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Advantages of Real Estate Investing for Savvy Entrepreneurs

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I’ve had numerous conversations with entrepreneurs lately who have come to the conclusion that they need to start diversifying their business profits into more than just a savings account. If this is you – pay close attention.

Being a real estate investor isn’t always glamorous but it is one of the best ways to build wealth over the long-haul, especially for the entrepreneurial-minded. Here are six reasons why you should consider investing in rental properties.

1. Cash flow.
Many people invest in rental properties simply because of the cash flow – the extra money that is left after all the bills have been paid. The cash flow can provide ongoing, monthly income that is mostly passive, allowing you to spend your time building a business, traveling or reinvesting in more real estate.

Cash flow from real estate is stable and far more predictable than most other businesses. That’s great for entrepreneurs enduring the ups and downs of start-up life. The cash flow can help float you though the bad times and live well during the good times.

2. Tax benefits.
Let me ask you a quick question: if you earn $100,000 at your own business and I earn $100,000 through rental properties, who get’s to keep more?

That’s right: I do. Because the government rewards rental property owners.

Not only is the cash flow received from your rentals not subject to self-employment tax, the government offers tax benefits including depreciation and significantly lower tax-rates for long-term profits.

3. The loan pay down.
When you buy a rental property using a mortgage, your tenant is actually the one paying the mortgage payment, thus increasing your net worth each month. Because of the loan pay down a rental property is essentially a savings account that grows automatically, without you depositing money each month.

Today you might owe $200,000 on a rental property, but next year you might only owe $195,000 because the tenant is making the payment for you, making you $5,000 richer. Thirty years down the road, or whatever the term of your loan, it’s paid down to $0. You own a significant asset that you can sell or continue renting, all thanks to your tenant paying the mortgage.

Related: Looking for Stable Business Ideas? Here Are 12 Types of Companies With Healthy Cash Flow.

4. Appreciation.
While the loan is being paid down the value of real estate, generally, goes up. Yes, I know, recessions do happen. Values do go up and down. People buy at the wrong time of the market. I get it.

However…

Over time, values do climb higher and higher. That’s why I’m not in this real estate game just for a year or even a decade. I’m in this for life. I know my properties will continue to climb so that 30 years from now, everything will be worth far more than I’m paying for it today.

5. A hedge against inflation.
Can you imagine paying ten dollars for a gallon of milk? Or five dollars for a candy bar? While those prices seem exorbitant to you, this is the future because of inflation. Inflation is the process by which prices increase due to the value of money decreasing.

While most people fear inflation, as a rental property owner, I look forward to it!

When the price of a gallon of milk hits ten bucks a gallon, guess what else is going to shoot through the roof? Everything, including rents and property values! The one thing that won’t increase, however, is my fixed-rate mortgage payment. As inflation pushes the cost of living higher and higher, my cash flow will only increase. This is why real estate is often called “a hedge against inflation.” When inflation hits – I’m ready!

6. Control.
I don’t like my destiny tied to a board room on Wall Street or a nervous CEO in Silicon Valley.

This is why I choose to invest most of my income in real estate, knowing that I am the one who is responsible for my success or failure.

If I want a better deal, I need to hustle to find it.
If the rental market gets more competitive, I can compensate by increasing my advertising.
If values drop, I can choose to wait it out or improve the property to drive the value back up.
In other words, I get to control the situation, and my financial future, with my own two hands. And that suits me just fine.

Don’t think that just by owning some rentals you are instantly going to begin building wealth. Real estate is powerful – but only if you work it right.

You must learn how to find great deals, how to evaluate a real estate investment, and how to finance any properties you want to buy. Additionally, you must treat it like a business and nurture it as it matures. It’s likely not going to be totally passive up front, but as millions of individuals throughout history have discovered, the payoff is well worth the journey.

Source: Brandon Turner, entreprenuer.com

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May 2016 Austin Real Estate Review

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AUSTIN, Texas – June 21, 2016 – Single-family home sales jumped in Williamson County and across the Austin-Round Rock Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA) in May 2016, according to the May 2016 Central Texas Housing Market Report released today by the Austin Board of REALTORS®.

“Housing demand continues to be at an all-time high in the Central Texas region, with properties priced under $500,000 selling rapidly,” said Aaron Farmer, 2016 President of the Austin Board of REALTORS­®. “Williamson County homes are among the most popular in the region due to the county’s highly-rated school districts, access to major thoroughfares and proximity to major employment hubs in Austin.”

Williamson County’s population is less than half that of Travis County, yet only 424 more single-family homes were sold in Travis County than Williamson County in May 2016. Williamson County home sales surged 19.5 percent year-over-year in May to 1,028 single-family home sales.

Single-family home sales also increased by double-digit margins across the Central Texas region, rising 13.2 percent annually to 4,297 home sales in May 2016. In the five-county MSA, single-family home sales rose 9.9 percent year-over-year to 2,909 home sales during the same time frame.

“Austin-Round Rock unemployment recently hit a 16-year low, largely thanks to Austin’s booming tech sector,” said Eldon Rude, principal at 360 Real Estate Analytics. “Tech companies such as Apple Computer continue to fuel employment growth in Northwest Austin and in turn, are driving home sales growth in southeast Williamson County where homes are less expensive and new home development continues to be strong.”

High home prices and critically low inventory levels continued to stifle home sales within the City of Austin, as more homebuyers look outside of Austin’s city limits for affordably priced housing. In May 2016, Austin single-family home sales remained statistically unchanged at 884 home sales.

Home prices throughout the Central Texas region continued to increase in May 2016, but at a slower pace. In the five-county MSA, median price rose 4.8 percent year-over-year to $288,085. In Williamson County, median price rose 5.2 percent annually to $261,822. The median price within Austin’s city limits was $355,000 in May 2016, a 1.6 percent increase from the year prior.

Monthly housing inventory within the Austin-Round Rock MSA was 2.4 months in May 2016, statistically unchanged from the year prior. Housing inventory within the City of Austin rose 0.2 months year-over-year to 1.9 months of inventory, while inventory within Williamson County fell 0.3 months annually to 1.9 months during the same time frame.

Housing inventory levels lower than 2.0 months are considered an extremely tight market by the Real Estate Center at Texas A&M University, which cites an inventory level of 6.5 months as a market in which the supply and demand for homes in balanced.

In the Austin-Round Rock MSA, pending sales jumped 21.1 percent to 3,297 pending sales in May 2016. Double-digit gains in pending sales were also evident across the 18-county Central Texas region, within the City of Austin and in Travis and Williamson counties.

“Strong gains in both pending sales and active listings both in Austin and regionally indicate a strong summer selling season could be ahead,” concluded Farmer. “A Central Texas REALTOR® can provide in-depth market expertise to help homebuyers and sellers navigate competitive housing market conditions.”

