• Summer Camps

Types of kids' camps in Oshawa, Whitby, and Durham Region

Kids find unique opportunities for fun and learning during the summer months at day camps throughout the Durham Region. They get out of the house, away from screens and meet other kids from their city. You'll find a variety of focuses here, ranging from learning and tech camps, to arts camps, and day camps for sports.

Camps 

There are great summer camps all across the Toronto and elsewhere in the eastern end of the GTA. To expand your options, find full pages on camps in the cities and regions listed below: 

How Durham Region parents can find the best camp

When parents in Oshawa or Durham Region are looking for a camp, here are some questions and concerns to bear in mind: 

On practical matters

• Does the camp's pick-up and drop-off times mesh with your schedule? Some camps have very restricted policies about morning drop-off and end-of-day pick-up times. Others offer after-camp care or other flexibility.  Be sure you know that the camp works well with your schedule. 
• Consider some of the legalities. 
  • Ensure that the camp is accredited by the OCA or another accrediting body. 
  • If the camp asks you to sign a waiver with lots of fine print, make sure to read it or ask them to give you a summary. 
• Inquire about the camp’s focus on each activity within the schedule. For example, consider who much your child can indulge in his or her favourite sports, games, etc.

On matters related to food and drink

• Understand the camp’s rules about food and snacks. Every camp has a policy about allergies, such as nuts, etc. Be sure to understand how this will impact choices you make with regard to your child’s own diet. 
• Are kids encouraged to keep well-hydrated on hot days?

On matters of discipline and safety

• Consider safety measures in place. Make sure all counselors have had police checks and ask to see a copy if you’re concerned. Inquire about any staff training with regard to disciplining. Ask about counselor-to-camper ratios and ensure you’re satisfied that your child will be well-taken care of.
• Inquire about grouping of kids. Ask what the camp’s limit is with regard to the number of kids per session. If kids are grouped at all, how is this done? Ask to meet the counselor or leader managing the group your child is in.

Matters related to exceptional needs

Ask about provisions for kids with special needs and consider how this will affect your child’s enjoyment of the camp. Are there going to be Education Assistants or Personal Service Workers present and/or available, if needed?