Weekly camps run June 1-19. Monday-Friday, 9am-4pm. Before and aftercare available for $15 per hour. Camp is held rain or shine.
Location: 156 Howard Lane, Bastrop 78602. Carpooling will be facilitated. They are working to provide group rides/carpooling to/from central Austin, available for a small fee. Details will be posted online.
Cost: Current CSA Members - $350 per camper, $325 per sibling. Non-Farm Members - $400 per camper, $375 per sibling.
Rio Vista Farm and Tack Shop Summer Horseback Riding Camp
Details: Do you know some horse crazy kids? What about a horse camp? Beginners receive a good foundation from which to continue their riding experience, and more advanced riders have the opportunity to improve their skills. Girls and boys ages 7-16. No prior riding experience is necessary. Children are divided into riding groups based on their riding skill level. Camp closes each week with a special camp horse show, with all campers competing and receiving ribbons, along with special awards earned throughout the week.
Covid-19 Safety Measures: In-person camp. Due to the nature of horseback riding not being a contact sport they have continued to be able to offer riding lesson opportunities for both horse owners and non-horse owners throughout the stay at home time period. For the camp program, they will continue with cleanliness and sanitation protocols they already have in place along with adding additional ones.
Whenever possible parents should remain in their car when dropping off and picking up campers - although first time campers at Rio Vista may enter with their parent on Monday morning.
Campers will be asked to wash and sanitize their hands upon arrival and multiple times throughout the day.
They will alter the camp daily activity schedule in order to limit co-mingling of each camper group. Those in the same riding group will stay together throughout the day - each group eating lunch with their group only, and visiting the pool with their group only.
They will still offer the camp horse show each Friday - they will send out notices for specific times your child will show, again keeping groups separate so that parents may attend the horse show only. Parents will not be allowed to visit other than the Camp horse show at their specific time slot.
The large property easily accommodates social distancing.
Available dates and hours: Weekly camp sessions from June 1-26 (*very few spots left in June) and July 6-August 14, M-F, 9am–4pm.
Location: 1000 Fallwell Lane, Del Valle. Van service is not available due to COVID-19.
Cost: $375
*My older daughter does this camp every summer and loves it.
South & West Central
Details: Sportball offers a variety of week-long, half day camps at a variety of locations across Austin. Their camps build upon their renowned Multi-Sport program for expertly coached sessions filled with creative, fun, exciting games and skill-based sports.
COVID-19 Safety Measures: In-person camp, outdoor. Information not listed on website. Call for more information: 512-407-8814.
Details by location:
South: Austin Oaks Church (4220 Monterey Oaks Blvd, Austin). Multi-Sport Outdoor Camps (ages 3-9). July 13-17 or August 3-7. M-F, 9am-12pm. Cost: $190.
West Central: West Austin Youth Association (1314 Exposition Blvd., Austin). Multi-Sport Outdoor Camp (ages 3-9). June 15-19. M-F, 9am-1pm. Cost: $250.
Free or Reduced Cost Camps: In-Person & Online
Boys & Girls Clubs of the Austin Area Great Futures Summer Camp 2020
Details: High-quality programming is directed and carefully planned by highly qualified professionals in Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math (STEAM), Fine Arts, Academic Success, and Healthy Life Skills. They have made modifications to the way they do summer camps, but they can guarantee that your kids will have the same memorable and enriching summer they always have at the Club. Ages: Kindergarten through Senior, 5-18yrs. Pre-K (4yrs) please call or email summer.camp@bgcaustin.org for availability.
Covid-19 Safety Measures: In-person camp.
Hourly wipe downs in every workstation.
Temperature checks 3x each day.
Club deep cleaned 2x a day.
Hand washing every 45 minutes.
Adhere to social distancing of 6 feet.
Any child showing signs of illness or sickness will be separated from the program and families will be called for pick up.
Dates and hours: June 1–August 14, 2020 | 7:00AM – 6:00PM.