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Luxury homes trending towards buyers’ market

The Bureau of Labor Statistics released its most recent job report showing that the U.S. economy added only 38,000 jobs in May, far below expectations. That’s much lower than the 150,000 new jobs the economy was expecting. A low jobs report number is a sign of a sluggish economy. The headline number was reduced by 35,100 due to striking workers at Verizon Communications. Without the strike, payrolls would have increased by 73,000. Either way, the jobs growth in May was much slower than it was earlier in the year.

Chart 1

Construction lost 15,000 jobs. That signals a slowdown in the housing market. U.S. manufacturing lost 10,000 jobs due to a strong dollar that hurt exports. Durable goods lost 18,000 jobs, with 500 from auto manufacturing. Pay close attention to how many manufacturing jobs are added or lost each month, since it is a future indicator of economic health. That’s because factories are less likely to add workers until they have orders for more goods in hand. Manufacturing employment provides a better leading indicator of future economic performance than does service employment, which stays more consistent through thick and thin.

The US hasn’t seen such low positive jobs gains since December 2010 — or, in other words, since the aftermath of the Great Recession.

What effect does this have?

  • The US dollar is getting slammed in world currency markets. When there is not confidence in the American labor market, the dollar loses value against other currencies. If the American dollar loses value, you lose buying power. As most of us know wages have not kept up with inflation.
  • With less confidence in the strength of the labor market, stock values drop historically.
  • Consumers are running for the safety of US Treasuries.

Another worrying sign is that the weakness in job creation appears to be spreading across industries.

Chart 2

Earlier this year, only mining and logging, durable goods manufacturing, and transportation were posting job losses. This was easily explained by shrinking domestic oil production as a result of a sharp decline in crude oil prices. Employment in oil extraction (part of the mining and logging sector) was shrinking, as was production of heavy equipment used in the oil sector, leading to job losses in durable goods manufacturing. Transportation of domestic crude oil (much of which is done by rail) was falling as well. There was a possibility that the weakness and the job losses would be contained in the industries affected by crude oil production.

But in April and May, it seems that the job losses spread to other industries. Now, in addition to mining, durable goods manufacturing and transportation, job losses have appeared in construction, wholesale trade, utilities, retail sales, and information services (although the last one is mostly due to a strike). Other industries continue to add jobs, but at a much slower pace than before. This is a worrying sign.

And yet, the unemployment rate still fell in May to 4.7 percent, from 5 percent in April. How can this be? The answer is not encouraging – the drop in the unemployment rate is mostly driven by people dropping out of the labor force. In May, 458,000 people left the labor force, after 362,000 did so in April. Such a substantial decrease in the labor force for two months is a row is unusual (see below) and is yet another worrying sign.

Chart 3

This was a very disappointing employment report with several worrying signs for the economy long term. It makes it nearly certain that the Federal Reserve will not raise interest rates when it meets in June. We will be watching other data carefully to see if the worrying signs seen here are confirmed by other information.

Local impacts

Austin and the other Texas metros continue to be sellers’ markets, with not enough commercial or residential inventory. However there are concerns in certain portions of the residential market, namely in luxury sales in Austin above $1 million.

The charts below show Austin luxury sales are still robust compared to the recession, but slower than 2013 or the highs of 2015.

Chart 4

So what happened? Take a look at the Austin $1+ million inventory report below. It clearly shows that in 2016, luxury above a million sales slowed and the amount of inventory picked up. Inventory doubled since 2015 to 20 months, reflecting a buyers’ market.

Chart 5

Consumer confidence in the Texas region has dropped 35 points in the last year. Consumers are not feeling as flush as they have previously. Luxury is showing it first. Historically the top portion of the market begins to show a slowing of the market first. It is not just a regional thing, we are seeing national GDP and inflation slow dramatically this last quarter. Declines in oil, rumors of another tech bubble, and confusing election hyperbole are causing many to be much more conservative in their selection process.

What would I tell your clients that are buying or selling in the over $1 million price category? It is still a good market if your listing is priced correctly. Those homes that are within 95 to 100% of the median price per square feet are still selling quickly. Be aware of what is in the neighborhood and what is in that price range. Not all houses are created equal. Values cannot be based just on square footage. Sellers will have difficulty moving their properties if they ‘ego price’.

On the demand side of the equation, some have asked if there are fewer companies and executives moving to Austin or other Texas metros. Those at the Chamber of Commerce are still seeing quality companies and executives moving here. However many in the equity business feel that technology is overvalued like 1999, and that there should be a correction. Therefore executives are much more conservative in spending, because of what they are hearing from markets. Trophy properties are taking almost three times as long to sell in Austin as what the rest of the market is doing.  As an analyst, I will tell you if priced correctly it should still sell.

Otherwise it is very much a sellers’ market. Austin is still creating jobs, the rental market continues to be tight, and most homes if properly priced have multiple offers. Real estate appreciation is apparent in all markets, channels, and Texas metros. At most price points there is not enough rentals or homes for sale. Foreclosures and short sells are a non-factor at less than 1% of the market. The Texas real estate market is still strong in all channels, but there is some softening in luxury homes. So yes, the market is changing, and yes we should continue to watch.

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April 2016 Austin Real Estate Review

Rising home sales throughout Central Texas highlight growing urban sprawl, Austin affordability challenges

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May 19, 2016 – Single-family home sales increased in the Austin-Round Rock Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA) in April 2016, highlighting growing urban sprawl as rising housing costs exacerbate affordability challenges, according to the April 2016 Central Texas Housing Market Report released today by the Austin Board of REALTORS®.

“Much of Central Texas’ home sales activity is now taking place outside of Austin’s city limits, with housing demand driving growth in surrounding counties,” said Aaron Farmer, 2016 President of the Austin Board of REALTORS­®. “The City of Austin’s housing market is drastically different than surrounding areas. In Austin, home sales growth is suppressed, inventory is more constrained and home prices are much higher.”

In April 2016, single-family home sales increased 12.5 percent year-over-year to 3,863 home sales in the Central Texas region. Nearly 80 percent of those homes were sold outside of Austin’s city limits. In the five-county MSA, single-family home sales rose 5.1 percent year-over-year to 2,600 home sales during the same time frame.

Hays County experienced the largest annual gain in home sales in April 2016, with single-family home sales jumping 17.8 percent year-over-year to 338 home sales. Williamson County was the only county in the Austin-Round Rock MSA to experience a decline in home sales in April 2016, with single-family home sales dropping 5.1 percent year-over-year to 816 home sales.

In the City of Austin, single-family home sales held steady at 829 home sales, a 1.7 percent increase from April 2015 and nearly equivalent to the home sales volume in all of Williamson County in April 2016.

