Parents may find themselves struggling with their teenaged son or daughter because of their participating in any of numerous negative activities, which may include promiscuity, drugs and alcohol or other addictions and/or trouble with the law. In this situation, parents may find themselves searching for outside help, possibly by sending them to what are often called "teen boot camps." Camps for troubled teens in Canada tend to focus on changing behaviours and attitudes through education, the influence of a good environment and positive role models. Read more
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Sports Camps Canada
Our coed summer sports camps are geared toward kids ages 4-18 of all abilities and skill levels. From beginner to elite, there is a camp option for everyone. Improve Your Skills & Have SERIOUS FUN at Sports Camps Canada! North Toronto, Toronto; Vancouver; Calgary
Sport (multi)
from $235/week
sessions & dates
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Venture Academy Summer Program for Troubled Teens
Supportive & therapeutic environment for struggling students. Assessment, educational support, life skills and outdoor activities. Earn school credit, acquire skills & stay safe! Kelowna; Barrie; Red Deer
Traditional (multi activity)
from $1/month
sessions & dates
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Harbourfront Centre Camps
Since 1979, Harbourfront Centre Camps has provided a a unique setting in which learning and fun intersect. Our campers gain life skills through meaningful participation and in all facets of arts and contemporary culture. Harbourfront, Toronto
Traditional (multi activity)
from $250/week
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Behaviour Matters
Focused on developing social skills, emotional/self-regulation and self confidence. Programs are interactive, skills, and strength-based, consisting of games, team building; role-plays, art, discussions, take-home tasks. Lawrence Heights, Toronto
Education: Leadership
from $600/group
sessions & dates
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Radiant Girls
Girls Wellness & Leadership programs, with prof. coaches, chef's and trainers. Featuring Yoga/Pilates, Outdoor Adventures, Confidence & EI Activities, Meaningful Art, Leadership Games, Relationship Building, and More! Burlington; Hamilton
Education: Leadership
from $479/week
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Kinark Outdoor Centre
A central Ontario summer camp for families and children with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Minden
Traditional (multi activity)
from $1/week
sessions & dates
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Ruth Rumack's Learning Space
Cutting-edge Direct Instruction and academic support centre in Toronto offering 1-to-1 individual support for students K-12, innovative group classes and standardized test preparation for SSAT, SAT, and ACT. Deer Park, Toronto; Davisville Village, Toronto
Education: Academic/Tutoring
from $30/session
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Camp Kennebec
An amazing summer camp experience for campers with special needs. All the fun of camp, with supportive and experienced staff to give your camper the summer of their life! The focus is on fun first! Sharbot Lake
Traditional (multi activity)
from $1,500/week
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InterVarsity Pioneer Camp Ontario
An award winning Christian summer camp in Muskoka for ages five to 17 featuring dozens of awesome activities, teen programs in leadership development and wilderness adventure & unforgettable experiences for every camper! Huntsville
Traditional (multi activity)
from $460/week
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GTA Photography Classes : Camps
Photography & Video Camps for kids (8-12) & teens (13-18). Campers learn from award-winning photographers & apply their new skills on daily field trips. Give your child the BEST SUMMER EVER! Ottawa; Downtown East, Toronto; Illinois
Visual arts: Photo/Video
from $299/week
sessions & dates
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Innovation Camp Thinnox
STEAM BOOTCamp GTA.Animation,Game,Coding,Architecture,Robotics,UI/UX Graphic,WEB Tech,Fashion Tech,DRONE Engg,AR/VR Tech.STEAM ahead with your Career-Goals, Join Technology,Engineering & Design InnovationCamp at Thinnox! Mississauga
Computer (multi)
from $250/week
sessions & dates
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Ontario Educational Leadership Centre
Leadership training for students in Grades 6-12 in the arts, athletics, French language sports, SHSM, school leadership and more. Leadership courses are facilitated by qualified Ontario Teachers. #WeLead Washago
Education: Leadership
from $240/program
sessions & dates
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InterVarsity Circle Square Ranch Grand River
We offer a variety of programming like horsemanship for beginner to advanced riders, swimming, high ropes, climbing wall, archery, campfires, tomahawks, and many more. Our leadership camps are for teens ages 13-16. Brantford
Traditional (multi activity)
from $235/week
sessions & dates
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Kandalore
Kandalore is the finest traditional summer camp in Canada, providing the best of both canoe tripping and in-camp activities. Specialized leadership programs for 16 and 17 year olds. Minden
Traditional (multi activity)
