Month: April 2025

SOMD HOMESCHOOL SUPPORT GUIDE

Whether you are new to embarking on your homeschool journey, or are a veteran; it is important to have support, resources, and information at hand so you can embrace the full scope of homeschooling. After five years of homeschooling my three boys; the most important thing to know is that you are not alone in your homeschooling adventure! There are a plethora of supplemental tools including: co-ops, umbrellas, tutors, community programs, and more. This article is here to help SOMD families navigate the many options available, so that you can tailor and design a learning program that works best for your child.

HOME SCHOOLING

Here are two important questions to address before diving into homeschooling… What is home schooling? What are the benefits? And How do I get started? Homeschooling simply put is when the parent(s) take full responsibility for educating their children at home instead of sending them to a traditional public or private school.  The homeschooling community began flourishing in the 1970’s, and has grown over the years to become a well established and popular choice. Interestingly, it is estimated that about 3.7 million students grade k-12 homeschooled in the 2024-2025 academic year. There are a number of reason why parents and youth decide to homeschool; according to the NHERI here are some common reasons given for homeschooling:

  • Customize or individualize the curriculum and learning environment for each child. You can tailor homeschooling to the level, pace and interest of your child; helping them learn and grow more effectively.
  • Accomplish more academically than in schools. A lot of time in the traditional classroom setting is busy work. By focusing on core classes at home you can complete more work faster and more efficiently.
  • Use pedagogical approaches other than those typical in institutional schools. You can investigate and use learning objectives, styles and theories that go along with your philosophy of education.
  • Enhance family relationships between children and parents and among siblings. Homeschooling offers a wonderful opportunity for family bonding. Instead of forced relationships in the classroom. Your children are forming relationships with family and friends that will last a life time.
  • Provide guided and reasoned social interactions with youthful peers and adults. There is less fear in questioning the unknown of peer pressure and negative influences that occur in the school setting. This helps your child form more meaningful and intentional relationships.
  • Provide a safer environment for children and youth. With the wide spread of bullying, violence, school shootings, drug and alcohol use, racism, and improper and unhealthy sexuality associated with institutional school setting, parents have less fear and children are safer with the homeschooling option.
  • As an alternative education approach when public or private institutional can not meet the needs of children with special needs and academic challenges.
  • Teach and impart a particular set of values, beliefs, and worldview to children and youth.
  • Home schooling is more affordable than private school in most cases. The average cost of homeschooling is $700-$1,800 per student annually.
  • Academic success ratings are higher amongst homeschooler’s. Homeschooled students score 15-30 percentile points above public-school students on standardized academic achievement tests.
  • Higher college performance ratings. College students who were homeschooled earned higher first-year and fourth-year GPAs when controlling for demographic, pre-college, engagement, and first-term academic factors.

GETTING STARTED

Now that I have your attention for why. The next step is how to get started. Each state has different rules put in place regarding a parent’s ability to homeschool their children and all the laws that they must follow. For Maryland you will want to read over the rules of COMAR to better understand the standards for homeschooling in our state. Here are the links to local homeschool instruction programs by county:

  • Calvert County Public Schools Home Instruction Page- Link
  • Charles County Board of Education Homeschool Page- Link
  • Prince Georges County Public School Homeschool Page- Link
  • St. Mary’s County Public School Home Instruction Page- Link

Since my kids are in Charles, I can speak on this district. You will need to complete a form of intent with the local board of education to inform them of your decision to homeschool any child age 5 until they turn 18. It is a simple process that does not require much time or information. The form only requests basic information regarding name, age, grade  and place of residence of the child you are enrolling in home instruction. In the fall you will complete a simple review form indicating which subjects your child will study and submit it to CCBOE. In the Spring you the choice to have your student take the state assessment, or complete a Spring portfolio review which is usually in person. Don’t be fearful of reviews, you simply show 2-3 samples of work or proof of each subject studied to a review panelist. A Spring completion form will be filled out and you will be given a copy. You can skip the stress of reviewing and join an umbrella. Umbrella’s are an alternative resource to presenting a portfolio review to the county. There are a handful of options in the state of Maryland. A complete list Umbrellas can found here.

