Summer camp is more than just a place for kids to run, play, and make new friends—it’s a place where they discover who they are, connect with their community, and build values that last a lifetime.
For Jewish families, choosing the right camp means finding a place that not only offers fun and adventure but also aligns with their family’s traditions, values, and level of observance. With options ranging from Reform to Orthodox, specialty camps, and pluralistic programs, the choices can feel overwhelming.
So how do you find the perfect Jewish camp for your child?
Here are a few key things to consider:
1. What Kind of Jewish Experience Are You Looking For?
Jewish camps come in all shapes and sizes! Some focus on Hebrew immersion, while others emphasize Jewish culture, values, or a deep connection to Israel. Ask yourself:
- Do I want a camp affiliated with a specific movement (Reform, Conservative, Orthodox, etc.)?
- How much Jewish learning and practice do I want incorporated into my child’s summer?
- Do I want a camp with Shabbat and Kosher observance, or one with a more flexible approach?
- Is a connection to Israel important to my family?
At Sprout Westchester, we embrace a pluralistic approach—meaning that every camper, regardless of background or observance, is welcome. We focus on joyful Judaism, where kids explore Jewish values in a fun and engaging way, whether through song, storytelling, nature, or hands-on experiences.
2. Jewish Values in Action
A great Jewish camp doesn’t just talk about values—it lives them! Look for a camp that weaves Jewish principles into daily activities.
At Sprout Westchester, we bring Jewish values to life by:
🌎 Emphasizing Tikkun Olam (repairing the world) through our farm-to-table program, where campers learn about sustainability, food justice, and giving back to their communities.
🎶 Infusing camp life with Jewish music and traditions, from morning assemblies filled with Hebrew songs to weekly Kabbalat Shabbat celebrations that bring our community together.
💙 Creating a supportive, inclusive environment where campers learn the importance of kindness, respect, and responsibility.
No matter what type of Jewish experience you're looking for, a good camp should make Jewish values feel natural and meaningful to campers.
3. A Safe & Inclusive Community
Jewish camp should feel like a home away from home—a place where every child belongs.
- Look for a camp that is open and welcoming to all Jewish backgrounds.
- Ask about how the camp supports different learning styles and abilities.
- Find out if the camp encourages Jewish exploration, allowing campers to discover and celebrate Judaism in their own way.
At Sprout Westchester, we are proud to be a community that celebrates the diversity of Jewish life. Whether a camper comes from a Reform, Conservative, Orthodox, interfaith, or unaffiliated background, they will find a warm and welcoming environment to explore their Jewish identity in a way that feels meaningful to them.
4. All the Classic Camp Fun!
While the Jewish experience is a big part of choosing the right camp, don’t forget to check out the camp’s activities!
A great camp should offer a balance of adventure, creativity, and learning, with a mix of:
✅ Outdoor fun – swimming, sports, hiking, and adventure courses
✅ Creative activities – art, music, dance, drama, and ceramics
✅ STEM & hands-on learning – nature programs, cooking, and farm-to-table experiences
✅ Special events – camp-wide celebrations, color war, and dress-up days
At Sprout Westchester, campers swim, explore nature, cook, create, and make lifelong friends—all while embracing their Jewish identity in a fun, meaningful way.
5. Logistics: Location, Safety & More
Before deciding, consider the practical elements of camp:
🚍 Transportation – Does the camp offer busing from your area?
🍽️ Meals – If Kosher is important to your family, does the camp offer Kosher food?
👩🏫 Staffing – What is the camper-to-counselor ratio? Are staff trained in child development and first aid?
🏡 Facilities – Does the camp have modern, safe, and age-appropriate facilities?
At Sprout Westchester, we offer:
✨ Safe and reliable transportation throughout Westchester and Riverdale
✨ A Kosher, and nutritious lunch served daily
✨ Low camper-to-staff ratios for individualized attention
✨ A beautiful, well-maintained campus designed for kids!
Find the Right Fit for Your Family!
At the end of the day, the best Jewish camp is the one that feels right for your child and your family. Whether you’re looking for a deeply immersive Jewish experience or simply a fun and welcoming place with Jewish values at its core, there’s a perfect camp out there for everyone!
If you’re looking for a camp that blends adventure, values, and community, we’d love to welcome your family to Sprout Westchester!
📧 Want to learn more? Schedule a private tour (on-site or virtual!) by emailing Dena@sproutwestchester.org.