from $2,715/2 weeks
sessions & dates
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Brain Power Enrichment Programs
With more than 30 years of success, Brain Power is an innovative leader in enrichment education for bright and gifted students. Brain Power is a transformative model for what gifted education should be about in the GTA. Vaughan
Academic/Tutoring: Instructor lead (group)
from $325/program
sessions & dates
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Northwaters & Langskib Canoe Tripping Programs
Wilderness canoe adventures with heart & meaning in separate boys, girls and coed programs. Trips weave together challenge, community and confidence to connect youth to the land, each other, and their own unique spirit. Temagami
Adventure: Wilderness Out-tripping
from $1,200/week
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McMichael Children and Youth Art Camps and Programs
The McMichael provides an unmatched backdrop for children, youth and family programs. For details on Children's Camps, Art Classes, Accessible Studio Workshops and Family Days, visit mcmichael.com today! Vaughan
Art : Visual arts (multi)
from $159/session
sessions & dates
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Zebra Robotics
Robotics and coding after-school, weekend, competition, and summer camp classes for students from Grade 2 to 12. Serious STEM learning with a unique curriculum and wholesome support system! Mississauga; Milton
Computer (multi)
from $30/week
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InterVarsity Circle Square Ranch Big Clear Lake
Circle Square Ranch is a life changing Christian summer camp for kids and teens ages 6-17. We offer a wide range of activities including horseback riding, water sports and ropes. Your summer adventure starts here! Hamilton; Huntsville; Land O' Lakes Tourist Region
Traditional (multi activity)
from $299/week
sessions & dates
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Encounters with Canada
A leadership program, where teens develop civic leadership skills, learn about Canadian institutions, meet famous and accomplished Canadians, and explore exciting career options Ottawa
Education: Leadership
from $750/week
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Outward Bound Canada
Est 1969. Inspiring, challenging journeys of self-discovery in the outdoors. Join an authentic, transformational adventure to see Canada at its finest, reach beyond your own boundaries, and tap in to your true potential. Kananaskis; Vancouver Island; Throughout Canada; Grand Manan; Algonquin Park
Adventure (multi)
from $779/week
sessions & dates
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Fire Fly Stables
Learn to ride English on well trained horses. Daily riding lessons, theory & practical in the barn, arts/crafts, team building and of course a few camp traditions. Year round lessons with all weather riding facilities. Hamilton
Sport: Horseback Riding/Equestrian
from $350/week
sessions & dates
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The Michelangelo Code
With valuable contributions from Industry leader David Pacheco, Creative Director of The Walt Disney Company, Mr. G, a STEM Instructor and former GANZ game developer passes on key techniques used by his production team! Brampton; Vaughan; Mississauga
Traditional (multi activity)
from $150/month
sessions & dates
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Supercamp @ Vanier College
Supercamp is an ACQ-certified day camp providing over 20 arts, science, sports and learning-oriented programs. Most importantly, our camp is over 80 employees devoted to creating memories to last a lifetime! Montreal
Traditional (multi activity)
from $187/week
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Camp Wabikon
An experience kids love. A family parents trust. Wabikon is sleepover camp for boys and girls ages 6-17. Campers from around the world feel like part of the family and enjoy activities on a challenge-by-choice basis. Temagami
Traditional (multi activity)
from $1,100/week
sessions & dates
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YMCA of Southwestern Ontario Overnight Camps
The YMCA of Southwestern Ontario offers two amazing overnight camps for campers aged 5-16 - YMCA Camp Queen Elizabeth (CQE) in Georgian Bay Islands National Park and YMCA Camp Henry in Point Pelee National Park. London; Leamington; Port Severn
Traditional (multi activity)
from $540/session
sessions & dates
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Me to We Take Action Camp
Take Action Camp are where kids who care, thrive. Young people will discover their potential through interactive team-building, specialized workshops, and volunteer experience, in a fun and inclusive environment! Bethany; Corktown, Toronto
Education: Social Justice/Empowerment
from $1,100/week
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Camp Oconto
Founded in 1924, Oconto is a traditional girls overnight camp located on the beautiful shores of Eagle Lake north of Kingston, Ontario. Over 20 activities are offered on 80 acres of land and 2km of shoreline. Sharbot Lake
Traditional (multi activity)
from $1,280/week
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Township of King
With a mixture of sports, arts, and nature based programs, you are sure to find the perfect camp or program for your child! High Five and OCA Certified. Visit www.king.ca for more information.
