52 Results
-
FUNdamentals: Amazing Animals! (Gr. 1-2)Lower School Academic Specialty Camp Summer 26 CatalogWe would like to invite your child to FUNdamentals: Amazing Animals, designed specifically for students in Grades 1 and 2. During this two-week session, students will explore the fascinating world of animals from around the globe, with a focus on animal habitats, adaptations, life cycles, and the unique characteristics that help animals survive and thrive in their environments. Each class session will thoughtfully integrate reading, writing, and math activities into the study of animals. Much of the learning will take place through hands-on experiences, demonstrations, and the use of manipulatives. Students can look forward to comparing animal traits, exploring food chains and ecosystems, creating animal models, analyzing data, and engaging in creative projects that bring animal science to life. This theme also allows for special opportunities throughout the session, including visits from animal experts or a local field experience to an animal sanctuary or vivarium, further bringing learning to life in meaningful and memorable ways. We are excited about the time we will spend with your child and look forward to a fun, engaging, and productive two weeks of learning. Need a full-day schedule? During select weeks, FUNdamentals may be paired with Camp Torreys PM Session (12:00–3:00 p.m.) to create a well-balanced day of learning and summer fun. Lunch coverage (11:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.) is available for students enrolled in both programs.Summer 2026 -
FUNdamentals: Pyramids, Pharaohs, and Mummies—Oh My! (Gr. 3-4)Lower School Academic Specialty Camp Summer 26 CatalogWe would like to invite your child to Summer FUNdamentals: Pyramids, Pharaohs, and Mummies—Oh My!, designed specifically for Grade 3 and 4 students. Our focus for the next 2 weeks will be Ancient Egypt, with an emphasis on the study of pharaohs, gods/goddesses, pyramids, hieroglyphs, and daily life on the Nile. Each class session will incorporate reading, writing and math activities into the study of Egypt, with much of the instruction and research in the form of demonstration and/or use of manipulatives. Your child can look forward to deciphering hieroglyphs, measuring in cubits, building a sledge, and creating a model of the Nile River as it would have appeared 5,000 years ago. We are excited about the time we will spend with your child and look forward to a productive 2 weeks. Need a full-day schedule? During select weeks, FUNdamentals may be paired with Camp Torreys PM Session (12:00–3:00 p.m.) to create a well-balanced day of learning and summer fun. Lunch coverage (11:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.) is available for students enrolled in both programs.Summer 2026 -
Kindergarten Camp Summer 26 CatalogReady, Set, Go, Kindergarten and Camp Torrey Kindergarten Designed especially for incoming LJCDS kindergarten students, Ready, Set, Go, Kindergarten and Camp Torrey Kindergarten provide a joyful, confidence-building introduction to campus life before the school year begins. Through hands-on learning, play-based exploration, structured routines, and outdoor fun, students build independence, friendships, and familiarity with daily kindergarten rhythms. This program is only available to students enrolled at LJCDS in fall 2025. Each day blends engaging classroom activities with creative play and movement in a nurturing, supportive environment led by our experienced kindergarten team. What to Bring Students should bring: Morning and afternoon snacks A non-perishable, nut-free lunch A change of clothes A reusable water bottle Arrival & Dismissal Morning Sessions Drop-off occurs in the parking lot off of Eastgate Mall Road. A kindergarten staff member is in the parking lot and walks your child to their classroom. Pickup is on the kindergarten playground, accessible from the parking lot off of Eastgate Mall Road. Eastgate Mall Gate Hours: Open: 7:30–8:00 a.m. Open: 11:00–12:00 p.m. Afternoon Sessions Drop-off and pickup take place in the Genesee parking lot. A kindergarten staff member is in the parking lot and walks your child to and from their classroom. Genesee Avenue Gate Hours: Open: 7:30 a.m.- 4:30 p.m. Extended Day (Optional, Fee-Based) Available 3:00–4:30 p.m. (Monday–Thursday) and 3:00–4:00 p.m. (Friday) $15 per hour (billed monthly) Extended Day pickup takes place on the Lower School playground via the Genesee parking lot at 9490 Genesee Avenue, La Jolla, CA 92037. Extended Day is not available during select shortened weeks. Please review weekly dates carefully. June 8–12 (No Extended Day this week) June 15-18 (Closed June 19) June 22–26 June 29–July 1 (No extended day July 1) July 6-10 July 13–17 July 20–24 July 27-31 (No Extended Day on July 31) Kindergarten students may create a full-day experience by enrolling in a morning Kindergarten: Ready, Set, Go! program and pairing it with a Kindergarten PM Camp Torrey program. Afternoon Kindergarten programs are designed specifically for Kindergarten students and are separate from Camp Torreys for Grades 1–4.Category -
