Summer can be a double-edged sword for children of newly arrived families. On the one hand, it is a wonderful opportunity for children to take a break from the intensity of school, relax, and just be kids. On the other hand, parents are often concerned that if their child does not study during the summer, they will forget the English they learned during the school year and lose the level they have achieved. In addition, parents who work during the summer need programs for their children so they can work without worrying about where their child is and whether they are safe.
Fortunately, Edmonton offers a wide range of summer camps for children, including camps specifically designed for children learning English. These camps combine English language learning with fun, sports, arts, and other activities, so that children learn English naturally without feeling like they are working hard.
In this detailed article, we will take a closer look at everything parents need to know about summer camps for children learning English in Edmonton. We will discuss the types of camps available in the city, the programs and activities offered, the cost and funding, how to choose the right camp for your child, and how to prepare your child for camp.
Why summer camps are valuable for children learning English
Continuing language development without interruption
One of the most significant reasons for sending your child to a summer camp that focuses on learning English is that it helps ensure your child's language development continues. Research shows that children who stop learning a language for a period of time (e.g., during summer vacation) often lose some of what they have learned, a phenomenon called regression or language loss.
In contrast, children who continue to study the language throughout the summer, even informally, often accelerate their language development significantly. Camps designed for children learning English provide an appropriate language environment where the child is constantly in contact with English, working with qualified teachers and communicating with other children who are also learning English.
Practicing spoken English in a natural environment
One of the biggest weaknesses of learning English at school is that children often have limited opportunities to practice spoken English. English classes are often large, and children may not get many opportunities to speak. In addition, English is practiced in a formal school context rather than a natural context.
Summer camps, on the other hand, often have smaller groups of students, which means that children will have more opportunities to speak. Furthermore, camps are often designed so that children practice English in a natural, relaxed context, such as sports, arts, games, and other activities, rather than in a formal classroom setting. This creates a more authentic language environment where children learn to speak English as it is spoken in the real world.
Socialization and friendship building
In addition to language development, summer camps also provide children with opportunities to socialize and form friendships. This is especially valuable for newly arrived children, who often struggle with social isolation and difficulty forming friendships at school.
At camp, your child will have the opportunity to meet other children who are also learning English, as well as children who are native English speakers. Your child will have the opportunity to play together, learn together, and simply enjoy each other's company. These interactions are invaluable for your child's development, both socially and linguistically.
Developing confidence and independence
Summer camps also help children develop confidence and independence. For a child who is new to Canada, being in a camp with a group of peers, without parents supporting their every step, can be a difficult experience. However, it can also be a very positive experience. When a child realizes that they can cope in a group of peers, speak English independently, and successfully participate in activities, they develop confidence in their abilities. This confidence often carries over to school and other aspects of the child's life.
Types of Summer Camps in Edmonton
Camps Focused on Learning English
The first type of summer camp is camps that are specifically designed for children who are learning English. These camps have two main characteristics: first, they are run by qualified English teachers who understand the needs of children learning English as a second language; second, English is the main focus of the camp.
These camps are often called English Immersion Camps or English Language Summer Camps. They are designed so that the child is immersed in an English-speaking environment throughout the day. This means that the camp staff speak English, activities are conducted in English, and games and entertainment often incorporate English.
In addition to formal English language instruction, these camps often offer a variety of activities such as sports, arts, music, drama, crafts, and field trips. However, all of these activities are designed so that the child learns English while participating in them. For example, if the camp holds an art class, the teacher will speak English during the class, the teacher will teach the children English vocabulary related to art, and the children will be encouraged to speak to each other in English during the activity.
Camps with English as a component
The second type of summer camp is camps that do not specialize in English language learning but include English as a component of the program. These can be sports camps, arts camps, music camps, or other types of camps offered by organizations in Edmonton.
Many of these camps will accept children for whom English is not their first language, and they may have some camp leaders or staff who understand the needs of children learning English. However, the main focus of these camps is not specifically on English language development, but rather on sports, arts, or other activities.
These camps can still be valuable for children learning English, as they provide an opportunity for the child to practice English in the context of an activity that interests them. However, they may not be ideal for children with very low English language skills, as it can be difficult for a child to participate in the program if they do not understand English.
