Learning, Fun and Joy: Choosing a Summer Program for Kids Aged 11-14

As a college admissions counselor and a mom of two tween boys, I've always prioritized cultivating curiosity and agency in my children.  I love utilizing the summer to support their academic and leadership development.  Summer programs come in all sizes and shapes.  As long as you find one that offers a blend of learning, exploration, and fun, it will help build a solid foundation in your children in their journey of becoming competitive college applicants. In this blog, I'll share my experiences and insights on choosing the right summer programs for kids aged 11-14, with the ultimate goal of nurturing their academic and leadership skills.

Why Summer Programs Matter

Summer programs can be a game-changer in a child's development. They offer opportunities for students to explore new interests, develop existing skills, and build lasting friendships. More importantly, these programs can provide experiences that are both fun and productive, helping children grow in ways that traditional schooling might not always allow.

As a strategist mom, I have enrolled my kids in a variety of commuter and online programs over the years.  This summer, with my younger child reaching overnight camp age, I am able to have both of them attend Cardigan Mountain School's summer session, a four-week residential program known for its balance of outdoor activities and academics. One of the aspects I particularly appreciate about this program is its strict no-device policy. Students have the opportunity to email parents and friends once a week from the computer lab, which encourages them to engage more deeply with their surroundings and peers. Additionally, the diversity of students and staff at Cardigan Mountain School enriches the experience, exposing my children to different cultures and perspectives.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Summer Program

When selecting a summer program, there are several important factors to consider:

• Exploration
  • New Skills: Look for programs that introduce new skills or subjects your child hasn't encountered before. Whether it's coding, a new language, or an artistic pursuit, new experiences can ignite a passion for learning.
  • New Experiences: Programs that offer unique experiences, such as outdoor adventures, leadership workshops, or cultural exchanges, can broaden your child's horizons and encourage personal growth.
• Fun and Productivesome text
  • It's essential to find a balance between fun and productivity. For instance, my kids would consider spending all day on the soccer field and playing Minecraft equally enjoyable. However, from a parent's perspective, outdoor soccer offers physical activity, teamwork, and character building, making it a more holistic option.  Not to belittle Minecraft, as I have seen great coding programs utilizing Minecraft as the backdrop.  The key takeaway is to couple fun and learning - ensure the program includes activities that are enjoyable for your child but also contribute to their development in meaningful ways.
• Fits Your Family's Overall Plansome text
  • Summer programs should complement your family's overall plan. As parents, we often prioritize opportunities for our children above our own needs, but it's crucial to make choices that are Pareto efficient—benefiting everyone involved.
  • Consider the logistics and impact on your family's summer plans, including the needs of younger siblings, spouses, and yourself. Whether it's a residential, commuter (day), or online program, ensure it fits seamlessly into your family's schedule.

Planning for the upcoming summer: ‍

‍‍While most summer program’s applications take place in the first few months of the year, there are some excellent summer programs that are still accepting applications:

Residential Programs

• Boarding school summer programs: Similar to Cardigan Mountain School’s summer session, US boarding schools like Phillips Academy Andover, Exeter and Choate Rosemary Hall all offer great residential programs that merge academics with outdoor recreation.  Unfortunately, most of them have capped enrollment for the summer.  At this time, Rectory School (https://www.rectoryschool.org/academics/summer-programs), Northfield Mount Hermon (https://www.nmhsummer.org/) and The Lawrenceville School (https://www.lawrenceville.org/summer-at-lawrenceville) are still open for summer applications and are great options for upper primary and middle school students.
• Northwestern University's Center for Talent Development (CTD): CTD offers three-week academic summer camps that challenge advanced learners with stimulating courses in various subjects. Courses include "Biotechnology: Cells to DNA," "Mathematical Puzzles and Games," and "Creative Writing: Short Story," among others. The residential setting helps students build independence, forge new friendships, and engage deeply with their chosen subjects. The program's rigorous curriculum and supportive environment are designed to help students excel academically and personally. https://www.ctd.northwestern.edu/3-week-academic-summer-camps
• Johns Hopkins University Center for Talented Youth (CTY): CTY offers rigorous academic programs for gifted students, providing opportunities to delve deep into subjects they are passionate about. The residential aspect also allows for social growth and independence. Some sections are still open for enrollment. https://cty.jhu.edu/‍

Day Programs

• Local Museums and Educational Institutions: Many local museums offer summer camps and educational programs that combine learning with hands-on activities. Check with institutions in your area for available options.
• Summer Math Circle: Math circles are mathematical outreach and educational groups that aim to provide interesting mathematical content and activities to the younger students beyond the conventional math classroom setting, fostering a love for mathematics and critical thinking skills.  There are many math circles around the world, and you can see if there is one near you: https://mathcircles.org/

Online Programs

• Beast Academy: Beast Academy offers online courses designed to challenge young mathematicians. Their engaging curriculum and interactive format make math fun and accessible, even during the summer months. https://virtual.aopsacademy.org/courses/catalog/summer
• Royal Fireworks Press: A stalwart in online learning for gifted students, RFP offers great academic content in small live classes.  My kids particularly enjoyed Western Philosophy classes taught by Dr. Sharon Kaye: https://www.rfwp.com/online-learning‍
• Brooklyn Debate League (BLD) Summer Camp: BDL gained national fame from a Humans of New York feature two years ago and has not lost momentum. The summer camp is a great way for students to try out speech and debate for the first time, and if they get hooked, they can choose to participate with BDL year round. My child participated in the Declamation Speech session as a first timer: https://www.brooklyndebateleague.org/camp

Making the Most of Summer Programs

To maximize the benefits of summer programs, consider the following tips:

1. Set Goals: Before enrolling your child in a program, discuss their goals and interests. Understanding what they hope to achieve can help you choose a program that aligns with their aspirations.
2. Encourage Reflection: After the program, encourage your child to reflect on their experiences. What did they enjoy? What did they learn? Reflection helps solidify the lessons learned and reinforces personal growth.
3. Stay Involved: While it's essential to give your child independence, staying involved and supportive can enhance their experience. Regularly check in with them, show interest in their activities, and celebrate their achievements.

Conclusion

Summer programs offer a unique opportunity to foster academic and leadership skills in children aged 11-14. By carefully selecting programs that encourage exploration, balance fun with productivity, and fit your family's overall plan, you can provide your child with enriching experiences that support their growth and development. Programs like Cardigan Mountain School's summer session, Johns Hopkins University's CTY, local educational institutions, and online platforms like Beast Academy are excellent options to consider. Remember, the goal is to create a fun and fulfilling summer that benefits everyone in the family while setting the stage for your child's future success.

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