DaySchool Summer Academy | The DaySchool for Children

Welcome Explorers!

The 2026 Summer Academy at The DaySchool for Children in New Castle, Delaware offers families a premier Christian summer camp and academic enrichment program serving students throughout Northern Delaware. Conveniently located in New Castle, our Summer Academy welcomes families from Wilmington, Newark, Bear, Middletown, and surrounding Delaware communities seeking a structured, faith-based summer learning experience.

CAMP OVERVIEW

Location: The DaySchool for Children, 3071 New Castle Avenue, New Castle, DE 19720
Ages: Pre-K3 (Potty Trained) to 6th Grade
Total Campers: 50 Seats
Dates: Jun. 15- Aug. 7 (Closed Jun. 19 & Jul. 3)
Camp Hours: 7:30 AM to 3:00 PM
Pickup Hours (Free): 3:00 PM to 5:30 PM
After-Care (Charge): 5:30 PM to 6:00 PM

Scroll down to read all about our summer experience!

See Last Year's Highlights

The DaySchool Summer Academy is not a traditional summer camp. It is an academically focused Christian summer academy designed to prevent summer learning loss while nurturing spiritual growth and character development. Students participate in daily structured instruction in reading, writing, mathematics, and science, ensuring they remain academically engaged and prepared for the upcoming school year. Our program combines the consistency of a private school environment with the excitement and energy of summer camp.

This year's theme is Rainforest Explorers. Throughout the eight-week program, children explore God’s promises while learning about His creation, including rainforest ecosystems, animals, Earth science concepts, and stewardship. Each week integrates biblical truth with hands-on academic learning, helping students connect faith to real-world discovery. Our approach supports cognitive development, critical thinking, literacy growth, and problem-solving skills in a joyful and engaging setting.

Families searching for a Christian summer camp in New Castle, Wilmington, Newark, Bear, or Middletown will find that the DaySchool Summer Academy offers a safe, nurturing, and academically rigorous alternative to traditional camps. Small class sizes, experienced educators, and a structured daily schedule provide the consistency and care that families value.

If you are looking for a summer camp in Northern Delaware that blends faith, strong academics, and meaningful enrichment, the DaySchool Summer Academy in New Castle provides an exceptional experience for preschool and elementary students.

ABOUT THE 2026 DAYSCHOOL SUMMER ACADEMY

A Welcome from Our Camp Director

Welcome to the 2026 DaySchool Summer Academy. For over twenty-one years, our family-owned private school has been committed to providing strong academics within a Christ-centered environment. Our Summer Academy is a natural extension of that mission, continuing the excellence and care families trust during the school year.

Each week offers the perfect mix of God, academics, and fun, designed to help students grow spiritually, intellectually, and socially. Our family warmly welcomes you to the DaySchool Summer experience, and we look forward to an incredible summer together. If you have any questions regarding our camp registration & enrollment info, please contact me via email at: thedayschoolforchildren@gmail.com.

- Mrs.Genesis Dorsey Sims, Summer Camp Director

7:30 AM - Doors Open (Morning Drop-Off)

8:30 AM - Morning Chapel (Day Starts)

9:00 AM - Academics (Workshops - 9:30 AM - Additional Fee)

10:00 AM - Daily Activity/Craft

11:00 AM - Indoor/Outdoor Play (Clinics Begin - Additional Fee)

12:00 PM - Lunch

1:00 PM - Nap (For Younger Children)/Play for Older Children

3:00 PM - Parent Pickup Begins

5:30 PM - Camp Ends/After-Care Begins

6:00 PM - After-Care Ends/Doors Close

SWIM DAY (Walnut YMCA): Every Friday (All Children must be at school by 9:00 AM) - Bus Returns at 11:45 AM.
Registration Fee (Per Child): $150 (Paid Upfront)

Week 1 & 3: $150 Per Week (Closed June 19th & July 3rd)

Weeks 2,4-8: $165 Per Week

After-Care: $25 Per Week (5:30 PM to 6:00 PM)

Clinics: $35 Each (Per Child)

Workshops: $50 Per Week

One Day After-Care Charge: $10
Reading Readiness: $50 Per Week (Daily)

Our Reading Readiness Workshop is designed for children who are eager to begin their reading journey. This phonemic-based program builds a strong foundation in letter sounds, phonemic awareness, blending, and early decoding skills. Students participate in structured, small-group instruction that helps them develop confidence and readiness for independent reading. Through intentional practice and engaging activities, children strengthen the essential building blocks needed to become successful readers.