Kindergarten PM Camp TorreyKindergarten Camp Summer 26 CatalogKindergarten PM – Camp Torreys Kindergarten PM Camp Torreys is an afternoon enrichment program designed specifically for Kindergarten students. This on-campus program provides a relaxed, engaging extension to the day through hands-on activities, creative play, outdoor movement, and social time with peers. The afternoon experience supports Kindergarten-aged learners with developmentally appropriate activities that encourage cooperation, creativity, and confidence. Campers participate in games, crafts, and guided play in a nurturing environment led by LJCDS staff. Kindergarten PM Camp Torreys pairs well with morning Kindergarten: Ready, Set, Go! programs for families seeking a full-day Kindergarten experience. This program is separate from Camp Torreys for Grades 1–4 and is tailored exclusively for Kindergarten students. Families enrolling in both a morning Kindergarten program and Kindergarten PM Camp Torreys will have a supervised transition between programs.Summer 2026 -
Kindergarten: Ready, Set, Go! – California Camping AdventureKindergarten Camp Summer 26 CatalogThis program is available to students enrolled at LJCDS in fall 2026 only. Nature is calling! Get ready for Kindergarten through a camping adventure. Through animal stories, hands-on activities, movement, and sensory play, students explore California’s forests to coasts from woodland animals to ocean life. Each week brings a new adventure! This two-week thematic program helps students build confidence, make new friends, and become comfortable with Kindergarten routines at LJCDS. July 6-July 10 & July 13-17 8:00 a.m.–11:00 a.m. Led by LJCDS Kindergarten Educator Ashley NolandSummer 2026 -
Kindergarten: Ready, Set, Go! – Jurassic CampKindergarten Camp Summer 26 CatalogThis program is available to students enrolled at LJCDS in fall 2026 only. ROOOOOAR! Get ready for two weeks filled with all things prehistoric. Campers learn about the creatures who once roamed the earth, including what they looked like and what their surroundings may have been. Students participate in art, math, and literacy activities that reinforce kindergarten-readiness skills. Physical education is provided daily, as well as outside play. July 20–24 & July 27-31 8:00 a.m.–11:00 a.m. Led by LJCDS Kindergarten Educator Lauren GiesemannSummer 2026 -
Kindergarten: Ready, Set, Go! – Pokemon Trainer AcademyKindergarten Camp Summer 26 CatalogThis program is available to students enrolled at LJCDS in fall 2026 only. Jump into a fun 3-day camp where students will get ready for Kindergarten and learn about the 3 original Pokémon! Students will explore Pokémon facts, create crafts, and enjoy exciting surprises each day. It’s a safe, imaginative adventure full of fun. Just like being a real Pokémon Trainer! June 30-July 1 8:00 a.m.–11:00 a.m. Led by LJCDS Kindergarten Assistant Educator Elaine GainSummer 2026 -
Kindergarten: Ready, Set, Go! – Things with WingsKindergarten Camp Summer 26 CatalogThis program is available to students enrolled at LJCDS in fall 2026 only. Get ready for Kindergarten. Through rich literature, hands-on art projects, songs and games, students explore a variety of things with wings—from bugs to birds to airplanes. Each day is a new surprise! This two-week thematic program, which includes PE, snacks and recess, allows students to meet new friends and become accustomed to kindergarten routines at LJCDS. June 15–18 (LJCDS is closed June 19) & June 22-26 8:00 a.m.–11:00 a.m. Led by LJCDS Kindergarten Educator Laura ToniniSummer 2026 -
Kindergarten: Ready, Set, Go! – Under the SeaKindergarten Camp Summer 26 CatalogThis program is available to students enrolled at LJCDS in fall 2026 only. Get ready for Kindergarten. Through rich literature, hands-on art projects, songs and games, students explore a variety of things with wings—from bugs to birds to airplanes. Each day is a new surprise! This two-week thematic program, which includes PE, snacks and recess, allows students to meet new friends and become accustomed to kindergarten routines at LJCDS. July 20–24 & July 27-31 Afternoon Only 12:00 p.m.–3:00 p.m. Led by LJCDS Kindergarten Assistant Educator Elaine GainSummer 2026 -
Lower SchoolExtended Day ChildcareThe Extended Day program provides daily, fee-based childcare for students in Tiny Torreys through Grade 4. Grades 5–6 students are supervised at no cost.Students in Tiny Torreys and Jr. Kindergarten spend their afternoons in the Early Childhood Center (ECC), while kindergarteners and 1st graders will stay comfortable in ther familiar kindergarten area. Students in Grades 2–4 split their time between the Lower School playground and the Lower school classroom 7. An afternoon snack is provided. Extended Day is available for: -ECC from 3 to 5:30 p.m.-K–Grade 4 from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m.-Grades 5–6 from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. (Free of charge, no registration required)When registering, families have the option to pick their days or sign up for a consistent schedule. Drop-ins are welcome, however, we kindly request a 24-hour notice to help us plan the most engaging program possible. You can add a Drop-in day on the ARUX portal. Fees$18/hourOne-hour minimumSecond hour billed in 15-minute increments Pick Up: ECC families park in the Genesee lot and walk to the ECC area to check out their child. K-1st grade families park in the Genesee lot and walk to the Kindergarten area to check out their child. 2nd-4th grade families park in the Genesee lot and walk to the LS playground or LS 7 to check out their child. All families must check their student out with a staff member.School Year 2025-2026 Extended Day Childcare Site -
