Summer camp plans? Here are some affordable options eastern Massachusetts
Finding a summer camp for kids can be stressful, but there are still some options available for parents in the Boston area and eastern Massachusetts.
Meghan Block, the CEO of Boston Moms and Wicked Good Mom Media, said there's no need to panic if you haven't signed your child up for something yet.
"There are a ton of options from theater camp to the typical outdoors summer camp, STEM camps, overnight camps, there's something for every kid. I think the first thing is to just think about their interests, what your childcare needs are, what are the drop-off times, can my child reasonably get through a full day of camp, or do we only want to do a half-day? Transportation is something to think about, some do drop off, some have buses," Block said.
Summer camps in Greater Boston
For example, the Boston Children's Museum's "Explore It" summer camp has spots still available.
"For our moms that are close to city proper, it is incredible. It is literally, the best of the best. We always recommend it every year.
Campers can sign up for a maximum of three weeks. For more information, visit their website.
For more of the traditional camp experience, there's LINX camps and the New England Outdoor Camp (NEOC), both in Wellesley. They're available for up to eight weeks in the summer.
"They are unbelievable. We've had the opportunity to actually visit them. They're outdoors, they have activities for kids of all ages. They do offer early and late stays and busing," Block said.
Paying for summer camp
It can be expensive to pay for summer camps and childcare coverage, with summer vacation lasting about three months.
Block said there may be some options available.
"Many companies will actually subsidize your care. So, if you are working for a more traditional or corporate company, or even a non-profit, a lot of times they will have options for subsidized childcare in the summertime. Please ask about them. That's a question to ask your HR departments," Block said. "That exists, a lot of people don't know."
There are also financial assistance programs at many camps.
"I know that the trustees offer financial assistance, community boating. Some have sliding scales, so depending on your income, so don't just assume that it's out of range for you," Block said.
What to pack for summer camp
Here are some things Block said are "tried and true" when packing for summer camp.
Sunscreen
Sunscreen detection patches (for when to re-apply)
Bug spray
Hat
Water bottles
Labels
Quick drying towels
Block said all of it should fit in a backpack.
"The great thing about summer camp for kids is that it really does allow for them to be kids. It's a different routine for them. Some children thrive in something very structured. Sometimes back-to-back camps are really hard. Finding what works for you and not feeling the pressure of the camp rat race, do what works for your family," Block said.
For her list of local summer camps, click here.
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Luque has earned 73 percent of the bets, while Holland has picked up 61 percent of the handle. Holland is a talented fighter, but the problem with Holland is his consistency. At points, it seems as if Holland is more interested in booking fights and earning a paycheck than he is interested in being competitive in those bouts. And while Luque has had his ups and downs, he seems to take his career more seriously than Holland. Holland has an advantage in height and reach in this bout, and if he can use those strengths, he has a good chance of picking up the win. However, Luque is effective in spots where Holland struggles, mainly in takedown defense. The betting pick in this bout is to go where there is value, and that is Luque to use his wrestling to grind out a decision win over Holland. 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