One of the best places to start is your local parks and recreation department. Tempe offers a three-day skateboarding camp, as well as classes on pet ownership, etiquette, kickboxing aerobics and more. Contact each city's parks and recreation department for more information. Don't forget to check local community colleges for summer programs. The YMCA also offers child care, as well as youth sports, summer aquatics for ages 6 months to 14 years, and sleepaway camps.
Programs vary by branch.
If your children's interests run more to the stage than the gym, Theater Works offers a variety of summer workshops for youth all ages, from 5 years old to seniors in high school. Valley Youth Theatre also offers summer workshops, with before and after care available. Outdoors experience isn't required. Brian Sehner, Pangaea Quest director, says most teens arrive with no experience at all.