Summer camp is not like it was in the good ol’ days. It’s much, much better! From music lessons and dancing to basketball and arts and crafts, “camp” is much more than, well, camping. Check out some of Hoover’s most popular summer camps for children and see what makes each one special!
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Photo courtesy of Aldridge Gardens
Campers at Aldrige Gardens can choose from programs like Art in the Gardens, All Things Creative, and more!
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Photo courtesy of J Smith Hoops
J Smith Hoops encourages basketball players of all ages and experience levels to improve their basketball and social skills.
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Photo courtesy of Mason Music
Campers at Mason Music play real instruments while learning about fundamental music concepts.
Aldridge Gardens
Aldridge Gardens camps are available for boys and girls entering kindergarten through 3rd grade. Camps take place from June 3–June 28 in four categories: Art in the Gardens, Technology and Design, All Things Creative, and the American Girl Doll camp. Camps are Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Snacks and water will be provided. Pre-registration is required.
“All camps are led by Alabama Certified Teachers in the beautiful outdoor classroom of Aldridge Gardens,” said Megan Jones, education and volunteer coordinator for the City of Hoover.
For more information, call (205) 739-6558 or go to www.aldridgegardens.com.
Hoover YMCA
At the Hoover YMCA, campers get to choose from a variety of games, crafts, or activities.
For an extra fee, campers can also take swimming lessons during the camp day. Unlike many other camps, the YMCA camp day runs from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., with before and after care included in the cost for working families who need convenience and flexibility.
“Our camp offers special clubs and workshops for older campers, allowing them to explore their passions, try something new and gain independence in choosing how to spend portions of their camp day,” said Kayla Buckner, marketing and communications director for the YMCA of Greater Birmingham. “Younger campers enjoy the same group counselor and group each week, giving them confidence and allowing them to build friendships.”
Buckner said The YMCA takes pride in being a quality, affordable and accessible summer camp for families of all circumstances.
“Financial assistance is available, and all levels of need are considered.”
For more information, call 205-829-1399 or go to www.ymcabham.org/summer-day-camp.
Hoover’s BEST
“We are all about providing the best experiences for our summer campers,” said owner Cameron White. “Our goal is to help them become the best versions of themselves both mentally and physically.” In addition to traditional activities like outdoor sports (including flag football and soccer,) educational lessons, and arts and crafts, Hoover’s Best offers martial arts, 3D modeling, science and dance and tumbling classes.
For more information, call (205) 988-4200 or go to www.hooversummercamp.com.
Mason Music
At Mason Music, campers play real instruments while learning fundamental music concepts. Camps include Singing Safari for preschoolers, Guitar Camp for Beginners (ages 10–15), and Vocal Performance Camp, where your child can learn about voice, diction, how to prepare for auditions and record themselves singing! The Rock Band Camps are for children ages 10–18 who already play an instrument; they’re paced with other kids to form a “band” and learn to play their favorite songs!
For more information, call (205) 582-2238 or go to masonmusic.com.
J Smith Hoops
J Smith International provides superior instruction dedicated to improving and developing the basketball – and social skills – of players of all ages.
Founded by a family with a passion for basketball (all five Smith siblings received full basketball scholarships!), J Smith Hoops has been home to thousands of young campers from all over the world!
The camp offers a 4-day program with options for all ages and experience levels. J Smith Hoops Basketball Camp, which offers full and half-day camps, is June 24–27, and the Smokin’ Joe’s Basketball Camp is July 29–August 1. All camps are at the Finley Center at the Hoover Met Complex.
“We have a unique way of engaging campers in learning the fundamentals, how to play the game, and how to compete. No matter the skill level, we find ways to make sure campers are challenged in all camp activities,” said director Jason Smith. “Our goal is to light that fire inside to make the player want to go home and practice more. With JSH camps, campers will have so much fun that they forget they are learning.”
For more information, go to www.jsmithhoops.com.