The 2014 Smarty Camp Guide

Is anyone ready for warmer weather? Summer may be a few months away but it’s time to start planning NOW, especially if summer camp is on the agenda. Working moms need to map out every single day of summer long before school gets out. For SAHM’s, camp serves as an enrichment program for kids to explore the things they like and give moms a break. Regardless of your working status, the camp opportunities in Charlotte and surrounding areas are plentiful, but you need to get your game on N-O-W. Charlotte area camps fill up fast! To help you with your planning CSP put together some Smarty tips to consider when mapping out your camp plans, as well as a few of our tried and true Smarty camp faves.

Keep in mind:

* CMS summer is 10 weeks long, and many summer camps start June 9th and run through August 15th. Most area private school summer programs follow a similar schedule.

* Be sure to pay attention to drop-off and pick-up times. This is particularly important for the working mom – not all camps cover “business hours” so a little creative flexibility may be required.

* Costs range from around $125/week for half day camps to around $200-$300/week for full day camps. Depending on the specialty, however, I’ve seen rates as high as $500/week. This might be a good option if camp coverage is not required for all 10 weeks!

* Check your local churches. Most churches in the area offer Vacation Bible Schools. Some require church membership, but most do not. The best part is that many of these Vacation Bible Schools are completely FREE, need I say more? Typically, they run M-F from 9a-1p (ish).

* Check with your local preschool. Many offer summer camps and often times, they open up to children not currently enrolled in their program.

* Ask around – Word of mouth is the best way to find out what’s going on and to get some great reco’s.

Presenting the 2014 Smarty Summer Camp Picks, tried and true by local moms!

Athena’s Path Summer Camp

Athena’s Path is a fun time for girls, filled with games and activities, guest speakers, and lively discussions – all about middle school. The social drama of middle school can take its toll on academics, self-esteem and attitudes. Athena’s Path gives girls the tools they need to navigate this tricky new social scene and be the leaders of their own lives. These tools give the girls confidence to solve their own problems in middle school.

Click here for camp information.

Athena’s Path 2 Summer Camp

Also one of Michelle Icard’s awesome camp programs, we bring you Athena’s Path 2. Girls who take Athena’s Path want more! Athena’s Path 2 is a fun time for girls who’ve taken Athena’s Path and a great way to practice the skills they learned with the new social situations they’ve encountered in middle school. They’ll play the games they loved last year but will have new activities and lessons. Some core lessons are repeated, so it’s not necessary to take AP before you take AP2.

Click here for camp information.

CPCC STEM Summer Experience 2014

If you have a child interested in science, technology, engineering or math, be sure to check out CPCC’s summer camp offerings! Due to last summer’s overwhelming response, the CPCC STEM Summer Experience has more camps this year. From crime scene investigation and building your own 3D printer, to room design and building dragsters, CPCC’s camps offer a variety of experiences for kids in elementary, middle or high school! There is limited enrollment, so register online today at www.StemSummerExperience.com or call 704.330.6731 for more information.

The STEM Summer Experience Camps:
Brick Mania – June 16-20
Build Your Own Mini Dragster – June 16-19 or June 23-26
SWAGtronics – June 23-27
Crime Scene Investigator(CSI) – June 23-26 or July 21-24
Computer Crimes – July 7-10
Build Your Own 3D Computer – July 7-11
Build Your Own Bio-Mechanical Hand – July 14-18
My Virtual Space – July 14-17
Teen Court Challenge – July 14-17

Camp Cannon at Cannon School

Summer camp memories can last a lifetime—the friends you make, the challenges you overcome, and the fun you have trying new things. This summer, let Camp Cannon help you create lasting memories for your child.

Camp Cannon has more than 110 camps focused on the Arts, SciTech, Sports, and College Prep, with more than thirty-five sessions offered for the first time. Camp sessions run from June 9 through August 1, with the exception of the week of June 30. Camp Cannon hours are 9:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m., with additional care offered from 7:30 a.m. until 5:30 p.m. With 113 camps to choose from, Camp Cannon has something for everyone!

Registration opens March 1. For more details on the camps offered or to register, visit www.campcannon.com.

Camp Cannon
5801 Poplar Tent Road
Concord, NC 28027
(704) 786-8171
website
facebook
twitter: @CannonSchool

Camp Highlander

Camp Highlander, located in Mills River, NC, near Asheville, provides a magical summer experience for girls and boys, ages 5-16. The South Mills River runs through the gorgeous 240 acre campus. The well-maintained facilities include a post and beam rec hall, a pristine lake with slide, an Olympic-size outdoor pool, a rifle range, a ropes course and climbing wall, extensive trails and a top-of-the-line horse stable and ring.