Lower School Academic Specialty Camp Summer 26 CatalogFUN-dementals-Lower School Specialty Academic Camp Designed to support a confident and joyful transition into the upcoming school year, our Lower School Specialty Academic Camps combine skill-building with hands-on exploration and connection. Led by LJCDS Lower School teachers, these engaging two-week camps keep academic skills fresh while fostering curiosity, creativity, and friendship. Session: July 20–31 (2 weeks) 8:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. Students entering Grades 1 and 2 will join FUNdamentals: Amazing Animals, taught by first-grade educators Mr. Espejo and Mr. Foley. Campers will explore fascinating animals from around the world and the habitats where they live while strengthening foundational reading, writing, and math skills through interactive learning. Students entering Grades 3 and 4 will participate in FUNdamentals: Pyramids, Pharaohs, and Mummies—Oh My!, led by third-grade educator Lisa Bennet and Lower School assistant educator Natalie Edelson. Through the study of ancient Egypt—pharaohs, pyramids, hieroglyphs, and life along the Nile—students will engage in rich academic exploration designed to reinforce essential literacy and math concepts. We look forward to welcoming students for two weeks of meaningful learning, joyful discovery, and connection before the new school year begins.Category -
Marine Science & SurfMiddle School Camp Summer 26 CatalogThis 1 week experiential course explores how the ocean works while diving into the marine species, ecosystems, and conservation challenges unique to San Diego. Field-based and regionally focused, students will travel throughout San Diego County to observe the ocean firsthand and learn directly from experts who study and protect it. As part of the experience, students will participate in morning surf lessons, using time in the water to better understand wave dynamics, coastal processes, and the physical forces that shape our shoreline. These sessions provide an active, hands-on foundation for the scientific concepts explored throughout the week. Additional potential student experiences include snorkeling with leopard sharks, studying local oyster aquaculture and tasting oysters on the half shell, observing marine mammals at sea, growing grunion, and visiting unique coastal sites around the county. Together, these experiences help students build a deeper understanding of marine ecosystems while connecting science, conservation, and real-world application. For additional details, please contact Chris Uyeda at cuyeda@ljcds.org. Surf Camp in the Morning 8:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. Return to campus for Lunch. Marine Science exploration in the Afternoon. 12:00 p.m.- 3:00 p.m.Summer 2026 -
Middle School Camp Summer 26 CatalogMiddle School Summer Programs (Grades 5–8) LJCDS Middle School Summer Programs offer dynamic, skill-building experiences designed for students entering Grades 5–8. Whether exploring STEM, creative arts, leadership development, athletics, or academic enrichment, students engage in focused programs that challenge their thinking, spark curiosity, and build confidence. Courses are designed to be hands-on, interactive, and age-appropriate, providing students with opportunities to deepen interests, try something new, and connect with peers in a supportive and engaging environment. Led by LJCDS faculty and trusted instructors, each program balances structure with creativity while fostering independence and collaboration. Morning and afternoon options may be available depending on the program. Please review individual course descriptions for specific details and requirements. Arrival & Dismissal Drop-off and pickup take place in the Genesee Avenue parking lot at 9490 Genesee Avenue, La Jolla, CA 92037. Camp staff will greet campers at arrival and escort them to their designated areas. Gate Hours: • 7:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m. Morning Session: 8:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. Lunch: Provided daily by Sage Dining Services on campus. 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Afternoon Session: 12:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. Week 1: June 8–12 Off Campus Field Trip Week Week 2: June 15–18 Closed Friday, June 19 (Juneteenth). Four-day week (Monday–Thursday) Week 3: June 22–26 Week 4: June 29–July 1 Closed July 2–3. Three-day week (Monday–Wednesday) Week 5: July 6–10 Week 6: July 13–17 Week 7: July 20–24 Week 8: July 27–31 Final week of summerCategory -
