Whether children’s interests lie in sports, arts, nature, academics, or in trying a variety of activities, there is a camp for them. And, because of the variety of options in Santa Barbara County, families don’t have to go far to find one that suits their children’s needs.
Choosing the right camp means doing a few things:
- Asking what children want to do. Parents can talk to young children about camp offerings to see what sparks their interest. Older children may want to search the guide themselves.
- Determining what fits into family schedules.
- Checking the guide for cost, age range, and other details to ensure it fits a child’s needs.
The online camp guide allows users to search specific types of camps, including the ones below, and includes detailed descriptions, schedules, and registration information.
Athletics
For budding athletes, sports camps hone skills in many areas, including baseball, basketball, cycling, dance, football, golf, gymnastics, lacrosse, martial arts, sailing, skating, soccer, softball, surfing, swimming, tennis, volleyball, water polo, and wrestling. Different camps cater to varying levels, so beginners can learn the basics and athletes can hone specific skills.
Art
Art enthusiasts can immerse themselves in creativity at specialized camps. From painting, ceramics, and sculpture to music, comedy, theater, photography, and dance, these programs encourage self-expression and artistic growth.
Children can discover artistic avenues or sharpen their skills, all under the guidance of passionate instructors. Art camps also offer the opportunity for shy children to find a new way to express themselves and for outgoing children to channel their energy into exciting performances.
Nature
Nature lovers will thrive in outdoor adventure camps that take advantage of Santa Barbara’s natural beauty with hiking, wildlife observation, and environmental education.
Campers can learn from trained naturalists, who guide them through hands-on activities and teach about ecosystems, wildlife conservation, and sustainable practices. As children learn about the landscapes surrounding them, they can develop a love for the outdoors and forge lasting friendships around the campfire.
Science and engineering
For curious children who like to know how things work, science and technology camps provide hands-on learning experiences. Robotics, coding, and astronomy workshops ignite young minds, fostering a passion for discovery. To encourage girls, who are often underrepresented in these areas, several camps cater to them.
Life skills
Summer is a great time for children to develop life skills such as cooking, social interaction, sewing, and gardening. Camps offering these programs allow children to learn important capabilities while having fun.
Academics
For children who could use an academic boost, camps and clubs will help in specific areas and give a head start before the upcoming school year. There are opportunities to improve math, science, literacy, and other academic skills to set up students for success.
And more
Other types of camps offer the chance to develop entrepreneurship skills, connect with mentorship opportunities, engage in marine studies, take part in space and aviation experiences, play social board games, and much more. All of them will also help children to connect with new people and form bonds that can last after the camp ends.
Explore the many Santa Barbara County camp opportunities for children by viewing Noozhawk’s ParentNooz Summer Camp Guide.