Beltway Bambinos

(re) discover Washington DC through the eyes of your children

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  • Outdoor Play
    • 15 family friendly hikes
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    • 20 classic outdoor games
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  • Beltway Bambinos Concierge
    • Customized itineraries
    • Introducing Beltway Bambinos Concierge
  • About
  • Beltway Travel
    • Introducing Beltway Travel
    • Family Summer Getaways
    • Traveling with Little Ones?
    • Why Now is the Time to Plan
    • Travel Advisors Save You More Than Money
    • Why You Should Work with Me
    • How Do You Make Sure the Trip Has Something for Everyone?
    • DC Hotels with Indoor Pools
  • Itineraries
    • 5 Days in Costa Rica
    • {Winter} Staycation
  • Home
  • Indoor Fun
    • Theater & musical productions
    • Guide to Indoor Fun for Kids
  • Fall
    • Halloween guide
    • Fall festivals, farms, orchards
    • Fall Foliage Spots and Drives
    • Fall events
    • Fall classes
    • Fall bucket list
    • Survive Daylight Savings
  • Winter
    • Holiday gift guide
    • Holiday shows, ballets and concerts
    • Hanukkah Celebrations
    • Holiday Tea
    • Christmas Trees, Lights & Markets
    • Ski and snowboard
    • Cut-your-own tree
    • Ice rinks and roller rinks
  • Spring
    • Cherry blossoms
    • Easter egg hunts
    • Easter basket & spring gift ideas
    • Spring bucket list
    • Mother’s Day
    • Memorial Day weekend
    • Tax day steals and deals
  • Summer
    • Summer Camps
    • July 4th
    • Ice cream
    • Sunflower Fields
    • Summer bucket list
    • Live outdoor music
    • Outdoor movies
    • Outdoor swimming pools
    • Splash parks
    • Trains!
  • Camps and Classes
    • Fall classes
    • Spring classes
    • Summer camps
    • Mid-winter break camps
    • Winter camps and classes
    • November 2, 4, 5, 11
    • DCPS spring break camps
    • Schools out, camps are in
    • Year-round classes
    • Gymnastics and dance classes
  • Neighborhood Guides
    • Annapolis, MD
    • AU Park, DC
    • Baltimore, MD
    • Bethany Beach, DE
    • Breweries in the DC area
    • Brookland, DC
    • Chevy Chase, DC
    • Georgetown, DC
    • Philadelphia, PA
    • Lancaster County, PA
    • Madison, VA
    • Frederick, MD
    • St. Louis, MO
  • Outdoor Play
    • 15 family friendly hikes
    • Pick your own fruit and vegetables
    • Beaches and state parks
    • Outdoor fun
    • Trails, marshes and gardens
    • 20 classic outdoor games
    • Trains and carousels
  • Beltway Bambinos Concierge
    • Customized itineraries
    • Introducing Beltway Bambinos Concierge
  • About
  • Beltway Travel
    • Introducing Beltway Travel
    • Family Summer Getaways
    • Traveling with Little Ones?
    • Why Now is the Time to Plan
    • Travel Advisors Save You More Than Money
    • Why You Should Work with Me
    • How Do You Make Sure the Trip Has Something for Everyone?
    • DC Hotels with Indoor Pools
  • Itineraries
    • 5 Days in Costa Rica
    • {Winter} Staycation

MOCO Movement offers therapy services in a fully inclusive environment + GIVEAWAY

May 14, 2018

MOCO Movement Center offers world class therapy services in a fully inclusive environment, alongside a sibling or peer taking a sports or movement class. The center was founded by Dr. Andrea Santman because, “After years of providing therapy services for kids, I saw a huge need to offer classes to prep young kids for all of their physical activities ahead. Before throwing them into a sport like soccer, let’s show them the correct way to kick and handle a ball, allowing them to get comfortable before diving in full force.”

The center is equipped with everything from a synthetic ice rink, where kids can put on real ice skates and get acquainted with the skill, before trying it out on a full blown ice rink to a 15 foot climbing wall, allowing kids to test out rock climbing in a less intimidating atmosphere. The space also boasts a a basketball court, exciting obstacle course and simulated playground, where a child has endless opportunities to reach his or her goals. Class sizes range from 2-4 children allowing personalized attention and the freedom of a choose-your-own-adventure style class.  

MOCO Movement Center’s Early Intervention program focuses on children at the development critical ages of 0 – 3 years. MOCO understands the importance of working with your child on a daily basis to accomplish their milestone goals. Their early intervention trained pediatric therapists have years of experience in development, childhood skills/occupations, language development and social interactions that impact growth and learning. 

At MOCO, they use their expert knowledge of development in conjunction with the natural environment to encourage play and engage children to reach their developmental milestones. They work closely with parents and caregivers to develop goals, create plans of care and collaborate on strategies that support family and child-centered objectives, which encourage continued therapy even at home. They utilize a variety of environments including playgrounds, home and other community settings to encourage participation and support generalization of skills across all areas and settings.Their goal is to help children reach their developmental milestones so that they can move and play more independently, build social relationships through play and communication, and successfully transition and participate in school activities with peers.