Day camps and overnight camps
Day camps are camps where the child comes to camp in the morning and returns home late in the day. Overnight camps (or residential camps) are camps where the child stays at the camp for one or more nights.
Day camps are often more affordable for parents, as parents do not have to worry about their child's location overnight. Day camps are also often less expensive than overnight camps. However, overnight camps can be more intense and immersive because the child spends the entire day and night at camp, rather than just the day.
For newly arrived children who are new to Canada, day camps are often a better choice for their first summer. This allows the child to adjust to camp without being overwhelmed by the need to stay away from home overnight. However, some children may enjoy a sleepaway camp, especially if they are already well adjusted to Canada and confident in their abilities.
Specific camps and programs in Edmonton
Global Village English Camp
Global Village, the language school we discussed earlier in the context of adult English language learning, also offers summer camps for children. Global Village English Camp offers intensive English language programs for children of various age groups.
The Global Village camp is usually held during the day, typically from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Each week of camp has a theme, and all activities are related to that theme. For example, one week might have the theme of “adventure,” where children learn English related to adventure and participate in adventure activities. Another week might have a theme of “creativity,” where children learn English related to art and participate in artistic activities.
The camp includes English lessons, games, sports, art, crafts, field trips, and other activities. All of this is designed so that children learn English naturally while enjoying activities.
Global Village camps typically cost between $450 and $600 per week, depending on the exact program. The camp often offers discounts for students who sign up for multiple weeks or for members of its language school.
NorQuest College Summer Programs for Kids
NorQuest College, which we discussed earlier in the context of adult English language learning, also offers summer programs for children. NorQuest offers English language programs for children of different ages and language proficiency levels.
NorQuest's programs are designed for both children who are learning English as a second language and children for whom English is their native language. This means that children are offered a language environment where they interact with children of different linguistic backgrounds.
Programs typically include English language lessons in the morning and activities such as art, music, sports, and games in the afternoon. Programs are often designed so that children learn English throughout the day without feeling like they are doing academic work.
NorQuest programs typically cost between $500 and $800 per week. NorQuest also often offers funding or discounts for low-income families.
Edmonton Recreation Programs
Edmonton Parks and Recreation offers a wide range of summer camps for children. While most of these camps do not specialize in English language learning, many of them accept children for whom English is not their first language.
These camps include sports camps, arts camps, music camps, STEM (science and technology) camps, and other types of camps. The camps are often designed so that children can participate in activities they are interested in while practicing English.
These camps typically cost between $250 and $500 per week, depending on the type of camp and the age of the child. Edmonton Parks and Recreation often offers discounts for low-income students.
University of Alberta Summer Programs
The University of Alberta offers several summer programs for children and youth, including some programs that focus on learning English.
For example, the University of Alberta's English Language School offers summer camps for children and young people who are learning English. These camps are designed for different age groups and language proficiency levels, and they include English language lessons as well as a variety of activities.
In addition, the University of Alberta offers various other summer camps in fields such as science, technology, engineering, arts, and more. Some of these camps may accept children for whom English is not their first language, although they are not specifically designed for them.
Specialized camps through newcomer organizations
In addition to the main camps offered by colleges and schools, some community organizations in Edmonton also offer specialized summer camps for newcomer children.
The Edmonton Mennonite Centre for Newcomers often offers summer programs for newcomer children. These programs often include an English language component, but also include other activities designed to help children adjust to Canada.
Catholic Social Services also offers certain summer programs for newcomer children. These programs are often designed so that the child learns English but also has a positive experience in the Canadian community.
How to choose the right camp for your child
Assessing your child's English language level and goals
The first step in choosing the right camp is to assess your child's English language level and determine their goals. If your child has a very low level of English, you will need a camp that is designed specifically for children with low levels, where activities are designed so that your child can participate even if they do not understand much English.
On the other hand, if your child already has an intermediate level of English, you may want to consider a camp that focuses more on developing more complex language skills, such as writing and reading, or a camp that combines language development with other activities that interest your child.