Traditional (multi activity)
from $4/week
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Idea Lab Kids Oakville
Innovative programming with a focus on STEM. Summer camp, after school, birthdays and more. Courses for all ages in coding, game design, circuitry, toy engineering, the arts, VR, robotics, 3D printing, cooking and more! Oakville
Education: STEM
from $60/month
sessions & dates
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Lovell International Camps
Canadian run camp in the Swiss Alps. Offering a host of sports and activities including: Language, Skiing, Tennis, Golf, Horse Riding, Hiking, Mountain Biking, River Rafting, Cultural Excursions & Overnight Expeditions. International
Traditional (multi activity)
from $3,800/3 weeks
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Neighbour Note Day Camps
Toronto's premier camps run by University Professors, TDSB Teachers, and extraordinary Musicians! (PhD, DMA). Our Rock Band camp instructor performed for over 10 000 people when his band opened for KISS in Mexico City! Bloor West Village, Toronto; Mimico, Toronto
Music (multi)
from $275/week
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Aurora Cultural Centre Summer Art Camps & Children's Programs
Creative summer camps to ignite your child's imagination! From drawing, painting & sculpting to musical theatre and acting, there is something for every child at the Aurora Cultural Centre. Fun, friends & fantasy await! Aurora
Art (multi)
from $35/program
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STEAMlabs
Maker programs & camps for curious hands-on kids. We use the latest tools and technologies, like 3D printing and laser cutting, to help your child bring their ideas to life. Downtown West, Toronto; Don Mills, Toronto; Wallace Emerson, Toronto
Education (multi)
from $10/session
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YMCA-YWCA of the National Capital Region
Choose active and fun Neighbourhood day camps close to home, with themed weeks and out trips, OR a traditional outdoor day (or overnight) experience at Camp Otonabee with ropes, paddling, nature hikes, swimming and more Ottawa
Traditional (multi activity)
from $190/week
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Camp Wanapitei
Wilderness canoe-tripping camp based in Northern Ontario, paddling Ontario, Quebec, and the Territories. A strong tripping program is complemented by caring staff, community focus and a diverse in-camp program. Temagami
Adventure: Wilderness Out-tripping
from $750/week
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HUMBER ARBORETUM NATURE CAMPS
A nature-focused exploration and adventure camp set within a beautiful urban green space. This hands-on camp helps children foster an appreciation for the the many wonders of the natural world. Rexdale, Toronto
Science: Nature/Environment
from $265/week
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Neilson Park Creative Centre
Arts-focused camps, classes and workshops supporting a creative learning environment where children, teens and families are encouraged to explore and enrich their lives through the arts. Markland Wood, Toronto
Art (multi)
from $240/week
sessions & dates
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Ontario Tech University Summer Camps
Get a unique science and tech education in this program by the University of Ontario Institute of Technology, including LEGO Robotics, Makerspace, Coding, Minecraft. Girls only sessions, Family Camps, Educator sessions. Oshawa
Science (multi)
from $300/week
sessions & dates
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Code-it Hacks
Blend of 5 flavors in our Kids Coding & Robotics Camp in Toronto! Learn to Code, Learn to build: Robotics & Circuits, Outdoor play:Logic Games & a field trip to a tech company! Never a dull moment in our camps & programs High Park, Toronto; Bloor West Village, Toronto
Computer (multi)
from $250/session
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YMCA of Simcoe Muskoka
A variety of values based camp programs offered through our day, family, leadership and overnight camps throughout the Simcoe Muskoka region Orillia; Midland
Traditional (multi activity)
from $190/week
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Sylvan Learning Oakville
At Sylvan of Oakville, we have STEM Summer Camps, STEM Club, tutoring in JK-Gr. 12 math, reading, and writing, as well as SAT/ACT prep courses. Oakville
Education (multi)
from $30/session
sessions & dates
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SportLife
A unique team sports camp, simulating the career of professional athletes! Sports include: ice hockey, flag/touch football, basketball, soccer, baseball, ball hockey and much more! Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue; Montreal; Huberdeau
Sport (multi)
from $150/week
sessions & dates
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Medeba Summer Camp
Medeba Summer Camp is an overnight camp that uses adventure and community to provide the best week of your child's summer! We provide a full range of traditional and extensive adventure activities to choose from. Haliburton