Classes at MOCO are offered for babies through age 12. Children use thought, strength, and balance on MOCO’s giant obstacle courses designed with oversized blocks, tight-rope-style lines, trampolines, and suspension equipment to acquire foundational skills, including self-confidence and social interaction, and build sport and fitness skills. Classes provide a unique structured, child-driven curriculum guided by highly-trained staff including expert athletes, medical and educational specialists.

Summer Camp is offered to babies-age 10, half day as well as full day. The summer camp includes movement, music, arts & crafts, science, sports, state-of-the-art equipment, and an inclusive environment. Camps are non-therapeutic and do not have therapeutic goals, however, throughout the day they incorporate a variety of fine and gross motor skills and activities that encourage cooperative group environments.  Birthday Parties are also a hit at MOCO Movement!

My children have taken a few classes here; Kids in Motion and Sports Fundamentals. The students/teacher ratio is unbelievable, the facility has a plethora of equipment and the fact that my 7 & 3 year old can take a class together is priceless. My kids leave the building and before we are in the car they are asking when they can come back. The teachers are extremely hands-on and take great care in having children go through movements and skills the appropriate and safe way. I don’t know of any other facility like this that welcomes all children to work alongside one another, no matter their need or skill level.

Location: 5268A Nicholson Lane Kensington, MD 20895

Giveaway: MOCO Movement is giving away one month of classes to a Bambino who is age 3 months to 10 years old (only one child per family). Enter on Beltway Bambinos Facebook page and Like MOCO Movement’s Facebook page– Bonus entry for commenting on Instagram. Winner will be announced May 30, 2018.

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Filed Under: Birthday, Camp, Classes, Giveaway, Indoor Play Tagged: classes, Giveaway, inclusive, indoor, MOCO Movement, movement, therapy

Kidville Bethesda keeps Bambinos wanting to go back for more {and more}

April 30, 2018

Kidville Bethesda offers award-winning gym, art, dance, music, preschool classes and summer camp for children aged newborn – five years old. Their customizable birthday parties are a blast for 1-8 years old and they even offer haircuts for kids of all ages. I brought my first child here for his first few haircuts; it was the perfect environment for an apprehensive first-timer. Kidville also allows you to try a trial class before committing to a series of classes, click here for more info. They are conveniently located in downtown Bethesda, sandwiched in between coffee shops and delicious restaurants at 4825 Bethesda Ave.

My three year old sampled a few classes and has left her wanting to go back at any dull moment we have. She loved the Big Muscle Workout and the Kidville Gymnasts classes. She was able to get acclimated with all of the colorful, fun equipment and meet other classmates before the class started. The classes began with a warm-up, followed by some strength and skills obstacles. She was constantly moving and had a smile on her face the whole time {you can watch your child from various windows} or leave to get that cup of joe if your child is old enough for one of their “drop-off” classes. The teachers are up-beat, get to know your child, professional and energetic.

You can browse their website by age to see the lengthy list of classes appropriate for your Bambinos. When you sign up for classes you also gain entry to the Playspace, which is like open gym time and typically has at least an hour window of time each day of the week if not more. Click here for a schedule of classes.

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Filed Under: Birthday, Camp, Classes, Indoor Play, Music, Sponsored Post, Winter Tagged: bethesda, exercise, gym, indoor, kidville

Emancipation Day camps and activities

April 12, 2018

Emancipation Day is on April 16, 2018 which means some schools are cancelled. Below are a few camps and activities to keep your Bambinos entertained!

DC Emancipation Stoddert Day Camp

DC Emancipation Day, April 16th, is approaching quickly, and with DC Public Schools out we’re excited for a full day of soccer at Deal Middle School! This day will be a fun-filled soccer experience led by DC Stoddert Soccer’s Professional Coaching Staff. Players will sharpen their soccer skills through fun games and activities.

Players will be grouped with friends, classmates and players of relative skill level. Full day players bring a lunch, half day players bring a snack. Every player should bring a soccer ball and wear appropriate soccer attire and shoes.

Home Run Baseball Camp at Friendship Recreation Center

Camp staff will lead a high energy workout for ages 4-12.  Players can expect two games and long rounds of batting practice, ground balls and fly balls.  Half day and full day options.

Hoop ED Day Camp at Stoddert Elementary

Sports overload for girls and boys. After care available.

DC Way Soccer at Tyler Elementary

At DC Way camps, the philosophy is that players learn best when they are having fun. They use simple and engaging games to challenge players and teach them essential skills. The program is for anyone at any level. Even without ever playing before, they guarantee your child will enjoy our camp. They create a soccer-related environment with lots of exciting and challenging activities to ensure falling in love with soccer and sports in general. Focusing on speed, footwork, 1v1 moves, creativity, vision, confidence.

Capitol Language Services

Students will have indoor time with crafts and friends as well as a lot of outdoor time with language class included. 8:00am-5:00pm

The Children’s Art Studio

Have your child spend the day making art! They meet from 9am-2pm. They also have half-day camp.

Silver Stars Gymnastics

Gymnastics camp is appropriate for the beginner, intermediate and advanced gymnast. Your child will be able to build an athletic foundation for all sports through the strength, flexibility and coordination that only the challenge of gymnastics can offer.  Full day: 8:30am-4:30pm, half day: 9:00am-12:00pm, before and after care available.

