New Jersey Family: Big Book of Camps 2021 by New Jersey Family

2021 AN A-Z GUIDE FOR NEW JERSEY PARENTS

Keeping Kids Healthy During COVID Are They Ready for Sleepaway? Must-Have Summer Gear

Find the

RIGHT FIT for Every Child

GET READY FOR SOME

BIG FUN! There’s nothing like summer camp at our school! We’re continuing to follow CDC guidance for a safe, healthy environment, where children will find a whole season of fun! Ages 5 and Up will discover: Hands-on projects | Sports | Art | Science | And more! For ages 3 and 4, our fun camp themes explore: Animals | Fitness | Art and puppets | Even school readiness! And don’t forget to ask about summer activities for infants, toddlers, and 2-year-olds, too! New this year: Camp workbooks enhance learning and bring our camp themes to life!

GEAR UP: CAMPERS GET A BASEBALL CAP, T-SHIRT, AND BACKPACK!

918 Hamburg Tpke. • Wayne, NJ Also Opening Soon: 597 Piermont Rd. • Closter, NJ 866.222.0269 • EverbrookAcademy.com

TIME TO VOTE!

Do you love your child’s dentist or orthodontist? Tell us and help another New Jersey family get the very best care. CHRISTINA CARTER, DMD

DANIEL DINOWITZ, DMD

Pediatric Dentist and Orthodontist | Morristown Dr. Carter is extremely kind and caring. My daughter had an extreme fear of the dentist and Dr. Carter was the best person we could have brought her to. She takes the time needed to make her patients feel at ease. She explained everything that was going to be done to my daughter before she did it.

Pediatric Dentist | Flanders I brought my daughter to six other dentists before Dr. Dan. She wouldn’t let any of them near her mouth. Dr. Dan was extremely patient, calm and nurturing. My daughter looks forward to going to the dentist now. —C.C., ROCKAWAY

—A.D., BERKELEY HEIGHTS

HASSAM SULTAN, DMD Pediatric Dentist | Clifton My child recently had an extraction and she was perfectly fine after with no issue. I’m happy my kids are treated well in this office. —S.Z., WYCKOFF

DAVID CAGGIANO, DMD Orthodontist | Parsippany My daughter’s teeth were really crooked. Dr. Caggiano laid out a thorough, precise plan with detailed explanations for me. Everything was spelled out including costs. There were no surprises. Highly recommend. —S.B., MOUNT TABOR

Nominate your favorites at njfamily.com/vote

Contents 11

55 8 Get In Gear Smart finds to make the most of their camp experience.

11 Play it Safe How camps are working hard to keep kids healthy during the pandemic.

15 Summer Checkup Medical prep tips before day one.

18 Find the Right Fit How to choose the best program for your kid.

20 Are They Ready for Sleepaway? Signs they're set and how camp is changing during COVID.

23 S creen-Free Summer A mom shares her camp experience during COVID and why it matters now more than ever.

26 Camp Changes What you should ask camp directors before signing your kids up.

29 M eet the Camps Start your search with details on day, sleepaway and special needs camps in NJ and beyond.

52 Spring Break Camps

55 A Special Summer How to find the right program for your child with special needs.

58 Success Stories A look at how three camps kept kids safe during the summer of 2020.

62 C ounselors in Training Help your teen go from camper to counselor.

64 Book Smart Academic camps and enrichment programs to keep them learning.

Sign them up for fun while schools are closed. COVER IMAGE: ©ISTOCKPHOTO.COM / JEU

BIG BOOK OF CAMPS 2021 | NEW JERSEY FAMILY

than three After more remote of s th on m y daughter learning, m her friend d an t) h ig (r d to go to were thrille summer. st la p m ca

SPECIAL ISSUE | NJFAMILY.COM BIG BOOK OF CAMPS 2021

PUBLISHER | CINDY MIRONOVICH EDITORIAL DIRECTOR | DINA EL NABLI EDITOR@NJFAMILY.COM ART DIRECTOR | LEEZA HERNANDEZ MANAGING EDITOR | ANGEL MADISON SENIOR EDITOR | RONNIE KOENIG CONTRIBUTORS HEIDI L. BORST, JENNIFER KANTOR, JESS MICHAELS, MEGAN MUESSEN, RICHARD QUINN, ARRICA ELIN SANSONE

PRODUCTION DESIGNER ROSA M. JOSEPH PRODUCTION/BUSINESS MANAGER MARY LUCID PRODUCTION/BUSINESS MANAGER ERICA BARTON PROJECT & CIRCULATION MANAGER DIANE ERDENBERGER

DIRECTOR OF ADVERTISING MARCY HOLETON

The Magic of Summer Camp If you grew up going to camp, you know how special it is. From making friends without the stress of cliques to spending sunny days outdoors, camp is one of the best gifts you can give your kids. After a year of pandemic life during which remote learning and countless hours of screen time became the norm, our kids really need camp. The good news is that many camps ran successfully last summer and many more will open this summer with strict health and safety measures in place. And as more of us are vaccinated, camp directors are optimistic about what lies ahead this summer. If you have questions about what day and sleepaway camps are doing to keep kids safe this summer, you’ll find answers on page 11. If you’re deciding whether your kids are ready for overnight camp, especially during COVID, turn to page 20 for insights on what to expect. And if you’re not sure where to begin your search, head to page 18 for tips on how to find the right fit for your kids. Whether you’re looking for a camp for your child with special needs, a program that’ll make learning fun over the summer or camp opportunities for your teenager, you’ll find guidance in this issue. Cheers to a summer of letting our kids be kids, relishing the lifelong memories made at camp.

ADVERTISING REPRESENTATIVES ANN CUSACK RANDI EPSTEIN DEBBIE LUBRANSKI BARBARA NASTRO PAMELA PETERSON ERIN SALMAN ANDREA THORNE The acceptance of advertising by New Jersey Family does not constitute an endorsement of the products, services, or information being advertised. We do not knowingly present any products or services that are fraudulent or misleading in nature. Editorial inquiries, calendar information, ad vertising rates and schedules, and subscrip tion requests may be addressed to Kids Monthly Publications, Inc., P.O. Box 669, New Providence, NJ 07974-0669. New Jersey Family can be reached by calling 908-9751800, emailing editor@njfamily.com, or by visiting our website, njfamily.com. New Jersey Family is a woman-owned business and has been recognized for editorial and design excellence by the Parenting Media Association.

New Jersey Family is published monthly by Kids Monthly Pub lications, Inc., P.O. Box 669, New Providence, NJ 07974-0669. Reproduction of New Jersey Family in whole or in part without written permission from the publisher is prohibited. All rights reserved. Copyright 2021 by Kids Monthly Publications, Inc. Circulation audit by CVC, Circulation Verification Council.

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BIG BOOK OF CAMPS 2021 | NEW JERSEY FAMILY

PACK IT IN With a ventilated back panel, dual side mesh pockets for water bottles and a built-in whistle and name tag, you can’t go wrong with this backpack! Osprey Daylite Kids’ Backpack. $37.50, osprey.com

THROW IN THE TOWEL This four-pack of colorful towels will be used on repeat for camp and trips to the pool or beach. Made of 100 percent cotton, they’re soft on the skin and nice and big too! Utopia Towels, Cabana Stripe Beach Towel. $30.99, amazon.com DON’T BUG ME As seen on Shark Tank, this painless suction tool extracts saliva/venom to eliminate itching, stinging and swelling from insect bites and stings. Bug Bite Thing. $9.95, bugbitething.com

Go-To

GEAR

GET SET FOR A SUMMER OF FUN WITH THESE CAMP MUST-HAVES

MASK UP A face mask that’s cute, durable, breathable and stretchy is exactly what your kid needs this summer. VistaPrint Face Mask. $13, vistaprint.com

By RONNIE KOENIG

NJFAMILY.COM | BIG BOOK OF CAMPS 2021

LUNCH BUNCH A roomy lunch bag with a reinforced handle and a snap buckle that can be clipped to a backpack makes this a perfect choice for your guy or gal! Simple Modern Insulated Hadley Lunch Bag. $12.99, amazon.com

SUNNY DAYS This kiddo-safe, non-greasy SPF 50 lotion is the one your kids will willingly reapply. Supergoop PLAY Everyday Lotion. $32, supergoop.com

STAY COOL A packable, breathable hat keeps the sun off your child’s face and neck. Kids’ Play Hat, Sunday Afternoons. $29, sundayafternoons.com

WATER COOLER This bottle is triple insulated to keep drinks cold all day, comes in a variety of colors and has a built-in straw that lets you drink in one of two ways—an upright sip or a big swig! Owala FreeSip. $21.99, owalalife.com

BIG BOOK OF CAMPS 2021 | NEW JERSEY FAMILY

JUST KEEP SWIMMING These vibrant patterned swimsuits provide just the right amount of coverage and are UPF 50+. Mini Kelly Girls long Sleeve Bathing Suit, $56 and Mini Major Boys Board Short, $48, mott50.com

Circus Place Camp 2021! Where Athleticism and Artistry Converge! Introduce your child to the fastest growing, most unique sensation in kids activities this summer! Prepare to be amazed at what skills your child will achieve at our camps! This summer your child will learn Trapeze, Aerial Silks, Juggling, Wire Walking, Contortion, and more. The week culminates with a Big Top show, created by your children and safely recorded for families to view at home.

One and Two Week Options 9am-3pm Ages 6-15 Sibling Discounts Visit our website for dates, details and registration

www.thecircusplace.com

908-829-3784 Located in Hillsborough, NJ

SUM

MER VIBES

SUMMER DAY CAMPS DAY CAMP AT SOMERSET HILLS YMCA

Together again. Forever exploring. Making a splash. It’s summer camp at the Y! June 21st to Sept 3rd For kids entering grades K thru 10 Activities, swimming, weekly themes!

BEFORE/AFTER CARE OPTIONS & FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE AVAILABLE gscymca.org/camp GREATER SOMERSET COUNTY YMCA For a better us.

Camp Lee Mar Camp Lee Mar, located in the beautiful Pocono Mountains of Pennsylvania, is a coed overnight camp for children and teenagers (from 7 to 21) with mild to moderate developmental challenges.

A Life-Changing Experience! 2021 Dates:

June 23 - August 10

Visit our new website!

www.leemar.com

6 9 th S easo

• Fun traditional summer camp activities • Academics • Speech and language therapy • Daily living skills • Teenage campers enjoy social dancing every week with an end-of-summer “Prom” • Optional trips during the summer • Exceptional facilities featuring air conditioned bunks and buildings • Junior Olympic heated pool

• Caring, nurturing Staff • Lee Mar L.I.F.E. (Living Independently Functional Education) Program. The unique feature of our L.I.F.E. Program is that it incorporates everyday living skills into a personalized daily program. We have a fully functional apartment specifically for this program with a large kitchen, washer and dryer, two bathrooms, a living room and bedroom.

NJFAMILY.COM | BIG BOOK OF CAMPS 2021

KNOW

Be in the

WHAT TO ASK CAMP DIRECTORS DURING THE PANDEMIC By JESS MICHAELS

©ISTOCKPHOTO.COM / ANDRESR

hen considering summer camp, it’s so important to ask about the program and safety procedures before deciding which will become your child’s home away from home for the summer. Questions often range from inquiring about the session length, the swim program or, if it’s a sleepaway, how many children are in a bunk. But, amid a global pandemic, there are so many more questions to add to your list. The good news for parents is that both day and overnight camps ran successfully last summer and were able to mitigate the risk of COVID so children could have both a safe and rewarding summer. Here are some questions you should ask the camp director when doing your research:

BIG BOOK OF CAMPS 2021 | NEW JERSEY FAMILY

What changes are you making this year to keep campers safe? There are many safety procedures that were put in place by camps last summer that will continue in the summer of 2021. But with the pandemic changing month to month, there are some variables that won’t be known until closer to the summer. Camps ran successfully in 2020 with safety procedures to mitigate the risk of COVID such as small group cohorts, daily health screenings, additional hand washing/sanitizing, increased sanitizing of facilities and camp programs running mostly outdoors. Although camp looked a little different, the fundamentals of what makes camp so special for children remained the same.

How can I get to know a camp before registering? Even amid the pandemic, there are many ways to see the camp

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and get to know its director. Day camps offer socially distanced tours throughout the year. Many overnight camps will offer families the opportunity to visit camp this spring as the weather warms up.

What happens if staff or a child tests positive for COVID? Based on last summer, if a camper or staff member tests positive for COVID, the camp will report it to the local health department. Day camps will notify the camp community and let you know if your child was exposed and needs to quarantine. Overnight camps used testing last year before campers and staff arrived at camp and then again a few days after they arrived. If a test came back positive once at camp, those exposed in the cohort would quarantine and testing would be done on that group. It’s important to note that there were very few positive cases of COVID at both day and overnight camps in the Northeast.

If COVID vaccines are available, will you require them? What about testing? It’s too soon to tell when a vaccine will be available for children and young adults. Camps will work with their local and state health departments as vaccine information becomes available. Testing in 2021 is going to look different than it did in 2020. For overnight camp, parents can assume that some kind of testing will take place.

©ISTOCKPHOTO.COM/ FATCAMERA

What is your camp’s refund policy? This has become an important question that more and more people are asking of all camps since COVID hit. Before choosing a camp, it’s important to understand its refund policy and what date you have until to ask for your money back or if you can roll it over to the next year.

How do you handle separation anxiety for children who have been remote learners all year? A good camp director will meet your child where they are and will

BIG BOOK OF CAMPS 2021 | NEW JERSEY FAMILY

be focused on the social-emotional well-being of every child at camp. In 2020, many children came to camp with anxiety from being home from school and not socializing with others for an extended period of time. The good news is that camp directors said it took just a few days of being at camp for children to adjust.

Will my child have to wear a mask at camp? Last summer, children at day camp didn’t need to wear masks unless they couldn’t socially distance. Overnight campers wore masks when around other cohorts and also when social distancing couldn’t be maintained. It’s too early to tell what mask policies will be but one year later, mask wearing has become more commonplace than it was last summer and children have gotten used to wearing them daily.

What kind of screening process is done to make sure staff and campers are healthy? Both day and overnight camps required daily health screenings with questions asked about each child’s health and temperatures being taken either at home, at camp or sometimes both.

Are there activities that will be eliminated because of COVID? Because of the pandemic, some contact sports and activities needed to be eliminated last summer. Many camps also didn’t do field trips or inter-camp games to prevent exposure to many people. It’s too early to tell what activities will need to change for 2021 but if a camp needs to make changes to keep staff and campers safe, there are many other amazing activities to participate in. Many camps that ran in 2020 reported that even with some changes, it was the best summer they ever had because children needed camp so much after months spent at home. —Jess Michaels is the director of communications for the American Camp Association (ACA), NY and NJ, a not-for-profit organization dedicated to enhancing the summer camp experience.