Reading Tutor Program: $50 Per Week (3 Times Per Week)

The Reading Tutor Program is designed for students who are already reading but need additional support to improve fluency, comprehension, and confidence. This focused intervention program provides targeted instruction to address reading gaps, strengthen decoding skills, and enhance understanding of grade-level text. With individualized attention and guided practice, students build stronger literacy skills and develop the confidence needed to grow as independent, capable readers.
Clinics are $35 per week (You can select your choices during registration & can always add on later)

Week 1 (June 15-19): Joyful Praise Dance

Week 2 (June 22-26): Sketch & Paint Masterclass

Week 3 (June 29-July 2): Mold & Paint Mosaics

Week 4 (July 6-10): Basketball for Boys & Girls

Week 5 (July 13-17): STEM: Engineering

Week 6 (July 20-24): Cheerleading

Week 7 (July 27-31): Bracelet Making Workshop (Boys & Girls)

Week 8 (Aug 3-7): Soccer for Boys & Girls
Summer Required Items (PLEASE LABEL ALL ITEMS)

Children are to bring a packed lunch with snacks to school in lunchbox or paper bag

Reusable Water Bottle/Canteen

Backpack or Tote (place lunch inside & any school work)

Sunscreen Lotion/Spray & Bug Spray (If Needed)

Younger Campers: Sleeping Bag

Younger Campers: Change of Clothing (In Case of Accident)

Summer Academy Dress Code is required of all summer students.

Tops: Collar Polo (Any Color, Pattern, Fabric) - Can be short sleeve, no sleeve, or long sleeve

Bottoms: Shorts, Pants, Jeans, Girls: Skirts Allowed (No Sweatpants or Short Shorts)

Shoes: Closed Toe Sneakers or Shoes (No Crocs, Flip Flops or Open Toe Shoes)

FRIDAY SWIM DAYS: Swim Clothing & Swim Shoes & Swim Towel (Girls: No Bikinis Allowed)

Children are to wear their swim clothing underneath their Summer Camp Clothing

We will change in the private locker room space (Boys & Girls Bathrooms)

Please Note: No Electronic Devices or Gaming Devices Allowed
Click the REGISTRATION BOX located on this page (or click here) & Enroll Your Child via DaySchool Brightwheel portal

Mrs.Genesis will personally call you after registration to finalize your Summer Camp Billing

You will receive Camp Summer Prep Pack via Brightwheel Parent Message Portal & Email

Prepare for Your First Day of Camp at The DaySchool!
Upon enrolling into the DaySchool portal, you will be asked to add a card or bank account on file for charges

We will send an invoice for each week of camp your child has enrolled in via Brightwheel Billing System

Payment must be paid in full for the week your child is attending before they walk into the door

Any family that drops their child off and has not submitted payment will be dismissed from our program

You will have the ability to pay for each week at a time or pay for as many weeks that you desire

Our Brightwheel portal will create an automatic tax statement on January 31st of the next year for your 2027 Tax Needs
What ages can attend the Summer Academy?

The DaySchool Summer Academy serves preschool through elementary students. Programs are developmentally structured to meet the needs of each age group. Younger children must be potty trained.

Do you provide sibling or additional children discounts? Do you discount days missed due to family trips?

We do not provide any discounts at this time.

Is this a traditional summer camp?

The Summer Academy is a structured academic enrichment program with camp-style elements. Students participate in daily academic instruction in reading, writing, math, and science in addition to themed activities and enrichment.

What should my child bring each day?

Students should bring a packed lunch, snacks, a labeled water bottle, and appropriate outdoor clothing. Additional information regarding swim days and specialty activities will be provided prior to the start of each session.

Are swim activities included?

