12 Best Summer Camps in Calgary

With the end of school quickly approaching, finding the right summer camps has become the next mommy quest. Here are our top 12 choices.

Why we like it: These summer camps let your kids get creative on the pottery wheel, and include fun themes like monster making. Snacks are also included.

Why we like it: Calgary Young People's Theatre offers camps in the NW and the SE through the summer, and always with a theme in mind. This year, it's the Summer of Mystery. You'll soon clue in as to how much fun your kids are having.

Why we like it: Camps at TELUS Spark offer so much more than simple ‘science.' They'll build robots, make movies and explore space, and before-and-after care and hot lunches are also available.

Why we like it: Kids engage in a variety of fun activities all around the zoo, including arts and crafts, all while visiting with a range of furry friends.

Why we like it: Taking advantage of the beautiful days of summer is a must for kids who love being outside. The City of Calgary's Nature Discovery camps at the Inglewood Bird Sanctuary are all about interacting with nature while learning from experienced environmental educators.

Why we like it: Participants are bused to and from Calgary every day for sessions on basic riding skills, safety and caring for horses and their equipment. Skill levels vary from novice to advanced.

Why we like it: A whole range of educational topics are covered while kids get busy building. If you're tired of seeing your couch cushions transformed daily into forts and other structures, consider sending your budding builders to a LEGO camp with themes such as Super Hero Academy, Robotics, Adventures in Architecture and more.

Why we like it: These language focused camps come in a range of themes, from Explorers to Treasure Hunts and more. Organized by the Alliance Française of Calgary, kids enjoy a variety of activities all while growing their French vocabulary.

Why we like it: Kids are natural monkeys—climbing, rolling and jumping around are second nature. So why fight nature? Calgary STARS Gymnastics Summer Camps follow a theme each day while kids get a full circuit of the gym daily (read: regular trampoline time). Crafts, cardio games and outdoor time are also a part of the program.

Why we like it: For kids who love to celebrate all things music, these summer camps are the ticket. The afternoon camps will expose your kids to a variety of instruments, all while having a swingin' time. After care is available.

Why we like it: From exploring confection decoration to culinary science to creating international fare, your young chefs will be ready to help prepare those family meals in the fall—or at least offer help in the process!

Why we like it: This is a great way to introduce mathematical concepts in a fun, playful environment. All the programs will have kids solving riddles, exploring logic games and trying out mental calculations.