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OVID may have changed a lot of things, but one thing it can’t alter: Kids need new experiences to learn and grow. And summer camp still offers the opportunity for kids to enjoy nature, meet people, build their independence and learn new skills. Camps are hoping to provide a sense of normalcy to kids this summer. “They have made lots of preparations to reduce risk and keep campers as safe as possible,” says Susie Lupert, executive director of the American Camp Association of NY and NJ. That means the protocols we’ve all become familiar with will be in place, including screening kids before they attend camp, wearing masks when social distancing isn’t possible and plenty of handwashing. In addition to packing masks, hand sanitizer and other COVID essentials, here’s what else you need to do before camp starts:

©ISTOCKPHOTO.COM / DOBRILA VIGNJEVIC

BOOK A WELL VISIT Even before COVID, kids needed checkups from their pediatricians before starting either day or sleepaway camp. Health forms must be filled out by your child’s doctor and turned in before arrival, so schedule an appointment ASAP. “Your pediatrician will give your child an exam and review ongoing issues such as allergies or asthma,” says Hanan Tanuos, MD, associate professor of pediatrics and director of pediatric primary care at Rutgers New Jersey Medical School. “We also want to make sure kids are up to date on vaccines and have any prescription medications they may need, such as asthma inhalers or insulin.” CONTACT THE CAMP NURSE If your child has special medical needs, check in with the nurse, says Lupert. Even though you’ve sent the medical forms, its a good idea to be proactive and discuss your child’s conditions ahead of time. Be sure to find out about your camp’s policies on prescription medications, such as who administers them, where they’ll be stored (usually at the nurse’s office) and whether your child can take over-the-counter medications such as Tylenol. DON'T FORGET THE DENTAL VISIT The last thing you want is a toothache or a broken wire on braces while your kid is at day camp or sleepaway. If you’re behind on checkups due to the shutdown, schedule one now. “We don’t want a child to have the start of a cavity that may get uncomfortable while he or she is at camp,” says Jessica Y. Lee,

BIG BOOK OF CAMPS 2021 | NEW JERSEY FAMILY

DDS, president of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. “Depending on the types of activities at camp, you also should ask your dentist about making a mouth guard.” If your child has braces, call your orthodontist to make sure wires and brackets are in good shape. Don’t forget to pack dental wax, a toothbrush (with cover), toothpaste and dental flossers for kids with braces (which kids wearing braces should bring with them for both sleepaway and day camp).

on sunscreen, and use a minimum of 30 SPF, says Tanuos. Sprays are okay, but it’s sometimes hard to tell if you’re applying enough. Sticks aren’t ideal, but they’re convenient and may be easier for kids to appply sunscreen in a hurry. “Kids learn from repetition, so if your family wears sunscreen all the time, they’ll be better about remembering to apply it when they’re away from you,” says Tanuos. Swim shirts with built-in sun protection are also a must.

PACK FOR EVERY CONDITION Make sure kids have long pants (to keep ticks off!), rain gear and sturdy, closed toe shoes or boots for sleepaway camp. Flip flops are a no-no for hiking because they have no support and don’t protect toes, says Tanuos. If your child wears glasses, pack an extra pair.

SEND THEM WITH BUG SPRAY Show kids how to apply insect repellent, and stick with products that contain DEET or oil of lemon eucalyptus to keep ticks away. Teach them to check themselves for ticks, and to let a counselor know if they find one, says Tanuos. Favorite tick hiding places: the scalp, under arms, in and around ears, at the back of knees and at waistbands.

PROTECT THEM FROM THE SUN Pack a hat your kid likes (so he or she will actually wear it). Teach kids how to put

—Arricca Elin SanSone is a New York-based health and lifestyle writer.

©ISTOCKPHOTO.COM / VERNONWILEY

NJFAMILY.COM | BIG BOOK OF CAMPS 2021

CAMP QUEST HOW TO FIND THE RIGHT CAMP FOR YOUR KID

By HEIDI L. BORST

his year, parents are as excited as their kids about summer camp. Our children are facing so many changes in their day-to-day lives due to the pandemic, and we long for a return to normalcy. Summer camps offer just that, a chance for kids to be kids, to make new friends and leave their worries behind. Whether you’re all in or still on the fence about camp this year, you’ll need to do your homework before making a decision. Read on for guidelines on choosing the right sleepaway or day camp for your littles.

©ISTOCKPHOTO.COM / VERNONWILEY

SAFETY REGULATIONS AND PROTOCOLS Last summer, day camps in New Jersey ran successfully and with very few cases of COVID, says Susie Lupert, executive director of the American Camp Association, NY and NJ. this year, camps have extensive plans in place to prevent the spread of the virus, and the New Jersey Department of Health has created further regulations and guidelines on how camps must operate. For parents who‘re concerned about COVID, contact your child’s camp directly to find out what plans they’re putting in place. “Camps this summer will offer a kind of antidote to all of the intense restrictions that have been put on children this past year,” says Lupert, with regards to quarantine, hybrid or remote learning and canceled activities. Sharon McDonald, a Maplewood mom of two, is planning to send her children to the same sleepaway camp they attended for three years pre-COVID. “My kids have tons of fun there, and it’s the highlight of every year. They love the independence and freedom. The camp has been very good about communicating with parents about safety protocols and updates. I totally trust their leadership,” McDonald says. South Orange mom Lauren Doyle has decided to send her two daughters to camp this year (one to day camp and one to sleepaway) after keeping them home last summer. “We feel more comfortable sending them this summer because we have more information about the virus, vaccines are happening (even though not for kids) and the monitoring tools (testing, etc.) are more readily available,” says Doyle. “Ultimately our kids need it. They had nothing last summer and they have not been in school. The socialization alone is worth it. Last summer the cons outweighed the pros for us. This summer we feel differently.”

FOCUS ON YOUR CHILD’S INTERESTS When choosing a camp for your children, considering their age as

BIG BOOK OF CAMPS 2021 | NEW JERSEY FAMILY

well as what they’re into will ensure a good match. “If they’re doing their own research, [parents] should be finding out: What is a typical day like? What types of activities will the child be participating in? Are these activities that my child enjoys?,” says Lupert. “If my child likes to do art all day, I wouldn’t necessarily send them to a soccer camp and vice versa. Is there a mixture of activities or it focused on one particular activity? How many counselors are in a group? What kind of supervision is there? Do I want my child to learn to swim? Camps can offer so many different activities.” If your child is attending a sleepaway camp, there are additional factors to consider. “It’s important for parents to ask, again, what will my child be doing all day, but also, what does the bunk structure look like,” says Lupert. “What do meals look like? What is the staff-tocamper ratio? If a parent is looking for a sleepaway camp for the first time, that would be a great opportunity to give the ACA a call and learn more about any concerns or questions they might have.”

GOING SOLO VS. WITH FRIENDS Many parents decide to send their child to camp along with a friend or sibling. Short Hills mom Marisa P. has two boys, ages 4 and 6, who’ll be attending camp together this summer. “Choosing a camp was easy,” says Marisa P. “We asked a few friends where they were going and wanted them to play sports and be able to swim and really improve. My [older] son went to Willow Lake last summer for the first time with a few friends and came back after months at home energized, happy and just smiling like we hadn’t seen since the pandemic started. So, this summer we’re sending both together.” On the flip side, one of the perks of summer camp is the opportunity to cultivate new friendships, says Lupert. “For some kids, it’s a great chance to make new friends and not necessarily be dependent on someone that they already know. For [other] kids, that connection is very, very important, and it turns out great,” Lupert says. “We often recommend to families who are thinking about sleepaway camp with a friend to consider having them in separate bunks just so the kids really get an opportunity to meet lots of different kids… but it’s up to the level of comfort involved. For parents with kids who are different ages, I recommend [the older kids] go somewhere they don’t know anybody, but for a much younger child, it might be nice for them to have a friend.” —Heidi L. Borst is a mother, writer and nutrition coach based in Wilmington, NC.

Sleepaway

SUMMER By ANGEL MADISON

PLANNING FOR 2021 “We are counting down the days until summer when they can go have an experience that is different than what they’ve had for the last year,” says Susie Lupert, executive director of the American Camp Association, NY & NJ. “We are excited for the summer to have kids be kids again and to have some much-needed interaction with other children and fresh air and sports and art and just be able to have some fun again.” Lupert and her team are hard at work alongside state governments trying to determine guidelines for the summer, and a lot is still up in the air. Using a template of what camps did around the country last summer with very few cases nationwide, she is confident that sleepaway camp will go on this summer. While camp guidelines will comply with CDC and state health department rules, it’s unclear if that will involve testing or quarantine for all campers before they leave for overnight camp, or if campers will have to stay in small pods or with bunkmates. “We are hoping that by summer there are a lot of people vaccinated and we’re really hoping to see a lot of progress with that,” says Lupert. “We’re telling camps to try and plan for the groups, but we’re not sure what it looks like yet as far as how those groups can interact and how large those groups will be. Our expectation at this point is similar to last summer. Plan on larger group sizes than last summer, but still plan on

having kids in cohorts, but hopefully they can interact more.” Cohen Camps sleepaway camps in the New England area plan to create a closed community bubble that feels as normal as possible, according to Jonathan Cohen, president of Cohen Camps, which include the all-girls Camp Pembroke in Massachusetts, and the co-ed Camp Tel Noar and Camp Tevya in New Hampshire. “COVID precautions are top of mind for us,” says Cohen. “The basic steps of handwashing, physical distancing, mask wearing and cleaning/disinfecting… will all play a role at camp. Campers will do most of their activities with their cabin mates. Depending on CDC recommendations, we may expand to larger pods as each 3.5-week session progresses, while still wearing masks and washing hands just as carefully. Above all, we’ll stay vigilant and flexible, adjusting along the way!”

A RETURN TO NORMAL-ISH Cohen Camps were closed last summer, but Cohen says he can’t wait to get back to what makes sleepaway camp special and he won’t let COVID get in the way of that at his camps. “Friendship, confidence, growth, camp spirit and fun will fill our days, as always,” assures Cohen. “Sure, some activities may feel a bit different and there will be more cabin activities. We’re adding open-sided tents to move more activities outdoors. Special events in camp will replace out-of-camp field trips. Our campers want and need their camps more than ever, and their core experience will be here for them.” Cohen says the experience will be welcoming for all, including first-time campers and their parents. “We promise you, it won’t take long for you to feel you are a part of the camp family,” says Cohen. “Our staff spends a lot of time building cabin communities. Your camper will have lots of new friends by dinnertime the first day. Some ways of living together will be new to all of us this summer, everyone will be exploring together. Your counselors will take great care of you and will support you every day. Many of our staff grew up at camp so they understand what it feels like when you first come to camp. We make sure that every camper feels part of camp as quickly as possible.” But if you’re serious about sleepaway, you’ll need to make a decision sooner rather than later. Cohen says his camps have very few spots left, and a waitlist. Says Lupert: “I think parents are looking forward to giving their kids that have been doing remote learning some relief.”

COURTESY OF COHEN CAMPS

iguring out if your kid is emotionally ready for sleepaway camp is a big decision. But this year families have another set of concerns to weigh. Are your kids prepared to go to sleepaway camp and what will that look like during COVID? And are you ready? Before deciding about sleepaway, consider these factors: Has she slept at a friend’s house or spent any time away from home, even for a day? Does she have friends or a sibling going to the same camp? Can she do things on her own without a lot of adult assistance? Does she want to go? Even if your kids have gone to sleepaway camp in the past, you need to consider whether they’re ready for sleepaway during the pandemic. Did he really love the camp because it was soccer-focused or had a lot of day-trip excursions? If so, will he be happy with it if camp is different and has restrictions this year? Before booking, have a sit-down with your kids and help manage expectations for the summer. But chances are, they will be excited to experience something new and different away from their Chromebooks.

Are your kids ready for overnight camp during the pandemic? Here’s how to know and what to expect.

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COURTESY OF COHEN CAMPS

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CAMP

Why kids need COURTESY OF RONNIE KOENIG

AS WE ENTER OUR SECOND SUMMER OF LIVING THROUGH COVID, GETTING KIDS OUTSIDE WITH OTHER CHILDREN IS A MUST. By RONNIE KOENIG

ast summer, right in the thick of COVID I searched online for camps that were open near me. I think that was my exact Google search: “camps open near me.” (I also searched other things around that stressful time including: “best martini recipe,” “how to cut your own hair” and

BIG BOOK OF CAMPS 2021 | NEW JERSEY FAMILY

“can you get COVID from licking a shopping cart?” Yep, all these things actually happened!) After a few months of online learning, my kids were burnt out from so much screen time and so little interaction with the outside world and friends. I discovered a camp that was operating within

Summer Programs

at PRINCETON DAY SCHOOL Full-day and half-day programs: Academics, Arts, Athletics, Adventure!

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pds.org/summer-programs 609.279.2700 x1342

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COURTESY OF RONNIE KOENIG

COVID guidelines of social distancing, mask-wearing, frequent hand washing and other recommended protocols. Instead of the traditional groupings by age, there was only one small group of kids and registration was limited. Without being able to actually go in and see what the camp looked like (due to COVID) I registered my son for all six weeks and ordered two camp T-shirts in his size, happy that at least one of us would have a reason to leave the house soon. In the past, we’ve set money aside for day camp because we believe it provides so many necessary things—the chance to be a kid and play outside, an opportunity to make new friends, face challenges and problem-solve without your parents around. Last summer, the need for camp seemed even more urgent. Our son, then 8, had spent countless hours in front of a computer screen every day. I hated the fact that my active young boy had become so sedentary. Sure, we forced him to get outside every day and exercise but it just wasn’t the same as his usual hours spent running around with peers during recess or after school. This coming summer, I have no hesitation about sending him back to camp (likely the same one) because of the great experience he had. No one got COVID. He played outside. He made new friends. He wore a mask when necessary and respected the counselors and camp rules. When people work together like this, it’s possible to create a safe and fun experience. The one thing I wish is that I had gotten a chance to see the

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inside of this amazing camp. This particular organization holds camps in various country clubs across the US. Every morning, we drove up to the entrance of the club’s main building where my son had his temperature taken and waved goodbye. I heard about the pool with a snack bar where the kids got lunch every day (included in the camp) and the tennis and golf lessons he was getting on alternating days. I sat at home in front of my computer working and living vicariously through my son who was living his best life. And isn’t that what childhood should be, even during a pandemic? I was extremely grateful to find this camp at a time when my son needed it most. And even though the summer looked incredibly different from years past, it was worth it to give my guy just a sliver of normalcy in a time when the world had turned upside down. If you’re considering camp this summer my advice is to talk to the camp director and make sure you’re comfortable with the precautions being put in place to keep everyone healthy. Yes, there are risks in sending your child to summer camp, even as we start to get vaccinated. But to us, the benefits of summer camp outweigh the small risk for children. The importance of physical exercise, socialization and routine cannot be overstated. And summer camp provides all of those things in spades. —Ronnie Koenig is New Jersey Family’s senior editor. She lives in Princeton with her husband and two children.