CURICULUMS

I want to note that utilizing a curriculum is not a requirement. However, curriculums can be helpful so many homeschool families use them. When choosing a curriculum to use, it is important to know what educational pedagogy and learning style work best for your family. There are a lot of great curriculums out there, so it can be overwhelming to pick the right one. I highly recommend going to a conference or curriculum store to get an idea on which ones to purchase. If you have any homeschooling friends, you could ask them to look at their books. Some companies offer trails or free online versions of their curriculum so you can test them out before making a large investment. Here are a few curriculum choices by type:

CHARLOTTE MASON

The Charlotte Mason style of learn is based on the philosophy of 19th-century British educator, Charlotte Mason. The method emphasizes study of the natural world, the use of oral narration (retelling a story in your own words) and “living books” (high-quality, well-written works of literature, biography, and other writing that engages the reader in a story or narrative) over tests, comprehension questions, and workbooks. Charlotte Mason focuses on providing a wide and deep education in all subjects, with an emphasis on gentle, natural learning progression at the child’s pace. This method values self-paced learning, usually delaying introduction of formal lessons until at least age 6.

CLASSICAL EDUCATION

Classical education gets it roots from the ancient Greek philosophy of the Trivium, meaning three. This style of education is divided into three major sections: Grammar (Elementary), Rhetoric (Middle School), and Logic (High School.) Classical education incorporates memorization and songs into learning for early ages to help them explore subjects, and integrates more discussion and thinking skills as students progress into older grades. An understanding of classic literature, memorization, and Latin are the hallmarks of a Classical education.

TRADITIONAL

This style is what many of us think of when we say “school.” Traditional homeschoolers might lean more towards using textbooks by major publishers, tests and exams, worksheets and workbooks.

UNIT STUDIES

Unit Studies is a style that focuses all subjects around a single theme, concept, topic, or element. Unit studies are sometimes called “thematic units” and this style focuses all subjects on a theme. Unit studies use multisensory learning centered around a single theme, concept, topic, or element. The objective of unit studies is to allow students to delve deep into a topic to obtain mastery of it.

ONLINE PROGRAMS & DISTANT LEARNING

Online and distant learning program vary from program to program. In some cases the student and parent are more responsible for managing the content; while other distant learning programs offer more than just electronic lessons, some offer online instructors who deliver the content and provides grading and progress reports.

FREE

The following are online curriculum resources that are free.

 

CO-OPS

A homeschool Cooperative aka Co-Op is a group of homeschooling families who come together regularly to share educational responsibilities and resources. Simply put, Co-Ops help fill the gaps of homeschooling by providing enriching educational activities or aiding in socialization for homeschooled children.

ANCHOR CHRISTIAN COLLABORATIVE

  • Location: Emmanuel Church- 3800 Old Town Rd. Huntingtown, MD 20639
  • Meeting Days: Tuesday/Thursday
  • Details: Anchor Christian Collaborative strives to serve the Southern Maryland homeschooling community in a way that is honoring to our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and encouraging to our families, as we pursue instructing our children in the ways of the Lord. Offering classes and tutorial style programming.
  • Age Range: Elementary and Middle School Programs
  • Cost: $55 per class
  • Email: anchorchristiancollaborative@gmail.com
  • Link

CALVERY GOSPEL HOME EDUCATION

  • Location: Calvary Gospel- 11150 Berry Rd. Waldorf, MD 20603
  • Meeting Days: Wednesdays
  • Details: Academic oversight, classical tutoring, and parent led co-op.
  • Age Range: K-12
  • Cost: $
  • Email: homeeducators@calvarygospel.org
  • Link

CLASSICAL CONVERSATIONS

  • Locations: CC programming exists in all three counties! Charles county has established groups in Accokeek and Waldorf, as well as a interest in starting up in La Plata. Click on link below and search find a community.
  • Details: Classical Conversations is a Christian homeschool tutorial option for Classical Conversations is kids PK through 12th grade. CC provides a core curriculum that follows the classical method of learning. Classical education is a time-tested theory of education that prepares students to think critically, write persuasively, and present confidently from a Biblical worldview. 
  • Age Range: K-12
  • Cost: $$
  • Email: spalmer@classicalconversations.com
  • Link

