Recently, I  gave a talk on summer programs, work ideas and gap year suggestions.  What amazes me is how many different types of programs are offered and at varying prices. So how do you begin in finding the right summer experience? 

 First involve your child!

It is important to ask yourself,  what are you trying to achieve for your child and for the family. 

 Are you trying to awaken the passion in your child?  Do you need more family time together?  Is your child struggling with peers and you feel this needs to be addressed?  Is it leadership skills your child is lacking?  Has his behavior escalated and a therapeutic wilderness program needs to be considered? 

Programs range from wilderness leadership experiences to living with a family in Africa and learning Swahili . If your child decides to do a wilderness  leadership  program  they will be carrying everything on their back; will work as a group, and activities could range from hiking, backpacking, rock climbing, fly fishing, rafting…etc.  If your child doesn’t want something quite as strenuous you might consider a teen adventure program.  These programs usually carry most of the gear in a van, you move around from place to place, you often are doing the activities that  I mentioned earlier but you don’t have all your gear on your back.

Colleges often will have summer courses for high school students.  This is a great opportunity for a child to see if a different part of the country would be appealing to go to for college.  If you think your child might have anxiety going to school, a shortened summer experience away  may help with the transition. 

A variety of camps are offered for just about any sport  or activity you can think of.  They range from day camps to a few days away to a few months.  If you are on a school team check with the coach to see what he might recommend.  These fill up very fast!

Once you have figured out the emphasis of the type of program, decide how much you have to spend and then get to work researching. 

 Where to look?  First, ask friends that you have heard had a great experience.  They will be able to tell you honestly the inside scoop on the program.   The internet is another great resource, though it can be overwhelming.   If you type in summer programs for teens you will find that there are 276,000 entries.    Peterson, who many of you may be familiar with as a great school guide, also has a summer program website  and book. www.petersons.com/summerop/ssector.html .  Another great resource is often your school.  I know our high school has a job and career and summer opportunity office.  Many of the programs send information to the schools. 

It is important that if you call a program that you ask for references.  If you don’t relate to the person they gave you to talk to, ask for another reference. Also ask the program about their emergency plan, what training the instructors have, the age and make up of the kids, and has their been issues with drug and alcohol and how was that handled? .

   If your child is the youngest in the group and everyone is legal to drink in the country where the program is taking place, you can bet your child will do the same.  Make sure you understand the laws of the country. 

     Summer work experience is also very valuable.  The kids are always surprised at how much is taken out for taxes!  If your child is under 16 and can’t get a job in a store, think creatively. Many volunteer experiences exist and teach valuable life skills.  But, if your child is ready to earn money, then here are a few suggestions. Babysitting is always an option, but does your child have a particular skill, such as video editing?  Small companies often are looking for someone good and don’t worry about the age. Think about  creating your own business and editing pictures for someone’s 50th birthday or an anniversary?  Is your child great at the computer and could help senior citizens with basic computer programs?  Does she like boats or cars and is willing to start a business doing car detailing or boat cleaning? Catering at neighbor’s parties or helping at kids birthday parties are also great ways to earn money. 

  Time away from the classroom is a great opportunity to explore an area of enrichment or to enjoy your passion.  Whatever direction you decide to go, make it a journey that will always be remembered.  

Anne