Summer camps can keep kids on positive paths

MEMPHIS, Tenn. – When summer vacation for students begins, the opportunities for them to get in to trouble increase. But participation in positive programs like summer camp reduces the risk. That’s why the City of Memphis, churches, and other civic organizations offer these alternatives when school is out.

There is a wide variety of these programs available to parents in the Memphis Metro area. Marcha Allen, the Interim Director of Parks in Memphis, said the city’s summer camps and programs offer alternatives that can help students on summer break avoid negative influences. “One of the things a lot of people don’t know is that we also offer a teen camp. So 13- to 15-year-olds can have free camp all summer, starting June 2, at five different locations,” said Allen.

One mother told FOX13 that this is exactly what she is looking for for her 15-year-old son. Kayla Jones of Memphis says she likes to keep him on a path of finding positive things for him to do. “It’s very important to me, because I like for my son to be involved in a lot of activities and whatnot, so he won’t get in no trouble or he’ll have something positive to do,” Jones said with a smile.

Madame Lane, of Memphis, said she is an alum of summer camps in Memphis, where she learned lessons that are still with her. “Learning sportsmanship, you know, learning communication skills, learning to get along, and when, you know, when you lose some, you win some, you know?” Lane said.

Alan also wanted to remind everyone that another fun activity for people of all ages can be found in the public pools spread out across Memphis. 

It is not just the City of Memphis offering positive summer programs to the youth. There are churches and civic organizations that also offer camps, programs, and activities this summer. Click the links below to find one that fits your family’s needs:

Memphis Parks Summer Camps

Guide to Summer Camps in the Memphis area