“Hays County is one of Austin’s few surrounding areas with entry-level homes priced less than $200,000, a price point with high demand,” said Mark Sprague, State Director of Information Capital for Independence Title. “In Williamson County, demand is highest for homes priced between $200,000 and $400,000, but there is not sufficient housing stock to meet demand, particularly in Round Rock and Pflugerville.”

The rate of growing home prices also slowed in Williamson County in April 2016, with the median price for single-family homes increasing only two percent year-over-year to $255,000. Conversely, the median price in Travis County increased 7.8 percent from April 2015 to $339,500, while median price within the City of Austin jumped 10.6 percent during the same time frame to $359,450.

Despite small gains across the region in April 2016, monthly housing inventory in the Austin-Round Rock MSA remained low at 2.3 months. This is nearly two-thirds less than the 6.5 month-level the Real Estate Center at Texas A&M University cites as a market in which supply and demand for homes is balanced. In Austin, housing inventory remained at near-critical levels of 1.8 months, an increase of 0.3 months from April 2015.

“Housing affordability includes not only a home’s sale price, but the homeowner’s ability to continue to afford the home as property values rise from year to year,” concluded Farmer. “The Austin Board of REALTORS® encourages homeowners to learn how their home is being appraised and all property tax exemptions they might qualify for. A Central Texas REALTOR® can help homeowners contest their assessment by identifying comparable properties and gathering the necessary background information to formulate an appeal.”

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Central Texas Summer Camps 2016

Summer-camp

American Robotics Academy

American Robotics Academy aims to excite, inspire and motivate children about the importance of robotics technology. Our hands-on classes offer an introduction to the fundamentals of engineering design, helping children understand “how things work.” Held in a friendly, sports-like atmosphere, students work in age-appropriate teams and learn how to design, build and test remote-controlled miniature robots. For more information visit roboticsacademy.com.

Abrakadoodle Art Camps

Abrakadoodle Art Classes for kids are all about creativity! Kids use their imaginations while using a wide variety of materials, such as paints, wire, clays and more.  They explore artists, techniques, world cultures and more. For more information on our programs visit us at abrakadoodle.com/tx03.

Anmol Technologies

Children today love being around technology. From gaming consoles to cell phones and 3D printers, our future generations will be the most connected generation ever. Our classes focus on a different aspect of technology that students are already exposed to everyday. From building computer games and websites to coding and programming on a computer and on a humanoid robot, students have fun while strengthening their logic and problem solving skills. For more information visit us at www.anmol-technologies.com.

Art+ Academy

In its 5th year, Art+ Academy offers half-day camps with a perfect balance between fun and instruction. Our camps are perfect for young artists seeking to improve their drawing and painting skills. Come and select from a variety of themed art camps for all ages and interests! For more information visit us at artplusacademy.com.

Art Camps with Art Amore

Art Amore Summer Camps are a chance for young artists to submerge themselves into creativity. Each camp has its own unique theme that will allow us to explore art ideas, techniques and concepts in different and fun ways. Like our classes, our summer camps strike a balance between learning technique and developing the creative spirit. Camps are designed for a wide age range with multiple experienced instructors on hand. Each camp will end with a canvas masterpiece incorporating what we have learned throughout the week. For more information visit www.artamoreaustin.com.

The Art Garage Art Camps

Summer art camp is the most creative and fulfilling 11 weeks of our whole year. We are passionate about creating a space for children to experience art in a positive, encouraging, and engaging environment. We reach out to kids with themes and projects that relate to where they are in life…whether that’s a popular movie theme or an art medium that your child is most excited to explore. Find the perfect camp for your young artist! for more information visit theartgarageaustin.com.

Art & Soul Summer Camps

Mariposas Spanish School for Kids and Art & Soul are joining forces for a fun filled Summer Camp! We have planned a fun and educational week for Summer. Students will learn conversational Spanish through music, games, and hands on activities with Mariposas Spanish School during the first part of their day, then participating in several art lessons with Art & Soul in the latter half of the day. for more information visit artandsoulclasses.com/summer-camps.

Asian American Resource Center

Engage with theater, music, puppetry, and other storytelling traditions through the Asian and Asian American lens. Online registration opens March 5th. Financial aid is available. All camps are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. with early drop-off and late pickup available. For more information visit us at www.austintexas.gov/aarc.

The Austin Artery

The Austin Artery is an art camp that puts process over product in order to facilitate creative thinking. Campers spend time outside in the morning and afternoon on the large shaded campus of Four Seasons Community School in Northwest Austin. Campers can choose from playwriting, set design, and fiber arts. Campers also explore into the connections between art, math, science, and nature. For more information visit us at theaustinartery.com/

Austin Chamber Music

The 2016 Austin Chamber Music Workshop provides a fun and motivational environment during the month of July to make great music with new friends who are at the same age and ability level. With a division for every age there is no reason not to spend your summer collaborating with other musicians who share your passion for music! For more information visit us at http://austinchambermusic.org/summer-workshop.

Austin Children’s Theater

Calling all creative, comical, and charismatic kids! Join us for weeks of artistic fun! Dabble in theater and story-telling, art and music and performance.  Or spend the days sharpening your acting skills as you work towards the goal of putting on a fully produced play or mini musical! Invite family and friends to the final performance. Make ‘em laugh and make ‘em cry as you show off your talents. for more information visit austinchildrenstheater.org/camps/oneweek.

Austin Fencers Club

The modern sport of fencing, descended from the ancient art of the duel, uniquely blends the mental and the physical. Fencing develops fitness, agility, critical thinking, sportsmanship, and competitiveness. AFC’s summer camps offer fun and challenge to fencers of all skill levels. Fencers learn footwork, bladework, tactics and strategy, protocol, and history. For more information visit us at austinfencersclub.com.

Austin Film Festival

The critically-acclaimed and uber-loved Summer Film Camp, presented by Austin Film Festival, returns this June with rocking workshops that promise to teach, inspire, and help kids and young adults create their very own fabulous, funny, thought-provoking, heartbreaking, award-winning (you never know!) short films. for more information visit http://austinfilmfestival.com.

Austin Film Summer Camp

For more than two decades, the Austin Film Society has served as the hub of Austin’s vibrant film community. Summer @ Austin Studios offers a unique opportunity to work with local filmmakers and experience the magic of film and filmmaking. Whether it’s developing a script idea or producing an animation project, AFS programs provide a fun, nurturing space for exploration and collaboration. For more information visit austinfilm.org/summercamp.

Austin International School LES Explore Summer Camp

At AIS summer camp, will take your child on an active adventure, experiencing original games, sports, creative movement, cooking, arts & crafts while learning in an engaging setting. For more information visit us at austininternationalschool.org/2016/01/register-summer-camp-2016.

