River, NY; Trailblazers, a day-travel camp; Camp Ilanot, a Hebrew immersion day camp; and short-term baseball and soccer intensives, among others. Information about all of 92NY’s camps can be found here. Lauren Wexler’s Tips The Importance of Summer Camp: “Summer camp can be a transformational experience, and a magical one,” says Wexler. “It’s a place where kids learn how to be independent, and how to make new friends – and it’s a place where they develop new interests and skills, while exploring a wide range of activities. Summer camp is also much-needed change of pace from the school year — there are no tests, no deadlines. Small but important moments are celebrated at camp. The experience can be so impactful that it leads to lifelong friends and long- term interests. Most importantly, it instills a sense of community.” So many choices, so little time : “It may seem like it’s too late to choose a summer camp, but the good news is that many camps offer both short-term and long-term options, and many still have space. Day camp in the country can be a rich experience, just as the sleepaway experience can be a formative one. City- based camps and specialty camps can also be impactful experiences.” “Parents should talk it through with their kids and home in on what exactly they are looking to get out of the summer. Mom groups on social media can also be a great to learn about certain camps that may not be on a family’s radar, but parents should still do their own research before making
an informed decision. There’s still time to find a great camp, the one that feels right.” You’ve narrowed it down and still can’t decide: “The best way to make a final decision when choosing between a few different camps is to have open, honest conversations with the camp director and camp staff. Parents should ask questions about the camp’s culture and values - and about how they communicate with parents about their kids (Daily updates? Weekly?). it’s also essential to make sure that the activities offered align with the kind of experience families have in mind.” Improving Mental Health: “Having a healthy self-esteem has always been important for a child’s development — it’s even more so now in the era of excessive screentime and social media, which can cause isolation. Camp can be a place of abundant positive reinforcement, and it’s uniquely set up to allow children to try new things, discover what they are good at and what makes them happy.” Getting Ready for Camp: “Shopping for camp gear together can really help build excitement. Parents can let their kids pick out a new backpack or water bottle, or a swimsuit or baseball glove - items they will look forward to using this summer. Also, many camps have in-person orientations or preview events, where families can connect with other families, as well as camp staff. Visiting the camp’s website can be helpful – kids can view photos and videos which will get them excited about camp, showing them exactly what to expect when they get there.” For more information, visit www.92NY.org
Last-Minute Summer Camp Shopping, And How To Get Ready For Camp Tips From 92ny Expert Lauren Wexler
Summer camp season is just around the corner, and while some families are excited and ready for the first day, others still need to answer the big question: Which camp is the best fit? 92NY’s longtime camp expert Lauren Wexler is available to help families in both areas — how to navigate the seemingly overwhelming camp landscape, while offering time-tested tricks to get ready for summer in the great outdoors, or the city.
Wexler, who oversees several 92NY camps as the Executive Director of Children’s Enrichment and Engagement, is available for interviews. She can also discuss the overall importance of summer camp, and its short and long-term impact on children and parents alike. Some of her tips for parents are below. 92NY’s camps, which serve children ages 3-14, include: Camp Yomi, a 70-year-old general interest day camp in bucolic Pearl
14 | New York Loves Kids | Summer Family Guide 2026
New York Loves Kids | Summer Family Guide 2026 | 15
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