HARBOR CHRISTIAN COOPERATIVE

  • Location: Dunkirk Baptist Church- 11275 Southern Maryland Blvd. Dunkirk, MD
  • Details: Harbor is about making lasting friendships and growing together. Our heart’s desire is to create a group culture of a committed community. Joining a cooperative is an important decision. Our membership process will help ensure we are a good fit for your family. If you are interested in joining Harbor, we require that you attend an Information Session. These in-person meetings help you gain a clear understanding of Harbor, how the co-op works, and if it will be a good addition to your homeschooling.  
  • Age Range: K-12 (Nursery available for younger siblings)
  • Cost: $225 Family Membership/ Additional Fee Per Class
  • Email: https://www.harborchristiancoop.com/contact-us
  • Link

IMAGINARIUM HOMESCHOOL COMMUNITY

  • Location: Imaginarium – Solomons, MD
  • Details: New to homeschooling? Considering homeschooling? Looking to meet up with other homeschoolers in a safe and fun environment? Look no further! Imaginarium is hosting an online and in-person homeschool community where families can discuss homeschool related questions/topics, set-up play dates at Imaginarium, and find out about homeschool specific events hosted by Imaginarium. We look forward to having you join us!
  • Age Range: Pre-K – 12
  • Cost: $
  • Email: info@imaginariumplay.com
  • Link

P.A.C.E

  • Location: College of Southern Maryland – La Plata Campus
  • Meeting Days: Monday’s
  • Details: PACE is a Christian homeschool co-op. Parents As Christian Educators exists to encourage and support Christian families who are home educating their children in a Bible believing atmosphere. Homeschooling a child is one of the most selfless and admirable endeavors that a parent can undertake. While the rewards are unparalleled, the challenges and concerns can be equally daunting. Although parents are ultimately responsible for the academic education and Christian training of their own children, it is incumbent upon us as Christians to come alongside one another in support of this effort.  In order to provide a safe environment for Bible believing Christian families to educate their children free from the influence of an anti-Biblical culture, Parents As Christian Educators (hereafter referred to as PACE) will provide support and offer social and educational activities with a distinctively Christian perspective to homeschooling families. These activities may include, but are not limited to, group classes, special events, parties, sports, support meetings for parents, newsletter publication, and field trips.
  • Age Range: K-12
  • Cost: $
  • Link

SCBC HOMESCHOOL FELLOWSHIP

  • Location: Southern Calvert Baptist Church- 12140 H.G. Trueman Blvd. Lusby, MD 20657​
  • Meeting Days: Tuesday’s
  • Details: SCBC Homeschool Fellowship is a non-denominational homeschool organization.  We are a group of homeschooling families who join together to enrich families’ homeschool education.  All parents volunteer their time to teach electives and core classes to homeschoolers from kindergarten through high school.  We strive to offer a variety of classes that will challenge and excite our children.  We are not a drop off co-op and all adults are required to participate each week.  We are not designed to replace your home instruction.  Instead, we seek to provide extra activities that make your homeschool experience more fulfilling.
  • Age Range: K-12
  • Cost: $100 Family Registration Fee/ $10-20 Per Class Supply Fee
  • Email: scbchsf@gmail.com
  • Link

SOUTHERN MARYLAND HOMESCHOOL COMMUNITY

  • Location: Multiple Locations
  • Meeting Days: Tuesday/Thursday
  • Details: The Southern Maryland Homeschool Community is a secular and inclusive group that welcomes ALL homeschoolers and is based in Calvert and St. Mary’s Counties. Co-op parents volunteer as teachers in two sessions each school day, with two classes offered each session. Members can choose from 8 different classes each week. Our co-op has group parties, gatherings, and field trips.
  • Age Range: K-12
  • Cost: $150 Membership Fee/Fee per class
  • Email: info@somdhomeschool.org
  • Link

SPEAR

  • Location: South Potomac Church- 4915 Crain Highway, White Plains, MD 20695
  • Meeting Days: Monday’s
  • Details: SPEAR  (South Potomac Educational Alternative Resource) is a Christ-centered homeschool support group serving families of South Potomac Church and the Charles County, Maryland, community. We are approved as an Umbrella School with the Maryland State Board of Education. As space is available, members my enroll with the SPEAR Academy Umbrella Program and receive regular oversight from a peer advisor.
  • Age Range: Nursery – High School
  • Cost: $100 Registration Fee
  • Email: spearbd@gmail.com
  • Link