Park Pick-Up with PJ

When Fairfax County Public Schools and DC Public Schools are closed on April 16, families are invited to spend the morning doing a rewarding social action project! Join PJ Library, Federation’s Young Leadership and the JCCNV to pick up trash at a site in Tysons and practice the Jewish value of shomrei adamah (caring for the environment).  Register by April 13

Art Preview Day at Gymboree Bethesda from 10:00am-10:45am

Come get creative in our Art Class!
Color, draw, create and explore with our activities designed to encouraged creativity. Your kid makes the mess, and we do all the cleanup! You MUST RSVP in advance: 301.654.8988. FREE to enrolled and non-enrolled guests.

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Filed Under: Camp, Classes, Holiday Options Tagged: camp, emancipation day

CertifiKID announces Summer Camp Scholarship Program for 20+ children

March 7, 2018

CertifiKID, the first deal website geared specifically towards families, announced a Camp Scholarship Program and when I heard about it I had to get the word out. Summer camp is such an amazing experience that all children should be able to participate in. CertifiKID’s Camp Scholarship Program will provide a minimum of 20, $250 camp scholarships for summer 2018. Additional scholarships may be funded through community contributions. I had the chance to do a q+a with CertifiKID Founder and CEO, Jamie Ratner, which I hope will allow you to understand the concept of CertifiKID more as well as be inspired to pass along the information to a family you think could benefit from applying to the camp scholarship program!

                                                                                                                                                          

How did CertifiKID begin?

CertifiKID began in 2010 when my kids were just babies. I had a blog where I wrote about foods and finds in the D.C. area and first discovered this new site called Groupon. I thought it was a super cool concept but did not have anything for me as a new mom. I decided to take the concept and spin it so there would be opportunities for moms to try new things with their kids and find family-friendly businesses and activities in the D.C. area. From day one it just exploded and the rest is history. We now work with thousands of businesses throughout the country and run offers in cities nationwide. However, the D.C. area is still the heart of the business, and at this point, we believe we are a household name in the area for families.

What are some insider tips for readers to get the most from CertifiKID?

1) CertifiKID has a super responsive customer service/sales team and we actually jump on requests from customers. If there is something you are looking for a deal on, email us or send us a message via our Facebook page and we will go after it right away for you!

2) We are on top of the NEW businesses launching, so always be sure to check the website to be the first to find out about them and get great discounts when they first open.

3) We would never rerun an offer that had bad reviews from our customers. If you see a business featured over and over again, this means they are a valued partner with great customer service and glowing reviews from our customers.

4) We do have a limit on some of our offers, so if it is something SUPER exciting you should buy it quickly so you aren’t disappointed.

What services or programs exist now that didn’t when CertifiKID began?

So much has changed over these past 8 years. When we started not everyone even had a smartphone! Also, in the kids’ world, I would say at least 25% of the vendors have gone out of business. When I first started, bounce places would sell amazing, now it has shifted to trampoline places. Also, I remember the first time we ran a LEGO camp it sold INSANE…now everyone does a LEGO camp and it’s not unique anymore.

What was the motivation on creating this summer camp scholarship program?

My husband and I are HUGE camp people. We spent every summer of our childhoods at camp – even coming back over the summers during college to work as counselors. Now our kids attend camp and we see the HUGE impact and benefits it has for them – increasing their confidence, resilience, and independence. We want all kids to have this opportunity, especially children from low income or financially vulnerable families who don’t have the resources to provide them with enriching summer experiences. Camp is most important for these families in order to make sure their kids stay engaged and physically active over the summer months.

                                                                                                                                                                                                     

You can also learn more about the summer camp scholarship program and see the announcement made by Jamie and her family here.

For more information on the summer camp scholarship program click here. You can scroll to the bottom of the page to apply to the program or make a contribution.

If selected, children will be able to choose from this great list of summer camps.

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Filed Under: Camp, Guest Post Tagged: certifikid, children, deals, scholarship, summer, summer camp

Ultimate 2018 Guide to Spring Break Camps in and around Washington, DC

February 7, 2018

If you aren’t hopping on a plane this Spring Break to relax by the waves or shred on a mountain, get those little ones in a fun and engaging camp. In addition to the list, check local Parks and Recreation websites as most of those have Spring Break Camps also. 

                                                                                                                                                                           (Photo: Synetic Theatre)
Maryland:

KOA Multisport Camp– March 26-30, 2018
(4960 Boiling Brook Parkway North, Bethesda, MD 20852)
Spring Break means school’s out, so let’s play! Join Koa Sports for our Multisport Spring Break Camp at Koa HQ. It is the same great set-up as our summer Multisport camp, just in the Spring! This camp is for kids looking to be active and have fun while school is out for the week. We’ll play kickball, basketball, soccer, flag football, dodgeball, and so much more! This program does have limited registration, so sign up now to reserve your spot!

Basketball Camp with Skills and Scrimmages- March 26-30, 2018
(Pyle Middle School- 6311 Wilson Ln. Bethesda, MD 20817)
This outstanding skills and development camp is focused on fundamentals, sportsmanship, teamwork, equal play and fun is presented by former Division 1 basketball players. Boys and girls will develop their skills with top notch instruction, drills, and scrimmages. Grades 2-8.

