Paulina Jayne Isaac

School’s out for summer! Now what? As a parent juggling, well, everything, you may wonder how to keep your tots entertained—and off the couch—during their three months of freedom. There are always playgrounds and parks, but if you want something a bit more engaging with enjoyable learning opportunities, look no further than the best summer camps NYC kids love.  No surprise, the city has a lot to offer. With so many amazing opportunities for outdoor fun, how’s a parent or kid to choose? We did our best to narrow down the options to create a diverse, well-balanced list, which includes programs at some of the best New York attractions for kids, sleepaway camps and academic summer camps. Want to get in on the action too? Check out the best family camp programs in the city. It’s time to make summer 2023 one to remember!

Not all kids have the opportunity to go camp, therefore not all adults have been to camp. If you’re a grown-up with a family of your own and thinking that your time to experience camp has passed—it hasn’t. It’s called family camp! Parents and kids alike can enjoy outdoor activities, sports, and team-building exercises. If you don’t want to send your kid to camp (or maybe you do and just want to tag along), try checking out a family camp program this summer. Instead of going to Disney World again or taking that cruise, you’ve been thinking about trying something new. Get the whole family in the car with one destination in mind: The great outdoors. RECOMMENDED: Full guide to the best summer activities for kids in NYC

Summer in NYC means something different for every student. Some spend every day at the beach, some visit out-of-state family members, and then there are others who go to camp. The NYC area is saturated with summer activities for kids with a variety of interests—including academics. You’re sure to find an academic camp on this list that will fit your kid’s interests. Whether it’s music, dance, science, or math—we’ve got some great options. The one aspect they all have in common is that they make learning super fun. Be sure to have a gander at the 2023 programs and register for one—or more!—cool camps. While you're filling out that seasonal bucket list, make sure to have a look at our favorite summer activities for kids. RECOMMENDED: Full guide to summer camps in NYC  

Schools out! No more math homework, reading assignments, or art projects. If the thought of your kids having nothing to do for the summer gives you pause, then consider trying one of New York City’s best day camps for kids. ​​Day camp is a win-win for parents and children. Campers get to socialize, learn, and have fun with their peers and camp counselors. Meanwhile, parents can feel good knowing that their kids are making memories that will last a lifetime. Check out some of our favorite day camps for NYC kids below! RECOMMENDED: Full guide to summer camps in NYC ​​

Alright, parents, here’s a big question for you: Do you or don’t you send your kid to sleepaway camp? There are some who will jump at the idea, while others are hesitant. Saying “goodbye” to your kiddo for a few weeks (or more) can feel nerve-wracking, but it doesn’t have to be. Pairing the right kid with the right camp can be just what your child needs this summer. The East Coast is a great place for a summer camp. Nature provides a beautiful backdrop and whether the camp is in Upstate New York or a quick drive away in Connecticut, your child is guaranteed to make lifelong memories. Nothing's off limits, so prepare for an adventure! If you have the jitters, read what the experts have to say about summer camp here but also consider a day camp! Breathe a sigh of relief!  RECOMMENDED: Full guide to summer camps in NYC    

There’s nothing like summer in New York City. Once kids are out of school and the weather’s beautiful, most people head outside. Children ride their bikes, couples stroll through Central Park, and families enjoy outdoor activities like mini-golf or kayaking. However, summer also means that restaurants are packed, the subways are hot, and tourists are everywhere. It can feel overwhelming to figure out what to do with your family once school lets out for the summer. If you’re scratching your head because you don’t know what to do, we’re here to help. A city with as many options as NYC means that there’s something for every family. The nature lovers, the explorers, and the food lovers will all find something that suits them on this list—promise. If you’re wondering how you’re going to keep your little ones busy while staying safe amid the ongoing pandemic, check out our roundup of the best outdoor activities for kids (think hiking trails and bike paths).

The 2021–2022 school year is on its way, and these fantastic school supply stores can help! You're going to need pencils, notebooks, binders and cool gadgets to send your kids back to school in style, so head to these school supply stores to get everything you need without making a million trips.  RECOMMENDED: Full guide to getting kids back to school in NYC

We'll admit: 2021 is a tricky year to navigate. Although there is still so much up in the air about the back-to-school season, you can rely on fun after-school programs to keep kids learning after the bell rings. From online music classes and art pods to foreign language tutoring and dance class, we'll help you discover what's being offered virtually and in-person—and what's still TBD. RECOMMENDED: Full guide to get your kids back to school in NYC

Summer doesn't last forever, much to kiddos' disappointment, and you'll have to prepare for the back-to-school season eventually. Get ahead of the curve with a visit to these school uniform stores in NYC. Whether you need to stock up on new pennyloafers or find a different-colored sweater, these spots have you covered.  Each company takea the edge off your family's September prep. While you're adjusting to new schedules, buying supplies and signing your kids up for various programs, you can feel settled knowing that their wardrobe is set. Enjoy getting ready for a new academic year. Maybe take the kids out for a scoop of ice cream after visiting these school uniform stores—they might feel a bit blue picking up their clothes! RECOMMENDED: Full guide to get your kids back to school in NYC

So many stories, so little time. Our favorite book clubs for kids will ensure that your budding bibliophile is reading the coolest picks on the bestseller list (and beyond)!  Venture to indie bookstores in NYC for a list of gatherings geared toward youngsters. Not only will they fall in love with new authors and genres, but they'll be able to chat with friends about those chapters they wish never came to an end.  If your Matilda in the making can't get enough, don't just settle for the best book clubs for kids NYC families swear by. Be sure to also venture to our go-to kids' library branches and sit in on an engaging storytime for kids. Who knows? The first stop for your moppet is a book club, and the next could be a publishing deal!

Preparing for back to school in 2021 means shopping for fun school supplies: pencils, notebooks, backpacks, crayons, and more. But getting the kiddos ready for the new school year can be stressful if family resources are low and there are multiple tots in the house. Thankfully, there are spots around NYC that offer free school supplies so no child is left behind come the first day of class. Check out these wonderful locations giving out free school supplies around the city so kids can get set for the new year without breaking the bank. Even better? There's plenty of fun surrounding the giveaways, so it's a win-win situation.  Habana Works Back to School Bash No need to mourn summer when you have an event like this on the horizon! Celebrate the back-to-school season with half off Habana’s kids’ menu, plus fun crafts and activities hosted by your favorite local vendors. There is also a live DJ during the event so the whole crew can bust a move! Expect free goodies like notebooks, pencils and rulers—kids will leave feeling like they’ve won the lotto. Habana Outpost, Brooklyn (habanaworks.org). All ages. ICNA Relief Back 2 School Giveaway Program The Islamic Circle of North America hosts a nationwide giveaway campaign to outfit thousands of kids living in low-income neighborhoods with school bags and necessary supplies. Learn more about the program and its distribution centers here.  Freecycle.org Families looking for free school gear might be able to find it right in their own b