Summer Camp Registration Opens: Secure Your Spot Early

As the school year approaches its end, parents are gearing up for summer by registering their children for various camps. With more than 20 weeks left before school lets out, many may find it early to start thinking about camp options. However, the reality of summer break is that 10 weeks of unstructured time can be daunting for families without tailored childcare solutions. Fortunately, summer camps across the city offer a range of activities that can engage children while easing the burden on parents.

Popular Camps to Consider

Registration for several popular camps is already underway, with spots filling quickly. To assist parents in making selections, here are five standout options for summer camps, listed by registration dates.

WAG-Qaumajuq is offering three art-focused camps for children aged 7-11. The choices include a clay, sculpture and pottery camp, an adventures in painting camp, and a cardboard sculpture camp. Each camp runs for nine to ten days, providing children with hands-on experiences in various artistic mediums.

– **Dates:** Every second week from July 6 to August 28
– **Times:** 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. (early drop-off at 8:30 a.m. and late pickup until 5 p.m.)
– **Fees:** $510 for members and $550 for non-members for 10-day camps; $470 for members and $510 for non-members for the nine-day cardboard sculpture camp.

For music enthusiasts, the School of Rock Winnipeg offers a range of experiences for budding young musicians. The camp features full- and half-day options focusing on various genres, including rock and metal. Campers will engage in rehearsals, music games, and an end-of-week concert.

– **Dates:** Weekly from July 6 to August 28
– **Times:** Full-day camps from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.; half-day camps from 9 a.m. to noon or 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.
– **Fees:** $240 for half-day and $450 for full-day sessions.

For aspiring game designers, Code Ninjas provides themed camps focused on game customization, electronics, and graphic design. Children aged 7-14 can explore various weekly themes, including retro arcade and scratch coding.

– **Dates:** Weekly from July 6 to August 28
– **Times:** 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. (drop-off from 8 a.m. and pickup until 5 p.m.)
– **Fees:** $350 plus GST for five days; $275 for four days (Aug. 4-7).

The University of Manitoba‘s Mini U Camps are also a popular choice. Offering a range of activities from rhythmic gymnastics to science, these camps cater to children aged 4-18. Registration is known to be competitive, so early action is advised.

– **Dates:** Weekly from July 2 to August 31
– **Times:** 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. (supervision from 7:45 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.)
– **Fees:** $305 for five days; $244 for four days.

Finally, FortWhyte Alive offers outdoor experiences tailored for various age groups. Camps include Kinder Camp for preschoolers and more adventurous options for older children, focusing on nature exploration and survival skills.

– **Dates:** Weekly from July 2 to September 4
– **Times:** 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. (early drop-off from 8 a.m. and late pickup until 5 p.m.)
– **Fees:** Vary based on the length of experience.

Registration Details

Parents interested in securing spots for their children should act swiftly, as many camps have already opened registration. Some camps, such as those at the Winnipeg Humane Society—where children can engage with animals—have programming running from July 6 to August 28, with fees starting at $250 for five days.

Additional creative options are available at Cartizan Studio, which will host themed camps focusing on various art projects throughout July and August.

– **Dates:** Various sessions available starting July 6
– **Fees:** $300 for most camps, with different rates for specific age groups.

Lastly, the Manitoba Theatre for Young People presents theatre camps that allow children to explore their creative sides. These camps will also run weekly from July 6 to September 4, with registration opening on February 24.

With a plethora of options tailored to various interests and age groups, parents are encouraged to review their choices and register early to ensure their children have a fulfilling summer experience.