Swim days are scheduled on Friday Morning as part of the Summer Academy experience and are supervised by certified YMCA lifeguards. Students must follow all swim safety guidelines. Parents are not allowed to join our swim trips. We contract a private bus that transports all students and staff to the Walnut YMCA and back to camp by 11:45 AM. We have lunch immediately after and continue our day.

Can my child attend selected weeks only?

Families may register for individual weeks based on availability. Weekly enrollment options allow flexibility for summer schedules.

How does the program support academic growth?

Daily structured instruction reinforces core academic skills while incorporating hands-on learning and thematic exploration. Our goal is to prevent summer learning loss while strengthening confidence and readiness for the upcoming school year. Children are placed in a classroom during Academics based on their academic level. We offer 3-4 classrooms each summer.

What do you use for parent communication?

We use Brightwheel for all Summer Academy parent communication, billing, and registration. This helps us to keep all things in one location. After speaking with Mrs.Genesis, you will receive welcome videos to walk you through how to use the Brightwheel App to access Pick-Up Pin Codes (for afternoon) and billing on-the-go. We also use Brightwheel to send photos, videos, incident reports, and more.

DaySchool Summer Academy Overview

Our summer camp is designed to provide children from Pre-K3 through 6th grade with an unforgettable blend of faith, academics, and fun. Through daily worship, engaging Bible lessons, and a faith-based curriculum, campers will grow in their understanding of God while enjoying a structured and exciting camp environment.

Located conveniently in New Castle, DE, our summer academy offers easy access for families across Wilmington and Bear, DE, ensuring that every child can embark on a summer journey filled with spiritual growth and academic enrichment. With a strong emphasis on developing a deeper connection with God, our morning worship sessions, weekly Bible reviews, and Scripture-based learning are integral parts of our daily routine.

But that's not all! We believe in providing a holistic summer experience. From sports to music, arts to dance, STEM to cooking – each day is packed with exciting activities that encourage creativity and discovery. And let's not forget our weekly swimming lessons every Friday, where children not only learn valuable water skills but also build confidence and resilience. We also offer specialty clinics that can be added to your child's registration, ranging from cheerleading to robotics to learning painting like Monet!

Summer Academy Schedule

Morning Schedule

7:30 AM – Doors Open for Drop-Off
8:00 AM – Free Play
8:30 AM – Bible Adventure (Armor of God)
9:00 AM – Academic Enrichment
10:00 AM – Workshops
10:30 AM – Daily Themed Activity (Arts & Crafts, Dance, Sports, Music, Movies, Cooking, ect.)
11:00 AM – Speciality Clinics (for those enrolled)

Afternoon Schedule

12:15 PM – Lunch
1:30 PM – Younger Children: Rest Period
1:45 PM – Older Children: Game Time or Tech Time
3:00 PM – Parent Pick-Up Begins (Free Play/Outside Play)
5:30 PM – After-Care ($25 per week)
6:00 PM – Academy Closed

Camp Schedule & Clinics, and Cost

Read below to see our weekly camp schedule, clinics (additional cost), and Registration Costs.

Week 1: June 16–20 (CAMP CLOSED JUNE 19TH)

Lesson - "The Armor of God Introduction"
Clinic: Praise Dancing in Motion ($35 Per Child) - Dance is a beautiful way to worship God! In this clinic, children will learn how to express their faith through praise dance, movement, and creative choreography. They will explore how dance has been used throughout history as a way to glorify God and share His message with others.

Week 2: June 23–27

Lesson - "The Belt of Truth"
Clinic: Paint Like Monet ($35 Per Child) - This hands-on art class introduces young artists to Claude Monet and the Impressionist movement. Campers will experiment with color, light, and texture to create their own Impressionist-style masterpieces. They will learn that just as Monet saw the beauty in the world, God has given us the ability to create and appreciate beauty around us.

Week 3: June 30 - July 4 (CAMP CLOSED JULY 4TH)

Lesson - "The Breastplate of Righteousness"
Clinic: Sculpting & Painting ($35 Per Child) - Students will get their hands messy as they explore the world of three-dimensional art! This clinic introduces techniques for sculpting, molding, and painting to create unique works of art. Through this creative process, campers will learn how God, as the Master Artist, has fearfully and wonderfully made each of us.