Location: 6648 Ed Bluestein Blvd., Austin. To ensure all Club members have access to summer camp, BGCAA will be implementing a shuttle service from other Club locations. Check website for bus schedule.
Cost: 2.5 months of camp for $1,200; however, scholarships are also available. Download the Summer Camp scholarship application form.
Homemade Austin Sunshine Online Camps
Details: Austin Sunshine Camps believe that all kids deserve the opportunity to go to a camp with intentional community, rooted in compassion, that inspires campers to be wildly creative and FUN! Homemade Sunshine 2020 Virtual Camp is going to focus on the 3 Cs: Community, Compassion, and Creativity! Younger children will be divided into small “cabins” with other kids of a similar age, and they will have two counselors! Teens will have their own choice activities during that time. There will also be opportunities throughout the day to do crafts, physical activities, and more! One big change with Homemade Sunshine is that sessions will be TWO WEEKS LONG, so that campers have a longer opportunity to make friends and have fun!
Dates: Session A: June 8-19 (full); Session B: June 22-July 3; Session C: July 13-24; Session D: July 27-August 7. Sample schedule here. There are currently openings for all sessions in the 2020 season!
Cost: Registration is FREE, and if you live in the Austin area, you will be able to get a CRAFT PACK with all of the craft supplies for the session. Register here.
The Trail Foundation & Fire Scouts Nature in Your Backyard Virtual Camp
Details: The Trail Foundation, in collaboration with Fire Scouts (a local scouting organization), is bringing a virtual nature camp experience straight to your home. Nature in your Backyard virtual camp is a great opportunity for families to provide an at-home learning experience that also encourages time outside. TTF Campers will learn about the natural spaces around their home, whether it be backyard, patio, or neighborhood park. Activities will focus on local plants and animals, “bushcraft” wilderness skills, and nature-based arts and crafts. This camp balances engaging virtual instruction with individual outside work sessions. Just because we’re stuck at home doesn’t mean we need to be inside! Take the opportunity to keep your kiddos engaged with the natural world in this donation-based camp. Space is limited.
Dates and hours: Camp sessions will be 3-4 hours of programming each day, Monday – Friday for each week. The day will be split into 3 different parts. Morning: 1 hr Zoom session with fellow campers; introduces activities for the day and provides demonstrations. Outdoor work: 1-2 hour outdoor session; kids will spend time outside completing the activities for the day. Afternoon: 1 hr Zoom session; campers will share their work with each other and engage in other virtual activities. They are providing two scheduling options for campers. You will need to pick one group only and join both morning and afternoon sessions for that group. Group 1: Morning zoom session, 9-10am; Afternoon zoom session, 1-2pm. Group 2: Morning zoom session, 10:30-11:30am; Afternoon zoom session, 2:30-3:30pm. Each week will have a fun, nature-based theme:
June 8-12: Bushcraft (Backyard wilderness skills)
Supplies: Most of the supplies needed for the week’s activities are common household items. You can choose to use what you have at home or come pick up a packet of supplies at a designated time/location.
Cost: Donation-based. Suggested donation amount: $100.
Details: Outdoor adventure camp offers summer days filled with exciting outdoor adventures that help children discover confidence and character, build friendships, and learn independence, as well as problem-solving skills. Parents can trust that the adventures at outdoor adventure camp are led by well-trained camp staff whose primary focus is camper safety. Majority of the day will be held outside. Ages: 5 yr-12 yr 11 mo.
Covid-19 Safety Measures: In-person, outdoor camp. See list of measures here.
Dates and hours: Weekly camps available June 1-August 19, 2020 | 7:00AM – 6:00PM.
Location: 11812 N Mays St., Round Rock.
Cost: Weekly cost for Full Members: $175; Community Members: $195.
YMCA of Austin is not accepting new camp applications at this time. However, keep an eye on their website as this may change.
