The Rec Academy Difference
We're not babysitters with cool toys. We're youth development professionals who use fun as a tool for growth.
More Than Just Fun
Every activity includes guided debriefs that develop communication, problem-solving & more.
Safe Enviroment
1:14 average staff-to-participant ratio with clear safety protocols and emergency procedures.
Trained Staff
Background-checked, CPR/First Aid certified instructors who know how manage groups.
Activities Change Often
We keep kids engaged by rotating through different games & challenges every 30-60 mins.
Want to learn more about our approach?
After activity discussions to help foster growth.
Tons of high engagement activities that keep kids entertained and active.
Epic adventures in a structured environment? Yes please.
Perfect for kids interested in learning the basics or improving existing skills!
No more getting trampled by the big kids or waiting on the little kids to get through an activity. We prioritize the experience.
Everyone on our team has a genuine desire to see kids have fun and grow while they participate.
Ensure full-period engagement by implementing dynamic rule changes and additional challenges, keeping participants actively involved.
Drone & RC Car Racing, Foam Tipped Archery, Ga Ga Ball, the list is HUGE!
A Growth Mindset
The Growth Mindset is the belief that abilities can be developed through effort and learning — the opposite of thinking you're either "good at something" or you're not.
We believe in the power of "yet." When a child says "I can't do this," we add "yet" to the end. This simple shift changes everything.
This mindset creates upward spirals — each small challenge overcome builds confidence for the next one. A shy kid who speaks up once is more likely to do it again. A frustrated player who learns to take a breath discovers they can handle bigger setbacks.
How it works
A shy kid gets an opportunity to speak up once → more likely to do it again
A frustrated player takes a breath → discovers they can handle bigger setbacks
A team that talks through issues → participants take away new strategies to resolve conflicts
These aren't just feel-good moments — they're building blocks that compound over time, creating momentum that carries into school, friendships, and beyond.
Growth Mindset = Perseverance, Grit & Resilience
Our Proven Method
Every session follows a structured approach that turns casual play into meaningful learning.
Set Clear Expectations
Every session starts with clarity. Kids know what's expected because confusion kills confidence. When everyone understands the game, they can focus on playing it well.
Learn from Challenges
Here's what makes us different: we don't rescue kids from struggle. When someone gets frustrated or teams clash, that's our classroom. We guide them through it, teaching life skills for real situations.
Identify Teachable Moments
We listen before we lead. Kids have great ideas, and when we use them, they're more invested in the outcome. We embrace opportunities to model empathy and reinforce values.
Get Participant Feedback
After each activity, we pause and reflect. We ask "What went well?" "What could we improve?" and "How did we show up for each other?" This process turns fun into fuel for real development.
Frontload → Experience → Debrief → Repeat
The cycle that runs multiple times throughout every single session we facilitate.
A Simple Process - With A Powerful Impact
Allowing kids to walk away with
Don't Just Take Our Word For It
Hear from families and organizations who've experienced the difference.
"We sent our son to The Rec Academy’s summer camp and it was FANTASTIC! The staff kept him excited and active every day. He made new friends and came home smiling. Best summer decision ever!"
Max D.
Summer Camp Parent
"My kids attended The Recreation Academy's spring break camp and they're already asking when they can go back! The instructors kept them engaged all day with fun activities, and they came home tired but so happy!"
Jessica V.
Elementary School Field Day
"My kids have attended three different camps with The Recreation Academy and they BEG to go back every time. The variety of activities keeps them engaged all day, and they come home exhausted but happy. Worth every penny!"
Amanda R.
Summer Camp Parent
Days Off &
School Break Camps
Learning doesn't stop when the bell rings for vacation. We provide structured, enrichment-driven programming for every gap in the school calendar.
100%
Of school calendar gaps covered
14+
Camp style program options
1:14
Staff-to-child ratio maintained
5-12
Ages served year-round
Days Off School
Teacher Workdays - Conferences - Holidays
Half-Day Coverage
Early Dismissals - PD Days
Holiday Break Camps
Winter & Spring Break, President's Day & More
Summer Break Camps
Multi-Week Themed Camps - June thru August
Days Off School
Teacher Workdays - Conferences - Holidays
When school's out but work isn't, we've got families covered. Full-day programming packed with enrichment activities, games, and structured fun — right at their school.
Full-day structured programming
On-site at your school
Enrichment-driven activities
Choose Your Adventure
From STEM to sports, we have the perfect camp for every kid! Featuring trained staff, age-appropriate activities, and non-stop fun. Register for a nearby program today!
Frequently Asked Questions
What ages are your camps for?
We serve children ages 5-12, grouped within 3-year age brackets so activities are developmentally appropriate.
How many days per week can my child attend?
Our camps run 4-5 days a week for either a 3- or 7-hour period.
What discounts do you offer?
We love to help families save! We offer early bird, sibling, and multi-purchase discounts. Please note that specific offers vary by location depending on our local partner agreements.
When do registrations open?
Registration open dates vary based on several factors. However, we will always open a minimum of 60 days prior tot the start date of a session and stop taking registrations 10 days prior to the start date.
Can I change my registration?
Yes, we allo you to switch your registrations or retain a credit on file with us if you're unable to attend and provide us with at least 48 hours notice.
What activities do kids do during camps?
While daily activities vary based on your child's specific program, our core approach ensures they are always building essential soft skills through collaborative, peer-to-peer engagement.
Are your staff background-checked?
Yes. All staff undergo background checks, hold CPR/First Aid certification, and complete mandated reporter training. We maintain a 1:14 staff-to-child ratio.
What is your refund policy?
Refunds depend on when you cancel. Programs require a nonrefundable deposit (e.g., $15–$35 per participant depending on program type). For other programs:
-
30+ days in advance: 100% refund minus deposit
-
15–30 days in advance: 50% refund
-
14 days or less: 50% credit toward a future program or transfer to another week
No refunds for dismissals due to behavior. If you have quality concerns, contact us right away—we'll work to resolve it.
Are camps available at my school?
If camps are available at your school, you will be emailed a link to your location's registration page by school admin.