I know it's late in the year for planning summer camps and holidays, but if you're like me, you leave things to the last minute because you're in complete denial that school's about to end and they're all yours for the next 9 weeks. I was doing some internet trolling for summer possibilities and found these interesting opportunities I thought I'd pass along.


Out of Country:

Lego Fantasy Camp: If you're a Lego fan (and we know that many of you out there are), you might be interested in following up with this one. Atlantis, the monster hotel on Paradise Island in the Bahamas, is hosting a Lego Fantasy Camp for three sessions in July, 2010. Kids will spend time learning how to build a variety of sculptures with a Lego Master. There are only 40 Lego Masters in the world and they have a job that many of us would covet: they design and build Lego sculptures all day and every day. Yes, there is a job for that! For more information on Lego camp at Atlantis, see their website.


Star Wars Celebration: There will be a Star Wars celebration in Orlando, Florida, commemorating the 30th anniversary of "The Empire Strikes Back" August 12-15th, 2010. There are lots of events and activities planned, and a whole section on the website dedicated to families and activities. You might even feel like you're visiting a faraway land or planet with all the alien-clad fans and celebrities.

Secret Agent Camp: Oh come on. Where was this when I was a kid? I told my own children about this camp and their eyes popped out of their heads. "Paintball, laser tag, rockwall climbing, high ropes, zip lining and the largest game of "capture the flag" you've even been involved in. This camp also develops team-building skills. If you're a two week camper, the first week is dedicated to training, the second to operations. Sounds like fun!

Location: Pali, California.

Local Day camps:

Back to reality. Here in Toronto we have some pretty unique and fun summer camps too; day camps that are not your traditional make-a-campfire kind of thing.


1. Zoo Camp. The Toronto Zoo offers day camps for your animal lover. Camps are developed to encourage children to appreciate the wilderness, nature and the importance of maintaining (restoring) a healthy natural world.


2. Science Centre Camp. The science centre counsellors help you understand the laws of science, and get you perform all kinds of experiments. There are three different themed camps available:

Science Magic (only one week still available, the rest are sold out). Learn the science of magic.

Body Basics: Discover how the human body functions including how food breaks down, how our muscles work, and how we use our energy.

Inside the Brain (for 13 and 14 year olds): Learn how the brain functions, and how to design an exhibit!


3. Circus Camp at Harbourfront. Harbourfront offers many unique camps, but circus camp is always one of the most popular. If you don't live downtown have no fear, there are school buses that pick up at different school stops across the city. Circus camp teaches kids all kinds of circus activities: stilt-walking, juggling, acrobatics, trapeze use, trampolining and clowning. Talk about a fun, activity-packed day!


Enjoy your summer!


-- Cathy the Toy Mom