Older campers enjoy adventures like Nantahala whitewater rafting, canoeing on the Green River, camping at Dupont Forest and even a horseback overnight at the Biltmore Estate. Plus Camp Highlander integrates Michelle in the Middle Social Leadership Curriculum for all intermediate campers (5th – 8th grades).

Junior Camp is specifically geared toward younger campers (K to 4th grades), with lower camper to counselor ratios. Junior Camp activities include canoeing, riflery, archery, horseback riding, climbing, sports, crafts, zip wire and swimming.

A distinguishing characteristic of Camp Highlander is its Cabin Unit philosophy. Only 3% of camps across the nation create a cohesive Cabin Unit of same-age campers that stay together 24/7. Unlike other camps you may consider, at Camp Highlander, the Cabin Unit votes on activities and does them together with the dedicated help of trained mentors. The Cabin Unit is good for kids because it establishes consistency, connection and a sense of belonging. Your children will build friendships that last a lifetime!

Discover why Camp Highlander is A Place Like No Other! Visit www.camphighlander.com or call 828-891-7721 to check for openings in their 1, 2 or 3-week sessions. Experience Camp Highlander by signing up for a Father-Son or Mother-Daughter weekend as well!

Camp Highlander
42 Dalton Road
Mills River, NC 28759
(828) 891-7721
www.camphighlander.com
Session Dates for 2014: June 8 – August 1
Father/Son Weekend: May 16-18
Spring Family Camp: May 23-26
Mother/Daughter Weekend: Sept 12-14

Carolina Flipz FlipzFest Camp!

Our FlipzFest Camp is one of the best in Charlotte! During this fun-filled week, our kids will learn gymnastics skills in addition to team bonding, artistic creativity, healthy living, independence and much more!

This camp is not just for gymnasts but all athletes that like to flip around and have a fun time. Our USAG certified instructors maintain a safe and structured atmosphere for all kids to participate no matter what their gymnastics abilities may be.

Come experience the FUN of gymnastics! We look forward to flipping with you!

FlipzFest Recreational Summer Camp
Ages: 4-15
Dates: June 16 – August 15
Full Day: 8:30a-5:30p, $225/Week
Half Day: 8:30a-12:30p OR 1:30p-5:30p, $165/Week

Carolina Flipz
www.CarolinaFlipz.com
Office: 704-544-4511
www.facebook.com/carolinaflipzgym

Expand Your Horizons at Charlotte Christian Camps!

Are you looking to keep your child connected with their friends this summer and maybe still learn something new? Charlotte Christian School is offering more than 40 camps this season including academics, sports, arts, and enrichment for all ages from junior kindergarten through grade 12. From sports camps led by Charlotte Christian head coaches in baseball, basketball, cheerleading, football, lacrosse, soccer and tennis to Jump Start academic camps for reading, math and Spanish to the popular STEM Science and LEGO Maniacs camps – there is something for everyone!

Fun enrichment camps for lower school-aged students include American Girl Doll Camp, Cake Pops & Edible Crafts, Girls on the Run, Club Penguin or iMovie Makers to name a few. Older students can learn about Film Making, Film Production, Visual Journaling for the art junkie, and even a service camp, Community Care, where campers will spend the week in service to the Charlotte community.

There is also plenty of fun in the sun for children to enjoy at the Super Summer Day Camp. This camp includes weekly field trips, trips to the pool, and new activities, games, and crafts for a half day or full day of fun.

Camps will run from June 2 – July 25 with morning sessions from 9 a.m. – noon and then the afternoon sessions from 1 – 4 p.m. There is a one-time registration fee of $25 due by May 16 and then $35 fee after the due date. Extended Care options are available for an extra fee before and after camps or to bridge between morning and afternoon camps. Whether you would like your children to attend camp for one week or for several weeks, there are a variety of camps available that are sure to spark the interest of children who love to learn, play, and explore. Come expand your horizons at Charlotte Christian!

For a complete listing of all Charlotte Christian summer camps please visit www.charlottechristian.com/summercamps. Any questions, please contact Director of Summer Camps Christy Coles at christy.coles@charchrist.com.