Playing It WHAT HEALTH AND SAFETY MEASURES TO EXPECT THIS YEAR

o one has a crystal ball that can tell us exactly what the summer will look like with COVID. But we do know that both day and overnight camps in states that allowed for camps to open last summer operated successfully last summer amid the global pandemic. And we know that campers had a safe, healthy and fun summer. Camps have put numerous health and safety protocols in place to mitigate the risk of infection at camp with guidance from the American Camp Association, the CDC and state and local department of health offices. While no environment is totally risk-free from COVID, summer camps in 2020 ran with very few positive COVID cases and were able to offer safe

programs where children enjoyed a summer outdoors. There are a number of changes that both day and overnight camps implemented in 2020, many that you can also expect to see this summer. Decisions on the camp program and safety protocols will be finalized closer to the summer depending on COVID infection rates at the time. While camps certainly looked different in 2020 than in past summers, the fundamentals of camp being a place for children to try new things, make new friends, take a break from screens, gain independence and build confidence all remained the same.

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©ISTOCKPHOTO.COM / KOLDO STUDIO

By JESS MICHAELS

Here are some changes made last year that kept campers safe during the pandemic:

©ISTOCKPHOTO.COM / KOLDO STUDIO

DAY CAMP AILY TEMPERATURE CHECKS D Each day, children were required to have their temperatures taken, either at home, at the bus stop or at camp. If your child had a fever, he or she was asked to stay home for a certain number of days and may have been asked to get a COVID test or note from their pediatrician before returning to camp. DAILY HEALTH SCREENINGS Every morning families filled out a health screening with questions about how their children were feeling. If they were exhibiting any COVID symptoms or had traveled to certain states, they were asked to stay home from camp. REDUCED CAPACITY Camps ran at a reduced capacity for social distancing guidelines. OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES Many camps held activities outside, reducing the risk of spreading the virus. Camps were able to maximize their outdoor space and rethink it to run programs outdoors as much as possible. HAND HYGIENE Camps set up additional hand washing and hand sanitizer stations and hand hygiene became a top priority before and after activities. Many camp directors reported a decrease in common illnesses over the summer likely because of diligent hand hygiene. COHORTS/PODS Camp groups acted as cohorts that stayed together throughout the day and didn’t intermingle with other groups. The size of these cohorts for 2021 will depend on state guidelines but last summer in New Jersey, cohorts consisted of 20 campers. Cohorts were used so if a child or staff member tested positive for COVID, the cohort/pod could be quarantined and it wouldn’t affect the rest of camp. CLEANING/DISINFECTING Camps have always cleaned and disinfected equipment and activity areas but since COVID, those cleanings increased throughout the day and included a deeper cleaning. LUNCH To limit the number of people gathering, lunch times were staggered and meals were eaten outside. How lunch was served looked different than in past summers with many camps moving away from buffet to pre-packaged lunches. RAINY DAYS Because camps ran activities outside for the most part, some camps built in “rain days” last summer, very much like snow days. On extremely wet days, camp was canceled. MASKS Staff wore masks at New Jersey day camps when social distancing couldn’t be maintained and campers wore masks on buses and when distancing between cohorts couldn’t be maintained. CHANGE IN ACTIVITIES Certain activities were eliminated because of too much contact with other people or equipment. BUSING Due to social distancing guidelines, last summer there were fewer children on each bus. Masks were required and children sat alone, with a child from their cohort or with a sibling in their household. FIELD TRIPS Outside of camp trips were canceled last summer. Final decisions on them for 2021 will occur closer to summer when directors can evaluate where the state is with COVID.

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OVERNIGHT CAMP TESTING The use of COVID tests played an important role in how overnight camps operated safely last summer. Both campers and staff were required to take a test a number of days before arriving at camp and then again once at camp. Testing wasn’t a magic bullet but was used as part of a multi-layered system to mitigate the risk of COVID. DAILY HEALTH SCREENINGS Like at day camps, campers had their temperatures taken each morning and a health screening was given daily at overnight camp. COHORTS/PODS With the goal of all campers being able to come together after a period of time, many overnight camps had cohorts or families where campers started together and only intermingled with their cohort for the first 2-3 weeks of camp. As time went on and camp was deemed COVID-free, campers came together while also maintaining distancing between other cohorts. OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES Overnight camps used their vast outdoor space to help mitigate the risk of COVID and spent as much time outdoors as possible which reduced the risk of spreading COVID. MASKS Masks were used when social distancing couldn’t be maintained between cohorts or at all camp gatherings. INTER-CAMP GAMES While competitions with other camps have been a tradition of overnight camps, last year they were eliminated to mitigate the risk of COVID. CLEANING/DISINFECTING As with day camps, there was an increase in cleaning and disinfecting around camp from equipment to facilities. HAND HYGIENE Camps increased hand hygiene among campers and staff with additional hand washing stations and frequency and hand sanitizing throughout the day. Overnight camp directors also reported less common sicknesses likely because of the additional hand hygiene. ALL CAMP GATHERINGS One of the most special parts of overnight camp is when the whole camp comes together for gatherings. After it was deemed safe to come together, these larger camp gatherings were able to resume. DINING Campers ate outside more frequently and some camps staggered meal times. VISITING DAY Last summer, overnight camps that ran didn’t offer a visiting day for parents to ensure the bubble they created at camp remained COVID-free. Decisions on visiting days will be made closer to the summer depending on rates of infection at the time. CAMP TRIPS Trips outside camp were eliminated last summer. What field trips will look like this summer will depend on what the rates of COVID infection are in states camps are located in and where campers are have traveled.

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[Meet the Camp] Choosing the right summer camp is a big decision, especially during a pandemic. You want to find a community your kids will love, but also a place that’s committed to health and safety. Here’s a look at some of the best camps in NJ and beyond.

PLEASE NOTE: MANY PHOTOS SHOW CAMPERS WITHOUT MASKS BECAUSE THEY WERE TAKEN PRE-COVID.

[MEET TH E CA M P] S P ECIAL A DV ERT IS IN G S ECT IO N

MORRISTOWN-BEARD SCHOOL 70 Whippany Rd., Morristown • 973-539-3032 • mbs.net/about/summer-programs

Traditional Summer Camp Meets Educational Adventure

f you’re a parent who wants an academic adventure for your child’s summer, MorristownBeard School has the camp for you. If you’re a parent who wants a child’s summer filled with fun, games and swimming, Morristown-Beard School has the camp for you. The dichotomous offerings are designed to offer families the summer season that’s best for them. Morristown-Beard Day Camp helps younger children develop skills in sports, arts and crafts, drama, swimming and science. It’s a fun, family experience that kids look forward to every year. MBS Summer Institute isn’t a typical summer camp. It’s an extension of MBS’s pedagogical prowess—a team teaching approach designed to give older students an immersive academic experience. So which program is for you? 30 YEARS OF MBS SUMMER CAMP “Morristown-Beard Day Camp is now on its 32nd season,” says Camp Director Stephanie Galvez. Campers ages 6 through 14 are grouped according to age (based on the end of June) and gender. Ages 4 and 5 are co-educational and grouped by age. “For the past 30 years, our focus has been to help children build character and selfesteem in a fun and safe environment where they can be themselves,” Galvez says. “Some of the fondest memories of summer camp are the relationships children develop that are not normally built during the school year. Some of the best friends in the world are the ones met at summer camp.” Sessions are offered for one week, seven weeks or any combination. Transportation isn’t included, but there is a hot lunch program. Camp has all the fun makings of traditional summer sessions, including

daily swim instruction and special event days. There are also arts and crafts, science and athletic periods. Daily schedules have multiple 30-45 minute periods—exposing campers to all the camp’s benefits. The 22-acre campus of MBS gives campers room to roam. Facilities include a Middle School building and Founders Hall, a performing arts facility with a 630-seat, state-of-the-art theater. There are also three outdoor fields. The Day Camp was closed last year due to COVID, but that gave experienced staff time to plan. “Counselor return rates for the camp average more than 90 percent,” Galvez says. New safety protocols include taking campers’ temperatures and limiting activities to smaller groups. There also will not be any field trips this year—though the customary Olympics will go on as scheduled. “We have spent over a year prepping for this summer since we were closed last summer to ensure our families and staff are safe,” Galvez says. “Know that we have been putting all of our efforts and planning into opening this summer and we are ready.” LESSONS EXPERIENCED, NOT TAUGHT There’s no shortage of academic-focused summer camps out there, but Amanda Gregory, director of MBS Summer Institute,

isn’t competing with them. “We don’t offer advancement courses,” she says. “You can’t come and take a calculus course here…our courses are all project-based. We took, as our foundation, the principles of design thinking, which is collaboration, brainstorming, prototype, critique, and the constant questioning of constraints.” In essence, Summer Institute is a summer school where team-taught classes immerse students in lessons they choose to learn. “It’s supposed to be experiential,” Gregory says. “We want the students to feel as if they’re not being taught by a teacher, but that they’re working with the teacher on a project. They have some sort of outcome at the end, whether it’s a culminating experience or a culminating project. We have a couple of courses that are centered on specific disciplines, but we try to make it as transdisciplinary as possible.” Classes designed to pique campers’ curiosity include: Strategy Gaming, Electronic Music Immersion, Constitutional Debate and Organizations and Leadership. Middle School courses are open to rising sixth through eighth graders, while additional courses are available to high schoolers. Tuition includes lunch, but parents or students themselves are responsible for transportation. Some sessions are available as full-day courses, while others are 90-minute classes. The idea is to offer parents scheduling flexibility. The 2020 Summer Institute was done online because of the coronavirus, but Gregory plans on returning to full in-person classes this year. “We’ve had in-person learning throughout our school year this entire year, with social distancing measures in place,” she adds. “We’ll have lots of tents set up so people can be outside. But our classrooms are all set up for socially distant, in-person learning. We’re good to go.”

NJFAMILY.COM | BIG BOOK OF CAMPS 2021

BIG BOOK OF CAMPS 2021 | NEW JERSEY FAMILY

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CAMP HALF-BLOOD Mayapple Hill, South Mountain Reservation, Maplewood • 929-397-9393 • camphalfbloodbklyn.com

The Heroes Of Olympus, Training in Essex County

f Camp Half-Blood sounds like a Harry Potter book title, you’re right. The unique summer experience is a literary role-playing camp which takes its inspiration from the book series: Percy Jackson and the Olympians. The weeklong session trains demigods—half mortal, half god—to be the next heroes of Olympus. “I always like to tell the story of how the books become important to the kids,” says Crystal Bobb-Semple, a former bookstore owner who started the camp in Brooklyn in 2010. “What’s also important is that they asked to take this off the page and into a real-life experience. And it’s been wonderful taking these stories, with kids, and turning them into these immersive, on-theground, completely outdoor summer camp experiences.” NOT ALL HEROES WEAR CAPES Camp Half-Blood’s greatest lesson—other than facility with Greek mythology—is its ethos that all children can be the star of the show. “Regardless of your special power—the thing the gods have endowed you with—you can become a hero in our space,” BobbSemple says. “We make sure that it’s not always the fastest kid that gets celebrated. Or the smartest kid who gets celebrated. This is all about democratizing not just the reading experience, but the camp experience. So, everyone at camp matters.” And while the camp may seem all about fantasy and fun—it’s learning at its utmost. Each’s week’s Quest is a hidden lesson. “Literacy is our secret mission,” BobbSemple says. “Kids at camp are not required to read anything. Many of them do, obviously. But our value is that we tell these stories. We tell them through our play. We tell them verbally in the form of counselors doing

things like story time or leading Mythomagic games with kids.” FAMILIAR FACES, DONE SAFELY Camp Half-Blood is held outdoors on Mayapple Hill at South Mountain Reservation. Last year, there were no positive coronavirus cases at the camp, and when rainy weather prevented gathering, the camp went virtual. This year, Bobb-Semple hopes

to use indoor spaces at local schools, if that option is safely available. Either way, this year’s camp will feature familiar faces as some 80 percent of counselors return year after year to serve as Greek guideposts to glory. “Our mission is to show kids that stories matter, their stories matter,” Bobb-Semple says. “And our goal is to create spaces where their imagination can take the story to the next level.”

NJFAMILY.COM | BIG BOOK OF CAMPS 2021

[MEET TH E CA M P] S P ECIAL A DV ERT IS IN G S ECT IO N

CAMP RIVERBEND 116 Hillcrest Rd., Warren • 908-580-CAMP • campriverbend.com

A Camp Where the Only Zoom is the Zip Line

amp Riverbend has always been about getting kids to stop looking at screens and start looking around. Now that coronavirus has made Zoom a verb, the mission feels even more important to director Robin Breene Hetrick. “Every year we say, ‘It’s wonderful that the children are outside and not on their screens all the time,’” she says. “This year is to the nth degree. They’re Zooming for school. They’re Zooming when they’re playing on their computers. They’re Zooming if they want to interact with grandparents living in Florida. It’s even more of their life. This past year, this past fall, certainly, it seems every aspect of a child’s life now is online.” “HAPPY TO BE OUTSIDE,” SAFELY Camp Riverbend opened last summer, and followed all applicable health and safety guidelines. Outside entertainers were not allowed, clubs were canceled and masks and social distancing where used when deemed necessary by CDC guidance. Safety and cleaning protocols were, of course, enhanced. Breene Hetrick continues to monitor government health recommendations and will adjust accordingly. She appreciates the worries of parents but notes that those that attend—safely—will see what she saw last year. “The children were so happy to be outside with their friends and having fun, and the parents were so happy to have their children have that experience,” says Breene Hetrick. “To be able to have a fun, community experience was very meaningful for both the children and the parents. The parents whose children attended in summer 2020 were very pleased they enrolled them.” FAMILY FOR GOING ON 60 YEARS In addition to safety, Camp Riverbend is a family. Literally. The camp was founded by educators Harold and Marianne Breene

BIG BOOK OF CAMPS 2021 | NEW JERSEY FAMILY

in 1962, and is now run by their children: Roger, Jill, Paul and Robin. The camp’s 30acre site along the Passaic River includes woods, nature trails, a spray park, a wetlands sanctuary and athletic fields. There are four heated pools for daily swimming lessons and free swim, miniature golf, boating and all types of arts, performance and sports facilities. Sessions run seven weeks, with

a two-week minimum – and are open to children from Pre-K through 9th grade. Breene Hetrick says that since many schools aren’t offering full-time in-person instruction, she expects more campers this summer. She bases that on the smiles she saw last summer. “The families of the campers who attended were so grateful,” she says. “The children really, really needed camp.”