Overnight Camps
*Many overnight camps have been cancelled, but a few will still be operating with modified COVID-19 safety measures. Included below are just a sample of overnight camps.
Camp details: Camp Champions is a boys and girls overnight summer camp, for children ages 5-18, located in the Hill Country of Central Texas. Situated on the shores of Lake LBJ, campers enjoy mild afternoon breezes and everyone loves swimming on hot Texas afternoons. The “Four R’s” (Responsibility, Respect, Reaching Out, and Reasonable Risks) are the values that are taught every day at camp through activities, traditions, and role models. They want kids to grow into true CHAMPIONS in life - to pursue big dreams and make a difference in the world around them. The Four R’s teach campers how to live with integrity, get excited about serving others, and do the right thing, even when it’s hard. Numerous camp activities are available - see the camp activity map.
Three week terms: $4770 - K-12th grades.
Triple 2, Sunday, June 21 – Saturday, July 11.
Triple 3, Sunday, July 12 – Saturday, Aug 1.
Two week terms: $3675 - K-8th grade.
Double 1, Sunday, June 7 – Saturday, June 20.
Double 2, Sunday, June 21 – Saturday, July 4 (almost full for girls).
Double 3, Sunday, July 12 – Saturday, July 25 (waitlist for boys).
Double 4, Sunday, July 26 – Saturday, Aug 8.
Double 5, Sunday, August 2 – Saturday, Aug 15.
One week terms: $1895 - 4th grade or younger.
Single 2, Sunday, June 7 – Saturday, June 13.
Single 3, Sunday, June 14 – Saturday, June 20.
Single 4, Sunday, July 5 – Saturday, July 11.
Single 5, Sunday, Aug. 2 – Saturday, Aug. 8.
Single 6, Sunday, Aug. 9 – Saturday, Aug. 15.
Covid-19 Safety Measures: Click here for details.
Location: 775 Camp Road, Marble Falls.
*Voted “Favorite Overnight Camp” by Austin Family Reader’s Poll 4 out of the last 6 years.
Texas Adventure Camp - John Newcombe Tennis Ranch
Camp details: Get ready for an awesome week of exciting and adventurous fun! Located in the rolling hills of New Braunfels, Texas, their Adventure Camp is packed full of a variety of activities that will challenge each camper and create memories for a lifetime: 50 foot swings, canoeing through the rapids, a 450 foot zip line, rock climbing and rappelling, tubing on the river, an overnight campout to Enchanted Rock, low and high ropes activities, paintball, archery, compass courses and campfire, caving, pool party, a dance, Schlitterbahn water park, and much more await to push you to new heights during your week of Adventure Camp! Areas of personal growth will include communication and leadership skills, self-confidence, trust building, goal setting, perseverance, and decision-making skills. This weeklong, overnight, co-ed adventure camp is designed for girls and boys ages 8-17. Camps begin on Sunday afternoon and conclude on Saturday.
COVID-19 Safety Measures: Click here for details.
2020 session dates: June 28-Jul 4 & July 26-Aug 1.
Location: 325 Mission Valley Road, New Braunfels.
Cost: The cost is $875 per camp week.
YMCA Twin Lakes Overnight Camp
Details: YMCA Camp Twin Lakes is offering weeklong overnight sessions (four in total), in addition to their regular day camp schedule. While a week may not seem that long in the grand scheme of things, their themed overnight camps have the power to not only change the course of a summer, but help kids develop in positive ways that can last a lifetime. In a world where kids spend more and more time inside playing video games or surfing the Internet, it’s becoming increasingly important for them to have opportunities to unplug and spend time outside. Doing so helps cultivate the values, skills, and relationships that lead to better physical and emotional health and higher achievement. That’s what a week at Camp Twin Lakes is all about. All activities at Camp Twin Lakes are led by trained staff members who always have your child’s well-being at heart. For example, all water sports are led by YMCA-certified lifeguards and trained support staff, while the high ropes course is supervised by their high-ropes-certified staff. More than just fun ways to spend a summer day, all activities serve to reinforce core values and strengthen relationships between campers and staff.