Charlotte Christian School
7301 Sardis Road
Charlotte, NC 28270
(704) 366-5657
facebook
twitter: @charchristiannc

Click here for a full overview of Charlotte Christian.

Charlotte Country Day School in the Summer

Are you ready for a GREAT summer? Sign up for Summer Programs 2014 at Charlotte Country Day School. From drama and art to video game development and robotics, Country Day offers more than 200 summer camps and programs to suit every interest in enrichment, academics, and sports.

– Fun and creative classes for children ages 3–18
– High school credit courses
– Challenging sports camps

Camps run June 2–August 15. For detailed course descriptions and to register online, please visit: charlottecountryday.org/summer-program or call (704) 943-4648.

Charlotte Country Day School Summer Programs
1440 Carmel Road
Charlotte, NC 28226
www.charlottecountryday.org/summer-program
(704) 943-4846

Charlotte Gymnastics Academy Camp

At Charlotte Gymnastics Academy, they focus on Fun, Fitness, and Flipping! Any kid, beginner to advanced, is going to enjoy coming to the CGA Summer Camp. They work on all aspects of gymnastics as well as games, obstacle courses, water day, and overall physical activity. You can choose to do either a morning or afternoon half day camp or a full day camp.

Spring Break and Summer camps are weeks of awesome fun and a great time for beginner to advanced participants! They plan well-organized gymnastic instruction daily on all the equipment for non-stop full blown fun! They also schedule gymnastic-related games throughout the camp and lots of time for open gym. Students need to bring their own snacks and lunch. They have water day on Thursdays or Fridays during the summer so bring a bathing suit to change into and a towel for all the water drenching fun! Early Enrollment Half Day and Full Day Camp discounts are available and are filling up fast so create/login to your Charlotte Gymnastics Academy Iclasspro account and enroll soon!

Charlotte Gymnastics Academy Summer Camp
710 Peninsula Lane, Suite A
Charlotte, NC 28273
704-714-FLIP (3547)
flip@charlottegymnastics.com
Enroll here.
facebook & youtube

Charlotte Junior Gym Summer Camps

Charlotte Junior Gym offers summer camps, Monday-Thursday, for children ages 3 (or almost 3!) to age 5. Potty trained is preferred, but not mandatory. Children rotate from the gym, to music and storytime, to crafts, lunch and a 2nd gym session. Our teacher/student ratio is 1:5 or better! We can prorate camps (space permitting) if your child cannot attend the entire 4 days. The cost for a 4 day camp, 9:15am-12:45pm, is $190. We offer a sibling discount of 20%. We will offer Open Gyms for ages 18 months – age 5 in August.

Click here for more details and the summer schedule.

Charlotte Junior Gym
201 Rampart Street
Charlotte, NC 28203
704-333-3242
email: cltjrgym@aol.com

Charlotte Nature Museum Summer Camps

Kids connect with nature through outdoor exploration, learn to lead by testing their own theories and make tracks in uncovering the wonder of nature. Conducted in a safe, nurturing environment, Camps include live animals and lively interactions that foster a greater understanding of science & the natural world. Register Today!

Charlotte Nature Museum Summer Camps
704-372-6261
Pre K – 5th Grade
1658 Sterling Road, Charlotte NC 28209
Facebook: www.facebook.com/DiscoveryPlace
Twitter: twitter.com/CLTNatureMuseum
Pinterest: www.pinterest.com/discoveryplace/
Instagram: instagram.com/discoveryplace#

Children’s Theatre of Charlotte Summer Camp

Children’s Theatre of Charlotte’s award-winning Summer Camp program offers performance experiences for students ages 3-18 in a fun, interactive environment. Camps are grouped by age: Early Childhood (half-day, ages 3-5), Primary (full day, rising K-2nd grade), Performance (full-day, rising 3rd-7th grade) and Teen (full-day, rising 8th-12th grade). Professional teaching artists lead campers in acting, singing, dancing, and art activities that culminate in a performance for family and friends. Camps meet at ImaginOn, Charlotte Latin School and UNCC. One-week and Two-week programs from June 2-August 8, 2014.

Children’s Theatre of Charlotte Summer Camp
300 E. 7th Street
Charlotte, NC 28202
704-973-2838 (10-5, M-F)

Community School of the Arts Summer Camp

Community School of the Arts is proud to be the only organization of its kind in the Charlotte region and one of the largest arts education organizations in the Southeast. The arts teach the skills needed to be successful in the 21st century workforce – innovation, imagination, critical thinking and collaboration. For over 40 years, CSA has fostered the growth of music and visual arts in Charlotte by providing high quality, personalized instruction to creative minds. During the summer, we invite you and your family to join us for camps in music and art – designed to ignite artistic passion and invigorate the spirit.

