Summer Camp

Award-Winning Full-Day Summer Camp & Junior Camp Programs in Carlisle, Camp Hill, Hampden Township, Hershey & Mechanicsburg

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Another Amazing Summer Has Begun…
“Adventure Awaits: From Backyard to Beyond!”

Call or Message for Availability in Upcoming Sessions

Tender Years has been creating life-long summer memories for over 40 years, and in 2026, we’re set for our most exciting theme yet: “Adventure Awaits: From Backyard to Beyond!” It’s going to be a summer packed with outdoor adventure, global discovery, hands-on STEM, arts and culture, and exploration from our backyard to the world beyond.

Our Summer Camp and Junior Camp programs are designed for children ages 5–12.* Campers will explore earth’s diverse habitats, learn about cultures and countries around the globe, and build confidence through engaging games, field trips, and collaborative challenges — all in a safe, nurturing environment with experienced, caring staff.

*Children participating in our summer camp program must be at least 5 years old by the start of the upcoming school year.

What Makes Our Summer Camp Special

At Tender Years, Summer Camp is more than just fun—it’s a place where kids grow, connect, and thrive.

Here’s what sets our Summer Camp program apart:

Theme-Driven Learning & Exploration

Every week of camp centers on themes within Adventure Awaits, including exploring our own backyard & Pennsylvania nature, discovering Earth’s diverse habitats, and learning about world cultures and global geography. Details coming soon!

Exciting Field Trips & Special Guests

Campers will enjoy safe, supervised off-site excursions and interactive activity days that bring the theme to life. Details coming soon!

Creative & STEM Activities

From science demonstrations to making homemade ice cream, your child will engage in hands-on learning experiences that build real-world skills and inspire imagination.

Outdoor Play & Water Fun

Weather-appropriate outdoor play, theme-related games, and refreshing water activities keep every camper active and smiling.

Games, group projects, and collaborative adventures give campers the opportunity to build friendships, express ideas, and develop leadership skills.

Experienced & Trusted Staff

Led by certified teachers and trained camp counselors, our team ensures your child is safe, supported, and having fun every day. All staff are certified in Pediatric First Aid and CPR.

“My daughter attended preschool and summer camp here. The center does an amazing job! My daughter’s teachers were experienced, and they organized so many fun and creative activities. She learned a lot and is ready for kindergarten! I’d recommend this center to anyone.”

– Kristen Sprenkle

“My 9 year old daughter attended summer camp here this past summer and I thought that all of the staff did such an excellent job! My husband and I are both essential workers and it was such a blessing that we were able to have safe and reliable care for her this summer. Our daughter loved going to camp every day, made friends quickly, and I thought that the activities and crafts were very creative and fun.”

– MaryAnn Sutton

“I can say without hesitation that Tender Years is the very BEST and lives its mission of caring for children and families as if we are your own. Effective and appropriate curriculum and tons of activities, Tender Years is truly a very special place that I would recommend to anyone looking for childcare.“

– Jessica Miller

Explore Our 2026 Camp Sessions

Our Adventure Awaits Summer Camp is divided into three exciting sessions, each with its own focus. Families can enroll in one, two, or all three sessions—whatever fits your summer plans!

Session 1:

Exploring Our Backyard

June 1 or 8 – June 26

Theme Focus: Camping fun, local habitats, and big adventures close to home!

Campers launch the summer by discovering what makes our own backyard exciting, from wildlife and nature exploration to camping-inspired challenges and team games. They’ll create outdoor-themed art, tackle hands-on STEM builds, and enjoy Thursday cooking days with classic “camp treats” like trail mix and s’mores in a bag. With field trips and special visitors, campers will experience plenty of adventure without traveling far.

Session 2:

Exploring Earth’s Habitats

June 29 – July 24

Theme Focus: Travel the globe through oceans, deserts, rain forests, and the arctic!

This session turns campers into habitat explorers as they “journey” through Earth’s most fascinating environments. Through themed art, STEM experiments, games, and cooking projects inspired by each habitat, children will learn what makes each ecosystem unique. Field trips and interactive programs bring the learning to life as campers dive into discovery, creativity, and hands-on fun all session long.

Session 3:

Exploring Our World

July 27 – August 13

Theme Focus: Explore countries and cultures through food, art, music, and games!

Campers wrap up the summer by traveling “around the world” and discovering how people live, celebrate, and connect across different cultures. They’ll create globally inspired art, build and test STEM projects, and enjoy themed cooking activities (including ice cream in a bag and more). With exciting outings and hands-on experiences, this session builds curiosity, respect, and a sense of wonder, while keeping the fun going until the very last day.

Download Your Camp Packet

Safe, Supportive, and Experienced—Every Step of the Way

At Tender Years, your child’s safety and well-being are always our top priority. With experienced staff, trusted safety practices, and a nurturing environment, you can feel confident in your summer camp choice.

Experienced, Caring Team

Led by certified teachers who love what they do.

CPR & First Aid Certified Staff

All staff are trained to keep your child safe.

Secure Facilities & Field Trips

Safety-first design and professional transportation.

Allergy-Conscious Environment

Nut-free & nut-conscious facilities and attentive staff.

2025 Readers' Choice Best Child Care Center

Susquehanna Style Best of Susquehanna Valley Day Care Center

Central Penn Parent Best Child Care Center

Tender Years Celebrates 40 Years of Excellence

Make This a Summer to Remember!

Give your child a summer filled with fun, friendships, and unforgettable experiences at Tender Years’ 2026 “Adventure Awaits” Summer Camp!

Whether they join us for one session or all three, your camper will enjoy a summer of adventure, creativity, learning, and lasting memories—all in a safe, supportive environment you can trust.

Spots are limited and fill quickly. Don’t wait! Take the next step today:

We can’t wait to welcome your family to an amazing summer at Tender Years!