Austin Junior Golf Academy

The Austin Junior Golf Academy was founded by three notable City of Austin Golf Professionals, dedicated to introducing the game of golf to the next generation of players. Every year, over 350 kids come to the Hancock Golf Course to learn the basics of golf, get professional instruction and have a great time outside! All campers receive an Austin Junior Golf Academy t-shirt, hat, personalized bag tag and backpack full of other golf goodies! For more information visit us at austinjuniorgolfacademy.com.

Austin Karate Camp

DFPS (Dept. of Family & Protective Services) approved Karate Summer Camp helps kids age 5 – 14 years old get healthier with a combination of martial arts, fitness and personal development training. The structured drills help the youngsters overcome shyness and timidity. They become more confident and assertive as they learn to move and control their bodies. Self-confidence and Self-Esteem grow. For more information visit austinkarateacademy.com.

Austin Pre-Freshmen Engineering Program

Deadline to submit application materials and registration fee is May 13, or until all seats are filled. Parents must attend orientation on May 26. For more information visit htu.edu/academics/special-programs/ausprep.

Austin Public Library Friends Foundation

Each summer, Badgerdog enlists Austin’s most talented writers and teaching artists to lead three week creative writing workshops. These workshops allow rising 3rd through 12th graders to work with a member as they explore, experiment, and create new written works. Workshops are limited to 15 students and campers are grouped according to age. The registration fee includes a writing journal, a t-shirt, and a copy of the camp anthology. For more information visit us at www.austinlibrary.org.

Austin Sailing Camps

Our all-inclusive sailing camps are divided by experience level and include healthy snacks and a full buffet lunch each camp day. Sessions run June-August. Camp staff are highly credentialed and have years of experience working with children. For more information visit us at austinsailboatrentals.com.

Austin Scottish Rite Theater Summer Camp

Austin Scottish Rite Theater’s summer camps offer week-long exploration of various performance topics: Acting, Music, Dancing, Puppetry, Shakespeare, and Stage Combat. At week’s end, campers will present a showcase performance on the historic Scottish Rite Theater stage. For more information visit us at scottishritetheater.org/education.

Austin Tennis Academy

This summer, your child can take advantage of the Austin Tennis Academy’s tennis camps to progress at a rapid rate. Each camp is designed to provide the greatest development of your child’s technical skills, mental toughness, and tactical performance levels. We offer a morning tennis camp from 9-12 noon for beginner to intermediate level players, an afternoon camp from 1-4pm for advanced players, as well as an all day camp that includes morning tennis and afternoon off-site fun activities. For more information visit AustinTennisAcademy.com.

Austin Yacht Club Junior Sailing Camps

Junior Sailing Day Camp for ages 8 to 16 includes special activities on Lake Travis. Juniors will learn the fundamental skills aboard our fleet with a camper to counselor ratio of 1 to 4. Through a combination of classroom discussion, land activities, on the water drills, and games, our campers gain the skills necessary to become life-long sailors! For more information visit us at austinyachtclub.net/junior-sailing-day-camp.

Badgerdog

Austin writers lead three-week writing workshops for rising 3rd-12th-graders. These fun and creative workshops inspire and instruct young people in the crafts of poetry, fiction and nonfiction. All campers are published in a professional-quality anthology. Camp concludes with a reading and book-release party at the Austin Teen Book Festival. For more information visit us at austinlibrary.org/site/PageServer.

Ballet Austin

Imagine, Dance, Discover and Play at Ballet Austin this Summer! Broadway musicals, bugs, dancing elephants, enchanted forests and magical kingdoms are found in these summer’s camps for kids. For more information visit us at www.balletaustin.org.

BAM Academy Summer Camps

Parkour: BAM Academy Parkour Camp is a 5 day SUMMER camp in Austin where your kids get to experience our dynamic Parkour Space. Your kids will not only have fun but will also learn the safety behind getting over, down and up obstacles, with some acrobatic skills and awesome parkour games and challenges thrown in.

Light Saber: With our Lucas-certified Light Saber coach, we will teach you from making and brandishing your Light Saber to showing the ways of the force. Come to BAM Academy to learn Jedi fighting forms and choreography from the movies. This is a must do camp in Austin!

American Girl:  Pack your American Girl Doll and accessories and come to the fun-filled American Girl Doll Camps. Don’t have an American Girl Doll? Don’t worry! Any 18″ doll will do. These fun camps for 5-11 year olds will explore the experience of American girls from colonial times to the present through crafting, games, and theatre! We will be learning history through games, stories, crafts, and lots of cooking. Victorian tea party and demonstration on what they learned on Friday.

Harry Potter: Campers will be immersed in the fictional world of Harry Potter. They’ll start off by being sorted into one of four houses. During this magical week students will experience Potions Making, Potter Production, Charms, Muggle Magic, Care of Magical Creatures, Quidditch and plenty of games that will give them chances to earn points for their houses. Who will win the House Cup?

For information regarding location and dates visit www.thebamacademy.com.

Bear Creek Stables Summer Camps

Horseback riding program individualized for beginners, intermediate, or advanced riders. Swim camp includes lessons and is divided by swimming level. For more information visit us at bearcreekstables.com/camp/main.htm.

Bits, Bytes, & Bots Computer Adventures Summer Camps

Options include video game design, LEGO robotics and stop-motion and Minecraft. All camps are for ages 8-14, except LEGO WeDo Robotics (ages 6-7). For more information visit austintx.bitsbytesbots.com.

Boy Scouts

Cub and Boy Scouts learn new skills outside and indoors plus make lifelong friends at a full slate of day and overnight camps this summer. And starting this year, boys don’t have to be Scout members to join in the fun in the Summer STEM Discovery day camps. Kids explore how the world works and the science behind it, all while having fun. 13 different locations and times. For more information visit us at www.bsacac.org.

Brandy Perryman Shooting Camp

This basketball camp is run by former UT player Brandy Perryman, who will holds the team record for free-throw shooting! The camp is a four-day, shooting-intense session mirrored after the camps that Perryman attended as a child. All camps include 32 hours of instruction, with individualized drills and competitions. For more information visit us at bperrymanshootingcamp.com.

Bricks for Kids Summer Camps

Variety of 5-day and 4-day themed camps that provide educational play using LEGO bricks, ranging from crafts to stop-motion animation. For more information visit bricks4kidz.com/texas-roundrock-austin/camps.

Cameron Equestrian Center Horse Camp

Week-long camps for beginning, novice, intermediate and advanced riders. Children are assigned a horse to experience true training of ownership. Some gear not provided by the camp. For more information visit cameronequestrian.com.