CSA offers 14 weeks of camps including Preschool Arts, Jazz, Early Elementary Arts, Kids Pottery, Music-Drama Workshop, Suzuki Violin, and Band & Orchestra. All camps include professional faculty at convenient Charlotte locations. Please call 704.377.4187 or visit www.csarts.org for dates and prices.

Community School of the Arts
345 N. College St.
Charlotte NC 28202
704-377-4187

The Cornwell Center Summer Camps Program

Since 2003, the Cornwell Center has offered this community an unmatched setting with a wide range of activities and services to help grow and develop your mind, body and spirit. Whether you seek a challenging workout, a way to explore your artistic leanings, or feed your curious mind, they welcome all ages to our multi-generational, family-oriented community. The Cornwell Center offers a popular summer camp program including themes such as Play Spanish, arts camps, sports camps, wellness camps and so much more for ages 3-11.

The Cornwell Center Summer Camps
Physical Address: 2001 Selwyn Avenue
Mailing Address: 1900 Queens Rd, Charlotte, NC 28207
Phone: 704-927-0774
Email: cornwell@mpbconline.org

Discovery Place Summer Camps

Discovery Place Summer Camps are a great way to learn about the science of everyday life with a twist of fun and a dose of discovery. Kids will enjoy a science adventure exploring animals, astronomy and other awesome stuff that will get them fired up about science, nature, technology, engineering and art. Full and half-day camps available. Register Today!

Discovery Place Summer Camps
Uptown
704-372-6261
Pre K – 9th Grade
301 N. Tryon St., Charlotte, NC 28202
www.discoveryplace.org
Facebook: www.facebook.com/DiscoveryPlace
Twitter: twitter.com/discoveryplace
Pinterest: www.pinterest.com/discoveryplace/
Instagram: instagram.com/discoveryplace#

Discovery Place Kids Summer Camps

With a new theme each week from art to animals, your child can have fun, be creative, experiment with new ideas & make new friends. Play experiences designed to spark curiosity & creativity, Campers have the opportunity to sing, dance, get messy, be active and ask questions in a safe & nurturing environment. 1/2-day Camps available. Register Today!

Discovery Place KIDS Summer Camps
704-372-6261
2 yrs – 8 yrs
105 Gilead Road, Huntersville 28078
www.discoveryplacekids.org
Facebook: www.facebook.com/DiscoveryPlace
Twitter: twitter.com/DPKHuntersville
Pinterest: www.pinterest.com/discoveryplace/
Instagram: instagram.com/discoveryplace#

Fundanoodle

Join Max & Alphie this Summer for one of our fun and interactive Fundanoodle Camps! Play the “Write” Way is a hands-on multisensory handwriting camp for rising K-1st graders using the whole body approach to learning. Our camp incorporates Fundanoodle’s dynamic approach to teaching and improving letter formation. In addition to instruction, they will use games and activities that are designed to positively impact:

– Gross and fine motor coordination
– Attention span
– Sensory & visual processing skills
– Self-esteem and confidence

This camp is ideal for both beginning writers and students who need extra help. Students will learn to:

– write all uppercase and lowercase letters
– use good spacing
– write within the lines
– be consistent with size and form

I Can Write Cursive! Boot Camp is a hands-on, multisensory handwriting camp for rising 3rd – 5th graders which incorporates Fundanoodle’s dynamic approach and is designed for students who:

– Are actively interested in learning cursive
– Have received cursive instruction, but have yet to master the fluency of correct letter formation or the speed and accuracy to use this handwriting style in everyday assignments

The camp will also provide gross motor activities as well as sensory and fine motor labs.

Fundanoodle’s proprietary active learning and developmentally progressive handwriting books will be used in both camps to teach proper formation of both uppercase and lowercase letters.

For more information, please visit www.fundanoodle.com/fundanoodle-camps

Fundanoodle.com
Facebook.com/FundanoodleLearning
Twitter.com/Fundanoodle

Hero’s Pursuit Summer Camp

In Michelle Icard’s popular boys camp, Hero’s Pursuit, boys play games, try new activities and take challenges – all about life as a guy in middle school. Hero’s Pursuit gives boys the tools they need to become leaders, to make their own decisions and handle the challenges and opportunities boys face in middle school – and beyond. Without even realizing it, your boy will learn and practice critical thinking, impulse control, creative problem solving, and peer support.

