Setting up camp – A quick guide for local parents

School’s out, days are long and children are restless for adventure. Summer means a little more freedom for the youth of the city, but it can mean more hassle for working parents struggling to find ways to keep their youngsters challenged, entertained and occupied throughout June and July. Here are four suggestions offering excitement for children of any interest.

Whether your youngster fancies zoo animals, art, athletics or academics, BREC has the perfect day camp or summer activity for all ages and interests.
Dates: June 4-July 27. Eight one-week sessions.
Times: 8 a.m.-5 p.m. (regular hours) and 7 a.m.-6 p.m. (extended hours)
Location: BREC offers a wide range of camp options across Baton Rouge parks, neighborhoods and attractions. See the website for details.
Cost: $73-$88 per week. Prices vary.
brec.org

Getting fit and having fun can be one and the same at ExerFit Family Fitness. Young campers can tackle fitness activities, educational games and inflatable play, explore the large Adventureland Playground, bounce in the Flying Fish trampoline room, take swimming lessons, and enjoy movies, sports, scavenger hunts, rock wall climbing, art projects and more.
Times: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. (regular hours) and 7:30 a.m.-6:30 p.m. (extended hours)
Dates: Through Aug. 3.
Location: Exerfit Family Fitness, 7150 Bluebonnet Blvd.
Cost: $195 for one week, full days; $123 for one week, half-days; $50 per day; $35 per half-day.
exerfitbr.com

Space cadets, salute. Young explorers can learn about the cosmos and the planets of our solar system by enlisting in LASM’s Out of This World Astronomy Camp. Each camper receives a camp T-shirt, astronomy workbook and essential equipment for reaching for the stars.
Dates: June 18-22.
Times: 9 a.m.-1 p.m.
Location: LASM’s Irene W. Pennington Planetarium, 100 River Road South.
Cost: $110 for LASM members. $125 for non-members.
lasm.org

With daily activities including swimming, games and art, YMCA camps also offer entertaining weekly field trips—including bowling, movies, laser tag and much more.
Dates: Through Aug. 10. Eleven one-week sessions.
Times: 7 a.m.-6 p.m.
Location: Multiple YMCA branches across Baton Rouge. See website for details.
Cost: $90 per week for members. $120 per week for other participants.
ymcabatonrouge.org/camp