Musical Theater Workshop-Finding Nemo, Jr (Gr. 2-9)Middle School Camp Summer 26 CatalogJoin us for two weeks of musical theater as we tell the story of Finding Nemo! The musical is open to all LJCDS students, rising 2nd graders through Upper School. There is no experience required, all students will be cast. Come be part of this sweet story of your favorite characters, Nemo, Dory, Crush and more as they navigate adventures, life lessons and celebrate friendship! Everyone who registers for this camp is guaranteed a part in the musical. No matter your experience level, Miss Yin and Mrs. Clemente will prepare all participants to feel confident in singing, dancing and acting! Morning Session of Week 2: June 15–18 No camp Friday, June 19 (Juneteenth) Four-day week (Monday–Thursday) Morning Session of Week 3: June 22–26 Musical Performance June 26th 11am Director/Choreographer: Christy Yin (LS/MS dance and musical theater educator)Music Director/Production Director: Wendy Clemente (LS music educator)Summer 2026 -
PM Camp Torreys (Grades 1–4) Half Day Week (Ideal for Morning Camp Pairing)Camp Torreys Summer 26 CatalogCamp Torreys – PM Session (12:00–3:00 p.m.) Camp Torreys PM Session provides an engaging afternoon camp experience for students entering Grades 1–4 in Fall 2026. Each week’s theme comes to life through creative projects, active games, outdoor play, and collaborative activities in a joyful and supportive setting. This session is intentionally designed to pair with morning specialty or athletic programs, offering families a flexible way to build a full-day summer schedule while ensuring students enjoy meaningful camp experiences throughout the day. Weekly Themes: June 15–18 | Imagineers Lab: Camp Create (No camp June 19) June 22–26 | Disney Dreamers: Enchanted Ever After June 29–July 1 | Retro Rewind: Decades of Fun July 6–10 | Torrey Games: The Ultimate Camp Olympics July 13–17 | Wild About Science: Discovery in Action July 20–24 | Media Magic Makers: Summer Premiere July 27–31 | Summer Spectacular: The Grand Finale Week Activities rotate throughout the week and vary by session. Final schedules and daily rotations will be shared with enrolled families prior to the start of each week. For those joining in the afternoon after an AM session, lunch is provided by Sage Dining from 11:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.Summer 2026 -
PM – Fashion and Costume Building (Grades 5–8)Middle School Camp Summer 26 CatalogFashion and Costume Building is a hands-on sewing and design course for students in Grades 5–8 who are interested in creating clothing and costumes that reflect their personal style and imagination. Students will learn how to take measurements, work with paper patterns, cut fabric, sew pieces together, fit garments, and finish their projects. Instruction covers both foundational sewing skills and creative problem-solving, with opportunities for students to design and build unique pieces. The class uses a small number of sewing machines in the lab. Students are also welcome to bring their own sewing machine, provided it is new or has been recently serviced. This course may be taken more than once, as students work on different projects each session. After registering, families must complete the required Google Form so the instructor can plan materials and projects appropriately: Led by LJCDS Music Educator Wendy ClementeSummer 2026 -
PM-Blacksmithing Summer Camp Gr. 9-12Upper School Camp Summer 26 CatalogThis hands-on Blacksmithing Summer Camp introduces students to the art and science of shaping hot steel in a safe, supportive shop environment. Campers learn how metal behaves under heat and force while building real skills in craftsmanship, problem-solving, and design. No prior experience is required—just curiosity and a willingness to try something new. Students begin with a strong focus on safety and tool use, then progress through foundational forging techniques such as drawing out, bending, twisting, and shaping steel at the anvil. Along the way, they explore age-appropriate materials science concepts that explain why steel hardens, softens, and changes as it heats and cools. Daily demonstrations and close instructor coaching ensure students build confidence and control. By the end of camp, each student completes several forged projects—both functional and decorative—and takes home a final piece of their own design. The camp concludes with a casual showcase where families can see students’ work and hear about their process. This experience is ideal for students interested in engineering, art, design, or hands-on learning—and for anyone who wants to make something real with their hands. Led by LJCDS Upper School Science Educator Daniel MulvihillSummer 2026 -
PM-Sports: Girls Softball Skills Camp (Grades 5-8)Athletics Camp Summer 26 CatalogGirls Softball Skills Camp for Grades 5–8 is designed for players looking to refine their skills, improve game understanding, and grow as confident competitors. Led by coach Erin DaSilva and her coaching staff, this camp emphasizes skill development, technique refinement, and strategic play. Players will work on advanced throwing mechanics, defensive positioning, hitting approach, base-running strategy, and game awareness. Instruction is tailored to the developmental needs of middle school athletes, with opportunities for leadership, teamwork, and competitive play in a supportive environment.Summer 2026 -