Week 4: July 7th – July 11th

Lesson - "The Shoes of Peace"
Clinic: Boys & Girls Basketball ($35 Per Child) - More than just a game—basketball teaches discipline, teamwork, and perseverance! Campers will focus on fundamental skills such as dribbling, passing, defense, and shooting. Most importantly, they will learn how to play with integrity, respect, and good sportsmanship—showing the character of Christ on and off the court.

Week 5: July 14th – July 18th

Lesson - "The Shield of Faith"
Clinic: Cheerleading Champs ($35 Per Child) - Cheerleading is about spreading joy, encouragement, and energy! This clinic will teach proper cheer techniques, jumps, and routines while also emphasizing confidence, teamwork, and leadership. Just as cheerleaders uplift their team, we are called to encourage others in faith.

Week 6: July 21st – July 25th

Lesson - "The Helmet of Salvation"
Clinic: STEM: Engineering ($35 Per Child) - Future engineers, this one’s for you! In this interactive STEM clinic, campers will design, build, and test fun projects such as bridges, simple machines, and roller coasters. They will also learn how science and faith go hand in hand—God is the greatest engineer of all!

Week 7: July 28th – August 1st

Lesson - "The Sword of the Spirit"
Clinic: Soccer 101 ($35 Per Child) - Soccer is one of the most beloved sports worldwide! This clinic will cover basic footwork, passing, defense, and game strategies. Campers will also develop teamwork and perseverance skills, learning how to work together toward a common goal—just like in our faith journey.

Week 8: August 4 – August 8th

Lesson - "Kingdom Keepers Celebration Week"
Clinic: Master Crafter ($35 Per Child) - Creativity will shine during our Kid’s Crafting Week! Campers will roll up their sleeves and dive into exciting hands-on projects designed to showcase their artistic talents. During the week, children will design their own colorful tie-dye shirts and custom-decorate backpacks that they can proudly use for school or adventures beyond summer.

Registration (Non-Refundable): $125 Per Child

Weekly Camp Rate: $165 Per Child | Week 1 & 3 Discount Cost: $150

Clinics: $35 Per Week (Optional Add-On)

After-Care: $25 Per Week (5:30 PM to 6:00 PM) - Please note: Any pickup after 6 PM will incur a $25 additional fee for that day

Drop-In Rates: Regular Day Drop-In: $40.00/day & Swimming Day (Fridays) Drop-In: $50.00/day

Please note that Drop-In Students still REQUIRE registration

Please note that food is not included and parents provide snacks and lunches. Please read our FAQ's tab for more information.
Daily Attire

Top: Solid color polos (any color) – Sleeveless polos are allowed for girls

Bottom: Shorts, khakis, or jeans (Girls may also wear skirts & skorts). No clothing with holes and rips are allowed.

Shoes: Sneakers or closed-toe shoes (No open-toed shoes or sandals except for swim days)

Friday Swim Attire

Campers should arrive at school wearing their swimwear underneath their camp clothing to ensure a smooth transition for pool time. Campers will change at the pool’s bathrooms before entering the water.

Girls: One-piece or modest tankini swimsuits

Boys: Swim trunks
At DaySchool Summer Academy, we believe that swimming is not just a recreational skill but a life-saving ability. That’s why all campers participate in swimming lessons at an indoor swimming facility, included in the camp tuition.

Transportation: The school provides bus transportation to and from the pool.

Water Safety: All children will learn basic water survival skills, such as:

Swim, Float, Swim – Learning how to glide, roll, float, and safely exit the pool.

Jump, Push, Turn, Grab – Teaching rudimentary swimming skills, rhythmic breathing, and fundamental strokes.

Advanced swimmers will refine their technique and participate in free swim sessions under lifeguard supervision.

Life Vests: Required for all students and provided at the pool.
Q: What is included in the Kingdom Keepers experience?
A: So much is included in their experience! They will experience:

Daily morning worship and chapel

Weekly Bible lessons on each piece of the Armor of God

Special arts and crafts projects

Swimming lessons (Fridays)

Weekly themed activities

Academic enrichment (no extra cost)

Q: Is lunch provided?
A: No. Parents must provide lunch for their child daily. We ask that you pack a cold lunch (such as sandwiches, fruits, veggies, yogurt, etc.) that does not require heating. Please also pack two snacks (one for the morning and one for the afternoon) and a water bottle.

