Planning for the Lazy Days of Summer

Parents know that it’s inevitable – your child’s summer vacation – a time regarded with mixed emotions. The negative: what to do with your children during the hot and lazy days of summer? The positive: freed from the routines, kids (and by extension, parents) can decide which fun activity (or none!) to enjoy.

If you want some structure during the long vacation period, day camps for a week or two give both kids and their parents a break from hanging around the back yard or what to do for the next recreational outing. Camp Green Acres in Scarborough offers traditional and specialty programs, including an all-star sports camp and horseback riding camp. If your youngster is not sure about a “sleep away” experience, a Bob (‘Best of Both’) camp is offered, combining day and overnight camping experiences.

Many play centres offer day camps for kids in GTA and there is a wide selection of activities depending on your child’s interests, be it sports, arts and crafts, drama, cooking, etc. Take a look at the Active Kid’s Zone, All About Kids: Camp Tree Top , Balls of Fun Summer Gym Camp and the Adrenaline Gymnastics and Training Centre .

Soccer, in particular, is always a favourite among kids, and there are dozens of soccer clubs and city programs with weekly summer programs. Children can learn the basics or hone their skills at Little Kickers , the Thornhill Soccer School, Cherry Beach Soccer Club, Christie Kicks! Soccer , Just for Kicks, the Markham Soccer Club, Mississauga Soccer Club or Royal City Soccer Club.

At the Toronto Zoo’s Serengeti Bush Camp , youngsters from ages 6 to 18 can experience the wilds of the African Savanna and Rainforest Pavilion, enjoy evening activities, campfire tales and the chance to sleep under the stars in authentic African tents.

Of course, swimming is the number one activity for kids in the summer, but ensuring that your youngsters are water-savvy is an important element. The AquaMobile Swim School , a private swim school that offers instruction at a client’s home, will give swimming lessons, pool safety courses and first aid/CPR certification in various cities across Ontario. Parent and tot swim classes at are popular options at Frank’s Swim School and the Aqua Kids Swim School will introduce youngsters to water and ensure a positive and comfortable experience. If your young children want to improve their swimming strength and participate in a more competitive environment, then the Toronto Synchronized Swimming Club may be the solution. The club also offers special courses for disabled young swimmers, providing them with opportunities to swim on either a recreational or competitive basis.

Summer holidays are only a few months away and a little preparation will ensure that you and the kids get the most out of the vacation time.