[MEET TH E CA M P] S P ECIAL A DV ERT IS IN G S ECT IO N

CAMP VERITANS 225 Pompton Rd., Haledon • 973-956-1220 • campveritans.com

Safe Fun: Letting Kids Be Kids for the Summer or a summer session that’s long been about putting down technology, Camp Veritans doesn’t want to add Zoom sessions to

its schedule. Our goal is to provide campers with unique, fun and memorable outdoor experiences within a safe environment. SIX DECADES OF EXPERIENCE Creativity is a bit easier when you’ve been around for some 60 years. So, while Camp Veritans didn’t open last year, staffers have spent the time preparing safety protocols and safe programming. Staff will have what Rudow is calling “COVID bags,” equipped with masks, hand sanitizer and other safety and cleaning items. Bunks will be limited, and hand-washing stations will be plentiful. “For more than 60 years, we still maintain the same thing: safety is our number 1 motto, and we let kids be kids and have a good time,” Rudow says. “We’re taking every precaution that we can conceivably put into place…without taking away what camp is all about, fun, friendships and lifelong memories.” Campers range from children turning 4 years old (by October 15 of the coming fall) through 10th grade. Low camperto-counselor ratios have always allowed staffers to tailor activities to the individual likes of their group, Rudow says. This year, it will make social distancing and safety easier, too.It doesn’t hurt to be located on a 60-acre campus in Haledon. “The key thing is getting these kids to be outside,” she adds. “Get them to socialize as much as possible. Get them away from the computer screens that they’ve basically been tied to for school.” That’s not to say Camp Veritans doesn’t educate.

LEARNING TO TALK TO THE WORLD There’s an air-conditioned multipurpose building—with plenty of windows for airflow—that is home to cooking and other activities. Rudow has introduced more science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) in recent years. But teaching is always in a setting that lets kids be kids—so the learning

and growth happens naturally. “It’s having conversations with one another,” Rudow says. “It’s learning interpersonal skills. They’re not getting those interpersonal skills now because you can just turn your screen off and just listen. You can’t turn a person off who is face-to-face with you. It’s really preparing them for life.”

NJFAMILY.COM | BIG BOOK OF CAMPS 2021

[MEET TH E CA M P] S P ECIAL A DV ERT IS IN G S ECT IO N

SUMMER EXPLORATIONS AT THE ELISABETH MORROW SCHOOL 435 Lydecker St., Englewood • 201-568-5566, ext. 7333 • elisabethmorrow.org

Stopping the “Summer Slide,” Safe and Sound

n the days of COVID, experience matters. And Summer Explorations, the summer program at The Elisabeth Morrow School, has experience. It has the advantage of not only having run its program in summer 2020—but also having run both an in-person and virtual school year, too. “We’ve gained the experience of what it looks like to have students in the building and the use of space,” said Director of Auxiliary Programs Liza Jones Hards. “We have HEPA filtration in all classrooms and buildings. In addition, we have a beautiful 14-acre campus that we’ve utilized to get students outside and make great use of that resource.” EXCEEDING SAFETY GUIDELINES Summer Explorations plans to be open for six weeks for children ages 2 to grade 8, with half- and full-day options. Specialized theme weeks will be offered to preschoolers up to first-graders, with outdoor activities and creative projects. For grades 2-6, choices including science, art, technology, creative writing, theater, music and nature exploration will be offered. The oldest students, in grades 7-9, will have leadership programs and academic classes in science, writing, technology, math and test prep. The campus encompasses two state-ofthe-art science and technology labs, two outdoor playgrounds and a new turf field. Safety protocols are in place–and evolving as often as necessary, Hards says. “We aim to meet and exceed all of the CDC guidelines,” she adds. “We have a team of doctors and medical professionals that have helped us to look over our protocols and our policies to make sure that we are maintaining the highest standards that are coming across, as they change daily.”

BIG BOOK OF CAMPS 2021 | NEW JERSEY FAMILY

A SHARED SPIRIT, 6 FEET APART Hards says Elisabeth Morrow has long focused on preventing what she calls the “summer slide,” the phenomenon where students take a summer break without education and lose the momentum of the academic year. That mission has only become more important as many students have had only remote learning for the past year.

“The best way that they’re going to be able to learn is to be able to come together in a safe way,” Hards adds. “The communication and working together with someone can’t really be replicated over the screen. There are lots that can, and we’ve had a successful remote program, as well, but there’s a sense of excitement that comes from working together with someone, even if you’re six feet apart.”

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APPLE MONTESSORI SCHOOLS Multiple locations in NJ • 888-672-5552 • applemontessorischools.com/summer-program

he “Apple Magic” thrives in the face of a fast-changing world. Apple Montessori campers love the exciting and enriching environment for both in-person and virtual instruction. “We learned a lot when we opened Apple Montessori Schools’ summer camp in 2020—and we’re making 2021 a summer experience children will never forget,” says Regional Director Kellie Capatasto. Apple has schools throughout North and Central New Jersey. Each day is filled with learning adventures such as coding, robotics, music, drama, arts, sports and daily Montessori lessons, among many more. Daily programs—like Innovators & Explorers, Tech Time, Crafts & Creations— are fun and educational, so campers are well-prepared for the school year ahead. Apple follows the guidance from federal, state, and local governments for dropoffs, building entry, deep cleaning, social distancing and face coverings. All materials

and surfaces are cleaned and sanitized frequently; and Apple has also enhanced training and protocols for staff. “The dedication of those staffers—an Apple point of pride every year—is even more important in today’s world,” Capatasto says. “The teachers, assistants and staff working at summer camp are the same staff who work during the school year,” she adds. “The people we hire in the summer continue with

us in the fall. This continuity and familiarity are so good for the children. That’s the beauty of it.” Apple’s summer camp is nonstop learning and fun for eight weeks with a three-week minimum commitment. Fullday schedules offer before- and after-care. There are also half-day programs. Some facilities have splash pads while others have pools with daily swim lessons by Red Cross certified instructors.

BASKING RIDGE COUNTRY CLUB JUNIOR GOLF CAMPS 185 Madisonville Rd., Basking Ridge • 908-766-8200 • baskingridgecc.com

ore! It’s not the typical summer camp war cry, but at Basking Ridge Country Club’s Junior Golf Camps, the golfer’s warning is as common as ghost stories at a sleepaway camp. The country club has offered week-long junior golf camps for 15 years, the goal being to create an environment of learning and fun that will foster both personal confidence and a lifelong enjoyment of the game. Campers have access to three putting greens, a large chipping green with two green-side bunkers, a driving range and the club’s full 18-hole course. There are half- and full-day camps open to golfers of any skill level ages 7-16. The camps use “creative games” to teach the fundamentals, with one instructor per seven students. Half-day campers focus on developing fine motor skills, reinforced through instructional stations that hone aspects of the game such as chipping, putting and full

swing. Full-day campers have the same morning schedules, but spend most of the afternoon on the course learning how to manage the intricacies of individual holes. They also have lunch and hop in the club’s pool for a midday swim. Camps are designed to educate golfers in all aspects of the swing, the game and its application to the course. Camps typically pair golfers of roughly equivalent

skill and are staffed by PGA golf professionals. Keeping the personalities and talents of each camper in mind, the camp pays special attention to the dynamics of the group. Proper golf etiquette, safety and rules are also covered in all clinics and camps. This teaching philosophy allows all campers to achieve success and gain greater enjoyment for golf at an earlier age.

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CAMP HUNTINGTON 56 Bruceville Rd., High Falls, NY • 855-707-2267 • camphuntington.com

iven Camp Huntington’s focus on individuals with developmental disabilities, owner Daniel Falk knows how important it is to families that he open this summer. So he’s doing it right. After New York State rules prevented Huntington from opening in 2020, this year’s camp will have limited registration. It will have an additional on-site registered nurse, plus an infectious-disease specialist and virologist on board as consultants. There will be pre-, post- and weekly virus testing along with dedicated cabin space set aside for social distancing and isolation. “We really learned from communicating with all of our families how important camp is to them and their child, and the role that this type of residential, sleepaway program really plays in their lives,” Falk says. “That was very intense for us to learn.” And it’s why camp will be open this summer. Camp Huntington serves campers with disabilities, regardless of age or

the severity of behavioral issues. It opened in 1961 and was redesigned for wider therapeutic inclusion by Dr. Bruria Bodek-Falik, Falk’s mother and mentor. The grounds boast dining halls, a swimming pool, a multi-element ropes course and a waterfall on the Roundout Creek. The program features curriculum designed to cultivate talents for the developmentally disabled in a safe, fun

and therapeutic environment. The camp’s three primary programs are Independence, Participation and Recreation. “We can deliver a program that’s meaningful and playful and is engaging, and that campers and parents are not distracted by the difficulties or the challenges that COVID presents,” Falk says. “We’re looking forward to grappling with those challenges and delivering the ‘Huntington Spirit.’”

JCC CAMP RUACH 775 Talamini Rd., Bridgewater • 908-443-9026 • jccCampruach.org

ummer fun. Hand-washing stations. Safety protocols. Camper-counselor pods. JCC Camp Ruach did whatever it took to be open last summer, and Camp Director Alanna Steinberg couldn’t be prouder of that. “It was quite evident by the feedback received from families, campers and staff, that Camp Ruach was exactly what they needed this past summer,” she says. “It was the literal breath of fresh air that helped remind kids how to be kids, how to have fun, and how to have positive social experiences.” “As one parent said, school districts should just call Camp Ruach to figure out how to open safely. They know what they’re doing!’” Camp Ruach is part of the Shimon and Sara Birnbaum JCC in Bridgewater. The 14acre grounds have a campsite with outdoor saltwater pools, high and low ropes courses, sport courts, and archery. The indoor facility has a gymnasium, saltwater pool, preschool

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classrooms and multipurpose spaces. The program also boasts a robust arts, music, dance and STEM program with field trips for the oldest campers. Camp runs for eight weeks and offers a ninth-week Specialty Camp program. Camp Ruach welcomes children with special needs, and its acclaimed inclusion program features a new splash pad that is compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act. Last year, Camp Ruach followed

all local, state and American Camp Association guidelines for safety and sanitization—and will continue to adhere to changing policies. “We never lose sight of the true importance of camp,” Steinberg says. “To provide campers and staff with an outlet and experience to be their best selves, make and build meaningful relationships, and grow themselves as individuals within a larger community.”

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CAMP SAY 48 Pocono Springs Way, East Stroudsburg, PA • 646-403-3522 • campsay.org

ummer camp directors often talk of making campers feel like part of a community. It couldn’t be truer at Camp SAY (The Stuttering Association for the Young). “One of the driving principles behind all of SAY’s programming, and particularly camp, is creating a sense of community for kids and teens who stutter,” says Camp Director Travis Robertson. “I know the impact of just what it means to meet another person who is like me. To meet another person who understands what I’m going through and gets me. It’s really awesome to see that happening for these kids at a young age.” Camp SAY was established by The Stuttering Association for the Young in 2008 as a sleepaway camp in the Pocono Mountains for people ages 8-18 who stutter (shortened sessions also available). No child is turned away due to an inability to pay. The camp features traditional summer

programming, like archery, basketball, soccer, arts and crafts and other staples. There’s a lake, pool and waterfront activities, as well. There are traditions like Visiting Day; Buddy Day, where older campers serve as mentors, and Confident Voices, a perfomring arts program where campers create original works. Speech therapy is also available. Some campers want to take a break from thinking about their stuttering over the

summer, so they forgo therapy. Others want to take advantage of the supportive surroundings and embrace the idea. Either is good by Robertson. “We’re open and available to meet campers wherever they are. Whether this is the experience that they’ve been looking at, or this is a brand-new experience and they need to take a really measured approach. We want to meet them where they are and give them the time that they need to adjust.”

GAME-U SUMMER CAMP Virtual • 908-968-4294 • game-u.com/programs/summer-camps

he pivot to virtual summer camp is more difficult when camp is all about zip lines and pool time. It’s a lot easier when the summer session is about Minecraft and video game design. But to Game-U Summer Camp Coordinator Austin Wood, one thing is still the same. “The culture and the environment of our camps that we strive to create is one of fun and excitement, while still maintaining a personal touch to our instruction,” he says. “Campers get to connect with other campers and their instructors over a shared love of video games, and form friendships that will last a lifetime!” Game-U was founded in 2013 as an after-school program designed by game industry professionals to teach kids how to design and build their own video games and robots. The summer camp was added two years later and now offers week-long science, technology, engineering, arts and math (STEAM) courses. Open to children

ages 6-17, the camps center around topics including Game Design, Coding, Minecraft Modding (that’s modifying for parents) and Arts and Robotics. “We are unique because our curriculum is designed and taught by instructors who are veterans in the game design industry, and who have worked for companies such as LucasArts, Microsoft, Sony, EA and Activision,” says Wood, a former camper

himself. In years past, the camps were hosted in studios in New Jersey and Ohio, but now the program has gone fully virtual. “This was the safest option that we could go with for our camps, and luckily still allows us to provide the same quality camp experience we’ve always had,” Wood says. “This also opens up opportunities for campers across the country to participate, since we are no longer limited by geography.”

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HARBOR HAVEN West Orange • 908-964-5411 • harborhaven.com

arbor Haven Day Camp is a fun way to spend the summer while bridging the learning gap between school years for children with mild special needs. “Harbor Haven isn’t just a ‘camp,’” says Robyn Tanne, director and co-founder. “It’s truly a hybrid of dynamic, fun camp activities, with math and reading reinforcement, social skills, language/ communication and sensory motor development. All in one place, we can tend to the total summer needs of our attendees.” Building skills and confidence and making friends are part of Harbor Haven’s mission. Harbor Haven launched in 1997 to focus on kids with ADHD, highfunctioning autism, and communication, sensory motor and learning challenges. Seven weeks of camp are open to ages 3-15 with unique programs for 16- to 18-yearolds. There’s a two-week minimum, and as a special reverse inclusion feature, nonIEP siblings of campers can attend for 1

week at no cost. Transportation is provided in most cases. Harbor Haven operated safely and successfully for 5 COVID-free weeks in 2020 by following strict protocols outlined in its operations guide. “We celebrate the whole child and support our campers in achieving their social, emotional, educational and motor goals,” Tanne says. “Our staff consists of many types of children’s professionals,

plus college and graduate students in education and therapeutic fields. Together we create an atmosphere summer after summer that is motivating and joyous.” Activities include sports, swimming, creative and performing arts, technology, bikes, tennis, karate, gymnastics, nature/ science, gaga, special events and more. “We’re extremely proud of the comprehensive nature of our program,” Tanne says.

