Patch Picks: Summer Camps

Summer is a few months away, but it’s never too early to start thinking about sending your kids to camp. According to a recent article in the Washington Post, many parents in the D.C. metro area have been getting a jump start on registration, with some camps filling up during the winter months! 

Because there are so many options out there and the summer camp scene is so competitive, it can be challenging to choose the perfect summer camp for your child. Here are our picks for the area’s best summer camps:

1. Tauxemont Cooperative Preschool Nature Camp:  Kids ages three-and-a-half to rising first graders can participate in this fun-filled summer camp. Campers participate in opening and closing ceremonies and can take part in educational games and activities. Open enrollment will be held at the preschool on Monday, May 2 from 6-8 p.m. For more information, please call (703) 765-9266.
2. Burgundy Summer Day Camp: Set on Burgundy Farm Day School’s 25 acre campus in Alexandria, this day camp has programs for children between three and 12 years of age. Younger campers build social skills while participating in educational games and activities, while older children can take their pick from six areas of interest such as photography, visual arts, performing arts, and sports. The next open house will be held from 10 a.m.-noon on March 12. Online registration is available, and according to Camp Director Kathleen Hennessey, there are “a large number of spaces” available. For more info, please e-mail summercamp@burgundyfarm.org. 
3.  Woodlawn Stables Horsemanship Camp: Has your child been collecting Breyer horses for years, or, has she finished reading Misty of Chincoteague for the umpteenth time? Sign her up for Woodlawn Stables’ Horsemanship Camp. New and experienced riders learn more about taking care of horses and get to experience the great outdoors.  There is even a camp for adults who want to learn to ride. Spaces are still available on a first-come, first-serve basis. Please call (703) 780-4344 to reserve your spot.
4. Browne Academy Summer Camp: Located in Alexandria, Browne Academy’s summer camp program is intended for kids from three-13 years old. Browne Academy offers a day camp program with weekly themes such as Where the Wild Things Are and Symphony of the Senses. There are also specialty camps for children who would like to focus on sports, drama, and even technology. An Extended Day program is offered. The next open house is on April 5 at 10 a.m. For more information, please call (703) 960-3000 ext. 1002.
5. Fairfax County Park Authority Camps: Local RECenters are hosting a plethora of summer camps. Whether your child is interested in sports, the arts, and even robotics, you can be sure to find a camp that suits them. The George Washington RECenter and the Mount Vernon RECenter are hosting different camps. For more info, call (703) 222-4664.  If you register your child by May 27, you can save $8.