When we think of Summer Camp, visions of horseback riding, swimming and lots and lots of bug spray come to mind. But today, kids have so many options. So if little Ashley is more interested in princesses rather than Pine Trees or if Joey is into chemistry rather than canoeing, there is a camp just for them!

The Fort Worth-Star Telegram recently released their 2008 Guide to Summer Camps. In it are hundreds of listings of traditional, arts, learning and sports camps in the North Texas region. The section is now posted on-line (http://www.star-telegram.com/408/story/548808.html) and families can sort camp options by camp type and by location. This is a wonderful tool for busy parents trying to find unique summer alternatives for their kids.

Three of the camps on this section really caught my eye. I was excited to learn more about their unique summer-time activities.

Princess Camp

Let’s face it, for many girls, the idea of getting dirt under fingernails and not having access to a hair dryer is not considered a good time. That’s why Chelsea Beagles and her mother Jackie Andrews, owners of Chelsea’s Tea Room and Boutique in Arlington, came up with the idea of a Princess Camp. Chelsea says, “I felt their was a need for a camp were you don’t get dirty, break a sweat and if you do break a nail, files and polish are available.” But it’s not just about dressing up and tea parties. These girls are also are learning important life lessons. Proper etiquette mixed in with kindness are important ingredients within the camp structure. ”This is a chance (for them) to learn the importance of a thank you note, a kind word and to be grateful for all that we have.”

Camp Information

Company – Chelsea’s Tea Room & Boutique
Website – www.chelseas.org
Number to call – 817-563-1800

Bugs, Bugs and More Bugs

Colleyville Parks and Recreation came up with the idea of providing a bug camp for kids interested in all things creepy-crawly. Leah McHorse says that the entire camp is focused on bugs. “Since children are naturally curious and eager to learn new things, they have a great time learning about the world of bugs. We use a variety of fun and creative activities. They learn about bugs through crafts, games, by singing, exploring, and even in the snacks that we eat.” Each day, a new bug is selected for study and kids get to learn what it’s like being part of a bug’s world. “One of their favorite activities is when we simulate a butterfly’s development,” says McHorse. “After learning about the process of metamorphosis, each child crawls into a box with a towel in it like a simulated cocoon. By doing this, they get a better idea about the transformation that takes place in a cocoon in order to produce a butterfly.”

Camp Information

Company – City of Colleyville, Parks and Recreation Department
Website – www.colleyvillepard.com
Number to call – 817.503.1180

Camp El Tesoro de la Vida

There are many specialized camps that assist children struggling with disabilities, behavioral problems, and social challenges. But for kids dealing with the loss of a loved one, Camp El Tesoro de la Vida in Granbury offers hiking and horseback riding, but even more importantly healing. According to Camp Director, Toni Hooton, Camp El Tesoro de la Vida “allows children who have lost a loved one through death to spend a week at camp with other children who have had the same experiences.” She emphasizes the importance of kids to be around other kids who have gone through similar experiences. “They can talk about their feelings in a safe environment where they are understood, unlike at school or in their neighborhood where other children just don’t get it. They also have lots of fun and take the time to just be a kid at camp.”

Camp Information

Company – Camp Fire
Website – www.CampElTesoro.org
Number to Call – 817-831-2111

When planning your child’s summer camp experience, avoid sending them off to Camp “I-Suffered-Through-It-And-So-Will-You”. I am of the opinion that sleeping on the ground does not necessarily build character. Think of it this way – the better you are able to match your child’s interest to a camp, the more likely your mailbox will be free from heart wrenching, homesick letters to mom and dad.