Summer’s on the horizon, and if your calendar/planner looks anything like mine (read: a mix of hopeful penciling-in and a whole lot of question marks), you’re probably feeling a tad overwhelmed. To travel or not to travel? To immerse the kiddos in the great outdoors at an out-of-state sleepaway camp, or keep them close by at day camps? Decisions, decisions! And with the final school bell of the year about to ring across Palm Beach County, it’s crunch time for us parents.
But don’t you worry—I’ve been on a mission, combing through all the summer camp options South Florida has to offer (with a side of travel plans for July because, why not?). And boy, are we spoiled with some amazing choices this year! From gymnastics to theater, science experiments to art projects, dance to water sports—whatever your little ones’ hearts desire, I’ve got the perfect local spot that’ll make their summer unforgettable. After all, we Floridians understand better than anyone that there’s simply no stopping the arrival of summer!
Twisters
With the Paris 2024 Olympics on the horizon, gymnastics is poised to capture the spotlight this summer. Twisters, with a location in Boca Raton and its American Twisters facility in Coconut Creek, offers an exhilarating experience for children, ages 5 and up, who revel in climbing, jumping, and flipping. Their camp packages include gymnastics instruction, arts and crafts, movie time, and an array of fun games. It’s also worth noting the generous amount of open play for campers—a true refuge from South Florida’s sweltering summer heat, all in the comfort of their air-conditioned facilities!
Bricks Bots & Beakers
This summer, your children, ages 5 and up, are invited to dive into a world of fun and unique STEAM themes that offer more than your average camp experience—think immersive, hands-on activities that allow your kids to embody future scientists, engineers, artists, and more! Over 10 weeks, Bricks Bots & Beakers’ tailored STEAM adventures will boost your child’s critical thinking, collaboration, creativity, and problem-solving through engaging experiments, educational simulations, interactive lessons, and themed games. (They are also offering a new travel camp option for kids ages 7-11 too!) Say goodbye to the “summer slide” and hello to a summer filled with discovery!
Waves Surf Academy
At Waves Surf Academy, your little surfers, ages 5 and up, can safely catch the thrills of the ocean under the watchful eyes of lifeguard-certified coaches. Their summer camp is tailored for beach bums at all skill levels—from eager newbies itching to ride their first wave to seasoned pros sharpening their skills. But it’s not just about surfing! Waves camps are brimming with activities like boogie boarding, fishing, paddle boarding, and even marine biology, guaranteeing a well-rounded, memorable experience. And no worries about the weather—they are fully prepared with indoor spaces for those unpredictable afternoon thunderstorms. Get ready for an adventure-packed summer where every day is a new wave to ride!
ArtNEST
Imagine a space where kids, ages 3 and up, can freely express their boundless creativity. artNEST is that dream come true, providing a nurturing environment where kids are encouraged to explore their artistic impulses. From their Instagram-worthy paint splatter room to countless other creative activities, artNEST’s studios in Delray and Boca are places where young artists can truly flourish this summer.
Organic Movements Dance School
Is your tiny dancer ready to leap to the next level? Organic Movements in East Boca Raton is rolling out the red carpet for beginner (half-day/ages 4-6), intermediate and advanced (full-day/ages 7 and up) classical ballet students with their Summer Dance Intensives. Picture this: your young dancer perfecting their pirouettes in a state-of-the-art, 5,200 square foot dance facility. Not only do they have an in-house performance space where all dancers have the opportunity to shine, but sprung floors, wall-to-wall mirrors, a top-notch sound system, and all the comforts of home with a kitchen and dressing room—essentially a little ballet paradise! It’s sure to be an unforgettable summer experience where your dancer can truly flourish.
Arts Garage
Ready for a summer filled with drama (the good kind, of course)? Arts Garage is calling young, aspiring artists to join their one-of-a-kind summer camp, where the magic of theatre comes to life. Your child will be exposed to all aspects of theatre arts—from set design and playwriting to acting, technical theatre (yep, even basic video production), voice and movement. Over four weeks, they’ll collaborate, create, and ultimately bring their own production from concept to reality. And it’s not just about the work; there are field trips to inspire and a final original production to showcase all that the kids have learned to their biggest fans: the parents. It’s an incredible opportunity for kids to shine on stage this summer!
Teach Me Learning Center
Are your kiddos ready to jump into a summer bursting with creativity, fun, and friendship? Teach Me Learning Center’s Summer Camp in Delray Beach is the place to be! Tailored for the curious minds of those ages 6 to 12, this camp blends learning with pure excitement. Picture your children getting their hands dirty with interactive arts and crafts, solving STEM puzzles, taking yoga classes, and more—all while fostering their imagination and curiosity. With a team of enthusiastic instructors committed to providing a vibrant and supportive atmosphere, your child is set for a successful summer filled with core memories!
Michelle Olson-Rogers is a mom of one and the founder of Modern Boca Mom, an award-winning lifestyle website for the stylish & modern South Florida parent. She can also be found on Instagram at @modernbocamom.