It is also important to consider what your child wants to achieve from camp. Does your child mainly want to develop their English language skills? Do they want to have a positive social experience with other children? Do they want to engage in specific activities such as sports or arts? Based on these goals, you can choose the camp that best suits them.
Consider the child's interests and personality
In addition to English language level, it is important to consider the child's interests and personality. If the child is very social and energetic, they may feel comfortable in a large camp with many children and many activities. On the other hand, if your child is more quiet and reserved, they may prefer a smaller camp with fewer children.
In addition, it is important to consider what activities your child is interested in. If your child loves sports, you can choose a camp that focuses on sports. If your child loves art, you can choose a camp that focuses on art. If your child is interested in science, you can choose a STEM camp. When your child is engaged in activities that interest them, they are more likely to actively participate and enjoy camp.
Financial considerations
The next factor is the cost of the camp. Summer camps can range from $250 per week to $1,000 or more per week, depending on the camp. When choosing a camp, it is important to consider your budget and what you can afford.
However, it is also important to consider what is included in the cost. Some camps include everything, including food and materials, in the cost. Other camps may require parents to provide food and materials. In addition, some camps offer subsidized programs or funding for low-income families. If you are having difficulty affording camp, it is worth asking if the camp offers any funding.
Camp reputation and parent reviews
Before choosing a camp, it is a good idea to research its reputation and read reviews from parents whose children have attended the camp in the past. You can find reviews on camp websites, social media, or you can ask other new parents in your community for recommendations.
Positive reviews often mention qualified teachers and staff, a safe environment, diverse and interesting activities, and positive outcomes for children. Negative reviews may mention inadequate supervision, uninteresting activities, or communication issues between the camp and parents.
Practical factors: schedule, location, and transportation
Finally, it is important to consider practical factors such as the camp's schedule, location, and transportation. Does the camp start at a time when you can drop off your child? Does the camp end at a time when you can pick up your child? Is the camp located near your home, or do you need to take a long trip to get there?
If the camp is located far from your home, does the camp offer transportation services? Some camps offer pick-up and drop-off services, which are very helpful for working parents.
Recommendations for preparing your child for camp
Discussing camp with your child
Before camp begins, it is important to discuss it with your child. Parents should tell their child that they will be going to camp, what they can expect, and what they will be doing there. Parents should express a positive attitude toward camp and encourage their child to enjoy the experience.
Parents should also listen to any concerns their child may have and try to reassure them about how much fun camp will be. If the child is worried about not knowing anyone at camp, parents can tell the child that other children will also be at camp and that they will have the opportunity to make friends with them.
Practicing independence and social skills
In addition to discussing camp, parents can also help their child prepare for camp by practicing independence and social skills. Parents can allow their child to try doing things on their own, such as getting dressed, eating, and basic hygiene activities. Parents can also create opportunities for their child to practice social skills, such as communicating with new people, listening to others, and sharing their ideas.
Learning basic camp vocabulary
If a child has a low level of English, parents can help their child learn some basic vocabulary that will be used at camp. For example, parents can teach their child English words for basic camp activities (e.g., “painting” for drawing, ‘soccer’ for football), English words for basic needs (e.g., “bathroom,” “water,” “help”), and English phrases for communicating with camp staff.
Parents can use flashcards, videos, or games to teach this vocabulary. The goal is not for the child to learn everything thoroughly, but rather for the child to have some basic vocabulary that will help them communicate at camp.
Preparing the necessary materials
Parents should also make sure that their child has all the necessary materials for camp. This includes weather-appropriate clothing (summer camps can be held both indoors and outdoors), shoes, a hat, sunscreen, drinking water, snacks (if the camp allows), and any other materials that the camp asks parents to provide.
In addition to physical supplies, parents should also make sure their child arrives at camp with a positive attitude and a willingness to enjoy the experience.
Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them
Separation anxiety
For some children, especially younger children, one of the biggest challenges of adjusting to camp is separation anxiety. A child may be afraid to be away from their parents, especially if they are new to Canada and are already adjusting to a new place.
