Get Creative with Summer Child Care

The school year is nearing an end – do you have plans for the kids this summer?

It can be a challenge to come up with a plan that excites, educates and entertains your child(ren), but doesn’t bust your household budget.  There are alternatives to the traditional full-day summer camp, but it takes some planning.

• Create a Child Care Co-Op
  Talk with other families in your neighborhood or in your child’s class at school about sharing child care coverage.  Each parent can take a week of vacation to watch the group, depending on the size of your group.  Consider how many kids everyone in the co-op can fit in their car, the compatibility and interests of the group, a convenient meeting place and drop-off/pick-up times, and each family’s expectations of the group. The co-op can not only save the cost of summer camp but bring a nice variety to the summer, as every parent is sure to bring different ideas and plans to the group.  And, the co-op idea can extend to days the kids are off during the school year too.

• Find a Responsible College Student
  Ask your friends, family, coworkers and neighbors for recommendations of college students who might be looking for summer work. Meet with the potential summer nanny, and determine if he or she is prepared to provide more than just ‘babysitting’. Find one who is enthusiastic to put together a plan for summer with the kids, mixing fun with structured activities. Clearly outline compensation and expectations in writing.

• Check Out Day Camps
  Research day camps available in your area at high schools, universities, churches, community centers and parks.  There are camps available for many interests, from academic to athletic to crafts or hobbies.

• KC Summer Camps
• KC Kids Fun Summer Camps  
• KC Parent Magazine Camp Guide

• Johnson County Parks & Recreation 

• Motherandchildreunion.com
  • Johnson Couny area 
  • Eastern Kansas (including Topeka and Lawrence) 

• Topeka Summer Camps 

• Wichita Summer of Discovery 

• Find Volunteer Opportunities
  Seek out organizations that might be looking for volunteers.  Your student can learn skills while providing community service.  Look to churches, parks and recreation programs and local philanthropies for opportunities in your community.

>> What do you have planned for the kids to do when school is out?

>> What do you feel is a suitable age to allow young people to stay on their own during the summer?

>> Would you prefer if your school system offered year-round classes?