As the school year winds down, Upper West Side families are thinking about one big question: How can we make this summer unforgettable for our kids? With a growing demand for enriching, active, and flexible summer programs, local parents are looking for options that blend fun, learning, and movement.
The Rise of Adventure-Based Summer Programs
More than ever, families want summer experiences that go beyond traditional camp activities. They’re seeking programs that challenge their children physically and mentally, fostering confidence and resilience while keeping them engaged. Two standout options this summer are Camp Cocoon and Parkour Adventure Summer Camp, each offering a unique take on fun and development.
Camp Cocoon: A Summer of Discovery
Camp Cocoon is designed to give kids a well-rounded summer experience, combining creative expression, physical activity, and social connection. With weekly themes like space exploration and Olympic Games, plus engaging activities like art, theater, yoga, and soccer, every child can find something they love. What sets Camp Cocoon apart is its low camper-to-counselor ratio, ensuring personalized attention and a supportive environment. Plus, to keep campers fueled and energized throughout the day, Camp Cocoon provides a healthy lunch and snacks, so parents can rest easy knowing their children are well-nourished while having fun.
Camp Cocoon welcomes children ages 3 to 8, creating a safe and engaging environment tailored to their developmental needs. One of the most exciting additions this year? Weekly parkour sessions in partnership with The Movement Creative. This dynamic, skill-building activity helps campers gain confidence, strength, and coordination while navigating fun obstacles in a safe and structured way.
The Movement Creative: Parkour-Focused Summer Fun
For families looking for an outdoor, movement-first camp experience, The Movement Creative offers a specialized parkour summer program for ages 6 to 13, where kids learn to climb, jump, and balance with expert coaches. Parkour builds on the natural movement patterns that emerge as children develop and supports problem-solving, perseverance, and risk assessment through safe, fun, and challenging skills, exploration, and games. Movement Creative coaches foster a culture of teamwork and collaboration and children will come away with a new resilience and confidence. The unique blend of outdoor training in Central Park and indoor sessions at Cocoon, will allow kids to experience a variety of movement challenges in different environments.
A Summer for Every Stage
Not every family is ready for camp just yet, and Cocoon offers an alternative for those with younger children. Families with babies are joining Cocoon as Caterpillar members, gaining access to a beautiful indoor play space, parent-and-me classes, and a warm, welcoming community. This membership is perfect for little ones who aren’t quite old enough for camp but still need engaging summer activities in a structured environment.
For families looking for a more flexible summer experience, Cocoon also offers Summer Memberships, allowing access to Cocoon’s space and programs on a weekly or monthly basis. Plus, all Cocoon members receive 15% off all Cocoon camps—both day and summer camps—making it a great option for families who want to mix and match their summer plans.
Finding the Right Fit
Upper West Side families have no shortage of great options this summer. Whether parents are looking for a diverse mix of activities at Camp Cocoon, an intensive movement experience at The Movement Creative, or a cozy community space for their little ones, these programs highlight the best of what’s available for kids in NYC.
With summer spots filling up fast, now is the time to explore these options and lock in plans for an unforgettable season of fun, growth, and adventure!
You can learn more about Camp Cocoon – HERE and Movement Creative Parkour Program – HERE