THE NEIGHBORHOOD CREATIVE ARTS CENTER – EFH CO-OP

  • Location: College of Southern Maryland – La Plata Campus
  • Meeting Days: Tuesday’s
  • Details: EFH offers students the opportunity to shine, both individually and as a member of a team, fostering self-confidence, determination, collaboration, and a love of exploring and learning. Parents are an integral part of our EFH program, assisting with teaching, character development, and field trips. This is not a drop-off program.
  • Age Range: 3-16
  • Cost: $160 per family per term (2 terms)
  • Email: msgeorgia@neighborhoodcreativeartscenter.org
  • Link

WONDER AND BLOOM

  • Location: College of Southern Maryland – La Plata Campus
  • Meeting Days: Wednesday’s
  • Details: WBHC seeks to help homeschool families deliver a rewarding educational experience and social enrichment together with peer and community engagement. We do this by facilitating an inclusive and intersectional homeschool community, welcoming all religious and spiritual backgrounds without promoting faith-based views or practices, and centering LGBTQIA+, neurodivergent, BIPOC, and other marginalized groups. We are a safe and supportive space for Trans and Non-binary youth. We value communication, mutual respect, empathy, and equity in the educational experience.
  • Age Range: K-12
  • Cost: $
  • Email: wonderandbloomhc@gmail.com
  • Link

TUTORIALS, DROP-OFFS & SUPPORT PROGRAMS

ANCESTERAL KNOWLEDGE

  • Location: DC Metro Area
  • Meeting Days: Varies
  • Details: Ancestral Knowledge offers a wide range of topics for all levels of experience on the topics of; nature awareness, primitive technology, and traditional earth based living skills. Ancestral Knowledge is the first of its kind in the DC Metro area to offer educational experiences in this field of knowledge. All of our programs intertwine two methods of teaching; Experiential Education-“learning by doing” and Coyote Teaching-“guiding not giving”. Ancestral Knowledge is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization is operated by a community of naturalists who specialize in ancient life skills and philosophies that support sustainable lifestyles.
  • Age Range: Elementary – High School
  • Cost: $
  • Email: ak@ancestralknowledge.org
  • Link

BREATHE TURORIAL SERVICE

  • Location: Dunkirk, MD
  • Details: BREATHE Tutorial Services is a Homeschool Community with the mission to provide a Christian based educational curriculum enriched with lots of elective class options with Art, Music, and Theater at the heart. Our core values are spelled out in our name: Believe, Rhythm, Education, Art, Theater, Health, and that you are Enough!
  • Age Range: K-12
  • Cost: $
  • Link

CHARLES COUNTY PUBLIC LIBRARY – ART & SCIENCE CLASSES

  • Location: Charles County Public Library- La Plata and Potomac Branch
  • Week Days: Wednesday & Thursday Options (2PM-3PM)
  • Details: CCPL alternates art & STEM lessons every week throughout the school year. Be sure to register, slots fill fast. Link below takes you to the CCPL calendar where events are listed.
  • Age Range: Elementary – Middle School
  • Cost: FREE
  • Link

COLLEGE OF SOUTHERN MARYLAND – KIDS COLLEGE HOMESCHOOL 

  • Locations: College of Southern Maryland – La Plata, Prince Frederick & Leonardtown Campus’s
  • Meeting Days: La Plata- Friday
  • Details: Inspiring young minds is at the heart of Kids’ & Teen College. We offer dynamic courses in music, theater, dance, and STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art, and math). From year-round classes and summer programs to music lessons, tutoring, test prep, and homeschool options—there’s something for every learner. Led by CSM faculty and industry pros, our programs spark curiosity and build confidence for the future. Offers course selections one day a week from 9AM-3PM for 10-12 weeks in both the fall and spring.
  • Age Range: 5-17
  • Cost: $125 per class
  • Email: awarrick@csmd.edu
  • Link

HUMANE SOCIETY – HOMESCHOOL DAYS

  • Location: Humane Society of Charles County- Industrial Park Dr. Waldorf, MD
  • Dates: One Friday per month
  • Details: The Humane Society offers a drop-off program for elementary and middle school aged students. Animals make learning fun! Every session a new animal topic is covers science, art, environment, and more.
  • Age Range: K-8
  • Cost: $25 Per Class/ $180 – All 8 Classes
  • Email: hscchumaneeducation@gmail.com
  • Link

OUR TOWN TUTORIAL

  • Location: College of Southern Maryland- La Plata Campus
  • Meeting Days: Thursdays
  • Details: Our Town Tutorial is for families looking for support while teaching their children at home. Our tutors are Christians who hold strong, traditional convictions. All classes are approached with a biblical worldview.
  • Age Range: K-12
  • Cost: $125 per class per term (2 terms)
  • Email: ourtowntutorial@gmail.com
  • Link