Traditional (multi activity)
from $729/week
sessions & dates
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Laurus Summer Camp
Montreal, Laval and Beaconsfield's #1 Lifestyle Summer day camp! We blend fun, education & specialty training in arts, academics and sports! Weekly program for kids ages 3 - 15! Registration is open in November for 2020! Montreal; Laval; Beaconsfield; Westmount
Traditional (multi activity)
from $150/week
sessions & dates
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Active Scholars
A unique summer experience, Where Sports Meets Educations and campers get to engage in both STEM Learning & Basketball or Soccer Development. Each week we offer a unique experience for continued growth and engagement. Ajax; Guelph; North Toronto, Toronto
Traditional (multi activity)
from $235/week
sessions & dates
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Kids in the Spotlight
Kids in the Spotlight is an evidence-based performing arts organization helping children and youth develop self-confidence, social skills, and harmonious relationships with family and friends. International; Jasper; Montreal
Education: Musical Theatre
from $500/week
sessions & dates
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Ross Creek Centre for the Arts
SummerArts combines the best of camp with the best of the arts, with great food, a full rec schedule, campfire, and of course a core of incredible arts programming, all on a beautiful campus overlooking the Bay of Fundy. Canning
Art (multi)
from $290/week
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YMCA John Island Camp
JOHN ISLAND CAMP is exclusively located in the North Channel of Lake Huron and offers a variety of traditional, leadership, and kayak/canoe tripping programming. Sudbury; Blind River
Traditional (multi activity)
from $529/week
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Wanda's Creative Clay
A fun and educational program that get kids away from electronics. Our supportive & encouraging environment is a safe place to lose yourself in your own creativity - clay, paper mache, painting and so much more. Lawrence Park, Toronto
Art : Visual arts (multi)
from $18/session
sessions & dates
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Hidden Acres Mennonite Camp
A traditional camp experience providing opportunities to connect with nature, build life-long friendships and encounter God through a variety of fun activities, great facilities and friendly staff. Kitchener
Traditional (multi activity)
from $220/week
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Earthbound Kids
An unforgettable outdoor day camp that includes: Athletics, Swimming, Horseback Riding, Animal Care, BMXing, Zip Lines, Gardening, Cooking, Drama, Crafts, Leadership for young teens and more! Whitchurch - Stouffville; Newmarket
Traditional (multi activity)
from $355/week
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Bear Creek Outdoor Centre
We are a small camp with a spectacular community of campers and staff. We focus on having a great time building interpersonal skills and connecting with each other in a fantastic natural setting. Renfrew; Ottawa
Traditional (multi activity)
from $675/week
sessions & dates
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Bricks 4 Kidz Woodbridge
With several camp themes, your child will be sure to have an experience they will never forget. We do two structured builds a day, along with games and art and crafts related to our theme of the week. Vaughan; Woodbridge
Education (multi)
from $175/week
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Toronto Zoo - Zoo Camp
Located at the Toronto Zoo, Zoo Camp offers unique adventures to stimulate kids' interest in the natural world. Go behind-the-scenes at Canada's largest zoo. Rouge, Toronto
Science: Zoology/Animals
from $280/week
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YMCA Camp Pine Crest
We provide a fun program for campers who want to gain independence, interact with nature, make friends with new people, and develop leadership skills. Overnight canoe trips are a staple that make for the best adventures! Torrance
Traditional (multi activity)
from $390/week
sessions & dates
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Arrowsmith School Cognitive Intensive Program
The Cognitive Intensive Program is a 6-week intensive program targeting the Symbol Relations cognitive function. Upon completion, we see positive changes in the individual’s ability to understand the world around them. South Hill, Toronto
Academic/Tutoring: Instructor lead (group)
from $5,000/program
sessions & dates
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YMCA Wanakita
A co-ed camp offering 1, 2 and 4-week Overnight and 1-week Day Camp sessions. We offer leadership development, a wide range of activities, tripping, a sense of belonging and fun. Come have the time of your life! Haliburton Highlands
Traditional (multi activity)
from $940/session
