With summer comes the inevitable challenge of keeping your kids occupied. So here’s an idea for keeping them entertained and active – summer camp!  Over the past several decades, the camps available in the U.S. (and even internationally) have become as diverse as the kids they serve. From camps with dolphins (yes, the kind that swim in the ocean) to rock and roll camps headed up by a member of the rock band .38 Special, there is literally a camp for every interest imaginable. A great website to check out just to see what’s out there in the world of summer camps is www.mysummercamps.com.

However, financially speaking – things are tough all around and the fact that you may not, be able to afford to send your child/children to a more exclusive camp doesn’t mean they can’t still experience the 100-year-old tradition of going to camp.

Let’s face it. Summer camp isn’t just for kids; it’s just as much an opportunity for the parents to enjoy some couple time together. As the summer of 2010 gets closer, families have to decide what activities stay, and what will go. The good news is that there are summer programs that fit even the tightest budget. Yes, it is possible for parents to figure out how to make camp affordable, they just need to know the right questions to ask.

First stop: check out your local YMCA.  The YMCA organization offers inexpensive day camps and a multitude of specialty camps (swimming, soccer, and gymnastics, to name a few). Most day camps operate between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. so you might need to inquire about additional charges for before/after care if needed. Additionally, a number of YMCA’s have an actual campground (such as Camp Wigjiwagan in Middle Tennessee) that kids can go to for day camp. Over-night resident camps may also be an option.

Contact colleges in your area.  Many colleges and universities offer inexpensive classes and camps for kids in the summer.

Research camps by cost.  Visit the family-dedicated web site of the American Camp Association, www.CampParents.org and utilize the Find a Camp database to search for camps within a certain price range. The database also allows parents to search by location, special needs, specific activities, length of session and age.

Parents may find themselves pleasantly surprised to learn that among ACA-Accredited® camps, the average weekly fee is $182 for day camps and $390 for resident (over night) camps. However, it is possible to find fees as low as $100 per week for day camps, and $100 – $300 a week for resident camps.

Inquire about financial assistance.  Most camps (close to 90 percent) offer some type of financial assistance, usually in the form of “camperships” (aka: scholarships). Camperships typically cover a portion or all of the camp enrollment fees. But many camps may not offer this option up-front, so parents need to ask if assistance is available. Note to parents:  Don’t assume that your income level won’t qualify for camperships; you should always ask the question. Also, this type of assistance can be limited so it’s important to apply early.

Does the camp offer special discounts?  Camps will offer discounts such as early registration, full-season enrollment or multiple enrollments from one family. Parents may find that they qualify for a reduced rate – just don’t forget to ask!

When budgeting for a summer camp, keep these tips in mind:

Get specific information regarding what’s included in the enrollment fee. Day camps typically include transportation as part of the fee and resident camps may offer limited transportation, such as a van ride or shuttle from a local train station. Other expenses to ask about include additional fees for special programs or equipment that may be required, additional trips, organization memberships, and amenities such as laundry and the camp canteen.

Day camp can be tax-free. The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) allows an income tax credit for dependent care expenses, which may apply to qualifying day camp expenses. Parents can learn more about the Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit the IRS’s web site at http://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/p503.pdf.

The end of the school year doesn’t have to be feared. Take the time now to plan ahead and investigate all options available to you and your family.