Camp Balcones Springs

Camp Balcones Springs was founded on Christian principles and our goal is to change lives for the better through relationships, spiritual impact, and fun. We are redefining the camp experience for children ages 7 to 17 and have one of the highest counselor-to-camper ratios in the industry. With unique activities and traditions CBS is the perfect place for your camper to call home. For more information visit us at campiscool.com.

Camp Bluebonnet

Week-long day camp in Killeen, TX for those who have diabetes & siblings held at transportation provided from 3 Austin areas. Also offers a CIT Weekend. For more information visit childrensdiabetescamp.org/camp.

Camp Brave Heart

Free three-day camp that combines grief support with a recreational camp. Open to any child in the community who has lost someone in the past year. For more information visit us at hospiceaustin.org/about-hospice-austin/campbraveheart.

Camp Cedarbrook

Camp Cedarbrook Texas is a Christ-centered, Bible-based, outdoor program that provides a camping experience for girls and boys (separate camps). For more information visit us at cedarbrooktexas.com.

Camp Champions

Resident camp in Marble Falls with various lengths of stays of one week or more available. Activities in waterfront, sports, outdoors and fine arts. For more information visit us at campchampions.com.

Camp Doublecreek

Come catch the vision at Camp Doublecreek as we celebrate over 40 years of making memories and lifelong friendships. We offer activities that are creative and age appropriate, including: horseback riding, archery, swimming, arts & crafts, mini golf, gun safety, climbing wall and more. Free transportation is provided from 13 different pickup points from South Austin to Cedar Park. For more information visit us at campdoublecreek.com.

Camp Eagle

Christian camps that incorporate outdoor adventures. For more information visit us at campeagle.org.

Camp Fire Summer Camp

Camp Fire Summer Camp is 10 weeks of fun in nature! Each week of camp has a unique theme related to science and nature, with learning activities and field trips related to that theme. Camp Fire is all about getting kids more connected to the outdoors, and strengthening the bond between science and nature. Camp runs from 8am to 5pm Monday-Friday, with early drop-off and late pick-up available. Visit our website for information about weekly themes. For more information visit us at camp-fire.org.

Camp Huawni

Located in the Piney Woods of East Texas, Camp Huawni is family-owned/operated since 1965. Each child will experience that life is meaningful and so are its relationships. Our 3:1 camper-to-counselor ratio fosters deep relationships while having tons of summer fun. Fro more information visit us at www.summercamptexas.com.

Camp in Motion

The experience includes sports, friends and fun in an inclusive environment. Campers participate in individual and group activities with Dell Children’s pediatric physical and occupational therapists and YMCA program staff. For more information visit dellchildrens.net/camp-in-motion.

Camp Indigo

A week-long camp that promotes increased confidence, communication and respect for the self and others. Activities include music-making and gardening. For more information visit us at amalafoundation.org/youth-programs/camp-indigo.

Camp Invention

Children work in diverse teams to engage in investigations, experiments and engineering challenges. Week-long camps at various locations. For more information visit us at campinvention.org.

Camp Lantern Creek

An all-girls sleepaway camp to help each girl find their voice, discover her path, and learn new life skills. For more information visit us at camplanterncreek.com.

Camp Olympia

Traditional residential summer camp for girls and boys located on Lake Livingston. For more information visit us at campolympia.com.

Camp Rio Vista & Sierra Vista

Two separate camps with one purpose—to provide a safe, wholesome, fun-filled learning experience to every boy and girl. Our camps provide a safe, wholesome, fun-filled, learning camp experience to every boy and girl. Giving children a summer filled with excitement, adventure, and the great outdoors. Campers join us on our brother/sister campgrounds for a fun-filled summer and become part of our Vista Family. For more information visit us at vistacamps.com today!

Camp Stewart

Christian-oriented, non-denominational camp for boys that offers more than 60 activities, including archery, ecology, and horseback riding. For more information visit us at campstewart.com.

Camp Sweeny: Camp for Children with Diabetes

Three-week residential diabetic life skills training program. Campers learn to recognize and treat signs of dangerously high & low blood sugar levels. For more information visit us at campsweeney.org.

Camp Umlauf

Summer Camp at the UMLAUF offers an extraordinary art adventure in a natural oasis! Camps include: Building, Forming, Exploring 3D; Wonders of the Natural World, Drawing from Sculpture, Claymation, Stop Motion, Puppet making and more! All supplies included. For more information visit us at umlaufsculpture.org/summercamp.

Camp Wilderness Ridge

Camp Wilderness Ridge is a non-denominational, wilderness-oriented Christian leadership camp for young men located on 215 beautiful acres in the Lost Pines (45 minutes from Austin). For boys 7-17. For more information visit us at wildernessridge.com.

Capital School of Austin Summer Camp

For children identified as having speech, language, or learning differences. Camps grouped by language ability, academic level, social skills and age. For more information visit us at capitolschool.com/Programs/Summer%20Camp.htm.

Champions Westlake

Summer Camp at Champions Westlake is one of the most exciting things we do! Our Camps combine educational, theme-based adventures with our renowned gymnastics program. Campers get concentrated time with their favorite coaches in an action-packed environment full of creativity! Ages 2 through 14, we have a camp for you! For more information visit us at ChampionsWestlake.com.

Chaparral Ice

We offer summer day camps for the active, skating-loving camper! We have two options this summer: Camp Avalanche, with field trips and other fun, and Camp Des Champs, which helps your little skater reach their true skating potential through on- and off-ice training. See our Web site for full details. For more information visit us at chaparralice.com.

Charlotte’s Saddlery

Charlotte’s Saddlery offers “Everything for Riding – Except the Horse!” We are a Texas family-owned and operated business, providing clients with knowledgeable sales staff in the English and Western disciplines. We provide an array of equipment and tack needs. We specialize in outfitting young riders for their spring and summer camp equestrian camp experiences! For more information visit us at www.charlottes-saddlery.com.

Club Z Summer Camp

Provides a variety of activities, games and projects, as well as several field trips. For more information visit us at zsclubhouse.com.

The Contemporary Austin Art School

The Contemporary Austin Art School at beautiful Laguna Gloria provides almost 300 exceptional young artists’ classes June-August with art skills, vocabulary, cool materials, and projects to take home. For more information visit us at thecontemporaryaustin.org/artschool.

Cordovan Art School Camps

Half-day and full-day camps available in age groups 5-7, 8-12, and 13-16. Each week-long session has a different theme. Extended care hours offered. For more information visit us at cordovanartschool.com/round-rock.

Country Home Learning Center Summer Camp

Curriculum units are theme-based and include topics such as: Adventure Camp and The Lone Star State and may include field trips. For more information visit us at countryhomelearningcenter.com.