Click here for camp information.

Jami Masters School of Dance Camp

The talented team at Jami Masters wants to expand your child’s art expression abilities with exposure to dance, drama, music, acrobatics, and art. Campers will be in classes at the studio from 9:00 a.m.- 1:00 p.m., and will conclude the week with a “mini production” based on the theme of the week for families and friends on Friday at 12:00 noon. Campers are grouped by age, 3-8, and will rotate through the different arts areas each day. Your little ballerinas will LOVE the JMSD Camps!

JMSD Summer Camp Program:
Click here for the 2-year-old “Princess/Prince in Training P.I.T.” Summer Camp Schedule.
Click here for the 3-8 year old Summer Camp Schedule.
Click here for the 1st-3rd grade Summer Camp Schedule.

Kamp Gabe 4 Kids Summer Camp

Kamp Gabe 4 Kids is a summer day camp dedicated to providing your child a positive, interactive summer day camp experience. Established in 1988 by Sue Cornish and a team of elementary teachers, each program Kamp Gabe offers encourages your child to learn, interact, and most of all, HAVE FUN!

Kamp Gabe 4 Kids is designed for children ages 3 to rising 6th grade.

Kamp Gabe 4 Kids will offer four (4) distinct kamps for the summer of 2014:
1. Traditional Kamp
2. Fine Arts Kamp
3. Sports Skills Kamp
4. Lego & Sports Kamp

Dates: July 7-25
Cost: $175

The Kamp Gabe Smarty Steal!

When you register for Kamp Gabe 4 Kids and reference that you found us on Charlotte Smarty Pants, the first ten (10) applications will receive $10.00 off the tuiton!

Kamp Gabe Summer Camp
St. Gabriel Catholic School
3028 Providence Road
Charlotte, NC 28211
704-840-4920
facebook.com/kampgabe4kids

Please go to kampgabe.com for complete information on all the fun things Kamp Gabe 4 Kids has planned for 2014!

Launch Your Kid Summer 2014 Camps

Launch Your Kid is the Charlotte area’s leading provider of activity based childhood enrichment programs. We make it fun to try new things! Our programs include Daisy Dance, Fit-n-Play, and Little Buddy Yoga. Each program uses a developmentally appropriate curriculum focusing on teaching fun first and skills second.

Camp programs include Princess Dance, Daisy Dance, Little Buddy Yoga, LYK Exploration, and Little Conservatory Music camps. Click here for full camp schedule with dates and themes.

Cost: $165 before June 1st, $185 after.

MACS Summer Camps

Do your kids need some fun and excitement this summer? MACS Summer Camp is the answer! MACS Summer Camp 2014 offers campers a wide variety of activities and experiences in a safe and stimulating environment. Campers have the opportunity to choose among many fun activities during part of each day empowering the child to design some of his or her day:

– fieldtrips
– sports galore
– creativity in art
– enrichment Programs/Weekly themes
– strategic Games
– plus so much more!

Camps run from June 16th – August 8th. Summer Camp locations are offered at St. Mark in Huntersville, St. Matthew in Ballantyne, and St. Patrick Catholic School in Dilworth. Hours of operation are from 7:30 am — 6:00 pm.

Age: Rising Kindergartners (must be 5 years old to attend) through graduating 5th grade

Cost: Child #1/#2, $170/week. For #3 and up, $125 per week.

Click here for complete details and registration form.
Contact Ellen Buening at 704-370-3268 or email ehbuening@charlottediocese.org.

Miller Street Dance Academy Summer Camps

Miller Street Dance Academy’s Summer Camps are four fun-filled days with activities for children ages four to eight. Come join us for tumbling, face painting, arts and crafts, games and so much more! Let your child’s imagination soar through a variety of themes, including Groovy Girl, Princess Camp, Hula Camp and Safari Camp! Camps run from 9:00 am to 12:30 pm or 1:30 pm to 5:00 pm. For more information, please visit www.millerstreetdanceacademy.com!

The Early Bird Special MSDA Smarty Steal!

The MSDA Smarty Steal runs now through March 31, 2014. Camps are $80 during this time period. After March 31st, all camps are $100.

