Monterey County offers a variety of summer camp opportunities for children and teens, and new options pop up every year. This year, that includes two new free programs by the Boys & Girls Clubs of Monterey County and First Tee, a youth development nonprofit.
BGCMC is offering an eight-week program in Seaside, Salinas and Gonzales. Programs include football and leadership skills along with a summer academy, where they participate in field trips, recreational and health and wellness activities.
For the first time, the program, which in the past cost $300 per child, is free.
First Tee, in partnership with the King City Union School District, will also offer for district students eight-week programs in golf, swimming, animal welfare and photography.
“King City families have shown up for First Tee for more than a decade, and this camp is our way of showing up for them in return,” said Nathan Nuñez, director of development for First Tee Monterey County. “A child who has never picked up a club is going to leave this summer with new friends, new skills and a lot more confidence.”
If your child isn’t enrolled in a summer camp, you can always check out local libraries; many offer a variety of activities for children and adults, including 3-D printing projects, science lessons, fun crafts and ukulele lessons.