One of the most common among list members was YMCA camps. Other options included camps held at private schools and museums. One problem reported by list members is that many summer camps have schedules that are difficult for families with two working parents. Actual camp hours may not include the parents' entire work day, and not all provide extended care programs for hours beyond 9-3. In addition, camps do not necessarily last the whole summer.
Many children have to attend several different camps to get through the entire summer.
Others are general camps and can include field trips, swimming, other sports, arts and crafts, and theater. List members reported some overnight camps for older children, typically based at universities or museums. These can include trips such as rafting or camping or specific topics such as specific sports or sciences. In addition, older children are often wanted as volunteers at camps for younger children or at zoos, park districts and children's museums. This is a program that is put on by the police department and includes sports, movies, swimming, skating, etc.