Imagination Stage-March 26-30, 2018
(4908 Auburn Avenue Bethesda, MD 20814)
Spring Break Camps covers a variety of topics in creative drama/acting, dance, and our popular theatre or dance samplers. Ages 3.5-Grade 8.

MSA– March 26-30, 2018
(Hoover MS, 8810 Postoak Rd, Potomac, MD 20854)
S
pring break multi-sport and enrichment camp is designed by sports champions to help young athletes realize their optimal performance in their favorite sports. MSA offers a spectacular multi-sport & enrichment camp providing a well-rounded experience combining learning and fun, to build fond memories that will last a lifetime. Baseball, Basketball, Bocce Ball, Dance and fitness, Flag Football, Golf, Kickball, Lacrosse, Soccer, Street Hockey, and  Tennis are offered. Offered for girls and boys ages 4-14.

CREATE Arts Center–March 26-30, 2018
(816 Thayer Avenue Silver Spring MD 20910)
Campers spend each day working on a variety of art projects, including painting, drawing, sculpture, collage, and more! Flexible day-by-day registration is available. Day-by-day registration is available. Ages 6-12. Ages 13-14 can register as CITs with an interview.

Silver Stars Gymnastics- March 26-30, 2018
(2701 Pittman Dr. Silver Spring, MD 20910)
(14201 Woodcliff Ct. Bowie, MD 20720)
Choose one day or all week, half day or full day. They offer three camps for kids 3.5-15 at both locations.

Adventure Theatre–March 26-30, 2018
(7300 MacArthur Blvd. Glen Echo, MD. 20812)
Send your kids to come play with Adventure Theatre MTC where they will have a full day of theatrical activities, afternoon snack.  You can choose one day or the full week.  Camp is for Grades K-5.

                                                                                                                                                                      (Photo: Adventure Theatre)

Virginia:

Synetic Theatre– March 26-30, 2018
(1800 South Bell Street Arlington, VA 22202)
Synetic’s physical theater fusion week introduces and expands upon various theater performance dexterities. Each day is sectioned into different categories where campers learn contemporary and cutting-edge skills including but not limited to: physical storytelling, acrobatics, pantomime, dance, diction, puppetry, and visual art. Register for one day, or all five. Each day introduces something new!

Mount Vernon Community Children’s Theatre– March 26-30, 2018
(Heritage Presbyterian Church 8503 Fort Hunt Road, Alexandria, VA 22308)
Join us in a galaxy far, far away as we bring the world of Star Wars to life through theatre games, crafts, and the creation of our own Star Wars play!  Channel your inner Princess Leia, Darth Vader, Rey or Yoda to bring to life the strong, dynamic characters of this galactic series.  Learn how to communicate with others, work as a team, develop story-telling skills, and expand your actor’s toolbox in this fun filled spring break experience.  K-8th Grades. All our camps are led by professional teaching artists experienced in working with kids and teens.

Tea with Mrs. B– March 26-30, 2018
(136 W Jefferson St. Falls Church, VA 22046)
We offer a one of a kind camp experience for children ages 4-12. Daily activities include: high tea with healthy snacks, crafts and games, exercise at the local park, dance and dress up. We always afford time for good-old fashioned play, too. By becoming part of our camp, your child will be entitled to an on-going skill building program, honing good manners, proper etiquette and social graces. Broaden your child’s experiences by giving them the gift of comportment while having fun.

Superhero S.T.E.A.M. Ever Wonder Camp– March 26-30, 2018
(Barrett Elementary- 4401 North Henderson Street Arlington, VA 22203)
Join us for one to five days of creativity and innovation.  We’ll link art to concepts in science, technology, engineering and math. Our days will be filled with hands-on, collaborative activities including building forts, experimenting with Mentos, making messy art, exploring geometry, testing the strength of materials, creating tessellations, learning about probability using dice and so much more. Teamwork, creativity, communication, collaboration and critical thinking are a must at this super fun camp!

Arts on the Horizon– March 26-30, 2018
(Convergence: 1801 N. Quaker Ln. Alexandria, VA 22302)
Surf’s up in this creative drama camp where we will go on an adventure to the beach! Little ones will explore the ocean, sand, and sun through stories, songs, and dramatic play, and we’ll discover the beach together!

Encore Stage and Studio- March 26-30, 2018 & April 2-6, 2018
(St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church- 4000 Lorcom Ln. Arlington VA. 22207)
Join us for Spring Break camps and explore a new theme every day! Enrollment is a la carte–choose to sign up for one day, or the entire week! Students in K-2nd grade will enjoy a day of theatre games, crafts, creative activities and fun in a safe and supportive environment. Students must bring a brown bag lunch. Healthy snack is provided. There will be a final sharing during the last 15 minutes of camp (2:45pm). Are you ready for a challenge? Students in 3rd – 5th grade will work together to create a brand new play in just one camp day! Using their imaginations, students will develop the script and story, create the setting, and star in the show. This never before seen production will be performed at the end of the day for family and friends.