HEALTHBARN USA 1057 Hillcrest Rd., Ridgewood • 201-444-2955 • healthbarnusa.com

rozen banana ice cream. Black bean brownies. Juice pops made from fresh berries. At HealthBarn USA, healthy eating isn’t a summer fad—it’s a lifestyle. Founder Stacey Antine calls it “an immersion experience.” HealthBarn USA was founded in 2005 by Antine, who holds a Master’s of Science in Food, Nutrition and Dietetics from New York University. A summer camp soon followed with a simple mission: Teach healthy eating habits to children growing up in a fast food culture. Camp is open to children ages 5-15 and hosted at HealthBarn’s 10-acre Ridgewood campus, which opened in 2016 and includes a pond, hiking trails and playground. A typical day starts with children making breakfast and visiting the facility’s garden. “There, they do their skill-based learning in terms of growing an organic garden and learning why that’s different from a conventional garden,” Antine says. “They

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will be harvesting and planting. It might be troubleshooting because there’s a bug problem, or we have a groundhog problem. There’s all sorts of dynamics happening in the garden.” Once vegetables or fruits are harvested, campers are broken into teams to cook. “If a child likes to cook and bake, why miss the opportunity by making Rice Krispies Treats? Empower them in a place where

they learn how to bake with natural ingredients or cook with fresh vegetables,” says Antine. Another daily tradition is Value of the Day. That could be teamwork, kindness or patience. But like healthy eating, it’s not just a summer fling—it’s a lifestyle. They did it safely and successfully for camp 2020 and will follow COVID protocols again for camp 2021.

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NEWARK ACADEMY 91 South Orange Ave., Livingston • 973-992-7000 • newarka.edu/summer

s families assess their plans for summer 2021, Newark Academy is prepared to offer an array of rigorous and fun, in-person learning experiences. From courses geared towards keeping minds sharp to opportunities to explore future careers, Newark Academy is opening its doors to help students continue to thrive this summer. “Our students will not only be prepared for school in the fall, but they have opportunities to accelerate their skills,” says Newark Academy Director of Summer Programs Nancy Celente. “Whether that child is a first- or second-grader, or a student entering senior year who wants to take advanced-credit calculus, there’s something for students of all ages, of all interests.” For more than 50 years, the Newark Academy Summer Program has been a leader in providing engaging summer learning experiences for children in grades 1-12. Newark Academy’s summer courses

include SAT/ACT Prep, art, STEM, writing, languages, coding, and financial literacy. A baseball camp also offers top-notch instruction. Newark Academy offers inperson learning while keeping the health and safety of its students at the forefront. Its 68-acre campus provides ample room for social distancing, and the school has made significant investments to maintain clean and sanitized classrooms as well as the

introduction of new technology to facilitate learning. “We’ve taken extra precautions, often exceeding standard protocols, to help keep our students in a healthy and safe learning environment,” says Celente. “Newark Academy has, and continues to, reimagine not only what it is like to be in a rigorous academic environment, but also we create an experience in which students find joy and comfort.”

SUMMER ADVENTURES AT OAK KNOLL 44 Blackburn Rd., Summit • 908-522-8186 • oakknoll.org/summer

ummer Adventures may just be the most familial day camp around. “It’s like coming home in the summer,” says Camp Director Dawn Cullinan. “It’s our summer family. The majority of our staff members and campers come back year after year, and we love welcoming new members to our family each summer. The experience that we have together, the camaraderie, the special family piece of that, is what I hear from parents all the time.” The day camp has been around for more than 30 years and accepts children as young as 3 years old (if they’re potty trained). There are sports (including archery and fencing for older campers), science, performing arts, dance and swim time for students up to ninth grade. Summer Adventures’ mission is a blend of play and pedagogy. “We want them to have fun in a safe environment,” says Cullinan, herself a teacher. “We want them to grow as people and develop lifelong friendships, but also

learn. Fun is at the top of that list, but it’s learning, it’s growing as people socially with skills or with interests.” Summer Adventures was open last year, with small, in-person groups gathered outdoors (as allowed by local health restrictions). Tents were brought on site and the tennis court and an outdoor field served as classroom space. This year, Cullinan is hopeful she’ll be able to use indoor spaces

again—but will only do so if safety protocols allow. But even if Oak Knoll’s camp is entirely outdoors, she’s determined to make this summer a great one—particularly for campers who’ve spent months in virtual school. “They need that socialization,” Cullinan says. “They need that release of being outside, having fun and experiencing new things in a safe way.”

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RUTGERS PREPARATORY SCHOOL SUMMER PROGRAMS 1345 Easton Ave., Somerset • 732-545-5600 • rutgersprep.org

ant to explore mixed media art? Rutgers Preparatory School Summer Programs has a camp for that. Working on your backcourt skills in basketball? Rutgers Prep has a camp for that. Not getting enough STEAM curriculum during the school year? Yep, Rutgers Prep has a camp for that, too. “Rutgers Prep Summer Programs has something for everyone,” says Meredith Santowasso, Director of Community and Summer Programs. Camp programs began on campus some 35 years ago, and have since grown to include activities for ages 3-17. Sessions are offered for 11 weeks, with morning and/ or afternoon sessions and a customizable schedule. Families have 35 camp and class options available. Rutgers Prep has created an ideal camp environment, with newly implemented changes for COVID protection that help parents and campers feel safe and

comfortable. “Our goal is to work with each family to help customize a great program for their child,” Santowasso says. “We have a great selection of specialty camps to suit a wide variety of passions and pursuits,” she adds. “Our campers and summer school students learn, play and have an unforgettable summer in a safe and fun environment.” About 15 percent of campers are secondgeneration here, and most of the counselors

are former campers or Rutgers Preparatory School graduates. Counselors and campers have use of air-conditioned indoor all-purpose spaces, two full-size gyms, turf and grass fields, an indoor climbing wall, softball and baseball diamonds, a tennis center, two playing greens, a putting green and a croquet court. At Rutgers Prep, if there›s an activity campers are interested in, there’s a camp for it.

SUMMERART 3 South Mountain Ave., Montclair • 973-746-5555 • montclairartmuseum.org/summerart

ou may think of museums as quiet, contemplative places but at the Montclair Art Museum’s SummerART camp, serious and fun aren’t mutually exclusive. “We take art education and the camp experience very seriously so everyone can have fun!” says Leah Fox, director of MAM’s Vance Wall Art Education Center. The nearly 20-year old program is open for half- and full-day camps for kids ages 6-12 and classes for ages 12-15. In addition to traditional studio programs exploring various media through thematic lessons, SummerART also offers digital arts and a robust ceramics program, and has received the People’s Choice Award for Favorite Summer Art Camp five years in a row by JerseyArts.com. Camps are taught by professional teaching artists, and high school and college students serve as counselors. “Art camp isn’t just for young artists,” Fox

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says. Children “will explore nature, science, history, language arts and more through creative expression. SummerART programs are designed to cultivate imagination while developing artistic skills in a nurturing, supportive and inclusive environment.” Last year, camp was held remotely, but this summer calls for using the Museum’s largest learning spaces—multipurpose Leir Hall and light-filled Geyer Studio. Windows

will remain open, and the ceramics studio has been retrofitted with Plexiglass dividers, touchless sinks and an improved ventilation system. Outdoor learning spaces will be used as much as possible and art supplies won’t be shared. Temperature checks, social distancing and surface cleaning policies are also in place. “We are parents too and are thinking about your child’s safety in every detail of program design this year,” Fox says.

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SURPRISE LAKE CAMP 382 Lake Surprise Rd., Cold Spring, NY • 845-265-3616 • surpriselake.org

urprise Lake Camp closed last year because it wanted to, not because it had to. The country’s longest-running Jewish sleepaway camp decided before any New York State recommendations were issued that it was the only choice. “The safety, health and welfare of our campers and our staff has always been paramount,” says Camp Director Sheryl Kirschenbaum. “Because we were so transparent last year and made our decision early, our parents trust us. We made a decision to close not because we had to close, but because we thought it was right.” Founded in 1902, Surprise Lake plans to open its 360-acre campus this summer as a bubble for campers ages 7-15. Kids and staffers will need a negative COVID test prior to arrival, and will then be put into pods. The camp renovated its Main Dining Room last year and will use that and tents to allow for social distancing during meal

times. Kirschenbaum is also working with Dr. Laura Blaisdell, a board-certified pediatrician who has helped Maine officials create safe camping protocols. Included in the new rules are more nurses and housekeeping, as well as electrostatic sprayers to sanitize common areas and bunks. Kirschenbaum also plans to communicate with parents to give them as many updates in real-time as necessary.

As for the fun of Surprise Lake, which has always connected Judaism to the outdoors, this year is going to be even more naturefilled and sans cell phones. “Our mission is to create a nurturing camp experience in which young people learn essential life skills by being immersed in nature, developing relationships, and exploring Jewish values,” Kirschenbaum says. “Everything we do at camp reflects these goals…we disconnect to reconnect.”

WARDLAW + HARTRIDGE SUMMER ADVENTURE PROGRAMS 1295 Inman Ave., Edison • 908-754-1882 • whschool.org

sk Dawn Cancryn about the goal of Wardlaw + Hartridge School Summer Adventure Programs and the pride she takes in the program will be quickly evident. “Our goal is to provide a safe and exciting place for children to express their ideas, learn and explore new things,” said Cancryn, Director of Auxiliary Services and Summer Programs. “This is a place where children are encouraged to become independent thinkers.” Sessions are open to ages 3-18. With stimulating programs like Camp Funshine, Adventure Camp, Teen Leadership Camp, Summer Scholars, Brain Boosters and Pulse Sports, campers and students return year after year. All camp programs include interesting and educational weekly themes, freshly made hot lunches and exciting trips or events. Campers get to swim in the indoor pool and Summer Scholars classes are offered for

enrichment learning or credit courses. The modern facilities include airconditioned classrooms, two gymnasiums, a performing arts theatre, two playgrounds, an indoor pool and 32 acres of playing fields, including tennis courts and turf fields. The campers are guided by an amazing staff. “Attentive and caring counselors are well-trained and sourced from Wardlaw + Hartridge students and alumni,” Cancryn

said. “The counselors know everyone by name and learn something special about each camper. The idea is we take care of our people when they come.” With a history dating back nearly 150 years—and innovative programming that highlights today’s technologies—W + H Summer Adventure programs inspire their campers and students to “Discover” themselves, “Explore” new experiences and “Be Amazed” at their abilities.

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THE WINSTON SCHOOL OF SHORT HILLS 30 East Ln., Short Hills • 973-379-4114 • winstonschool.org

he Winston School of Short Hills Summer on the Hill camp is geared to students in grades 1-8 who have language-based learning differences. Founded in 2010, the camp offers academic support in a fun and relaxed learning environment. PreCOVID, Winston also offered a sports and art program which is still under consideration for the summer of 2021. The camp is located on the campus of The Winston School which has ample space for safe, social distancing. Winston is fully compliant with all CDC protocols offering outdoor learning spaces as well as classrooms equipped with air filtration systems and ample PPE materials. In 2020, Winston successfully hosted several weeks of summer camp which provided vital support for students who had struggled with remote learning. Winston will once again offer three weeks of camp in July (with the week of

July 4 off) and tentatively two weeks in August. The camp runs Monday-Friday, from 9:30 am-12:30 pm. Cost varies depending on the number of weeks and days. The Winston School of Short Hills has served students for more than 39 years. Teachers are trained in instructing children who, though intellectually capable, have had difficulties in school due to language-based learning

challenges that include but are not limited to dyslexia, ADHD, dyscalculia and executive functioning issues. The curriculum places a strong emphasis on phonics, reading, writing and language arts. The Summer on the Hill camp aims to offer students the opportunity to maintain skills acquired in their previous school year and sharpen them for the fall. Enrollment is now open.

Looking for more camps? Go to njfamily.com/camp to find one near you!

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CAMP Snapshots

Want to learn more about the programs in our Big Book of Camps? Be sure to contact the camps listed on the following pages to confirm details and for more information. Camp Name Address

BASKING RIDGE

Phone Website

Ages/Grades Program Length Fees ($)

Basking Ridge Country Club Junior Golf Academy 185 Madisonville Rd.

908-766-8200 x4 baskingridgecc.com/golf-academy

7–15 yrs. 1 wk. min. 135–695/wk.

Pingry Summer 131 Martinsville Rd., Basking Ridge 50 Country Day Dr., Short Hills

908-647-5555 x1217 pingrysummer.org

Rising Pre-K–12th June 14–August 27 Please call

908-234-2345 ccabedminster.org

5–15 yrs. 1–10 wks. 225–295/wk.

908-443-9022 jcccampruach.org

2–14 yrs. 2–9 wks. Please call

973-239-1176 bipot.com

3–10 yrs. 1–3 wks. Less than 100/wk.

888-672-5552 applemontessorischools.com

2–12 yrs. 3–8 wks. Please call

866-222-0269 everbrookacademy.com

Infants–12 yrs. Up to 12 wks. Please call

201-767-7160 tasoc.org

Please call for ages and fees August 9–13 and 16–20

866-752-8458 builtbyme.com/summer21

8–14 yrs. Daily and weekly programs Starts at 175/wk.

888-672-5552 applemontessorischools.com

2–15 yrs. 3–8 wks. Please call

Apple Montessori School Summer Camp 2825 Woodbridge Ave.

888-672-5552 applemontessorischools.com

2–12 yrs. 3–8 wks. Please call

Apple Montessori School Summer Camp 1876 Rte. 27

888-672-5552 applemontessorischools.com

2–12 yrs. 3–8 wks. Please call

Wardlaw + Hartridge Summer Programs 1295 Inman Ave.

908-754-1882 whschool.org/summer

Pre-K–12th 1–6 wks. 450–1,800

201-871-8808 abilityschoolnj.org

4–12 yrs. 2–7 wks. 375/wk.; 10% discount if enrolled before March 30th; 10% discount for siblings

BEDMINSTER

The Center for Contemporary Art Summer Art Camps 2020 Burnt Mills Rd.

BRIDGEWATER JCC Camp Ruach 775 Talamini Rd.

CEDAR GROVE

Bloomfield Institute of Therapy Pediatric Center 912 Pompton Ave., Ste. B1, Canfield Park

CLIFFSIDE PARK

Apple Montessori School Summer Camp 600 Gorge Rd.

CLOSTER

Everbrook Academy - Camp Everbrook 597 Piedmont Rd

DEMAREST

Blast of Art! Day Camp at The Art School at Old Church 561 Piermont Rd.

EAST BRUNSWICK

Summer Tech Camp 2021 150 Tices Ln., Ste. C

EDGEWATER

Apple Montessori School Summer Camp 8 Adelaide Pl.

EDISON

ENGLEWOOD

Ability School Summer Camp 75 Knickerbocker Rd.