MSDA has two convenient studio locations:
Providence
11532 Providence Road, Suite O
Charlotte, NC 28277
(704)889-8637

Baxter Village
967 Market Street, Suite 100
Fort Mill, SC 29708
(803) 396-5299

Morrison YMCA Camps

Keep your kids active and happy this summer at the Morrison Family YMCA Day Camp! When you bring your child to YMCA Summer Camp, you’re not just dropping off your child for a day of fun activities, you’re tapping into an expert summer camp resource committed to providing a high-quality, age-appropriate experience. We offer full and half day options for children of all ages and interests. Camp options include Sports, Arts and Performing Arts, Dance, Cheer, Gymnastics, Outdoor Adventure and much more! For a complete listing of camps, check out our Camp Guide or visit us at http://www.ymcacharlotte.org/branches/morrison/youthdev/camp/camp.aspx.

At the Y, we are passionate about quality and safety. Parents can enjoy peace of mind that their child is participating in meaningful activities and experiences that align with their needs and abilities. Camp runs from June 10 – August 23. Registration is open so reserve your child’s spot today!

MORRISON FAMILY YMCA
9405 Bryant Farms Rd
Charlotte, NC 28277

My Farm Camps

CALLING ALL FARM LOVERS! Located in the heart of Ballantyne, My Farm Camps is the prefect day camp choice for your horse-loving child. At My Farm Camps, kids will learn to care for horses, ponies, goats, donkeys, pigs, chickens & roosters, llamas, and dogs. Kids will learn about animal anatomy, grooming, shoeing, vet care, conditioning, riding, and more. Watch a Farrier shoe a horse, or a Vet perform an equine health exam and clean their teeth…this is an experience they will never forget!

My Farm Camps is owned and operated by Smarty cowgirl, Denise Hammond. CSP {hearts} Denise!

My Farm Camps
16202 Marvin Road
Charlotte, NC 28277
704-996-3048

My Gym Summer Camps – Beat the Heat!

The most convenient camp in Charlotte for parents! The most fun camp around for kids! Summer Camp (ages 2.5 -11 years) runs between Memorial Day weekend and Labor Day weekend. We offer half days of awesome adventures and dynamic, creative activities for kiddos! No two camp days are ever the same as your kids rock it out with our incredible staff members in a cool safe environment. Children will be divided into age appropriate groups so that they can be challenged accordingly! Choose the summer dates that are most convenient for your vacation schedule. Snack and juice will be provided. Morning and Afternoon Camp available.

Cost:
$30 per day (members), $35 (non-members)
$5 sibling discount
10 day package $25 per day (members) $30 per day (non-members)
Unlimited Camp Pass – $500 for members / $575 for non members Only 10 passes available, 1st-come 1st-serve basis)

My Gym SouthPark
5110 Park Road 2D
Charlotte, NC 28209
www.mygym.com/charlotte
info@mygymcharlotte.com
704-522-6966

My Gym Blakeney
9852 Rea Rd. Suite A2 
Charlotte, NC 28277
www.mygym.com/ballantyne
704-543-0682

Providence Day School Summer Programs: Play. Learn. Create

Play. Learn. Create. Over 250 camps for ages 3 through adult. Camps run June 2 through August 1 and registration is open to the general public. Whether catching bug or balls, singing or dancing, making cakes or learning to sew, developing apps or building rockets — everyone can try something new at Providence Day School this summer!

Providence Day School Summer Programs
5800 Sardis Road
Charlotte, NC 28270
(704) 887-6000
pds.summerprograms@providenceday.org
website
facebook
twitter: @PDSHead

Small Hands Big Art Camp Program

Small hands big art is a full-time arts enrichment program for children, offering age and developmentally appropriate classes, parties and workshops.

Spring Break Mini-camps: Students will enjoy a variety of mixed media projects, including painting, drawing, sculpture, collage, printmaking & more. Different projects every day, so feel free to sign up for more than one session!

Summer Mixed Media: We will inspire kids’ creativity by exposing them to a fun mix of age appropriate projects with varying art mediums, styles, ideas & techniques. Through hands-on exploration, children will learn the basic elements of art such as shape, line, color, texture, form, space & value, as well as pattern & rhythm.

Pottery and Ceramics: Clay is cold, squishy, messy, & kids love it! Students will learn all aspects of creating original works of art out of clay, including hand building and sculpting techniques using a variety of clay tools, glazing techniques, and an introduction to the pottery wheel.