Mount Vernon Community Children’s Theatre- March 26-30, 2018
(Heritage Presbyterian Church- 8503 Fort Hunt Road, Alexandria, VA 22308)
Designed for rising 1st graders through rising 8th graders, MVCCT’s drama camps stretch kids’ imaginations, nurture their creative energies, and build skills through dramatic action. Kids explore different worlds, different time periods, and their own personal strengths through the story-telling they act out on stage. This is one of the longer camps running from 9:00am-5:00pm.

SkateQuest- March 26-30, 2018
(1800 Michael Faraday Ct., Reston, VA 20190)
For the child who can’t get enough of the ice. Camp includes ice skating lessons, ice painting, broom ball and an end of camp show. Ages 4.5-12.

Spring Break Camp at Dulles SportsPlex– March 26-30, 2018
(21610 Atlantic Blvd. Sterling, VA 20166)
Your child will have fun learning and playing sports. Some are soccer, kickball, flag football and basketball. They offer full or half day & full or half day options for children ages 6-12.

                                                                                                                                                                       (Photo: D.C. United Camp)

Washington, DC:

D.C. United Camp– March 26-30, 2018
(RFK Turf Field)
D.C. United’s Spring Break Camps are half-day programs which provide participants ages 5 – 16 an opportunity  to experience an exciting soccer environment consisting of modern camp exercises, highlighting individual technique, coupled with team and game tactics. Campers will be exposed to a different set of technical and tactical focuses each day of camp. Coaches will work with players to develop their technical ability as well as discover a better understanding of the game in a fun and energetic environment.

Spring Safari Day Camp at The National Zoo- March 26-30, 2018
(3001 Connecticut Ave., NW Washington, DC 20008) 
Each of the Spring Safari programs explores the lives, habitats and conservation of animals around the world. Week-long sessions include exciting hands-on activities, lessons, craft projects, science experiments and walks through the Zoo. There’s no better way to spend your spring break than with Friends of the National Zoo! Please note: There is no direct contact with animals, and campers do not participate in animal care. Grades K-5, choose from a few different themed camps.

The Children’s Art Studio– March 26-30, 2018
(3150 Chesapeake St NW, Washington, DC 20008)
Campers will touch upon the fundamentals of drawing, painting, sculpture and printing with fun-filled exercises. Time will be devoted to longer-term multi-day projects which will be structured as a direct response to the interests and curiosities of the particular group of children. Camp will meet from 9:00am-2:00pm.

The Theatre Lab- March 26-30, 2018
(733 8th Street NW. Washington, DC 20001)
School’s Out camps, modeled on The Theatre Lab’s award-winning Summer Acting Camps for Kids, are perfect for children grades 1-6, who enjoy being creative and making new friends, and are designed to be fun for novices as well as kids who have already been bitten by the drama bug. Drama activities are scheduled from 9:00am-3:00pm, and kids can come for just one day or the whole week.

Home Run Baseball Camp-March 26-30, 2018
(Friendship Park Recreation Center)
Coach Dan Thorner and a co-ed Home Run staff will lead a high energy camp with the same format as the summer camp at AU Park in NW, Washington, DC. Full ground ball and fly ball square drill, over one hundred swings in batting practice, and two full games per day. Groups will be broken up by age and teams will be fair and games will be competitive. Ages 4-12 welcome for full or half day camp.

 

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Filed Under: Camp Tagged: camp, spring break

School is off but camp is on in and around Washington, DC

January 16, 2018

holiday

                                                                                                                                                                      (Image: Shelf Store)

Is your child off from school and you don’t know how to keep their mind active, stay sane or be able to go to work?  With a few school off-days and holidays approaching, check these places out before calling a babysitter or taking the day off. Consider asking your child’s friends to join them so they are less likely to complain at the idea. We’ll keep adding to the list as we build it– so please add your suggestions in the comments below! Most of these also host holiday and summer camps. 

Mini Camp at Hoop ED
(Various locations)
Sports overload for girls and boys from 9:00am-3:00pm for $60. After care available. Many locations and dates!

Capitol Language Services
(Saint Paul’s Lutheran Church: 4900 Connecticut Ave NW, Wahington, DC 20008)
Camps during DC Public School Closing, Holidays and Federal Holidays – Sign up for the whole year and pay a non-refundable fee of $870 instead of $960. – Or sign up only for the camps you need.

Artworks
(7740 Old Georgetown Road, Bethesda, MD, 20814 – Locations in McLean and Potomac also)
School is out, but you still have to head to the office….What do you do? Send the kids to Artworks, they will enjoy a day filled with fun, creative, and engaging activities. Drop Off: 8:50am-9:10am Pick Up: 3pm with extended day option.

My Gym
(5110 Ridgefield Rd Bethesda, MD. 20816- Potomac location also)
When school is off – My Gym Camp is on!
Drop your kids off for three hours of cool and nonstop fun at My Gym; including games, crafts, gymnastics, sports and snack! 

DC Way Soccer
(Tyler Elementary School: 1001 G St SE, Washington, DC 20003)
At DC Way camps, the philosophy is that players learn best when they are having fun. They use simple and engaging games to challenge players and teach them essential skills. The program is for anyone at any level. Even without ever playing before, they guarantee your child will enjoy our camp. They create a soccer-related environment with lots of exciting and challenging activities to ensure falling in love with soccer and sports in general. Focusing on speed, footwork, 1v1 moves, creativity, vision, confidence.