NEWLIFE TUTORIAL

  • Location: 3170 German Chapel Road, Prince Frederick, MD
  • Meeting Days: Drop off Tuesday & Thursday 8:30-2:45
  • Details: We offer organized classes that cover CORE subjects: language arts, history, science, math and Bible while providing guidance to equip parents.
  • Age Range: K-12 (Nursery available for younger siblings)
  • Cost: $25/30 Session
  • Email: tutorial@mynlc.org
  • Link

READING GARDEN

  • Location: Charles County
  • Details: The Reading Garden Club is a parent education + tutoring service providing phonics-focused reading resources for families of young children. Instruction and resources are designed by myself, Director and Head Gardener, Elisabeth Forde.
  • Age Range: Pre-K/ Early Elementary School
  • Cost: $
  • Email: elizabeth@readinggardenclub.com
  • Link

ST MARYS CITY – HOMESCHOOL DAYS

  • Location: Historical St. Mary’s City
  • Details: Historical St. Mary’s City offers programs specifically tailored for homeschool families, featuring interpretive discussions, demonstrations, and interactive activities. Workshop sessions: 10:30 a.m.- 12:00 p.m. & 1:00 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.
  • Age Range: $10/$8 for members. Additional workshops $7/$5 for members.
  • Link

UPWARD THRIVE ACADEMY

  • Location: 1282 Smallwood Dr. #161, Waldorf, MD 20603
  • Details: Upward Thrive Academy, Inc. (UTA) is a 501(c)(3) human services organization, dedicated to empowering individuals and communities to overcome adversities and function at their highest capacity. UTA’s mission is to promote personal, family, and occupational wellness. We execute this mission by providing educational and vocational training, developmental resources, and community engagement events and activities for people of all ages.
  • Link

LEARNING AND SOCIAL PODS

CHARLES COUNTY SECULAR INCLUSIVE

  • Location: Varies
  • Meetings Days: Varies
  • Details: Facebook Group discription: Easy going inclusive/secular group for homeschool families with teens/tweens in Charles County, MD. Folks are welcome to use the group as a sounding board for questions/concerns, to independently setup virtual events and/or in-person events. The group is designed to support LGBTQ+ and marginalized kids/families. Not exclusively, but we want people to know that the “Inclusive” in the title is a very important aspect.
  • Age Range: Tween/Teen 10-17
  • Email: somdsecularhomeschoolers@gmail.com
  • Link

HOMEGROWN POD

  • Locations: Allens Fresh, MD
  • Meeting Days: Wednesdays
  • Details: Homegrown POD begins our POD day with a Christian devotional followed by three classes of hands-on project based academic enrichment. The school year is organized into 6 week sessions that provide three unit studies per POD day for each age grouped class. The classes are themed inside larger academic areas such as history, science, PE, health, life skills, and creative arts. Every member parent teaches classes in this cooperative and assists in classes they do not lead. Everyone’s hands are needed and the member parent attends the entire POD day with their children. This kind of working together and service to one another is the glue of the sociality within our POD.
  • Email: stephanimorgan@gmail.com
  • Link

SOMD SECULAR HOMESCHOOLERS

  • Location: Members Homes
  • Meetings Days: Wednesdays
  • Details: An educational space that celebrates diversity, encourages critical thinking, and fosters a sense of community among its members. We offer a variety of classes including art, history, and science.
  • Email: somdsecularhomeschoolers@gmail.com
  • Link

EXTRA-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES

RESOURCES

The following resources are a list of associations, Facebook pages and websites that are useful.

***The Playful Parent is a 501(C)(3) Non-profit created to advocate learning through play and promote family bonding. All content is intellectual property of TPP and information shared is to help provide a non-biased resource to families. If you have questions about home organizations or programs, be sure to contact the business directly. The Playful Parent isn’t affiliated with any of the associations or businesses listed.***

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2025 SUMMER CAMP GUIDE

On April 5, 2025, Charles County Parks and Recreation, and The Playful Parent partnered together to host this years annual Summer Camp & Activity Fair. The dream of hosting a summer camp fair came to life for the first time in 2018; this year marks the eighth year  hosting a summer camp fair! A huge thank you goes out CCPR for working so hard to help plan, promote, and pull off such a amazing event. I’m appreciative to all the families who came out to the event, your support means the world to me. Much thanks to the vendors who attended so that families could collect information from a handful of camps and programs. Finally, a huge shout out to the swag bag and door prize donors who helped make the event extra special and fun! Just in case you couldn’t make it out to the event, or if you had information overload; here’s all the information you need to plan out this year’s summer. Please keep in mind that The Playful Parent is a resources page, if you need more information please contact the individual camps or businesses.