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Sylvan Learning Burlington
Sylvan STEM Camps are high quality, low ratio camps with LEGO Robotics, Coding, Science Experiments, Engineering builds and more hands-on STEM activities. REMEMBER Effective summer tutoring is also available for JK-Gr.12 Burlington
Education (multi)
from $150/week
sessions & dates
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Cedar Ridge Camp
Cedar Ridge Camp is a wonderful place where campers have the opportunity to get outside and develop friendships. Bancroft
Traditional (multi activity)
from $900/week
sessions & dates
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False Creek Racing Canoe Club
A multi-disciplinary paddling club offering recreational and competitive camps and after-school programs for kids of all ages and abilities all year round! Vancouver
Sport (multi)
from $200/program
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Idea Lab Kids Calgary
Idea Lab provides classes, camps ranging from Cooking, Robotics, 3D Art, Engineering and Science. At Idea Lab children learn through hands-on-activities utilizing Critical-thinking Skills and a great deal of IMAGINATION! Calgary
Education: STEM
from $30/week
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Kilcoo Camp
Kilcoo has an earned reputation as one of Canada's foremost traditional summer camps. Boys come to Kilcoo to enjoy the activities, to gain confidence in themselves, to learn to work with others and to "just have fun"! Minden; Moore Park, Toronto
Traditional (multi activity)
from $2,975/2 weeks
sessions & dates
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Crestwood Valley Day Camp
A Toronto DAY camp offering 20-25 Daily Activities, Baseball and Basketball Camps, LIT/CIT,*"4' Heated Inground Salt Pools*w/daily lessons-WEEKLY CARNIVAL, Gymboree & ROSE REISMAN CATERING! LOW RATIOS! Call 416.444.9595 Bridle Path, Toronto
Traditional (multi activity)
from $575/week
sessions & dates
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The Laird House Adventure Camp
We offer eco-friendly sports camp/year round programs for youth 8-14. Created & taught by Certified Ontario Teachers they include: gardening, re-cycling natural resources, basketball, beach volleyball, badminton & more! Brampton
Traditional (multi activity)
from $180/week
sessions & dates
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Academic Camp Canada
Exciting academic summer camps for 12-17 year olds in British Columbia, New Brunswick & Ottawa. BCCA accredited. Combination of inspiring academic learning, activities & trips. Computer Science & Medical Studies camps Mill Bay; International; Rothesay; Ottawa
Education (multi)
from $525/program
sessions & dates
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Junior Red Riders
Can your child ride a two wheeled bicycle? Then we can teach them how to ride a DIRT BIKE! Fully comprehensive program focusing on FUN & SAFETY Markham
Sport: BMX / Motocross
from $100/session
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Camp Nokomis
Nokomis is unique in that we are a boy's camp in July and a girl's camp in August; all of our leaders have come up "through the ranks": camper to L.I.T. to Staff to Senior Staff. Fergus
Traditional (multi activity)
from $1,199/session
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Of course, parents may need to look at and change some of their own behaviours and attitudes and how these might be negatively impacting communication with their teenaged son or daughter. Simply relying on an outside "fix" like a teen boot camp is not a holistic approach to making real change.
On the other hand, there are many cases where teens simply need a radical change in order to break negative patterns. There are many troubled teens who do not fare well in traditional counseling environments, and there is some evidence that these teens are finding success in long-term treatment programs such as those offered at some camps. The National Association of Therapeutic Schools and Programs conducted a study showing that teens with problem emotional and behavioural issues improved during treatment at a residential program. In addition, they maintained a healthier outlook long after they left the treatment programs. Among problems these teens faced were ADHD, depression, and oppositional defiant disorder.
The study provided hard evidence over the anecdotal evidence traditionally provided by the industry. It followed 1,027 graduates of troubled teen treatment programs for one year after they completed their program and focused on how consistent the teens' behaviour remained.
For parents dealing with problem teens, we wish you wisdom as you search for a solution. We urge you to investigate the industry deeply in order to make the best informed decision you can. Consult the list above and enquire how these camps can help you with your troubled teen and how they believe they are different from dubious "treatment programs" of the past.
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