Courage Cheer & Dance United

Courage Cheer and Dance is committed to serving the athletes in Liberty Hill, Austin, and the surrounding areas. Whether it be cheerleading, dance, tumbling, or Parkour, our highly trained staff will work to instill your children with what can be used not only in their athletic endeavors, but throughout their lives. For more information visit us at www.couragecheer.com.

Creative Action summer Camps

Creative Action Summer Camps are among the most popular in Austin! That’s because our camps are not just fun; they also offer children, ages 5-14, our summer enrichment curriculum based on Creative Action’s 4C principles of creative youth development. We aspire for our campers to be Creative Artists, Courageous Allies, Critical Thinkers, and Confident Leaders. For more information visit us at creativeaction.org/programs/camps/summer-camps.

Creative Side Jewelry Academy: Young Metalsmiths Summer Camps

Creative Side Jewelry Academy, the top jewelry crafting and metalsmithing school in central Texas, is now offering week-long Summer Camps (ages 10-15). These camps will provide a safe and creative environment where teens have the opportunity to learn fundamental metalsmithing techniques using copper, brass and silver. The class is led by professional artist and educator. Under her guidance, students will increase fine motor skills while learning to make sculptural jewelry pieces. They will learn sawing, riveting, filing, hammering, drilling and finishing skills, and much more. Students will create multiple pieces throughout the week and be encouraged to develop their own design skills. For more information visit us at creativeside.org/classes/youth.

Curious Einstein

An academic enrichment camp. Weekly themes include Awesome Authors, Game Development, and Nature. for more information visit curiouseinstein.com.

Dance Discovery Summer Camp

Themed, four-day camps available for age groups vary by week. One-day camps for ages 11-16. For more information visit us at austin-dance.org.

Ester’s Follies School of Comedy

This summer, Esther’s Follies launches the Esther’s Follies School of Comedy. Starting in June, Austin’s longest-running comedy revue will be offering special summer camp sessions to kids 8-15. These week-long intensives, taught by the talented cast of Esther’s, will teach kids and teens the art of tomfoolery. Students will learn how to sing, dance, the fundamentals of sketch comedy and improv. For more information visit us at www.esthersfollies.com.

Extend-A-Care

All-day Licensed Child Care for children 3-12 years old: Extend-A-Care for Kids Summer Day Camp offers curriculum based on weekly themes from literature books our students read, and the curriculum offers children a constant source of new and interesting material and activities such as arts & crafts, cooking, painting, science, math and more! The children will attend two swim trips per week, one field trip each week, and participate in sports camps! For more information visit us at eackids.org.

Fantastic Magic Camp

Each day there will be a magic juggling and puppetry classes, and other activities that vary each session, such as balloon twisting and clown classes. For more information visit us at magiccamp.com.

FCA Leadership Camp

Led by Fellowship of Christian Athletes student leaders, provides sports and life leadership training and competition. For more information visit us at texasfcacamps.org.

Film and Media Camps- UT Austin Radio-Television-Film

Your kids will have a blast collaborating with other creative youth to make their own movies, write screenplays, animate drawings, develop music, or design video game environments while learning from some of the best media makers in Austin at UT’s Radio-Television-Film Department. For more information visit us at www.rtf.utexas.edu/camps.

Game Worlds Camp

Students don’t just learn what goes into a game, they create their own, and spend a week surrounded by counselors and students who share their passion. For more information visit us at gameworldscamp.com.

Girl Scouts

We are proud to offer multiple day and resident camps with a wide variety of programming and camping options. Campers may attend sessions that cater to their special interests, or try something completely new! Choose from making a movie, building a robot, exploring myths and legends, horseback riding, and much more. For more information visit us at www.gsctx.org.

Girls Empowerment Network

Girls Empowerment Network’s summer day camp, campGEN girls participate in fun, interactive workshops during weeklong sessions that are designed to help girls feel more confident as they navigate girlhood. Girls will gain new skills, new friendships, and a new sense of self! Aftercare available. For more information visit us at www.girlsempowermentnetwork.org.

Girls Rock Austin

A weeklong nonprofit camp dedicated to empowering girls and women of all backgrounds and abilities through musical education and performance. 3 sessions: June 9, July 21 and Aug. 4. For more information visit us at girlsrockaustin.org/girls-rock-camp.

Girlstart Summer Camp

Week-long STEM (science, technology, engineering & math) programs for girls. Split into Junior (entering 4th-5th) or Regular (entering 6th-8th) camps. For more information visit us at girlstart.org/our-programs/summer-camp.

Golf in Schools

Come join Golf in Schools for a fun week of learning golf in Austin and surrounding areas. Students receive in-depth training in golf swing fundamentals, rules, and etiquette of the game, as well as critical life skills teamwork, goal setting, and striving for the personal best. Our highly developed curriculum makes learning golf fun for every student. For more information visit us at www.golfinschoolsusa.com.

Heart O’ the Hills Summer Camp

A traditional summer camp for girls in which campers choose nine of approximately 50 class offerings in which to participate during their stay. For more information visit us at hohcamp.com.

Hideout Theatre

Hideout Theatre’s improv summer camps build communication and cooperation skills while showing campers a great time! Kids learn the basics of improv, storytelling, and stagecraft. They’ll play improv games, perform scenes, and do crafts. On the final day, campers perform in a showcase for friends and family. For more information visit us at www.hideouttheatre.com/summercamp.

Human Path

Forest Ninja Nature Camp. Wilderness Scout Camp. Camping 101. Bow-making and Woodlands Archery camp. These are just a few of the exciting outdoor nature themed camps that The Human Path offers, starting over spring break week and running through the summer in the Texas hill country. Sibling discounts available. For more information visit us at www.thehumanpath.com.

ID Tech Camps & ID Tech Academics

Weeklong summer programs where ages 7-17 create apps, C++ and Java programs, video games, robots, and more! Held at over 80 prestigious universities nationwide including St. Edward’s, Stanford, Princeton, and others. Also 2-week, pre-college summer programs for ages 13-18 at select universities: iD Programming Academy, iD Game Design & Development Academy, and iD Film Academy. For more information visit us at www.iDTech.com.

Iron Horse Country Ranch

Motorcycle riding camp – motorcycle, gear and training provided. Students can be picked up and dropped off at schools in North Austin and Georgetown. For more information visit us at www.ironhorsecountry.com.

iQuest Global Enrichment Center

Create, design, explore! From IQuest TV production to improv comedy and sports broadcasting, to African Safaris and Chinese, there is fun to be had at IQuest! Mentors and instructors inspire students to take risks, think independently, and discover new skills. For more information visit us at iquestaustin.com.