BIG BOOK OF CAMPS 2021 | NEW JERSEY FAMILY

CAMP Snapshots Camp Name Address

The Elisabeth Morrow School - Summer Explorations 435 Lydecker St.

Ages/Grades Program Length Fees ($)

201-568-5566 x7333 elisabethmorrow.org

2 yrs.–entering 9th 1–6 wks. 425–640/wk.

973-956-1220 campveritans.com

Pre-K–10th 4–8 wks. Please call

Camp Agnes DeWitt, Girl Scouts Heart of New Jersey Summer Day Camp 605 Montgomery Rd.

908-947-1710 gshnj.org/summercamp

Entering K–10th 5.5 wks.: July 7–August 13 345–690/session

The Circus Place 6 Jill Ct.

908-829-3784 thecircusplace.com

6–15 yrs. 1–2 wk. sessions 395/wk., Early Bird 375/wk. Two wk. Early Bird 725

Apple Montessori School Summer Camp 1055 Maxwell Ln.

888-672-5552 applemontessorischools.com

2–15 yrs. 3–8 wks. Please call

Apple Montessori School Summer Camp 220 Sinatra Dr.

888-672-5552 applemontessorischools.com

2–15 yrs. 3–8 wks. Please call

888-672-5552 applemontessorischools.com

2–12 yrs. 3–8 wks. Please call

201-336-3370 bergenequestrian.com

7–13 yrs. 1–8 wks. 300–550/wk.

Mott–Leeney Baseball Camp at Newark Academy 91 South Orange Ave.

973-992-7000 x217 newarka.edu/summer/mott-leeneybaseball-camp

5–13 yrs. 1–6 wks. 325/wk.

Newark Academy Summer Session 91 South Orange Ave.

973-992-7000 x217 newarka.edu/summer

1st–12th 1–6 wks. Please call

Camp KidsQuest: Traditional Day Camp Drew University, 36 Madison Ave.

973-822-9622 madisonareaymca.org

Entering K–6th 1–10 wks. 430/wk.

Camp SummerQuest: Teen Travel Camp Family Center, 111 Kings Rd.

973-822-9622 madisonareaymca.org

Entering 6th–10th 3–6 wks. 520/wk.

Leader in Training (L.I.T.) Drew University, 36 Madison Ave.

973-822-9622 madisonareaymca.org

Entering 7th–11th Four 2 wk. sessions 380/wk.

MiniQuest Half Day at the F.M. Kirby Children’s Center Madison Area YMCA 54 East St.

973-377-4945 madisonareaymca.org

3–4 yrs. 1–10 wks. 250/wk.

MiniQuest Learning Experience at the F.M. Kirby Children’s Center Madison Area YMCA 54 East St.

973-377-4945 madisonareaymca.org

Entering K–1st 1–10 wks. 430/wk.

MiniQuest Specialty at the F.M. Kirby Children’s Center Madison Area YMCA 54 East St.

973-377-4945 madisonareaymca.org

Entering K–1st 1–10 wks. 480/wk.

HALEDON

Camp Veritans 225 Pompton Rd.

HILLSBOROUGH

HOBOKEN

KINNELON

Apple Montessori School Summer Camp 10 Maple Lake Rd.

LEONIA

Bergen Equestrian Center 40 Fort Lee Rd.

LIVINGSTON

MADISON

Phone Website

NJFAMILY.COM | BIG BOOK OF CAMPS 2021

SAFE

SAVE

SUMMER

QUEST CAMPS

JUNE

SUMMER 2021 DAY CAMPS BEGIN:

21 2021

SUMMER DAY CAMPS FOR PRESCHOOL - GRADE 11

Your child can learn. She just learns differently.

APPLY NOW Summer Camp July 6 - July 30

www.winstonprep.edu/our-campuses/nj 901 Route 10 East, Whippany, NJ 07981 973-500-6480 njsummerprogram@winstonprep.edu The Winston Preparatory School does not discriminate against applicants and students on the basis of race, color, or national or ethnic origin.

BIG BOOK OF CAMPS 2021 | NEW JERSEY FAMILY

CAMP Snapshots Camp Name Address

MAHWAH

Ages/Grades Program Length Fees ($)

888-672-5552 applemontessorischools.com

2–15 yrs. 3–8 wks. Please call

Camp Half-Blood May Apple Hill, South Mountain Reservation

929-397-9393 camphalfbloodbklyn.com

7–14 yrs. 1–7 wks. 495/session

The OVAL, Girl Scouts Heart of New Jersey Summer Day Camp South Mountain Reservation; West South Orange Ave.

908-947-1710 gshnj.org/summercamp

Entering K–10th 5.5 wks.: July 7–August 13 345–690/session

908-879-6355 westmontmontessori.org

1½–6 yrs. 1–8 wks. Please call

888-672-5552 applemontessorischools.com

2–15 yrs. 3–8 wks. Please call

Essex Youth Theater Studio Playhouse, 14 Alvin Pl. Montclair Operetta Club, 494 Valley Rd.

973-746-3303 essexyouththeater.com

6–13 yrs. 1–6 wks. Please call

SummerART at Montclair Art Museum 3 South Mountain Ave.

973-259-5139 montclairartmuseum.org

6–15 yrs. Four 2 wk. sessions; half and full day options June 28–August 20 350–850/session for members 420–1,020/session for nonmembers

Apple Montessori School Summer Camp 9 Waughaw Rd.

888-672-5552 applemontessorischools.com

2–12 yrs. 3–8 wks. Please call

The Craig School High School Summer Academy 24 Changebridge Rd.

973-334-1295 craigschool.org

9th–11th 1–4 wks. Please call

888-672-5552 applemontessorischools.com

2–15 yrs. 3–8 wks. Please call

MBS Summer Institute 70 Whippany Rd.

973-539-3032 x489 mbs.net/summerinstitute

Rising 6th–rising 12th 2–3 wks. 500/class for non-credit classes 1,600/class for credit awarding classes

Morristown-Beard Day Camp 70 Whippany Rd.

973-532-7569 summer.mbs.net

3½–15 yrs. 1–7 wks. 650/wk.

Villa Walsh Summer Camp 455 Western Ave. (Athletic Building)

973-538-3680 x484 villawalsh.org

3rd–12th 1–2 wks. 200 half day/wk.; 375 full day/wk. Prices increase after 5/28

Lakeland Hills Family YMCA 100 Fanny Rd.

973–334–2820 lakelandhillsymca.com/programs

2 ½–15 yrs. First 4 wks., last 4 wks., entire 8 wks. Please see website

The Craig School Lower School Summer Academy 15 Tower Hill Rd.

973-334-1295 craigschool.org

2nd–8th 1–4 wks. Please call

Apple Montessori School Summer Camp 75 East Ramapo Ave.

MAPLEWOOD

MENDHAM

Camp Westmont 577 US Hwy. 24

METUCHEN

Apple Montessori School Summer Camp 12 Center St.

MONTCLAIR

MONTVILLE

MORRIS PLAINS

Apple Montessori School Summer Camp 1339 Littleton Rd.

MORRISTOWN

MOUNTAIN LAKES

Phone Website

NJFAMILY.COM | BIG BOOK OF CAMPS 2021

CAMP Snapshots Camp Name Address

MOUNTAINSIDE

Phone Website

Ages/Grades Program Length Fees ($)

908-232-0388 arcunion.org/summer-programs

2 1/2–5 yrs. 8 wks. 175 half day/wk.; 350 full day/wk.

856-795-1560 campforgirls.org

5–17 yrs. Rising K–rising 12th 1–4 wks. 345–425/wk. includes shuttle transporation

973-228-1800 x234 greenbrookcc.org/kids-camp

4–12 yrs. Weekly June 21–September 3 490–535/wk.

888-672-5552 applemontessorischools.com

2–12 yrs. 3–8 wks. Please call

609-279-2700 x1342 pds.org/summer-programs

Pre-K–12th 1–8 wks. Please see website for rates

888-672-5552 applemontessorischools.com

2–12 yrs. 3–8 wks. Please call

201-444-2955 healthbarnusa.com

5–12 yrs. 1–10 wks. 655/1st wk., discounts for multiple wks. and siblings

973–831–9000 sldc.com

3–15 yrs. 4–8 wks. Please see website for rates

201-666-1200 x260 edgewoodnj.com/amenities

4–12 yrs. June 21–September 3, half and full day options 490–535/wk.

Pingry Summer 131 Martinsville Rd., Basking Ridge 50 Country Day Dr., Short Hills

908-647-5555 x1217 pingrysummer.org

Rising Pre-K–12th June 14–August 27 Please call

The Winston Center for Learning 30 East Ln.

973-379-4114 winstonschool.org

5–14 yrs. 1–6 wks. Please call

Camp Oak Spring: Girl Scouts of Central & Southern NJ 228 Weston Rd.

856-795-1560 campforgirls.org

5–17 yrs.; Rising K–rising 12th 1–8 wks. 335–515/wk. includes bus transportation

Rutgers Preparatory School Summer School and Camps 1345 Easton Ave.

732-545-5600 x218 rutgersprep.org

3–17 yrs.

973-762-0928 x334 orangelawn.com/all-sports-summercamps

4–13 yrs. June 21–September 3 490–550/wk.

Little Tykes 1137 Globe Ave.

NEWFIELD

Camp Sacajawea: Girl Scouts of Central & Southern NJ 3064 Victoria Ave.

NORTH CALDWELL

Green Brook Country Club All Sports Camp 100 W. Greenbrook Rd.

OAKLAND

Apple Montessori School Summer Camp 1 Ramapo Valley Rd.

PRINCETON

Summer Programs at Princeton Day School 650 Great Rd.

RANDOLPH

Apple Montessori School Summer Camp 470 Millbrook Rd.

RIDGEWOOD

HealthBarn USA 1057 Hillcrest Rd.

RINGWOOD

Spring Lake Day Camp 234 Conklintown Rd.

RIVER VALE

Edgewood Country Club All Sports Camp 449 Rivervale Rd.

SHORT HILLS

SOMERSET

SOUTH ORANGE

Orange Lawn Tennis Club All Sports Camp 305 N. Ridgewood Rd.

BIG BOOK OF CAMPS 2021 | NEW JERSEY FAMILY

150+/wk.

CAMP Snapshots Camp Name Address

SUMMIT

Phone Website

Summer Adventures at Oak Knoll 44 Blackburn Rd.

908-522-8186 oakknoll.org/summer

3–16 yrs. 1–7 wks. 595/wk.

Visual Arts Center of NJ Summer Art Camp 68 Elm St.

908-273-9121 artcenternj.org

5–18 yrs. 1–10 wks. Please call

856-795-1560 campforgirls.org

5–17 yrs.; Rising K–rising 12th 1–6 wks. 345–440/wk. includes bus transportation

908-580-CAMP (2267) campriverbend.com

3–14 yrs. (if COVID 4–13 yrs.) 2–7 wks. Please call

Apple Montessori School Summer Camp 1219 Ratzer Rd.

888-672-5552 applemontessorischools.com

2–12 yrs. 3–8 wks. Please call

Apple Montessori School Summer Camp 25 Nevins Rd.

888-672-5552 applemontessorischools.com

2–12 yrs. 3–8 wks. Please call

Everbrook Academy - Camp Everbrook 918 Hamburg Tpke.

866-222-0269 everbrookacademy.com

Infants–12 yrs. Up to 12 wks. Please call

TABERNACLE

Camp Inawendiwin: Girl Scouts of Central & Southern NJ 71 Powell Place Rd.

WARREN

Camp Riverbend 116 Hillcrest Rd.

WAYNE

WHIPPANY

The Summer Enrichment Program at Winston Preparatory School 973-500-6480 winstonprep.edu/our-campuses/nj/ 901 Rte. 10 E. summer-program

MULTIPLE LOCATIONS

3rd–12th 4 wks. Please call

908-766-7898 x507 gscymca.org/childcarecamps/ summer-camps

Pre-K–10th 1–11 wks. Please call

Camp Inawendiwin: Girl Scouts of Central & Southern NJ 71 Powell Place Rd., Tabernacle

856-795-1560 campforgirls.org

7–17 yrs.; Rising 2nd–rising 12th 1–6 wks. 350–750/wk. includes bus transportation

Camp Lee Mar 450 Rte. 590 Lackawaxen, PA

215-658-1708 leemar.com

7–21 yrs. 1 session June 23–August 10 12,150

Camp Lou Henry Hoover, Girl Scouts Heart of New Jersey Summer Resident Camp 961 West Shore Dr., County Rte. 521, Middleville

908-518-4400 gshnj.org/summercamp

Entering 1st–10th 5 wks.: July 11–August 9 190–850/session

Camp Pembroke, the Cohen Camp for Girls (Jewish) 306 Oldham St., Pembroke, MA

781-489-2070 camppembroke.org

7–16 yrs. 3.5-7 wks. Please call

Camp Sacajawea: Girl Scouts of Central & Southern NJ 3064 Victoria Ave, Newfield

856-795-1560 campforgirls.org

5–17 yrs.; Rising K–12th & Adults Weekends Girl/Child: 125 or 495/wk. Adults: 125; Children 3-5: 50; Under 2: free

Bridgewater YMCA Hillsborough YMCA Plainfield YMCA Somerset Hills YMCA Somerville YMCA

SLEEPAWAY

Ages/Grades Program Length Fees ($)

NJFAMILY.COM | BIG BOOK OF CAMPS 2021

CAMP Snapshots Camp Name Address

Phone Website

Ages/Grades Program Length Fees ($)

Camp SAY 48 Pocono Springs Way, East Stroudsburg, PA

646-403-3516 CampSAY.org

8–18 yrs. 1–2 wks. 200–3,550

Camp Tel Noar, a Cohen Camp (Jewish) 167 Main St., Hampstead, NH

781-489-2070 camptelnoar.org

7–16 yrs. 3.5–7 wks. Please call

Camp Tevya, a Cohen Camp (Jewish) 1 Mason Rd., Brookline, NH

781-489-2070 camptevya.org

7–16 yrs. 3.5–7 wks. Please call

Landmark College Summer Programs 19 River Rd. S. Putney, VT

802-387-6885 landmark.edu/summer

Middle School to College students Varies by program Please call

NJPAC Geri Allen Jazz Camp - All Female Jazz Residency 24 Rector St., Newark

973-353-7058 njpac.org/summer

14–26 yrs. 2–5 wks. 500–1,400

Surprise Lake Camp 382 Lake Surprise Rd., Cold Spring, NY

845-265-3616 surpriselake.org

7–15 yrs. 2, 4 and 8 wk. sessions Please call

Camp SAY 48 Pocono Springs Way, East Stroudsburg, PA

646-403-3516 CampSAY.org

8–18 yrs. 1–2 wks. 200–3,550

Camp Star 1137 Globe Ave., Mountainside

908-232-0388 arcunion.org/summer-programs

5–21 yrs. 4 wks. 400/wk.