PM-Summer Reading (Grade 9)Upper School Camp Summer 26 CatalogSummer Reading for Grade 9 is a PM academic enrichment course designed specifically for rising LJCDS ninth graders. This program supports students as they prepare for Upper School English through guided reading instruction, literary analysis, and collaborative class discussions. Students will strengthen comprehension, analytical thinking, and discussion skills while developing confidence with Upper School–level expectations. Instruction focuses on close reading strategies, interpreting texts, and engaging thoughtfully in academic conversations. This program is only available to students enrolled at LJCDS for Fall 2026.Summer 2026 -
PM–Sports: Torrey Basketball Camp (Grades 2–8)Athletics Camp Summer 26 CatalogTorrey Basketball Camp is a PM sports camp open to students in Grades 2–8 who are eager to learn the fundamentals of basketball or continue developing their skills in a fun and supportive environment. Led by LJCDS Varsity Basketball Coach Patrick Casey, along with experienced coaches and varsity players, campers will focus on skill development, teamwork, and confidence on the court. Daily instruction includes age-appropriate drills, skill-building activities, and game play designed to keep athletes active and engaged. Players will be grouped by age and ability to ensure a positive experience for all participants while reinforcing fundamentals, sportsmanship, and a love for the game.Summer 2026 -
PM–Sports: Torrey Coed Golf Camp (Grades 5–8)Athletics Camp Summer 26 CatalogTorrey Coed Golf Camp is a four-day afternoon camp for students in Grades 5–8 with prior golf experience who are ready to build skills both on campus and on the course. Camp instruction covers putting, chipping, ball striking, rules, and golf etiquette. During the first two days, players will train using the new on-campus golf simulators at LJCDS and practice short-game skills at the Del Mar Golf Center. The final two days take place on course at Mission Bay Golf Course, giving players the opportunity to apply skills in real-play situations. This camp is designed for golfers who already have basic playing experience and are ready to further develop their game through focused instruction and on-course practice. Led by LJCDS Golf Coach Greg Chachas and Assistant Coach Adair WarrenSummer 2026 -
Public Speaking for Grade 6-8Middle School Camp Summer 26 CatalogAM (Gr. 6, 7, & 8): Public Speaking for Grade 6-8 Students will engage in storytelling, informative, persuasive, and instructional speeches, as well as a series of impromptu speaking activities. This course will also cover the effective use of visual aids like PowerPoint and notecards to enhance presentations. Whether you're preparing for school presentations, leadership roles, or just looking to become a more confident speaker, this class will help you develop essential public speaking skills in a fun and supportive environment! June 15–18 & July 6-10 8:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. Led by LJCDS Middle School English Educator Nate HeppnerSummer 2026 -
Summer 2026Summer 2026 at La Jolla Country Day School offers a dynamic lineup of camps, enrichment programs, and athletics designed for students in ECC through Upper School. Led by our talented LJCDS faculty, staff, and trusted community partners, each program blends creativity, curiosity, skill-building, and classic summer fun. From hands-on academic exploration and imaginative themed camps to competitive sports training and artistic expression, students will have opportunities to discover new interests, strengthen existing passions, and build meaningful friendships. Full-day and half-day options, along with extended care, provide flexibility for families while ensuring a safe, engaging, and supportive environment throughout the summer. We look forward to welcoming your family for a season of learning, laughter, and unforgettable experiences at LJCDS.Category -
Sustainability in Action: Exploring San Diego’s Ecosystems (Grades 9-12)Upper School Camp Summer 26 CatalogSustainability in Action: Exploring San Diego’s Ecosystems is a full-day, week-long summer program for students in Grades 9–12 that combines environmental science, community engagement, and hands-on service learning. Students will explore San Diego’s diverse ecosystems through daily off-campus field experiences, including coastal habitats, canyon landscapes, community gardens, and urban environments. Through direct observation and fieldwork, participants gain first-hand insight into local environmental challenges and sustainability efforts. Throughout the week, students will engage with topics such as environmental sustainability, community advocacy, and environmental justice, while collaborating with local organizations, experts, and community leaders. Participants will complete approximately 15 hours of meaningful service as part of the program, building both environmental literacy and leadership skills. Co Led by LJCDS Director of Service Learning Christina Zupanc and Chair of the Upper School Science Department Dr. Marianne ZupancSummer 2026