This year has been incredibly challenging for all of us. One day, we're all going about business, school, and parenting as usual and then all of a sudden we're faced with having to practice social distancing and it basically affects every aspect of our lives. None of us were ready for it. And if it's hit adults hard, it's definitely hit children just as hard. They've had to adapt to distance learning and now that the school year is over is distance learning really over? Not really because now parents who have relied on summer camps or programs in the past have to figure out how to keep their children engaged all summer long. Fortunately, many organizations are providing just what our kids need this summer and we can't wait to tell you about some of the options available.
More from MamásLatinas: Celebrities show us fun things to do at home with our kids
We've compiled some great options for virtual summer camps or programs that are appropriate for children of all ages. If you are worried about the cost, don't be because many of them are free. You could fill up your kids' entire summer schedule with a combination of these programs. The best part is that they really are designed to be activities that kids can do on their own for the most part, that means that you will have time to do what you need to do.
Code Ninjas is a coding camp option for 5- to 14-year-olds.
Code Ninjas specializes in making coding fun with a game-based curriculum for children. "Your kids can stay engaged and keep coding while they stay home. Boost problem solving and critical thinking skills while having fun, with the support and guidance from our Code Senseis just a click away," the company says on its website. Contact a local center to get pricing details.
The San Diego Zoo Kids website has all kinds of free activities available.
The San Diego Zoo Kids website is doing an incredible job of free educational content. Children can learn via games, activities, quizzes, video content, and more. If you visit its #WereHereTogether website and take advantage of the wildlife cams where kids can stay connected to the animals in the zoo virtually.
United States Tennis Association Virtual Camp is great for tennis enthusiasts.
If your kids are into tennis or interested in getting into tennis, the United States Tennis Association has your back. Its Net Generation website is designed for kids and lets them learn about tennis from home. The association offers tennis activity videos, games, projects, match curriculum, and more, all for free.
Super Soccerstars is perfect for futboleros ages 1-12.
The cost for this virtual camp is $45 a month and it's available seven days a week. There are different programs to choose from, and the length of each session is anywhere from 30-45 minutes and depends on the age of the child. You can find out more about the programs on the Super SoccerStars website.
Camp Hullabaloo helps encourage a love of reading.
Camp Hullabaloo is "a weekly summer book subscription series complete with activity and craft lists (and little extras to surprise and delight!) to help make the most of this summer at home." There are different collections to choose from that range in price from $29-$89.
Sew a Softie will help your child learn how to sew.
The Sew a Softie program starts on July and offers “a month of daily free and simple to sew softie tutorials for you and your kids.” The website also has more than 200 sewing projects available at all times. All you have to pay for are the supplies that you will need to make each project.
Baketivity will have your kids making dessert.
Baketivity is a "hands-on virtual summer camp" that "helps bakers-in-training learn new skills, try out baker-approved tips, and discover the secrets of great baking for a lifetime." The best part is that the whole family will get to taste what the camper bakes. The limited edition summer kit costs $200 and consists of four different boxes.
Chess NYC offers classes for all levels.
Chess NYC offers hourly, daily, and weekly online chess classes. There's a Headstart Jr. class that costs $27 and is perfect for complete beginners. It consists of a 72-minute "animated curriculum that covers every element of introduction to the fame in a fun Chess NYC way!"
Woof Wag Dogs is for dogs and their people.
Woof Wag Dog summer camp meets online and every day there is "a theme to keep your child and dog engaged in the fun (but educational) activities." The classes are livestreamed, which means kids get a chance to interact with instructors and others in the group. Check the website for availability and pricing.
The Best Buy Geek Squad Academy is free!
The Best Buy Geek Squad Academy offers four different courses kids ages 9-18. The courses are designed to develop new tech skills and get kids thinking creatively. Each lesson has step-by-step instructions that kids can do on their own or as part of a group. And like we said, it's free.
Varsity Tutors offers week-long virtual sessions for free.
Varsity Tutors is truly amazing. Its camps are interactive and taught by expert instructors. There are many camps to choose from and the company is always adding more. The camps are designed for kids 5-18 years old. There's bound to be something your kids will want to do.
Code With Google is a free coding program.
Code With Google classes were created because "every student deserves the chance to explore, advance, and succeed in computer science." Their programs include an introduction to the fundamentals of computer science and keep building from there.
At Camp Wonderopolis you get to learn through wonder.
"Camp Wonderopolis is a free online summer-learning destination that's full of fun, interactive STEM and literacy-building topics boosted by Maker experiments!" There are five different programs to choose from and you can do them all.
Camp-In-a-Box is literally a camp in a box.
Sign up for Camp-In-a-Box and you'll get a box with everything that you need to do participate in two weeks of STEM camp from the comfort of your own home. You'll have live classes and get to interact with other campers twice a day. It costs $179.
Camp PBS Kids is a great destination for play and learning.
We love PBS and Camp PBS Kids is one of the reasons. "Camp PBS KIDS is here to fill your days with creativity, exploration and fun for the whole family," their website explains. You'll find printables and so much inspiration for activities, games, and projects to keep your kids busy all summer long.