Small Hands Big Art Summer Camp Program
8025 Ardrey Kell Road
Charlotte, NC 28277

Soccer Shots of Charlotte Summer Camps

Soccer Shots is the national leader in youth soccer development for children ages 2 – 8. Our program has been created under the guidance of childhood education specialists, MLS and USL professional soccer players, and experienced and licensed coaches.
Soccer Shots 2014:

Nano Sports
Schedule: 5-day (9am-12pm) camp for 3-5 year-olds
Dates: July 7-11th and July 28th-August 1st.
Cost: $150

Endhaven Elementary
Schedule: 5-day (9am-12pm) camp for 3-5 year-olds
Dates: July 7-11
Cost: $140

Click here for more details and other programs for the summer.
www.soccershots.org/charlotte
info@soccershots.org
704-890-0988

School of Rock Charlotte 2014 Spring & Summer Camps

School of Rock teaches guitar, bass, vocals, keyboards, drums and combines weekly private music lessons and group band rehearsals to prepare students to take the stage in front of live audiences in an authentic concert setting.

The School of Rock Summer Schedule:

Spring Break Mini Camp – Blues Improvisation
April 17th – April 18th 2014
This 2 day spring break mini-camp will dive deep into the heart of the Blues. Students will learn different Blues styles and techniques from many blues masters, everything from the Chicago Blues, to Stevie Ray Vaughan to the world famous Blues artists of New Orleans. After exploring all of these blues styles student will focus on extracting different blues qualities and incorporating the many variations of blues scales into their own improvisational playing. Time: 9:00 am – 2:00 pm, Cost $175.

Session 1 – Rock 101 Camp (Beginners)
June 16th – June 20th 2014
Just starting out on your musical journey? This camp is for you! Our one week Rock 101 Camp is perfect for younger and budding musicians who want to learn more about playing their instrument while having fun and making new friends. Through instrument-learning sessions, music games and group play-alongs, campers will build new skills on their instrument while learning how to play in a band. As they learn to play a simple rock tune or two, campers will come away with a great start on the fundamentals, but most of all they will have fun as we get them rockin’ in a no-pressure environment. Ages 7-11, no experience needed. 9a-2p

Session 2 – Student’s Choice Performance Boot Camp (All levels)
June 30th – July 4th 2014
This comprehensive camp experience is designed to hone music performance and ensemble skills in a creative and fun environment. Students will choose the songs for this 5-day camp and perform a live show on the final day! 9a-2p, cost $375. Students will work in a hands-on atmosphere that includes:

– Learning the nuts and bolts of live performance
– Studio/band rehearsal time
– Instruction and clinics with music professionals
– Rock & Roll music appreciation
– Interacting with other young musicians
– A LIVE rock show performance for your friends and family
– Having fun!

Session 3 – Rock Singers Performance Camp (All Levels)
July 14th – July 18th 2014
This 5-day camp will focus on all things related to singing! The students will learn proper warmup and breath techniques, how to sing basic harmony with other singers, great performance tips and more. In the recording section, they will learn about proper mic technique, the overdubbing process, and how to sing while listening to a headphone mix. Then, they will choose a song to record their very own vocal tracks, and leave with their own copy of their performance. Super fun!!! 9a-2p, cost $375.

For more info, contact:
Jill Livick
General Manager
charlotte@schoolofrock.com
704-525-5857
1105 Greenwood Cliff
Charlotte, NC 28204

The Art Room

The Art Room is a studio that offers classes, camps, open studio times, and birthday parties for children ages 3-6 years. Our philosophy at The Art Room is to support your child’s natural instinct to explore, experiment, and be creative. Our focus is on the creative process rather than producing a product. Every experience at The Art Room includes songs and stories. Come create with us!

Dates: June 2 – August 14
Cost: $200, 10% sibling discount

The Art Room Summer Camp
118 E Kingston Ave #11
Charlotte, NC 28203
(704) 651-8040

Trinity Episcopal School Wildcat Summer

Are you ready for Wildcat Summer? We sure hope so!

At Trinity Episcopal School, we are offering six weeks of fantastic camps packed with new experiences and exciting, hands-on learning. Join us as we embark on new adventures, build friendships and strengthen our sense of community. We welcome rising K-8 students (ages 5-14) to experience these full- and half-day camps.

What makes Wildcat Summer Camp stand out?