RESOURCES AT THIS YEARS FAIR

A TIME TO DANCE

  • Details: Looking for a fun, active and enjoyable summer activity for your little ones? Here at A Time To Dance LLC we are offering 4 weeks of summer dance classes! A Time To Dance is a safe and exciting way for children ages 18 months-18 years old to connect to the art of dance. Camp includes Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Lyrical, Creative Movement, Yoga, Crafts and so much more! Monday-Friday. Spots are limited to 10 kids per week.
  • Ages Range: 18 months – 18 years old
  • Registration- LINK
  • Email: atimetodance22@gmail.com

CAMP ACCOMPLISH- MELWOOD

  • Details: Camp Accomplish offers options for day and overnight camps for kids ages 5-12, as well as several new specialty camp options. Campers enjoy a variety of different activities including swimming, wall climbing, ropes course, archery, creative arts, canoeing, horseback riding, campfires, talent shows and much more.
  • Age Range: 5-12
  • Cost: $500-$1,250
  • Registration- LINK

CAMP ST. CHARLES

  • Details: Nestled on a peninsula on the shores of the Charleston Creek and Wicomico River is a little piece of heaven called Camp St. Charles. Our rustic cabins provide the ideal setting for personal growth, connecting with God and His Creation and unplugging from the busyness of modern life. Camp St. Charles is a place to take a break from cell phones and other electronics and get dirty in the great outdoors! Camp St Charles offers one and two week camp sessions. Parents are encouraged to review the program offerings and their summer schedule to select the best fit for their family.
  • Age Range: 6-13
  • Cost: $980-$1960
  • Phone: 301-934-8799
  • Registration- LINK

CHARLES COUNTY PARKS AND RECREATION

  • Details: Join CCPR this summer for an exciting lineup of fun and safe summer camps! From aquatics and specialty themed, to sports and special needs,  CCPR is bound to have something that’s right for you! Camps fill quickly so don’t hesitate – register today!
  • Age Range: Camps available ages 3-15
  • Cost: Affordable varies by camp: $75-$300
  • Phone: 301-932-3470
  • Registration LINK

CRESCENT PIANO

  • Details: This summer learn to create/compose music digitally using your chromebook or laptop! Activities to include:  Keyboard basics for beginners and advanced techniques for seasoned players.  Fundamentals of digital music creation and composition.  Hands-on practice with modern digital tools and software.  Fun group collaborations and mini performances.  Build confidence in your musical abilities. Develop creativity and new skills.  Make new friends who share your passion for music. Perform in our grand showcase at the end of the camp! Limited spots available—register now!
  • Age Range: 5th – 8th Grade
  • Price Range: $249
  • Phone: 301-684-8312
  • Registration- LINK

DISCOVER EARTH CAMP

  • Details: Discover Earth Camp hosts  a variety of topics all centered around earth systems science. Topics include Weather, Climate, Energy, Oceans, Nature, Geology, Environment, Chemistry, Coding and the Arts. This camp will be available through Charles County Parks and Recreation.
  • Age Range: 6-12
  • Registration- LINK

DJ CAMP

  • Details: Master DJ Techniques: Learn to mix and create party-perfect beats!
  • Age Range: 10-17
  • Price Range: Starting at $45
  • Phone: 202-680-3227
  • Registration- LINK

ENTREPRENERIAL KIDZ

  • Details: ENTREPRENEURIAL KIDZ  host various workshops and bootcamps throughout the calendar year. Our program teaches and provides children with the information, skills and practices to start a business.
  • Age Range: 9-14
  • Price Range: $155-$225
  • Phone: 240.292.9053
  • E-Mail: inquiries@entrepreneurial-kidz.com
  • Registration- LINK

