For kids who love technology, summer is a great time to explore interests and learn new skills by taking classes. If your child enjoys video games, programming, and computers, they might be interested in attending computer camp and taking courses in programming, app development, game design, web design, 3D animation and modeling, and more.
A computer camp could be a great learning experience for your child, but since it can require a significant financial commitment, it’s important to know if your child is ready for it. As a parent of a child who has attended computer camps for many years, I have compiled four questions that should help you decide if your child is ready to take a class.
- Does the camp fit your budget? I’ll start with this one because it can be a deal breaker. Quality computer camps are not inexpensive, so it’s something to think about up-front.
- Does your child have the ability to focus for long periods of time? While classes are fun and interactive, the main goal is to learn by doing. Kids are expected to sit at a computer, focus, and work for reasonable periods of time. Â No fear though, they are not sitting at desks all day– most camps allow for breaks and non-computer time.
- Is your child a good listener? Camps are similar to school in that your child will be taught by teachers and will be expected to pay close attention to get the instruction they need.
- Does your child have a tech background? In some cases, but not all, there are prerequisites for classes. It’s important to read the details of each class and make sure your child has the appropriate knowledge and interest level.
Hopefully, I haven’t scared you off at this point!  Your child does not need to be a tech whiz to attend computer camp and have a good experience, but it is important to be aware of what’s expected before you sign up.
If you’re interested in finding a camp, there are many options for all ages, ranging from elementary school through high school. Here is a list of some of the companies that offer summer computer camps across the US:
- Code Ninjas
- Coding with Kids
- Digital Media Academy
- Emagination Tech Camps
- iCode
- iD Tech
- Zaniac Learning
We’re big fans of iD Tech in my family; my daughter has been taking classes at iD Tech for many years now. You can read about why iD Tech excels here.  If you’re trying to determine if a classroom summer camp setting is right for your child, my daughter explains that while it is similar to school and the instructors are there to teach you, it’s not rigid. You have the opportunity to go off-topic and you get to share your work with other students. My daughter likes that class sizes are small and you get a lot of personal attention and support from the instructors.
If you’re interested in learning more, visit the websites of these companies to review their classes in detail. Since this is a big decision to make, I would also reach out to the companies with any questions or concerns you have.
If you are not ready to move forward with one of these camps, you can always do an online search and find local organizations offering computer or tech camps in your area.
Image Source: Hour of Code at Santa Teresa by VISION Service Adventures