To overcome this challenge, parents need to be patient and understanding. Parents can tell their child that they will be back to pick them up at the end of the day. Parents can also give their child something to remind them of home, such as a family photo or a favorite toy. Parents should avoid prolonging the goodbye—it is better to say goodbye quickly and leave the camp than to say goodbye for a long time, which can make the child's anxiety worse.
Language barriers and sadness during communication
Another challenge often faced by newly arrived children at camp is language barriers. The child may have difficulty understanding what the teachers and camp staff are saying and may have difficulty communicating their needs and ideas.
To overcome this challenge, the camp should design activities and language support in such a way that the child can participate even if they do not understand much English. The camp should also work continuously to develop the child's language skills throughout the camp.
In addition, parents can help by practicing English with their child before camp and reassuring them that they can communicate even if they make mistakes.
Social isolation and difficulty forming friendships
Another potential challenge is social isolation and difficulty forming friendships. A child who is just learning English and is new to Canada may have difficulty communicating with other children at camp, especially if the other children do not have experience communicating with children from different cultures.
To overcome this challenge, the camp should be designed in a way that encourages all children to work together and embrace diversity as a positive thing. The camp should have structured activities that encourage collaboration and communication. Camp staff should also actively observe children's interactions and intervene if any issues arise.
In addition, parents can help their child develop confidence in their ability to communicate with other children. Parents can tell their child that communicating with other children is difficult, but that it is not a bad thing, and that over time, their child will develop friendships.
Fatigue and overexertion
Another potential challenge is fatigue and overexertion. Camp is an intense language environment, and children may feel exhausted from constantly listening to and speaking English, especially if they are newcomers and are still adapting to their new surroundings.
To overcome this challenge, the camp should be designed to provide breaks and time for relaxation throughout the day. The camp should strike a balance between structured English lessons and more informal activities where the child can simply enjoy themselves and relax.
In addition, parents should make sure that their child gets enough sleep at night and eats a healthy diet so that they have the energy for camp.
Alternatives to camps that specialize in English
Private tutoring programs
In addition to group camps, parents may also consider private tutoring programs. A tutor can come to the child's home, or the child can go to the tutor's home for one-on-one English lessons.
The advantages of private tutoring programs are that they are completely personalized to the child's needs. The tutor can focus on specific areas in which the child struggles and can adapt the pace of the lessons to the child's pace. In addition, the lessons are often less stressful for the child because there are no other children to compete with.
However, the downside of private tutoring programs is that they are often more expensive than group camps, and the child will not have the opportunity to socialize with other children.
Public Library Programs
The Edmonton Public Library offers several programs for children throughout the summer, including storytelling, conversation clubs, and other programs that can help your child develop their English language skills.
In addition to structured programs, the library also has a large collection of children's books that your child can read. Reading children's books is a great way for your child to practice English on their own, without pressure.
Public library programs are usually free or very inexpensive, making them a great option for parents on a budget.
Volunteering and community events
Another option for older children is volunteering or participating in community events. Local community organizations often need volunteers, and your child can have the opportunity to practice English while helping others and participating in positive community events.
In addition to language development, volunteering also helps children develop a sense of community and responsibility, and gives them the opportunity to meet peers and adults from different backgrounds.
Forming language groups with other newcomer children
Another potential option is to form a language group with other newcomer children. Parents can team up with other newcomer parents and organize regular meetings where children are allowed to play together and practice English.
The advantages of this approach are that it is virtually free, and children are allowed to play in their native language, at their own pace. However, the disadvantage is that it requires parents to organize and manage the group, which can be time-consuming.
Conclusion
Summer camps for children learning English are a great resource for parents of newcomers to Edmonton. They provide an opportunity for children to continue developing their English language skills during the summer holidays, practice English in a natural, relaxed context, socialize with other children, and develop confidence in their abilities.
Edmonton offers a variety of camp types, from camps that specialize in English language learning to camps that offer a variety of activities with an English language component. Parents can choose the camp that best suits their child's needs, interests, and budget.
When choosing a camp, it is important to consider your child's English level, interests, your budget, the camp's reputation, and practical factors such as schedule and location. With the right camp and parental support, your child will have a positive and rewarding summer experience that will help them continue to develop their English language skills and enjoy their time in Canada.