Create Arts Center
(816 Thayer AvenueSilver Spring MD 20910)
Are you looking for a fun and creative space where your child can spend their days off? CREATE Arts Center offers art-themed ‘No School Day Camp’ on more than 20 days throughout the year when school is closed, such as Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Veterans Day, teacher conference days, professional development days, and more. Our ‘No School Day Camp’ schedule aligns align with Montgomery County Public Schools and DC Public Schools, and also several local private schools and a variety of charter schools. Don’t see a date? Contact us to create a camp. Campers spend the day working on a variety of art projects, including painting, drawing, sculpture, collage, and more. Learn more about a typical day of art camp.

Meet the Instrument No School Day Camp at National Conservancy of Arts
(1810 16th Street NW, 3rd Floor, Washington DC 20009)
(900 4th Street SW, Lower Level, Washington DC 20024)
Give your child a full day of fun on their out of school day! This camp is active and full of challenges with music lessons, music classes, music games, and art class. This camp will welcome a guest musician, who will introduce the cello. Hands-on experiences and opportunities to sing familiar songs with each instrument are a part of the curriculum, and children begin to develop an awareness of the distinctions among instrument families. Music exploration focus on repertoire that highlights each instrument’s unique qualities, supported by group singing, movement activities and, when developmentally appropriate, an introduction to notation. Camp starts at 9 am with watercolor painting, and then musical yoga. At noon we have cheese pizza or hot dogs for lunch and recess at 12:30 pm. Morning and afternoon snacks included.  9am – 3:30pm– before and after care available

The Player Progression Academy Camps
(Location depends on type of camp)
PPA Soccer and Hoops camps offer a great opportunity for players to continue their development and enjoy the quality coaching and environment during the summer and other school holidays that PPA offers throughout the year.

Arlington Parks and Rec Camp
(Location depends on type of camp)
Kids in grades K-5th will enjoy a variety of engaging activities including cooperative games, sports, nature fun & creative arts! Participants will choose from structured leisure activities during extended hours. Participants must bring a lunch and snacks. Various camps to choose from.

The Children’s Art Studio
(3172 Brandywine St NW, Washington, DC 20008)
Have your child spend the day making art! They meet from 9am-2pm. They also have half-day camp.

Zenith Community Arts Foundation (ZCAF)
(1429 Iris St NW, Washington, DC 20012)
A DC-based 501c3 that’s been around since 2000. SOAP is for week days when students do not have school, and families are looking for a full-day program to entertain and occupy their child/ren in Grades 5-8.  SOAP features: a METRO location; peer to peer socializing opportunities; multicultural, cross-curricular art lessons; hands’ on projects with a variety of materials and techniques; reinforcement of self-reliance, personal responsibility, public speaking, teamwork, project management and other life skills; a low staff to participant ratio; and a safe and supportive, handicapped accessible environment.

Urban Adventure Squad (UAS)
(Location depends on day)
Each adventure day has a unique curriculum that is aimed at engaging Squad members at their own levels. UAS researches and plans their programs very carefully to make sure that Squad members stay physically active, intellectually stimulated, and engaged with community. Squad members hike in snowy woods, meet people with amazing jobs (folk singers, chefs, environmental educators, local composers), harvest lunch from urban gardens, visit former presidents’ homes, go on scavenger hunts, create art and music masterpieces, lead service projects, and so much more!The programs run 8:45am-4:00pm each day and offer easy, drive-up pickup and drop-off. The cost is $70 per day, and all siblings are $50 per day. Cost includes snacks and transportation (Bus/Metro).

DC Department of Parks and Recreation offer Fun Day
(Various locations)
A single-day program offering fun and enriching activities (such as sports activities, arts & crafts, and more) for children ages 6 – 12 years old from 9:00am-5:00pm.  DPR strives to meet the needs of District families when the District’s public schools have planned closures. 12 DPR sites will hold Fun Day. Online pre-registration is required however there is no fee or application.

Round House Theatre
(925 Wayne Avenue, Silver Spring, MD 20910)
A full day of theatrical fun for grades K – 5 at the Round House Theatre Education Center when Montgomery County Public Schools are closed. Round House Education invites students to collaborate with their peers to create an original play in just one day! Each “Day Off!” features a new and exciting story genre to explore as well as a unique specialty skill. Specialties will include dance, music, puppetry, movement, or unique disciplines in the performing arts. 9:00am-5:30pm for $75.

Silver Stars Gymnastics
(2701 Pittman Drive Silver Spring, Maryland 20910 – also location in Bowie, MD)
Gymnastics camp is appropriate for the beginner, intermediate and advanced gymnast. Your child will be able to build an athletic foundation for all sports through the strength, flexibility and coordination that only the challenge of gymnastics can offer.  Full Day: 8:30am-4:30pm, $65.00; Half Day: 9:00am-12:00pm, $50.00; Before and after care available.

Adventure Theatre School’s Out Day Camp
(7300 MacArthur Blvd Glen Echo, MD)
Send your kids to come play with Adventure Theatre MTC and put your hours in at the office worry free – your kids will thank you (and so will your boss)! Kids in Grades K-5 are invited to come play from 8:50am-4:00pm. A full day of theatrical activities including a showing of a performance on their main stage.