– Our unique proximity to Uptown
– Our daily adventures and field trips to apply our learning outside of the classroom and in Charlotte’s Center City
– Our complimentary before- and after-camp care (7:30-9am and 4-5:30pm) to accommodate working families

While the core values of Trinity link each camp, the programs are designed to offer unique experiences for each week. New adventures have been added to expand and enrich the experience for returning Wildcat campers. Whether you’re passionate about the arts, sports, geography, technology, math or being green, your camper will grow at Wildcat Summer Camp 2014!

At Trinity, we are dedicated to nurturing the whole student: mind, body and spirit. Whether gaining an understanding of hunger through our partnership with Friendship Trays or experiencing the beauty of the Queen City during an “Artists in Action” art walk, we are fully invested in honoring Trinity’s mission to create scholars, nurture spirituality and embrace diversity in Charlotte’s Center City. Trinity’s Honor Code provides guidelines that help us achieve our goals for students to live successfully in our community.

Trinity Episcopal School Summer Camps
750 E. 9th Street
Charlotte, NC 28202
(704)358-8101
website
facebook
twitter: @TEScharlotte

YMCA Camp Harrison

Just over the ridge and beyond the apple orchard sits two thousand acres of land that is home to woods, streams, trails, lakes and YMCA Camp Harrison. Nestled in the Brushy Mountains ninety miles northwest of Charlotte, Camp Harrison offers campers exploration and adventure in a nurturing, God-centered environment.

At Traditional Resident Camp, campers ages 6-16 choose from over 21 land activities including: archery, paintball, ropes course, sports and crafts. Through their adventure tracks, which include The Dude Ranch, Vet Camp, Mom & Me, Beyond the Ridge Teen Leadership, Farm to Feast, Sportsman and CIT, each camper can create their own personalized experience. Campers will spend the morning in their track and spend the afternoon with the entire camp enjoying lake front and water activities including: kayaking, canoeing, water zip line, waterskiing, the “Blob” and the “Wet Willie”.

Camp Harrison
Ages 6-16, resident camp
7901 South NC HWY 18
Boomer, NC
800-514-1417
Dates: June 8th-August 16th
campharrison@ymcacharlotte.org
www.facebook.com/ycampharrison

YMCA Camp Thunderbird

Camp Thunderbird’s 1.7-mile shoreline provides the ideal backdrop for life-changing experiences. For more than seventy five years, Thunderbird’s pristine 100-acre campus on the shores of Lake Wylie has welcomed campers wanting to escape the buzz of city life.

Since 1936, Camp Thunderbird has provided thousands of kids an unforgettable experience that includes adventure, fun, and friendship! Camp Thunderbird has nationally-recognized water programs, including wakeboarding, water skiing, sailing, kayaking, canoeing, water slides and “the Blob”. They offer 28 land activities including horseback riding, skating, high and low ropes courses, sports, and crafts. This resident camp provides boys and girls an exciting, safe experience that they will remember for a lifetime.

Camp Thunderbird
Ages 7-16, both residential and day camp
One Thunderbird Lane
Lake Wylie, SC
800-732-3855
campers@campthunderbird.org
www.facebook.com/YMCACampThunderbird

YWCA Park Road – Summer Splash Camps

Campers ages 5-12 will dive into a whirlpool of water fun while enjoying time in and out of the pool. In the water, campers will receive basic swim lessons and water safety instruction, as well as enjoy games and free time. Camp activities will include arts and crafts, tie-dye and our end-of-the-week flick and float where campers may swim and watch a movie!

Session 1: 6/16/14-6/20/14, 1-5p, Registration Deadline: June 2
Session 2: 7/7/14-7/11/14, 1-5p, Registration Deadline: June 30
Session 3: 8/4/14-8/8/14, 1-5p, Registration Deadline: July 28

Questions? Shelena Davis (office): 704-525-5770 x222 or aquatics@ywcacentralcarolinas.org
Cost: Members $125
, Non Members $160

Click here for registration form.

Park Road YWCA Central Carolinas
3420 Park Road
Charlotte, NC 28209
www.ywcacentralcarolinas.org
704-525-5770

The Greater YMCA of Charlotte Camps
With way too many camps to list at the YMCA, you need to just grab a cup of joe and camp out on their website that is chock full of super options. They have something for everyone. From Outdoor Adventure to Camp Tutu, overnight camps and sleepaway too, the YMCA delivers.

Smarties, we’ll be updating our Camp Corner all season long and we’ll kick off our Camp Giveaways in two weeks. You could win a week of FREE camp! Also, if you have a camp that you’d like us to review and potentially add to our guide, it’s not too late. Email us here!