JCC Summer Camps

Camp Gan Kef for those with birthdays between 9/1/10, and 9/1/2013, and a variety of camp programs for students entering K-10th grades. For more information visit us at www.shalomaustin.org/camps.

Jump! Gymnastics

Jump! Gymnastics offers 1-week, half, full and extended day opportunities for children to explore their imaginations through theme-based curriculum featuring gymnastics, art exploration, interactive centers, social integration, dramatic play, yoga & music. For more information visit us at jump-austin.com.

Junior Summer Math Camp (1/2 Day)

The half-day Junior Summer Math Camp (JSMC) engages students in fun math activities, developing their foundational math skills with hands-on learning. Camps will be held in San Marcos and Round Rock. For more information visit us at txstate.edu/mathworks/camps/half-day-jsmc.html.

Junior Summer Math Camp

The Residential JSMC is an immersive summer program for middle school students who are excited about doing mathematics. The goal of the program is to develop young students into creative and critical thinkers. We nurture students’ interests and abilities to pursue higher-level math courses and degrees and careers in math, science, engineering, and many other fields. For more information visit us at txstate.edu/mathworks/camps/residential-jsmc.html.

Kids with Pens

Kids with Pens offers week-long creative writing camps led by published authors. Each day includes fun, innovative writing prompts and lessons on the fundamentals of storytelling. Campers craft stories, poems, and plays, all while learning splendiferous vocabulary words. All campers will be published on the Kids With Pens blog, allowing them to be published! For more information visit us at www.kidswithpens.com.

kidsActing

kidsActing offers a wide variety of popular summer camp options in 12 Austin area locations that give kids between the ages of 4 and 18 an opportunity to try musicals, comedy, improv, show choir, stage combat and more. They will have week-long classes and multi-week sessions that will culminate in a full production. There is something to channel the creativity in every child! For more information visit us at kidsactingstudio.com.

Kidstar Performing Arts Summer Camps

Children are immersed in dance and drama games, art, music, choreography and costuming as they build an original, child-centered musical. For more information visit us at creativedanceadventures.com/programs/kidstar-at-athena.

Learning Fun 101

Do you want your child to do something unique and absolutely cool this summer? How about having them learn how to build and design Robots using the LEGO bricks? Students will learn basic robotic, engineering and programming principals. Lots of fun and hands on learning. No experience needed! To register: http://www.learningfun101.com/event registration

Lones Star Hoops Youth Basketball Camp

Fundamental-based basketball developmental camp for boys & girls. The 4-day camp emphasizes five disciplines of the game. For more information visit us at lonestarhoops.com.

Lonestar Soccer

Half- and full-day camps are available to U5-U12 boys and girls of all skill levels at the eight Lonestar Soccer Club locations, from South Austin to Williamson County. A typical day will include skill-targeted drills, tactical practices, speed and agility training, and a World Cup tournament. For more information visit us at lonestar-sc.com.

Mad Science

Three-hour or six-hour camps offered at a variety of locations. Each week has a different theme and incorporates hands-on science activities. For more information visit us at austin.madscience.org.

Marmalade Skies

No more “Mom I’m bored days” when your young artists create with us!o. Each week’s activities are INSPIRED by a new theme! Daily we will explore fine arts with KidzArt Art Austin and Marmalade Skies amazing arts and crafts projects. Full and half-day camps. For more information visit us at marmaladeskiesaustin.com/camps/summer-camps.

Magellan International School Summer Camp

This summer, we welcome both Magellan and Austin Community families to our Spanish Immersion Summer Camp! From June 20 – July 22, children from Preschool age through 2nd grade (entering fall of 2016) can join us as we travel across the world! We are also delighted to offer a variety of learning opportunities for students heading into grades 3rd through 8th this summer through our camp partners. Whether your child needs time exercising his or her brain or body (or both!), there are opportunities galore. For more information visit us at magellanschool.org/magellan-community/summer-camp.

Math Works Honors Summer Math Camp

The Mathworks Honors Summer Math Camp (HSMC) is an intensive multi-summer program for high school students who are excited about doing mathematics– the goal of the program is to develop talented youth of all backgrounds by an immersive and in-depth experience in an unique learning environment. Students develop important skills for future degrees and careers in math, science, engineering, and many other fields. For more information visit us at txstate.edu/mathworks/camps/hsmc.html.

McKinney Roughs Nature Camp

Campers ages 5 to 12 explore the outdoors at beautiful McKinney Roughs Nature Park and learn about wilderness skills and native plants and animals. Older campers enjoy swimming, a challenge course and raft trips. Located just east of Austin, the camp offers full-day camp. Extended care and a convenient Austin shuttle are available. For more information visit us at lcra.org/naturecamp.

Moolah U Camp

Children create their own businesses and learn how money works. Held at 11 locations with a built-in flow of customers. Extended care hours available. For more information visit us at moolahu.com/camps.

Orpheus Academy of Music

Experience the joy of music making in small groups with experienced, friendly teachers. Students engage in many different activities which build rhythm, pitch, reading music and more. Students are broken into small groups by age and ability where they can build musical friendships and joyfully learn to communicate through the beauty of music. For more information visit www.orpheusacademy.com.

Outback Texas Adventure Camp

Activities include tubing, an overnight campout at Enchanted Rock, low and high ropes, caving, rock climbing and rappelling, and more. For more information visit us at newktennis.com/outback-texas-adventure-camp.php.

Paramount Performing Arts

Make lifelong memories at the Paramount and Stateside Theatres! We offer a variety of camps for kids from 4 years old to 12th grade. Half-day and full-day options, including acting, singing, dancing and even stand-up comedy. Camps culminate in either a performance or sharing on one of our historic stages. For more information visit us at www.austintheatre.org/family-education/summer-camps.

Patricia’s Table Culinary Camps

Expand your child’s mind and taste buds this summer with our deliciously fun week-long cooking camps. Our hands-on cooking camps combine culinary techniques, locally-grown foods, and fresh flavors as we create sweet and savory recipes from scratch. Younger chefs will focus on kitchen basics while older chefs will learn more advanced culinary techniques. Games, challenges, crafts and gardening will be incorporated to spice up each camp. Our professional team of culinary instructors and assistants will help create a memorable experience for your chef! Ages 3-teen. For more information visit us at patriciastable.com.

Rio Vista Farm Summer Camp

Horses, Horses, Horses. Our horse centered weekly camps include Daily English riding lessons, Daily horse care lessons and a Weekly camp Horse Show. Afternoon rides take place in our covered arena, with some afternoons scheduled as cool-off time in the swimming pool. Campers with prior riding experience work on building their skills, while those new to horses learn the basics of horsemanship taught by experienced, professional instructors. For more information visit riovistafarm.net/camp.

