Summer teen programs start next week

Would your teenager enjoy the independence of selecting daily camp activities this summer or want to learn to be a camp counselor?

If so, the City of Carlsbad offers two full-day camps designed for older children that offer more independence than other summer camps.

• Counselor-in-Training Teen Camp - This day camp is for middle and high school youth, ages 13-15, who wish to build leadership skills while also enjoying arts, crafts, sports, team building activities and field trips. Teenagers will have a chance to use skills they learn by volunteering at the Pee Wee, Kidz Camp, and Explorer Programs. Each week's theme is based on a reality television show.

• Explorer Camp - Campers, ages 11-13 years old, will get exposed to a variety of camp activities, including ones they choose. This camp gives your tween or teens, who like structure, a chance to shape their own camp experience. They will have certain activities they must participate in, but also get to pick activities from a pre-set list of choices.

Both camps run from 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Friday, from June 17 to Aug. 23.

Cost is $150 resident/$160 non-resident per week. 

Recreation Supervisor Michael Bodman said the Counselor-in-Training and Explorer camps are ideal for tweens and teens who want more independence.    

"It's not like a little kids camp; it's designed for teens," he said. 

Visit www.carlsbadconnect.org to register or for more information.