From Spanish immersion and parkour to dinosaur digs and chess strategy, here are the DMV's best programs to keep kids learning and engaged during fall breaks and school holidays.
VIRGINIA
Dinosaur Days Camp
Give your child a chance to explore the past at Fairfax County Park Authority's Dinosaur Days Camp. Students become junior paleontologists and learn scientific skills while playing games and undertaking creative projects.
- Address: 7701 Royce St., Annandale
- Age range: 4-7
Ultimate Music Camp
This program introduces students to key music concepts and allows them to try a variety of instruments including piano, violin, drums and guitar. This five-day program is a great way for students curious about joining their school band or orchestra to try their hand at an instrument before committing.
- Address: 2017 Belle View Blvd., Alexandria
- Age range: 5-12
Chess Camp
Take on the complexities of this ancient game with Silver Knights' Chess Camp. A perfect course for beginners and experienced players, this program helps students develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills from a young age.
- Address: 2017 Belle View Blvd., Alexandria
- Age range: 6-13
WASHINGTON, DC
Casa Lala
This language immersion program helps kids develop Spanish skills while having fun and exploring the city. Casa Lala offers day programs throughout the school year to help kids learn Spanish while engaging with DC sites and activities.
- Address: 1244 Taylor St. NW, Washington, DC
- Age range: Age ranges vary based on program
Urban Adventure Squad
Full day programs offered throughout the year on school holidays and teacher training days. These programs allow students to explore the outdoors while learning about their favorite school subjects.
- Address: Vary based on date and program
- Age range: Varies based on program
Polite Piggy's
Polite Piggy's Day Off camps offer a wide range of activities to keep kids engaged, educated and entertained when school is out. Campers go on hikes, play chess, participate in sports and work on art and STEM activities.
- Address: 920 F St. NE, Washington, DC
- Age range: 3-12
Discover Fun Camp
Specially designed to entertain kids during school holidays, Discover Fun Camp helps kids take on creative projects and outdoor games while they make friends and develop social skills.
- Address: 4606 16th St. NW, Washington, DC
- Age range: 3-13
Motus Crucis Parkour
For the adventurous children in your life, a day-off parkour camp with Motus Crucis will help them burn off their energy and learn new skills that will impress their friends and help them keep fit.
- Address: 1508 Okie St. NE, Washington, DC
- Age range: 7-14
MARYLAND
Silver Star Gymnastics
Silver Star Gymnastics' camps allow young children to learn new skills or for older kids to hone their craft. Camps are offered in late August and during school breaks. The program combines structured play and focused practice so kids can enjoy their time off while growing.
- Address: 2701 Pittman Drive, Silver Spring
- Age range: 4 and up
