Family

Summer on a budget: Raleigh, YMCA offer summer camp options for kids

Parents, if you still haven't signed your child up for summer camp, the city of Raleigh said there's still time.

Posted 2023-06-12T14:06:52+00:00 - Updated 2023-06-12T16:28:45+00:00

Spaces still open for summer camps starting Monday in Raleigh

Carrie Hagg

, WRAL contributor

As school winds down in North Carolina, parents and caretakers may feel the pressure to find fun options to keep their kids busy.

This year, with the flexibility of hybrid and remote work roles for many parents, families can explore new options like half-day camps and hourly drop-in care. Traditional summer camp options remain in high demand, like those offered by municipalities, places of worship and the YMCA.

The YMCA of the Triangle offers traditional day camps, sports day camps and three overnight camps at Camp Kanata in Wake Forest and Camp Sea Gull and Camp Seafarer in Arapahoe.

Additionally, organizations across the Triangle offer exciting opportunities like coding and game development camps as technology-based companies continue to establish a presence. If you don't want to commit to a full camp program, there are family-friendly events at sports complexes, museums, parks and more to keep your family busy this summer.

The Museum of Life and Science in Durham, the Museum of Natural Sciences in Raleigh and the North Carolina Museum of Art offer summer camps for kids with registration at the links provided.

You can also find summer camp options at gyms -- including gymnastics or martial arts -- swim schools, arts and craft studios, schools and more. If you're looking to get your kid out of the summer heat for a few hours, consider kid-friendly discount movies at area theaters or indoor playgrounds and trampoline parks.

Space still open at city of Raleigh camps

Many cities and towns offer their own affordable summer camp programs. Registration for city of Raleigh's summer camps began in March, but organizers said spots are still remaining.

Raleigh's summer camps run June through August 11, and the Raleigh Parks, Recreation and Cultural Resources Department on Monday began welcoming 1,200 kids every week at summer camps.

Some camps have wait lists, but others still have spots open. Register online at the city of Raleigh website.

The city of Raleigh said it has roughly 300 camp staff members to help accommodate the busy weeks ahead. However, during the peak of operation for seasonal staff, that number will be around 1,800, including staff at parks and nature sites as well as swim instructors, which have been a challenge to retain over the past few years.

"Just know that summer camps are hot summer seasons, a highlight for Raleigh parks, we prepare year round for it," said Ken Hisler, the assistant director at city of Raleigh Parks, Recreation and Cultural Resources Department. "It's when our staff get excited, we put a lot of energy into training and preparation and plans. So if you're looking for a memorable experience, get on the website, come to our pools, sign up for a swim class, learn to play tennis, come to summer camp, we really do have something for everyone here in Raleigh."

Ideas for parents on a budget

Here are some tips to consider, especially for parents on a budget.

Join email/mailing lists: Stay informed and be the first to know about upcoming programs of interest at your favorite sports centers, libraries, movie theaters and more. Register quickly to secure your spot. Discounts can be found here as well!

Network: Stay in touch with other parents/caretakers to learn about what is available in your area. They can also provide valuable insights and firsthand knowledge on programs.

Carpool: Use your network to share the logistics of drop off and pick-up.

Keep them learning: For teens, give them the opportunity to explore industries that interest them via an internship, apprenticeship or part-time job.

Join the waitlist: Life is unpredictable. Therefore, increase your chances in case a spot opens up within a high-demand program.

Share the caregiving: Do you know a parent with similar needs for their family? Perhaps you can rotate at-home care as your work schedules allow.

Seek assistance: There are organizations in place that can help those in need with daycare costs.