Camp Huntington 56 Bruceville Rd., High Falls, NY

855-707-2267 camphuntington.com

6–22+ yrs. 1–9 wks. Please call

Camp Lee Mar 450 Rte. 590 Lackawaxen, PA

215-658-1708 leemar.com

7–21 yrs. 1 session June 23–August 10 12,150

Harbor Haven West Orange

908-964-5411 harborhaven.com

3–18 yrs. 2–7 wks. Please call

SPECIAL NEEDS

The Summer Enrichment Program at Winston Preparatory School 973-500-6480 901 Rte. 10 E., Whippany winstonprep.edu/our-campuses/nj/ summer-program

VIRTUAL

3rd–12th 4 wks. Please call

Game-U Summer Camp

908-968-4294 game-u.com/camps

6–17 yrs. 1–11 wks. 200–350/session

Landmark College Summer Programs

802-387-6885 landmark.edu/summer

Middle School to College students Varies depending on program Please call

NJPAC Arts Education Summer Camp

973-353-7058 njpac.org/artseducation

9–18 yrs. July–August Varies, please call

NJPAC City Verses Jazz and Poetry Summer Camp

973-353-7058 njpac.org/cityverses

13–18 yrs. August 2–13 Free

NJPAC Geri Allen Jazz Camp

973-353-7058 njpac.org/geriallen

14–26 yrs. July 5–11 Ages 14–18: 100 Ages 19–26: 125

BIG BOOK OF CAMPS 2021 | NEW JERSEY FAMILY

TIME FOR A (SPRING) BREAK By MEGAN MUESSEN

Go to njfamily.com/ sbcamp for more camps! 52

BRANCHBURG SPORTS COMPLEX 47 Readington Rd., Branchburg 908-203-1600 branchburgsports.com March 29-April 5 9 am-4 pm $55/day Campers ages 5-13 can attend the School’s Out program, which has arcade games, batting cages, field sports, a GaGa pit, PlayMaze and boasts time in a multi-level 9,000 square foot laser tag arena. Full- and half-day options are available. Hot lunch can be purchased for $6/day. Before care (8-9 am, $7/day) and aftercare (4-6 pm, $16/day) are available. Activities are indoors; the facility is more than 78,000 square feet and kids will social distance in predetermined groups.

GRAVITY VAULT 107 Pleasant Ave., Upper Saddle River 201-934-7625 gravityvault.com March 30-April 2 9-11 am, noon-2 pm $60/session, $55/multiple Get your lil’ climbers out of the house and keep their minds and bodies moving with top-rope climbing, games and other activities which will help them boost their confidence and increase their strength. With multiple rock walls to scale, this camp is ideal for first-timers or experienced climbers. They can race to the top and maybe even try their hand at balancing on a slack line.

HEALTHBARN USA 1057 Hillcrest Rd., Ridgewood 201-444-2955 healthbarnusa.com March 29-April 2; 9 am-3 pm $120/day, discounts for multiple days Ages 5-12 can become pro chefs at Healthbarn, which has both indoor and outdoor facilities. Depending on the weather, kids can cook breakfast, lunch and a snack on the patio (with heaters and wind guards), then help get the garden ready (think moving the compost and getting the beds ready). They’ll learn about nutrition, organic gardening and the environment and go on nature hikes. They might even get to plant some early seeds. Limited spots are available to keep indoor capacity low.

NJFAMILY.COM | BIG BOOK OF CAMPS 2021

SIGN 'EM UP FOR FUN WHILE SCHOOL'S OUT AT A SPRING BREAK CAMP. INFORMATION IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE SO MAKE SURE TO CALL AHEAD BEFORE BOOKING.

SUPERDOME SPORTS 134 Hopper Ave., Waldwick 201-444-7660 superdomesports.com April 5-9, 12-16; 9 am-1 pm Prices vary Choose from two camps for kids ages 5-14, Soccer or All Sports. At Soccer Camp, they’ll focus on technical, tactical and physical development with pro trainers. At All Sports Camp, kids can play multiple sports, like flag football, kickball and dodgeball, plus contests, raffles, arts and crafts and more. Kids are split into age groups and must wear masks when they’re not playing. There will be breaks for water and snacks. Half and full days available.

TENAFLY NATURE CENTER 313 Hudson Ave., Tenafly 201-568-6093 tenaflynaturecenter.org April 2-9; 9 am-3:30 pm $80/full day, $50/half When school’s out, the nature center will host two camps, one for grades 1-2 and another for grades 3-6. Campers will hit the woods and trails, make crafts, share stories and play games, all while learning about the environment. Camp is completely outdoors, so activities may include hikes and visits with live animals. Kids must wear masks and be prepared for inclement weather because camp is held rain or shine. Full- and half-day options are available.

BIG BOOK OF CAMPS 2021 | NEW JERSEY FAMILY

TURTLE BACK ZOO 560 Northfield Ave., West Orange 973-731-5800 turtlebackzoo.com March 30-April 1, April 6-8; 9 am-4 pm $90/day The NJ zoo that’s consistently voted the favorite by readers in our annual Ultimate Bucket List for its 200+ species representing animals around the world will host a spring break camp for ages 5-10. Kids also love the Turtle Back Zoo for its treetop adventure course with zip lines. At spring break camp, kids will dive into animal and conservation-themed activities and games. They'll also take part in behind-the-scenes visits, up-close animal encounters and science crafts.

US SPORTS INSTITUTE 17 locations in NJ 732-563-2520 usasportgroup.com Dates, times and prices vary Sporty kids ages 5-14 can choose from three different camps in Bergen, Essex, Middlesex, Morris, Somerset and Union counties. Choose from Multi-sport, where they can work on their game in ten different sports like soccer, basketball and lacrosse; Soccer, where they’ll develop technical and tactical skills along with sportsmanship, and Tennis, where they’ll hone everything from forehand to backhand and rallying to match play. Groups are separated by age and ability. Equipment’s provided, except for Tennis where players must bring their own racquets.

2021 ALL SPORTS SUMMER CAMP

at Green Brook Country Club in North Caldwell, NJ

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CALL TODAY! 973-228-1800 EXT: 234 nmoore@greenbrookcc.org

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CAMP SESSION DATES: June 21–Sept. 3, 2021 Camp runs from Monday-Friday

BY THE WEEK OR FOR THE WHOLE SUMMER! CALL TODAY! 973.762.0928 EXT: 334 | nmoore@orangelawn.com 54

NJFAMILY.COM | BIG BOOK OF CAMPS 2021

Choosing a Camp for Kids with

SPECIAL NEEDS HOW TO FIND THE RIGHT FIT FOR YOUR CHILD

By RONNIE KOENIG

here’s a lot to think about when deciding on a camp for your child but when your child has special needs, there are even more considerations. “The number one consideration, whether your child has special needs or not, is always the leadership team,” says Renee Flax, director of camper placement for the American Camp Association, NY and NJ. “All decisions start at the top and you want to make sure you are comfortable with the director.” Flax has been helping families find the right day or overnight camp for the past 20 years. She says it’s important to be upfront about your child’s needs. “Being honest and open and describing your child on their worst day will allow the director to assess whether their program would be a good fit for your child,” she says. “Also take the time to think about what your goals are for your child at camp. Are you looking for your child

BIG BOOK OF CAMPS 2021 | NEW JERSEY FAMILY

to make new friends, gain social skills, practice independence from you and feel included among peers? Make sure to share those goals with the director and let the director explain to you how those goals will be met.” COVID is a big consideration when choosing a camp but Flax says many camps have been able to handle it well. “While not all day camps in New Jersey ran last summer, many of them did and did so successfully without COVID outbreaks,” Flax says. “There is now a blueprint on how camps can operate during COVID and mitigate the risk of infection. Many of our camps used protocols such as daily temperatures and health assessments, cohorts of campers that don’t intermingle, additional hand hygiene, increased disinfecting of equipment and facilities and utilizing the outdoors for all activities. With COVID changing month-to-month, it’s too early to tell exactly what

BENEFITS OF CAMP FOR ALL KIDS Harbor Haven is designed for children with milder special needs such as those diagnosed with ADD or ADHD, higher functioning ASD, learning challenges, language delays and deficits, sensory processing and motor issues and social skills needs. “Because of the comprehensive nature of our programming, Harbor Haven builds skills and confidence in all areas," Tanne says. “In a nurturing, fun, dynamic camp environment, children engage in summer activities combined with strong support for the academic, therapeutic and social needs described in their IEP.” Tanne says COVID has made camp even more important for kids. “Now more than ever children with special needs require an in-person program,” she says. “Many have had only virtual or a combination of live and virtual learning since March of 2020. This is challenging for any child, let alone those with special needs.” She says it’s possible to have a safe camp experience with

certain precautions in place. “Most camps hold the majority of their activities outdoors making it a safer place for children to spend their summer days while actively learning and socializing in a healthy way with peers,” she says. “In these times of COVID, camp has changed for every child. Following protocols as outlined for camps by the CDC, ACA (American Camp Association) and state and local health departments is imperative to sustaining a COVID-free summer, as Harbor Haven did in 2020.” Tanne says these protocols include frequent handwashing, mask wearing, pods, safe distancing and disinfecting. “Updates for 2021 have not yet been released but are expected to be similar to the ones for 2020,” she says. “By now, most school children are used to these measures and will no doubt welcome the opportunity to make friends in a safe, fun and meaningful way.”

BONUSES OF THE CAMP ATMOSPHERE At Camp Lee Mar in Lackawaxen, PA camp director Ari Segal notes some parents say their kids learn more during the summer at their residential camp than the rest of the year because of its unique “play and learn” atmosphere. “Our campers want to make friends, have fun and grow in a positive, warm, nurturing environment,” he says. Segal advises parents to look for a camp that understand their child’s unique needs and can address them. “For instance, a camper may need assistance with their daily living skills and the parents should find a camp that addresses these skills in the everyday schedule of the camp,” he suggests. “Another camper may need help with their academic skills and the camp this family chooses should address academics as well. If a camper is socially isolating, the family should find a camp which has nurturing staff that will help the child get involved in activities with the other campers.” Segal agrees that this summer, camp is more important than ever. “Many of our campers have been learning virtually this year, and they are yearning for camp and having the live interactions with other children and staff that help develop their total selves.”

protocols will need to be in place for this summer but after a year of remote learning for so many children, there is no doubt that campers will need a summer spent outdoors at camp.” Robyn Tanne, director and co-founder of Harbor Haven, a day camp for children with mild special needs in West Orange, says parents should look for small groups and staff that are trained specifically to work with kids with special needs. “When a child has special needs, he or she typically works best in small groups with a high staff-to-child ratio,” says Tanne. “In addition, the staff needs to be experienced and trained to work with children with those needs. When professionals such as special education teachers, speech and occupational therapists and psychologists are on staff, it ensures that each child’s needs are not only being met, but that growth and improvement are taking place.” Tanne says it’s important for the child’s IEP goals to be addressed at camp in order to prevent regression in social, behavioral, language, motor and educational skills. “Summer is a time for fun in a camp environment, but it should also serve as a bridge from one school year to the next,” she says.

NJFAMILY.COM | BIG BOOK OF CAMPS 2021

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BIG BOOK OF CAMPS 2021 | NEW JERSEY FAMILY

On the

BRIGHT SIDE How three summer camps ran successfully during the pandemic

t may seem hard to plan ahead for summer camp given how much things change every month during the pandemic. But parents can take comfort in knowing both day and overnight camps ran successfully last summer without COVID outbreaks and they now have a blueprint for how to operate during a pandemic. There is no doubt that after a year of remote learning for so many children, camp is needed more than ever for a summer of socializing with friends in a structured environment and taking a break from screens. Here’s how three camps provided a safe and happy summer for campers during such a difficult time.

COMMUNICATION WAS KEY Before camps were even given the go-ahead by states to open, camp directors were making plans to revamp and adjust programs to put safety protocols in place. During this time, communication between camps and parents was imperative. Todd Rothman, owner and director of Deerkill Day Camp in Rockland County, NY said one of the most

important things his team did was talk regularly with parents. “From March through June, we communicated with our camp families on a weekly basis with the information we had at the moment,” Rothman says. “This was such an uncertain time and communication from us gave parents the comfort and information they needed to make an informed decision about the summer.”

THE DECISION TO OPEN Last spring, children were home from school doing distance learning while parents juggled working from home with helping their kids with school work. With the guidance of the American Camp Association, CDC, state and local department of health offices and meetings among fellow camp directors, camps were going through the process of deciding if they could see a safe pathway to opening camp amid COVID, while also awaiting the green light from their states to do so. “There was no question that we had the support to open from our community that was asking for camp and longing for typical childhood experiences for

By JESS MICHAELS

NJFAMILY.COM | BIG BOOK OF CAMPS 2021

the summer including time with friends, fresh air and physical activity,” says Sue Rynar, director of Jeff Lake Day Camp in Stanhope. Jon Deren, owner and director of Camp Manitou, a boys overnight camp in Maine, adds that last spring was one of the most difficult times for him both personally and professionally but he also describes that time as a calling. “Camp provides an essential service for children and never had camp looked more essential than it did last summer,” says Deren. “I felt so strongly that this is what we do as camp professionals. I wanted to give it everything I could to make camp happen. I did my research, made decision trees, asked questions and uncovered every stone to come to the conclusion that we could open safely for the summer.”

MAKING MULTI-LAYERED PLANS

silver lining because it allowed us to have more personal interaction with parents every day.” Lunch also looked different this year at Deerkill Day Camp, as well as at many day camps. “In the past, we served hot lunches to encourage campers to try new things but this year we served individual items, which campers chose ahead of time, each morning such as sandwiches, bagels, fruit and yogurt,” says Rothman. “Campers picnicked outside, sitting spaced apart by group.” To mitigate risk of exposure, many camps eliminated field trips and entertainment from outside of the camp community. “We used what we had and invested more thought into what we can do safely on our own campus. We concentrated on what we could do, not what we couldn’t do and we super-infused it with creativity and energy,” explains Rynar. “Jeff Lake has a unique situation with our 50-acre lake so we increased programming on the lake with kayak basketball, sailing regatta, time spent on our inflatable lake Wibit, paddle boards, canoes and party boat.”

LOOKING AHEAD TO SUMMER 2021 The good news is camps will be open in 2021 and many have already operated safely during the pandemic. Parents need to find their own comfort level when deciding on camp. “More than ever before, it’s important for parents to choose an experienced camp operator to meet the challenges that come with COVID,” Rothman says. “You should also do your own research by reading case studies and best practices from epidemiologists as well as asking a camp about their detailed plan for the summer,” Deren adds. He also suggests parents ask the camp for a reference from a family whose child attended last year. “The emotional health and well-being of children, many of who will be coming off a year of virtual learning, should be factored into your camp decision for this upcoming summer,” Deren says. “We ran camp successfully last summer and kept COVID out of camp with good systems in place to keep children healthy. And even though camp was different, different can still be amazing.” The American Camp Association (ACA), of New York and New Jersey (acacamps.org), is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to enhancing the summer camp experience. For free advice when searching for a camp, call the ACA at 212-391-5208.

