Saving Money on Summer Camp

2/9/11 - By Anna Fader

Going to Sleep Away camp can be a priceless experience for any child, but it can also seem crazy expensive. There are some free and cheap summer camps, but there are also programs that can help families make summer camp more affordable. Here are the best ways to save money on sending your child to summer camp:

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Reach Out—If you already have a camp in mind, check with them to see what kind of financial help is available. Many camps do have at least some kind of financial assistance, including government sponsored programs. And, don't assume your income doesn't qualify.

Register Early—Many camps give HUGE discounts of as much os 50% off if you register in the Fall rather than in the Spring. If you want to save big bucks on camp, the easiest way is to plan ahead.

Get a Grant—The Foundation for Jewish Camp offers grants of up to $1000 for children to attend a Jewish affiliated overnight camp. The child does not have to be Jewish and the camps are not particularly religious, but they do have to be a first time camper. Find out more.

Pay Pre-Tax—If you have a Dependent Care Flex Spending Account, you can use that money toward summer camp and pay for camp with pre-tax dollars. You may also be able to claim camp expenses as dependent care expense and pay with pre-tax dollars or claim a dependent care tax credit of up to $6000. Check with your tax preparer to see if you are eligible.

About the Author

Anna Fader

Founder & CEO of Mommy Poppins
Anna was born in Park Slope, spent her early years in the West Village. By the time she graduated high school, she had lived in 4 of the 5 boroughs. Growing up in NYC in the '70s meant the streets were her playgrounds. Museums and avant garde music venues were the kid-friendly activities. And living downtown taught her the importance of creating community for families in NYC.

Now, raising her own two children in the city, she tries to create the same sense of magic and community she felt growing up, despite today's more commercialized version of kid-friendly New York.

She started Mommy Poppins in 2007 to share a more artsy, educational, uncommercial, community-oriented vision of raising kids in New York City. Today Mommy Poppins is relied on by millions of families as the authority on the best things to do with kids beyond New York City: from Boston to Philly, Los Angeles, Houston and travel guides for dozens more cities and destinations.