Washington DC JCC
(1529 Sixteenth Street, NW, Washington DC 20036)
No school today Camp! Adventure. Creativity. Discovery. Friendship. Days of fun when kids are off school,

but parents have to work. Registration for our Fall No School Today Camp Programs is now open!

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Filed Under: Camp, Holiday Options Tagged: camp, no school

Indoor options for kids in and around Washington, DC

January 9, 2018

Here is a long post full of great indoor options for you and your Bambinos in the Washington, DC metro area– plus some options up the road in Baltimore. So whether it’s raining, snowing — or just too cold or hot outside, here are some fantastic places to check out. They’ll keep your little ones engaged and might even tire them out enough to keep you happy. We’ll try to keep this list updated, so do add your suggestions to the comments below and we’ll keep building! Scroll all the way to the bottom as there are on-going lists of theatres, gyms and other great indoor spaces.

Washington, DC~

Elemeno–(709 8th Street SE Washington, DC  20003)

SkillZone is a fun, fresh place to play and learn in Washington, DC., open for drop-in play time, classes, and private parties! A place in the city for children 6 & under. Registration is required.

Smithsonian Museum– (Various Locations)

Most are free of charge! Specific child-friendly areas in museums listed below.

U.S. Botanic Garden– (100 Maryland Ave SW, Washington, DC)

Massive indoor exhibits, you can spend all day here. Check website as they occasionally have events such as cooking demonstrations, concerts, baby snuggler days and more.
[Read more…]

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Filed Under: Camp, Classes, Indoor Play Tagged: fun, indoor, play

Ultimate camp guide in and around Washington, DC for Summer 2018

January 4, 2018

An updated 2019 Summer Camp Guide can be found here.

This 2018 Summer camp guide is sponsored by Beauvoir Summer Camp.

Beauvoir Summer
(3500 Woodley Rd, NW, Washington, DC 20016 on the National Cathedral grounds)
Located on the grounds of the Washington National Cathedral in Washington, D.C., Beauvoir Summer strives to create an inviting, collaborative and warm community for campers during the summer months. Beauvoir Summer offers camp programs open to Beauvoir and non-Beauvoir children ages 3 to 11 years old over four sessions that run a total of seven weeks.  Whether registering for one session or all summer, exciting activities include field trips, swimming lessons, outdoor adventure programs and specialty camps. Beauvoir Summer also offers a counselor-in-training program for students grades 6 to 12. Through a variety of offerings, Beauvoir Summer makes it easy for you to create a schedule that works best for your family, offering before and after camp care programs as well. Simply put, Beauvoir Summer can accommodate all of your summer camp needs!

Woodland Horse Center
(16301 New Hampshire Ave., Silver Spring, MD. 20905)
Woodland Horse Center is the premier horseback riding center in Maryland and prides itself in offering the most spectacular Horseback Riding Summer Camp for horse-crazy kids from June 18-Aug 24. The 1-week Pony Pals Camp is for young riders ages 5-7. The 2-week Horsemanship Camp is for riders ages 8-16. All campers learn to ride correctly and confidently in twice daily riding lessons. Campers also learn comprehensive horsemanship skills which help them learn and love to care for the wonderful horses and ponies. Interactive, hands-on lessons outside of the ring include grooming, tacking, anatomy, health care, nutrition and more. Put the devices down, get outside and have a blast with the horses!!

Summer Safari Zoo Camp at The National Zoo
(3001 Connecticut Ave NW, Washington, DC 20008)
Each of the Summer Safari programs explores the lives, habitats, and conservation of animals around the world. Week-long sessions include exciting hands-on activities, lessons, craft projects, science experiments, and walks through the Zoo (but no direct contact with animals). Camp sessions are grouped into four grade levels: K-1, 2-3, 4-5, and 6-7.

Spy Camp at the Spy Museum
(800 F Street, NW Washington, DC  20004)
Another sneaky camp that sounds like so much fun and full of thrills! Somewhere deep inside the Museum an elite group of recruits is lurking in the shadows preparing to take on top secret missions. No one really knows who they are, or for that matter, what they’re really up to. Now it’s your children’s turn to join their ranks. Each day is filled with top secret briefings and activities that will put spy skills and street smarts to the test. Aspiring Spy recruits will hone their tradecraft, learn from real spies, and hit the streets to run training missions. Develop a disguise for cover, make and break codes, discover escape and evasion techniques, create and use spy gadgets, uncover the science behind spying—all of this and more awaits young recruits! Ages 10-13.

National Building Museum Summer Camp
(401 F Street NW Washington, D.C. 20001)
One and two week sessions for campers entering 2nd-7th grade. Experience the world we build for ourselves in new ways and with hands-on activities and projects in one of our favorite buildings in DC! Attend one, two, or all of the unique sessions of, full-day summer camp at the National Building Museum. Campers will enjoy design challenges, exploring the Museum, and more!

Lowell School Camp
(1640 Kalmia Rd NW., Washington, DC. 20012)
Their respectful and caring atmosphere encourages campers, rising PreK-grade 9, to grow in self-awareness and confidence, while strengthening their cooperation and consideration for others. They have an expansive campus with fields, surrounded by towering trees, provides generous space for games, sports, exercise, and water play. Campers explore and investigate plant and animal life in a spring-fed stream, a tributary of nearby Rock Creek. The four-lane indoor pool, fully equipped technology center, three art workshops, library, and large gymnasium are also available to campers. 