DEERKILL DAY CAMP

There wasn’t just one protocol put in place to make camp a safe environment for children last summer, but there were numerous safety measures which when put together, mitigated the risk of COVID at camp. “Our team looked at every aspect of camp and what needed to be put in place in order to open,” explains Deren. “We had a supportive medical staff and we are fortunate to have three incredible pediatricians who come up to camp, two of whom are ER doctors in New York and Boston who had been in the trenches of COVID this spring. There was no one magic thing but a multi-layered plan for keeping campers safe. We asked campers to quarantine at home pre-camp, tested both staff and campers before arriving at camp and after arrival, performed daily temperature checks and health assessments, eliminated trips, operated in small cohorts of campers and staff, moved activities outdoors, did intensive disinfecting and cleaning of facilities and hand washed and sanitized hands constantly.” Once Deren knew his staff and campers were negative for COVID, cohorts were able to do more activities with other cohorts. “We designed the program so cohorts could be together outside while distancing and we let them know when masks were needed,” he says. “Even with the modifications we made, the core elements of camp that make it so special remained intact. Campers were connecting with one another, making friends, playing outdoors, staying off technology and gaining independence and confidence. We really got back to the basics of camp this summer, without the bells and whistles, which are great to have but not necessarily critical for a child to have an amazing camp experience.” Day camps included many of the same protocols overnight camps had in place such as daily temperature checks and health assessments, small cohorts, outdoor activities, additional disinfecting of camp and constant hand washing and sanitizing. But they also had their own set of changes that needed to be made amid COVID. Rothman explains that busing was one of the biggest changes that had to be made. “We gave up door-to-door bus service and switched to central pick up locations to have children on the bus for as short an amount of time as possible. Camper’s temperatures were taken before they boarded the bus and if their temperature was elevated, they didn’t get on the bus,” Rothman adds. “We had 34 buses this year when in a typical year, we wouldn’t need this many. Our buses ran at half capacity to allow for social distancing and children wore masks on the bus. Siblings or children in the same cohort sat next to each other to minimize contact. We also had many parents drop off their children which actually turned into a

NJFAMILY.COM | BIG BOOK OF CAMPS 2021

ESSEX YOUTH THEATER In Residence at The Studio Playhouse, U. Montclair 40 Fort Lee Road, Leonia, NJ 07605 201.336.3370

Bergen County Equestrian Center at Overpeck Park! Summer Day Camp Campers Learn about horses, grooming, equipment and how to prepare for riding. One-hour riding lesson specially tailored to their ability and experience

Boys and Girls 7 – 13 years old No horse riding experience is necessary Weekly Sessions

Barn scavenger hunts, Horse centric Arts & Crafts

40 Fort Lee Road, Leonia, NJ 07605 201.336.3370 www.bergenequestrian.com

“Essex Youth Theater—Where Every Child is a Star!”

ACTING CLASSES FOR KIDS! • Spring After-School Classes! • Summer Theater Day Camp! • For kids age 6-13 • Lots of individual attention in a friendly atmosphere • Every child gets a starring role!

Montclair’s Premiere Acting School for Kids! Now celebrating our 30th year!

973-746-3303 EssexYouthTheater.com

WELCOME TO THE MIDDLESEX COMMUNITY POOL! A SUMMER SWIM CLUB

SWIM SPORTS ARTS

Affordable Memberships • Early Bird Discounts MOST Afforda ble P in the A ool rea Voted

BEST 5 years in a row!

973-831-9000 WWW.SLDC.COM

Open Memorial Day Weekend to Labor Day Weekend, 12-8 pm Main Pool Includes Water Slide and Diving Board Kids Wading Pool and Lap Pool Activities Offered: Swim Lessons (adults and children) Aqua Zumba, Swim Team and Synchronized Swim Team Snack Bar Available for Refreshments and Parties 300 John F. Kennedy Dr., Middlesex (behind Middlesex HS) Facebook: Middlesex Community Pool www.middlesexboro-nj.gov/pool middlesexpoolnj@gmail.com 908-202-3651

Jan CampAD_Layout 1 1/7/20 3:43 PM Page 1

2020 SUMMER

ART CAMPS

Weekly half-and full-day camps for ages 5-15

2021 SUMMER

ART CAMPS

Weekly half- and full-day camps for ages 5-15

THE CENTER

FOR CONTEMPORARY ART 2020 Burnt Mills Rd, Bedminster, NJ 07921 908.234.2345 www.ccabedminster.org

BIG BOOK OF CAMPS 2021 | NEW JERSEY FAMILY

Camp Counselor

Becoming a

By HEIDI L. BORST

s your teen looking for a summer job? Camp opportunities are hard to beat—they help young adults hone their leadership skills, collaborate as part of a team and develop life-long friendships (not to mention a killer work ethic). For teens looking to make a difference, serve as a role model and impact the lives of young campers in a positive, meaningful way, working at a camp is a powerful, lifechanging experience. Here’s what it takes:

REQUIREMENTS AND CERTIFICATIONS At age 16, your child qualifies to work as a counselor at a day camp. At age 17, teens may become part of a sleepaway camp’s counselor in training (CIT) program but cannot become sleepaway camp counselors until they’re 18. Todd Rothman, owner and director of Deerkill Day Camp in Rockland County, NY, says camps don’t exclusively hire former CIT’s but participating in the program helps to get your foot in the door and makes for a seamless transition. Those who are new to camp also bring a unique experience to the job. “They have a deeper appreciation for what we do,” Rothman says. “Their first experience as a counselor is very much like the first experience of a camper in terms of their enthusiasm, and that’s hard to replace. It’s wonderful to have someone come from outside with a fresh perspective on things.” Camps provide orientations for new hires; training is typically 2-3 days long for day camps and 7-10 days for sleepaways but varies by camp, according to Susie Lupert, executive

director of the American Camp Association, NY and NJ. Not every counselor requires first aid or CPR certification, Rothman says, but waterfront positions require CPR, first aid and lifeguarding certification, which are offered by the Red Cross (redcross.org). Teens younger than 18 need working papers in New Jersey. Specific requirements are outlined during the job application process. Open camp positions can be found on a camp's website or at acanynj.org/camp-jobs or indeed.com. Most applications can be completed online.

TYPES OF JOB OPPORTUNITIES There are four general areas of opportunity for teens at camps: waterfront (lifeguards and swimming instructors), group counselors, specialized activities instructors and kitchen/administrative staff. “Specialized activities are typically younger counselors; 16- and 17-year-olds can serve as assistants,” says Rothman. “So, for example, we have had some younger counselors that really have an interest in photography, they have taken a class at school and are considering whether to pursue it further in college, it’s a great opportunity for them to assist in our photo program.” Many sleepaway camps employ teenagers for kitchen positions. “[Teens] might be working in the kitchen for part of the day, but at other times they might be with a group, so it gives them experience beyond just being a busboy in a local restaurant,” says Rothman.

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EVERYTHING YOUR TEEN NEEDS TO KNOW TO LAND A JOB AT A SUMMER CAMP

Day camps also hire teenaged staff for maintenance or administrative tasks.

RESPONSIBILITIES REAP REWARDS Camp jobs provide young adults with a unique opportunity to make an impact and cultivate leadership skills. “[Being a counselor] is not just for future teachers,” Rothman says. “It’s not just for former campers. It’s really for anyone who’s looking for a challenging experience or resume builder, an opportunity to learn a little bit about themselves and to give back. Working at a camp as a teenager, you’re given a lot more respect and responsibility on a daily basis, and our teenagers are really empowered. That’s not something you can find in every job as a teenager.” Having camp experience is really valued by college admissions officers, too. “We

BIG BOOK OF CAMPS 2021 | NEW JERSEY FAMILY

often tell our teens that are on the fence about working or interning somewhere that they would be surprised at the impact working as a counselor can have on their college resume,” Rothman says. “Most camp directors, including myself of course, when we have someone who gives their all into working for us, we make sure that we let their colleges know the impact they had. In terms of references, it goes a long way.’

SAFETY PRECAUTIONS In 2020, COVID cases at camps were minimal, says Lupert. “When there were cases, the camps were able to isolate and close and then quickly reopen. There were no superspreaders or anything of that nature,” she says. Camps are mainly held outdoors and heavily regulated by the New Jersey Department of Health. “Camps feel

very confident with the way that they ran last year, and our hope this year is that they run similarly, but also with less restrictions since we’re hoping we’re much further along in terms of vaccines,” Lupert says. “Day camps will operate safely as they did last summer. There’s an entire field guide anybody can read on the American Camp Association’s national website (acacamps.org), outlining best practices for how camps can operate.” Teens should apply early to increase their chances of landing the position they want. “[Winter] is a great time to apply, and there’s typically more availability,” says Rothman. “Most day camps offer transportation to and from the camp, so for those teenagers who don’t have access to a car… there’s typically transportation provided by bus—door-to-door or to a local centralized pickup spot.”

SMART SUMMER FUN These programs are as entertaining as they are educational.

f you’re worried that remote learning and shorter school days have taken a toll on your kids’ education, you’re not alone. The summer brain drain caused by swapping school for a day at the pool is real. “This shift in mindset [from school year to summer] leaves some students experiencing a 'summer learning loss’ when they return to school in the fall,” says Sumi Hagiwara, chairperson, Department of Teaching and Learning, Montclair State University. Nevertheless, to mitigate the summer slump schools typically require students to pore over grade-specific academic packets, attend summer school or sign up for tutoring—but that can get old for kids looking to have fun. Enter the growing popularity of smart summer programs. Focusing on academic enrichment along with enjoyment allows kids to pick up a new language, finesse storytelling skills, develop high tech savvy, indulge in scientific curiosity and even become ultra proficient in the numerical arts (aka math) all while having a blast. “All children benefit from stimulating and relevant activities regardless of age, unless their willingness to actively participate is not genuine,” says Fred Douglas, president of the New Jersey School Counselor Association. A kid who wants cookouts and lanyards may not be thrilled about coding and equations. “The word ‘camp’ and the word ‘math’ are not a direct match in the minds of most children,” he says. Yet a kid who loves to rock equations may be thrilled to crunch numbers. Whatever academic camp you choose—and there are so many options—it’s important that your child

By JENNIFER KANTOR

buys in. “If the parent enrolls a child in a summer program without the child’s input, then interest and fidelity to the summer program may be compromised from the start,” notes Hagiwara. The right camp will pique your child’s curiosity and hone his or her academic ability. And what if said

NJFAMILY.COM | BIG BOOK OF CAMPS 2021

child prefers skateboarding camp or surfing and swimming in LBI? It’s not the end of the world. “Can kids regress academically during the summer? Yes,” says Hagiwara. “But they do continue to learn during the summer, just in different ways. Regardless of how students continue to practice their skills and deepen their

BIG BOOK OF CAMPS 2021 | NEW JERSEY FAMILY

academic knowledge—whether it’s through summer packets or programs, spending time with family and friends, traveling, playing games or sports, working or helping others in their community—the key to ongoing learning is connecting the experience with what is meaningful to the child.”

We’ve made a list of brain-boosting programs sure to brighten your child’s summer— and light the way to a fantastic fall. elisabethmorrow.org Englewood Camp meets classroom at Summer Explorations (kids age 2 through grade 9), which offers selections that delve into genetics, chemistry, mythology, history, astronomy, architecture and more.

THE WRITERS CIRCLE writerscircleworkshops.com Madison Teen scribes honing their craft at WC’s week-long Summer Writing Intensive at Drew University focus on genres like poetry, playwriting or memoirs, enjoying support, feedback and literary fun along the way.

INTERNATIONAL IVY iisummer.com Multiple locations Hands-on in-person STEAM (think engineering, math, programming) learning will keep your child age 3-15 in peak performance mode (full and half days available). Virtual, small group camp will also be available.

ID TECH idtech.com Multiple locations Typically held at one of

150+ campuses nationwide, ID Tech’s summer camps focus on favorite STEM obsessions such as coding in Roblox and Minecraft. Virtual tech camp will definitely be offered for summer 2021; in-person decisions will be made this spring.

MORRISTOWN BEARD mbs.net/about/summerprograms Morristown Classes designed to pique campers’ curiosity include: Strategy Gaming, Electronic Music Immersion, Constitutional Debate and Organizations and Leadership. Middle school courses are open to rising sixth through eighth graders, while additional courses are available to high schoolers. Tuition includes lunch but not transportation.

NEWARK ACADEMY newarka.edu Livingston Top-notch academics and enrichment for young scholars grades 3-12 meet terrific classes for thinkers like podcasting and financial literacy. While some classes will be virtual, the plan is for the majority to be in-person on the private school’s gorgeous campus.

OAK KNOLL oakknoll.org/summer Summit This co-ed summer program offers prep classes for kids entering kindergarten to get them ready for their first day of school. Middle schoolers through high schoolers can focus on classes like geometry, physics and SAT prep.

TESSA INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL tessais.org Hoboken Native Spanish, French or Mandarin speakers immerse kids ages 2.5-8 in their choice of language through interactive activities, crafts and whimsical themes such as Space Explorer, On a Pirate Ship and Hollywood.

TARGET soe.rutgers.edu/target Piscataway The Academy at Rutgers for Girls in Engineering and Technology (TARGET) invites 6th-12th graders for a weeklong, grade level intro to career opportunities within STEM though workshops, labs, mentoring and more, all held on Rutgers’ science-focused Busch campus.

PINGRY BIG BLUE SUMMER bigbluesummer.org

Basking Ridge An academic mix of core and enrichment classes (language arts, math, engineering, architecture and more) will keep minds sharp whether for credit or the competitive edge. Add a half-day of sports or day camp to round out the camp experience.

WARDLAW + HARTRIDGE whschool.org Edison The Brain Boosters Junior Academics (grades 1-5) is a three-week program focused on using technology and handson activities to develop math, writing and reading skills. The Summer Scholars (grades 6-12) offers rigorous college preparatory-style courses.

WINSTON PREPARATORY SCHOOL winstonprep.edu Whippany The month-long Summer Enrichment Program boosts language facility, math aptitude, executive functioning and independence though small classes grouped by skill level and learning style, plus daily 1:1 instruction targeting the area of greatest need. Culinary arts, photography, social pragmatics and other activities are offered.

NJFAMILY.COM | BIG BOOK OF CAMPS 2021

THE ELISABETH MORROW SCHOOL