FERGUSON FOUNDATION – HARD BARGAIN FARM

  • Details: There’s no better way to spend summer break than at Hard Bargain Farm! Led by our experienced educators, kids will explore the woods, wetlands, and Potomac riverbank, with activities such as canoeing, finding tadpoles, and watching the eagles! Our unique barnyard allows kids to experience life on the farm – get to know our lovable goats, milk a cow, dig in the garden. Your children will spend every day outside exploring nature life on our beautiful 330-acre property in Accokeek, MD.
  • Age Range: 4-13
  • Cost: Half Day $325-$625
  • Phone: 301-292-5665 ext.7310
  • Email: education@fergusonfoundation.org
  • Registration- LINK

ISLAND MUSIC COMPANY

  • Details: Embark on a musical adventure! These 5-Day long camps will give you a glimpse into band dynamics as well as features a live performance at the end of your camp week. Learn how to sing or play along with other musicians. Make decisions within a group setting, prepare for a live performance, and much more.
  • Age Range: 8-17
  • Price Range: $300
  • Phone: 301-478-8614
  • Registration- LINK

KIDS FIRST SWIM SCHOOL

  • Details: At KIDS FIRST Swim Schools, our mission is to teach children how to be safe and confident in the water. We’ve crafted America’s premier training pools, designed specifically for learning. These pools are maintained at a cozy 90 degrees, with depths ranging from 2 to 5 feet—an ideal environment for both instructors and students. We ensure there’s no shivering or goosebumps here, as our warm pools eliminate these common barriers to effective learning. Combined with expert instructors, a trademarked curriculum, and a fun, kid-friendly atmosphere, we create the perfect setting for your child’s aquatic education.
  • Age Range: Age 2 and up
  • Price Range: $20-70 Per Lesson
  • Phone: (301) 638-7946
  • Registration- LINK

MATHNASIUM

  • Details: During the summer, your child’s math skills are in danger of slipping. Summer math tutoring at Mathnasium is the answer. Summer instruction hours available, as well as Summer Chess Club Camp.
  • Age Range: All Ages
  • Price Range: $100-$250
  • Phone: 301-250-1641
  • Registration- LINK

MY GYM

  • Details: When School is OUT, My Gym Camp is IN! Campers will have a blast participating in energizing games & gymnastics, swings & more! Different STEM-based Fun projects Plus fitness activities, games, music, and swings.
  • Age Range: Programs available kids ages 3-12.
  • Phone: 301-932-8000
  • Registration- LINK

READING GARDEN CLUB

  • Details: The Reading Garden Club is a parent education + tutoring service providing phonics-focused reading resources for families of young children. Instruction and resources are designed by myself, Director and Head Gardener, Elisabeth Forde.
  • Age Range: 4-6
  • Phone: 202-679-6641
  • Email: elisabeth@readinggardenclub.com
  • Registration- LINK

SHARRON STUDIO, FLIPS GYM & NINJA ZONE 

  • Details: Sharon’s Studio offers year round dance and gymnastics classes. During the summer they offer three fun programs for kids; Dance Camp, Ninja Camp and Gymnastics Camp July 7-July 31, 2025. Camp sessions include specialized class, craft, snack and games.
  • Age Range: 3 1/2 – 10
  • Cost: Price $45-$150
  • Phone: 301-645-6763
    Email: sharonsflipsandninja@gmail.com
  • Registration- LINK

SKY ZONE – SKY CAMP

  • Details: Ready for an action-packed, sky-high adventure at Sky Camp at Sky Zone Waldorf! Our one-of-a-kind camp offers a unique blend of fun, fitness, and enrichment in a safe, energetic environment that kids of all ages will love. Whether your child is looking to jump, play, or explore new activities, Sky Camp provides an extraordinary experience that will have them coming back for more!
  • Age Range: 6-13 (Campers will be grouped by grade lever.)
  • Cost: $250-260 per camper per week
  • Registration- LINK

SWAG BAGS

The swag bags were awesome this year thanks to:

DOOR PRIZES

A huge thank you to the door prize donations:

CAMPS NOT AT THE FAIR

ARISE ACADEMY CAMP

  • Let your light shine with Arise academy camp. Offering individual tutoring, learning pods, homeschooling, after care and summer camp programs.
  • Email: ariseacademycamp@gmail.com
  • Link

BEYOND THE CLASSROOM

  • Details: Beyond the Classroom, Inc. is a nonprofit with the mission to introduce children and young adults to people, places and things that they would not normally or easily have access to in their daily lives. By providing unique, educational and fun experiences, we empower youth to see the world outside of their classroom and neighborhood. Camps available for a variety of ages and interests.
  • Link