Sidwell Summer
(3825 Wisconsin Ave NW, Washington, DC 20016)
(5100 Edgemoor Lane Bethesda, MD 20814)
With an array of programs for campers and students Age 3 – Grade 12 throughout June,  July, and August, they have something for everyone. This camp has two locations to choose from with a variety of camps; day camp, sports camp and academic camp.

Bricks4Kidz
(1130 6th St. NW, Washington, DC 20001)
Camp kicks off the morning session by grouping up the kiddos by age (two age groups: 4-6 year olds and 7-12 year olds) then the fun begins. Campers work in pairs and build projects through Bricks 4 Kidz lesson plans and make creations of their own during super fun free play periods. The afternoon gets “challenging” as the campers enter “Challenge Island”, that provides unique challenge-based programs designed to foster critical and creative thinking skills, problem solving methodology, and core STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) principles in children.

Arts on the Horizon Summer Camps
(1100 Wythe Street, #26093  Alexandria, VA)

From superhero to construction, this arts inspired camp has a session that is sure to appeal to your child. They offer one week, half day sessions. Ages 3-6.

(Photo: Imagination Stage)

Theatre & Arts Camps:

Adventure Theatre Camps

Little Loft

The Theatre Lab School of the Dramatic Arts

Meadowlark Guitar and Ukulele Camp

Red Panda Art Studio

McLean Project for the Arts (MAP)

Camp Arena Stage

Art in Motion via UpCycle/Local Motion

Takoma Groove Camp

Fit Kids Hit the Stage

Round House Theatre

Encore Stage and Studio

Imagination Stage

Lola’s Lab Camp

Levine Summer Music & Arts Day Camp

The Art League

Creative Youth

(Photo: Language Stars)


Language Camps:

CommuniKids

Language Stars

(Photo: Baseball Camp at Bethesda Big Train)

Other camps around the Washington, DC area:

  • Breathing Space
  • Adventure Links
  • Adventures on the Hill
  • Revolutionary War Camp—George Washington’s Generals
  • iD Tech Camps
    (locally at American Univ., Georgetown Univ., Howard Univ., Univ of MD., Virginia Tech; Falls Church location, Johns Hopkins; Rockville location & Towson)iD Tech is the world leader in summer STEM education, with over 400,000 alumni since 1999. Programs for ages 7-19 are held at 150 prestigious campuses including American, Georgetown, NYU, and Stanford. Students build in-demand skills for futures in coding, game development, robotics, and design, and learn in guaranteed small classes (10 students max per instructor). In addition to the flagship program, iD Tech Camps for ages 7-17, iD Tech also offers all-girls camps, teen-only Academies, an advanced capstone program, and year-round Online Private Lessons.
  • Circle Yoga
  • Smithsonian Summer Camp
  • Norbeck Montessori
  • Rock Creek Park Horse Center
  • Meadowbrook Stables
  • Edlavitch DCJCC Camp
  • Camp Berry
  • Urban Adventure Squad
  • Potomac School
  • Headfirst Summer Camp
  • CASA at Sheridan School
  • Montgomery County Parks & Recreation Summer Camps
  • Washington, DC Parks & Recreation Summer Camps
  • Arlington County Summer Camps
  • Fairfax County Park Authority Summer Camps
  • Summer at Norwood
  • Budding Yogis’
  • Landon Summer
  • YMCA Camps
  • Valley Mill Camp
  • Calleva Outdoor Adventure Camp
  • Home Run Baseball Camp
  • Baseball Camp at Bethesda Big Train
  • Clara Barton Center for Children 
  • Berrend Summer Dance
  • Camp Aristotle at The Auburn School
  • Camp Olympia
  • The Creative Difference
  • Badlands Camp
  • DC Way (Soccer)
  • Steve and Kates Camp
  • Aiden’s Village of Choice Summer

(Photo: Calleva)

Need to sign-up for just one week of camp? Thanks to some locals parents, here’s a great list of drop-ins and places that will allow you to sign up a week at a time.

Bruce Murray Soccer Camp is in Potomac and has bus transportation
Humane Rescue Alliance for grades 2 & up
Bethesda YMCA tennis camp 
Woods Academy in Bethesda has a great summer science program
HomeRun Baseball Camp allows daily drop-ins and accepts kids ages 4-12
PPA offers soccer camps
Bethesda Soccer Club has tons of soccer camps
Sidwell Friends School summer camp
Washington Episcopal School summer camp
Calleva is an outdoor camp that has buses that pick up and drop off close-in and offer a variety of camp experiences
Brit-Am is a local soccer club that also has summer camps
Headfirst summer camp is very popular with various themes with two locations
Four Soccer at American University
Coach Sal Caccavale and his summer camps, they are all located in DC
Bach to Rock has a music camp in Bethesda
Landon camp is for boys and girls and provides bus transportation from a few neighborhoods

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Filed Under: Camp, Sponsored Post, Summer Tagged: camp, fun, maryland, summer camp, virginia, Washington DC

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