Q: What supplies does my child need to bring?
A: Items to have for Summer Academy Experience:

Backpack (labeled)

Lunchbox with cold lunch

Two snacks and water bottle (Morning Snack & Afternoon Snack)

Swimwear on Fridays (plus a towel)

Nap supplies for younger students (sleeping bag or cot with sheet set)

Please make sure all items are clearly labeled with your child's name.

Q: How do I communicate with my child’s teachers or get updates?
A: You will be added to our School Communication App 48 hours before your child's first day. Through the app, you can receive daily updates, messages, and important reminders from the DaySchool staff.

Q: What happens if my child has already mastered swimming?
A: Students who are proficient swimmers will have supervised free swim time at the pool, while still practicing important water safety skills under the guidance of certified swim instructors and lifeguards.

Q: How do I handle payments and registration?
A: Registration Steps & Information:

Step 1: Submit Registration Fee of $100 Online via our Summer Academy Form

Step 2: Mrs.Genesis will create your child's online profile and your account will be billed according to the first week of camp that you have signed up for as well as any additional add-ons (clinic, aftercare, ect.). Please note: We bill weekly.

Step 3: Add a billing method to your online account and ensure payment is completed before your child's upcoming week of camp.

Unpaid campers will not be allowed to attend—no exceptions.

For assistance with payments or registration questions, please contact Mrs. Genesis Sims, Director of Admissions at thedayschoolforchildren@gmail.com or directly via text/phone: (302) 763-6639.

Q: Will my child still be learning during the summer?
A: Absolutely! At DaySchool, academics are a daily priority. Children will continue working on skills in Reading, Writing, and Mathematics to stay sharp and avoid summer learning loss. DaySchool students will also work on their assigned Summer Packets as part of their academic time.

Have Questions? Reach Out!

Hello! My name is Mrs.Genesis Sims and I am so excited to partner with you as we prepare for an incredible summer at DaySchool Summer Academy and Toddler Summer School! As the Director of Admissions, it is my joy to personally walk each family through the registration process, billing questions, and everything you need to get your child ready for a successful summer. If you have any questions at all—whether it’s about registration, payments, camp details, or just to say hello—please don’t hesitate to reach out directly to me. I am here to make sure your journey into summer camp is smooth, clear, and stress-free.

You can reach me:
📧 Email: thedayschoolforchildren@gmail.com
📞 Phone/Text: (302) 763-6639

Live Chat: Feel free to message us using our "Let's Chat" feature here on the website. If I'm not available instantly, I will reach out to you via email or phone.

Whether you prefer a phone call, a quick text, or an email, I am available to help and happy to assist you personally. At DaySchool, you’re not just registering for camp—you’re joining a community, and we’re so grateful to have you as part of our family. I look forward to hearing from you and getting your child all set for an amazing summer of faith, learning, and fun! - Mrs.Genesis Sims, Director of Admissions

TIME TO REGISTER

SIGN ME UP!

Ready to Register for Kingdom Keepers?
We’re thrilled to welcome your child to the 2025 DaySchool Summer Academy – Kingdom Keepers: The Armor of God!
Here’s what to do next:
1️⃣ Click the button below to submit your child’s registration packet and waiver forms.
2️⃣ Once we receive your submission, you will be billed the registration fee directly in your child’s Brightwheel account.
3️⃣ After your forms are submitted, Mrs. Genesis will personally contact you to confirm your child’s summer schedule and set up your billing plan based on your registration details.

💳 Billing Details:

Weekly camp fees will be auto-charged every Friday before each week of camp.
All payments must be made within your child’s Brightwheel account.

📲 Important Reminder:
All parent communication, billing updates, and staff communication will be handled through our Brightwheel system, so please make sure your account is active and updated.
We can’t wait to create an unforgettable summer experience for your child! Let’s get started — click below to register!