COLLEGE OF SOUTHERN MARYLAND (CSM)- KIDS AND TEEN COLLEGE

  • Details: Spark curiosity and unleash your child’s creativity this summer. Kids and Teens College at CSM offers over 350 online and in-person classes tailored to their interests, for ages 5-17. They’ll dive deep into the subjects they’re excited about and discover new passions, with kids their own age, with classes like: cooking with friends, hair care for teens, Roblox, digital art and more!
  • Email: askme@csmd.edu
  • Website LINK

HUMANE SOCIETY OF CHARLES COUNTY

  • Details: The Humane Society of Charles County Summer Camp provides a variety of day camps for children that help to foster a sense of empathy and nurture a desire for stewardship of animals and our environment through fun lessons, crafts, knowledgeable visitors, and live animal interactions. Age Range: 6-12 Years Old
  • Link

FORT WASHINGTON UNITED

  • Details: Weekly themed camps and fieldtrips: Weekly Themes & Field Trips:
    Week 1 (June 23–27): Animal Adventurers – Trip: National Zoo, Week 2 (July 7–11): Environmental Enthusiasts – Trip: Clearwater Nature Center, Week 3 (July 14–18): Robot Wars! – Trip: UMD Robotics Center, Week 4 (July 21–25): Personal Finance for Kids – Trip: American History Museum, Week 5 (July 28–Aug 1): Robots 102 -Trip: UMD Robotics Center, Week 6 (Aug 4–8): Bridge Builders -Trip: Lego Discovery Center, Week 7 (Aug 11–15): Brilliant Brushes – Trip: National Art Museum, Week 8 (Aug 18–22): Computer Programmers -Trip: System Source Computer Museum.
  • Email: fortwashingtonunited@gmail.com
  • Link

GIRL SCOUTS OF AMERICA

  • Details: The Girl Scouts of America offer summer camps and programs all summer long for girls ages 5-17.
  • Email: customercare@gscnc.org
  • Link

GRACE LUTHERAN CHURCH AND SCHOOL

  • Details: This summer, your child will embark on an unforgettable journey as we travel the world—without ever leaving Grace Lutheran! Every week, campers will “visit” a different country, diving into its culture, food, games, and traditions. Through exciting activities, hands-on crafts, and engaging lessons, our campers will explore the world in a fun and immersive way!
  • Age Range: 2-10
  • Link

KIDSTREAM, INC

  • Details: KidsSTEAM, Inc. where every kid has a dream. Learn more about their awesome summer camps, tutoring programs, parent workshops and more. KIDSTREAM now provides a range of STEM-based activities for students. There schedule includes an engineering workshop and a Carnival in August, as well as tutoring services and various clubs focused on drones, chess, LEGO, and robotics via BWright Academy. Additionally, KIDSTREAM is launching a STEM-focused private school this fall.
  • Phone: 301-392-7052
  • Link

PORT TOBACCO PLAYERES- CAMP MOCKABEE

  • Details: Join us for a fantastical journey through theatre with daily workshops ranging from acting and choreography to hair and makeup and much more! There are three camps available this summer for elementary, middle and high school aged kids.
  • Website- LINK

SACRED HEART SUMMER CAMP

  • Details:  Sacred Heart Summer Camp is a Catholic day camp located at Archbishop Neale School in La Plata. We run for 6 weeks, and each week our campers get to choose from a wide variety of camps: soccer, dance, art, survival, Minecraft, war games, cooking & baking, theater, and so many more! Our camp runs Monday-Friday from 9am-12noon, but we also offer extended care beginning at 6:30am and ending at 5:30pm.
  • Website- LINK

WALDORF MARTIAL ARTS

  • Details: Camps focuses on physical fitness through organized play and games.  We also have morning and afternoon Karate classes in which students learn skills and drills of Taekwondo (a Korean style of Karate).  Age Range: 6 to 12 year of age
  • Phone: 301-645-1650
  • Link

***The Playful Parent is a 501(C)(3) Non-profit created to advocate learning through play and promote family bonding. All content is intellectual property of TPP and information shared is to help provide a non-biased resource to families. If you have questions about camps and programs, be sure to contact the business directly. The Playful Parent isn’t affiliated with any of the camps.***

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