Many parents seek enriching and engaging activities to keep their children active and learning. Various summer programs and resources cater to multiple interests and needs.
Here are some top recommendations to help you plan a productive and fun summer for your kids.
Free and Reduced-Price Lunch Programs: Ensuring Every Child Gets a Nutritious Meal
To help ensure that kids don’t go hungry while school is out of session, free and nutritious meals will be available for children and teens (18 and younger) at several Jacksonville Public Library locations starting June 10, 2024. No signup or application is necessary. Any child 18 or younger can attend the library during meal times (Monday – Friday) for a free and healthy meal.
Locations: Various
Link: Jacksonville Library Summer Lunch
Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens Summer Camp
The Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens offer a variety of summer camps for different age groups. These camps provide educational experiences through animal encounters, science activities, and nature exploration. Camps are typically week-long and run from early June to mid-August.
Location: 370 Zoo Parkway, Jacksonville, FL 32218
Website: Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens
Museum of Science and History (MOSH) Summer Camps
MOSH offers summer camps focusing on science, technology, engineering, arts, and math (STEAM). These camps provide hands-on learning experiences and cover various topics like space, dinosaurs, marine biology, etc.
Location: 1025 Museum Circle, Jacksonville, FL 32207
Website: MOSH
The Bolles School Summer Programs
The Bolles School offers many summer programs, including academic, sports, and arts camps. Programs are available for different age groups and are designed to develop new skills and interests.
Location: 7400 San Jose Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32217
Website: The Bolles School
YMCA of Florida’s First Coast Summer Camps
The YMCA offers summer day camps, including swimming, arts and crafts, sports, and field trips. These camps focus on building healthy spirits, minds, and bodies for all participants.
Location: Various
Website: YMCA of Florida’s First Coast
Cathedral Arts Project (CAP) Summer Programs
The CAP offers free visual and performing arts summer programs for children in Jacksonville. Programs include dance, music, theater, and visual arts, providing a creative outlet and fostering artistic development.
Location: 207 N Laura St, Jacksonville, FL 32202
Website: Cathedral Arts Project
St. Johns Riverkeeper Summer Camps
St. Johns Riverkeeper offers summer camps focused on environmental education and outdoor adventure. Kids learn about the local ecosystem through hands-on activities like kayaking, hiking, and nature exploration.
Location: 2800 University Blvd N, Jacksonville, FL 32211 (Jacksonville University campus)
Website: St. Johns Riverkeeper
Code Ninjas
Code Ninjas offers coding camps where kids can learn to build video games, work with robotics, and explore STEM fields. These camps help children develop problem-solving and critical-thinking skills in a fun, interactive environment.
Location: 9965 San Jose Blvd Suite 52, Jacksonville, FL 32257
Website: Code Ninjas
Jacksonville Public Library Summer Learning Program
The Jacksonville Public Library offers a summer learning program with reading challenges, educational activities, and special events. This program helps maintain literacy skills and fosters a love of reading.
Location: 303 N Laura St, Jacksonville, FL 32202
Website: Jacksonville Public Library
Boys & Girls Clubs of Northeast Florida
Boys & Girls Clubs provide a safe and enriching environment for children during the summer. Programs include academic enrichment, sports, arts, and leadership development.
Location: Various, including 555 W 25th St, Jacksonville, FL 32206
Website: Boys & Girls Clubs of Northeast Florida
Duval County Public Schools Summer Programs
Duval County Public Schools offers a variety of summer learning programs to help students stay academically engaged. Programs include enrichment activities, credit recovery, and preparation for the next school year.
Location: Various
Website: Duval County Public Schools
With so many excellent summer programs and resources available near South Campus, parents have plenty of options to keep their children engaged and learning during the summer months.
Whether your child is interested in science, arts, sports, or environmental education, there’s something for everyone. Explore these opportunities early, as spots can fill up quickly. Enjoy a fun and productive summer!
Disclaimer: The websites provided are for informational purposes. Please check the respective websites for the most up-to-date information on camp schedules, fees, and registration details.