Rock Camp USA- Austin Music School

Young rockers can get a summer full of experience in one session at Rock Camp USA. Campers will record a CD in a studio, perform live at a real venue and receive a multi-tracked and professionally edited DVD of the show. Two sessions available. For more information visit us at rockcampusa.com.

Rocky River Ranch

Located in Wimberley, Rocky River Ranch has been operating as a private residential summer camp for girls since 1953, with a variety of session lengths. The perfect summer is waiting for your daughter at Rocky River — filled to the brim with new friendships, challenging activities and lots of fun! for more information visit us at rockyriverranch.com.

Round Rock Express Baseball Camps

The Round Rock Express baseball camps offer big-league quality instruction on the fundamentals of the game of baseball. Express baseball camps range in ages and offer opportunities for all skill levels. We pride ourselves on providing high-level baseball instruction from knowledgeable and experienced coaches. Express camps aim to develop the complete ballplayer by not only focusing on the physical skill sets, but leadership and mental skills as well. For more information visit us at www.roundrockexpress.com.

The Scholar Ship

The Scholar Ship is a science lab and toy store for kids ages 4-12. Our goal is to build on a child’s fascination with the unknown, using familiar, fun, hands-on activities to inspire them to think creatively about the world around them, and to lay a foundation for lifelong love of science, technology, engineering, and math. The Scholar Ship weekly camps will focus on a new area of science, working towards mastery of the subject by week’s end. Snacks, drinks and take-home kits are included in cost. For more information visit thescholarship.rocks/pages/camps.

School of Rock Austin Summer Camps

Performance Rock Camp’s The School of Rock is the nation’s premier performance-based music school. Whether you are already a Rock Star or have never picked up an instrument, we have a Summer Camp that is right for you! We offer Beginner Camps as well as Performance Camps featuring Classic Rock. We even have a special Heavy Metal camp for the shredders! For more information visit us at austin.schoolofrock.com.

Sherwood Forest Faire

Young Lords and Ladies spend a week unplugging from the modern world and learning about life in medieval times. They will learn things like leatherworking, blacksmithing, swordplay, theater, pottery and candle-making, plus they get to sleep in a castle! Three sessions this year, with only 80 campers per session. Sign up now! for more information visit us at sherwoodforestfaire.com.

Soccer Shots

Join Soccer Shots for a fun-filled week playing the world’s greatest game! Camp includes individual soccer skill development through creative and imaginative play, arts and crafts, and lots of fun! Half-day (3-5) and full-day (K-2nd; includes pool time) options available. For more information visit us at soccershots.org/austin.

Spanish Enrichment Camp

Offering fun summer Spanish Enrichment classes! In these classes children will acquire Spanish vocabulary, conversational and reading skills, and pronunciation through engaging and exciting activities. Daily lessons include: singing, movement, speaking, hands-on games, student-teacher interaction, and more! The program is divided into stimulating weekly units – students can join at any time and at any level! For more information visit spanishschool.wufoo.com/forms/agot-spanish.

Sportball

Sportball teaches the basics of Sports in a fun and creative way! o What a fantastic experience for a child! Available in full-day sessions as well as morning or afternoon half-day sessions. Sportball camps focus on the eight core Sportball sports including hockey, soccer, tennis, baseball, basketball, volleyball, golf and football as well as arts and crafts, snack time, stories, music, co-operative games and theme days. Camps are run indoors and outdoors, depending on the location and weather. For more information visit www.sportball.us.

St. Andrews

(May 31-June 24) Aspiring artists, athletes, scientists, and achievers ages 4–18 are invited to join the St. Andrew’s family for a summer of fun and friendship! Unicycling, zoology, architecture, and musical theatre are just a few of our popular camps. Younger campers can enjoy half- or full-day camps that blend games, sports, and creative activities. Read a complete camp list and register online at sasaustin.org/summer.

Stepping Stone School

Stepping Stone School is dedicated to preventing summer ‘brain drain’ with a wide variety of activities and themed summer sessions to keep children active and learning while having fun. Full S.T.E.A.M. Ahead units include Technology and Engineering. Program also features sports, the acclaimed Young Entrepreneurs & Philanthropists project, great field trips, chess and more. For more information visit us at steppingstoneschool.com.

Summer Spark

At Summer Spark day camps, located at Zilker Elementary in south central Austin, your children come alive as they engage in weekly creative problem solving challenges. With packed schedules, powerful media everywhere, and performance pressure on schools, we believe that a fundamental component of a strong foundation is missing in the lives of many children today.  The ability to tackle a problem with no set solution – to think creatively and flexibly, to struggle, fail, and try again, to test, revise and reiterate. At Summer Spark, we strive to fill this gap. We are all about physical experiments, purposeful tinkering, messy construction. Creativity Unplugged.  For more information visit us at www.summerspark.com.

Synergy Summer Dance Camps

Students will enjoy daily dance, arts, crafts, tumbling, games and theatre activities. Our camps are taught by professional, experience staff and divided up by age and experience. For more information visit www.synergydancestudio.com/summer-dance-camp.

TexArts Summer Camps

Select from half, full day, or mini camps in musical theater, acting, visual arts and more. Also offers musical-theater intensive camp for ages 7-18. For more information visit us at www.tex-arts.org/academy/summer-camps-2016.aspx.

Texas Ski Ranch

Camp TSR is locally owned and has been operating under the same owner for 13 years. At Camp TSR, kids and teens agees 5-16 can get into action sports including wakeboarding, surfing, and snowboarding with absolutely no experience required! It’s a smaller camp than most, with a cap of 30 campers each week. for more information visit us at www.campTSR.com.

Texas State Aquatics Sciences Adventures Camp

Aquatic Sciences Adventures Camp is offered in two formats. Eight, week-long resident camps and two,2-day non-resident camps are offered. All activities are supervised by faculty and staff members of Texas State University-San Marcos and by certified teachers. Enrollment is limited to 26 students per session, on a first-come first-served basis. For more information visit us at www.eardc.txstate.edu/camp.html.

The Thinkery/Austin Children’s Museum

Program a robot, solve a design challenge or make a messy masterpiece at the Thinkery, the new Austin Children’s Museum. Choose from a variety of innovative, collaborative camps that explore science, technology, engineering, art, math and more. Available during spring break and the summer. Learn more at thinkeryaustin.org/camps.

VentureLab

VentureLab is entrepreneurship education for kids. Our camps introduce students to entrepreneurship skills through specific technology topics such as video game design, maker skills, and more. Students learn what it means to extend their interests and passions outside the classroom as they solve real-world problems! Camps include Gamer, Maker, and Startup 101 and are available for children ages 5-13 (K-8). For more information visit venturelab.org/classes.

 

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