COVID-19 Safety Measures: Click here for details.
Camp details by session and cost:
Overnight Camp (weekly sessions): June 21-July 25.
4 sessions; 6 days, Monday – Sunday.
Boys and girls, ages 6-16.
Cost: Y Family Members: $674; Non-Members: $749.
Mini Overnight Camp (2 nights): Jun 28-Jun 30, 2020.
Boys and girls, ages 6-13. All the fun as an Overnight Camp, just shorter!
Cost: Y Family Members: $384; Non-Members: $408.
Location: 204 E. Little Elm Trail, Cedar Park.
Other Summer Childcare Options
If you are looking for some summer care for your kiddos, I highly recommend Babysitting Connection of Austin, an affordable membership service matching high-quality babysitters with Austin families. Babysitting Connection of Austin is committed to finding the top sitters in Austin. They interview each sitter, conduct background and driving record checks, and ensure CPR certification. Through their membership service, members can schedule a babysitter any time day or night. They offer several different packages, allowing you to choose the package that works best for you and your family. Contact Beth for more information and for information on Covid-19 safety measures: 512-200-4418.
Co-Working Space with Childcare
Poppy: Child Development, Co-Working, and Celebration Services
Details: Poppy is a community to work, recharge, and mingle with other parents sharing the same struggles and celebrations. Poppy has an “open play space” where your child can play with your supervision while you work. Poppy also has a separate and secure supervised child development area designed to engage a sensory rich atmosphere. This section allows for appropriate space based on age range, whether that be individual or group settings. This space has engaging activities and approaches for your child to learn. Your child's time spent at Poppy will be enriched with a multi-sensory approach to a curriculum-based education. Parents at Poppy can have four hours (up to twelve hours weekly) of uninterrupted time to focus on personal and/or professional growth. The co-working space includes a meeting office, phone booths, and a small cafe/kitchen with free coffee, local snacks, and healthy alternatives. The unique design allows for this area to also function as a celebration space for birthday parties, baby showers, parents night out, and other big moments. Various membership packages available, click here for details.
Covid-19 safety information: Contact hello@growatpoppy.com.
Where: Poppy, 12001 N. Burnet Rd. Suite F, Austin.
Drop-in Care
Areas: North location - Avery Ranch/Parmer Lane (10526 W Parmer Ln., #501, Austin) & South Location - Circle C/Slaughter Lane (5700 W Slaughter Ln., #380, Austin).
Covid-19 Information: Click here.
Available dates and hours: Current hours, Monday-Friday (7:30am-6pm); Closed Saturdays and Sundays.
Ages: 18 months to 12 years old.
Cost: $10/hour (reduced rate special offered when purchasing blocks of hours). Rate is per child, but time may be shared within a family. There is a one-time registration fee of $30 per family. Registration required for first time visit.
*2013-2017 Austin Family Magazine Readers' Poll Favorite Award for Best Drop-in Center and voted Best Drop-in Center in the 2011 Austin Chronicle Reader’s Poll.
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If you ever need help finding the right camps, children's enrichment activities, childcare options, or schools, please reach out! Enriched Family offers a free, 20-minute initial phone consultation to all new clients to discuss matching your needs and priorities with our services.
Enriched Family is a unique, family organization and coaching business dedicated to providing families with the information, tools, and systems they need to live more organized and joyful lives. Services include: Custom family-focused research (child care, education, health and wellness resources, camps, and enrichment activities), family organization solutions (stuff and family systems), and productivity consulting for busy, professional parents (goal planning and prioritizing, productivity coaching, and time management coaching). I invite you to check out my services and click the "Let's Get Started!" button below to contact me.
All the best to you and yours! Stay healthy and safe.
Esha/Enriched Family