Thanks to Sarah's Science Camp for sponsoring this guide to CIT programs at East Bay summer camps.
My kids have envisioned themselves being future counselors at every camp they've attended. But how do they get there?
Many summer camps have Counselor-In-Training programs, some that start as young as 11 years old, through which kids get a chance to get a little more behind the scenes, to learn some leadership skills, and to prepare for future employment opportunities. The details of CIT programs range greatly: some campers earn the title just by signing up and paying fees, while some require an application process.
Counselor-In-Training program at Sarah's Science Camp
Sarah's Science Camp (Berkeley, Oakland)
The Counselor in Training (CIT) Leadership Program is for older campers ages 11+ who are interested in taking on more responsibility and developing leadership skills. CITs are teamed up with an experienced counselor to assist a group of younger campers. CITs also participate in regular camp activities and science projects. An optional First Aid Certification is provided prior to the start of the summer and additional leadership training is provided weekly throughout the summer. The CIT Program is available for single or multiple weeks and has the same fees and discounts as the regular camp program.
Learn more >
More East Bay camps with CIT programs
The following camps have let 510Families.com know that they have a CIT program. Find details such as age and application process on their websites.
Sarah's Science Camp
Each day at Sarah's Science Camp, kids make and take home a fun science project while exploring important science topics ranging from physics to chemistry and beyond. Camp also includes swimming, hiking, music, art, and active games. For children 4 and up. CIT program begins at age 11.
Camp Hours: 9:00 am - 3:00 pm
Earliest Drop off: 08:00 am
Latest Pick-up: 05:30 pm
CIT program: (CIT) Program for Campers Ages 11–15
Monkey Business Camp
Monkey Business Camp offers art, cooking, storytelling, nature exploration, treasure hunts, carnival games, singing, and organic food! Expect an exciting week outdoors in Tilden Park with one day of swimming. Pre-K program for 3-4 year olds at indoor location near Tilden.
Camp Hours: 8:30 am-3:30 pm (some weeks shorter day option 8:30 am-1:30 pm)
Earliest Drop off: 08:00 am
Latest Pick-up: 06:00 pm
CIT program: Youth Leadership, for ages 10-17
Camp Galileo & Galileo Summer Quest
Galileo mixes day camp fun with hands-on projects for big smiles, new skills, belly laughs, and serious self-confidence. Innovative art, science and outdoor camps for pre-K – 8th graders.
Camp Hours: 9 am to 3 pm
Earliest Drop off: 08:00 am
Latest Pick-up: 06:00 pm
CIT program: CIT program designed for 7th – 10th graders excited for more opportunities to lead
Camp EDMO™
At Camp EDMO, Pre-K through 8th grade campers lose themselves in STEAM-infused activities. They’re inspired to accept themselves and others, push their boundaries with confidence, and most importantly, act with real kindness and compassion. Kids grow on lots of levels.
Camp Hours: 9 am - 3 pm
Earliest Drop off: 08:00 am
Latest Pick-up: 06:00 pm
CIT program: Leader-In-Training Entering 9th-12th Grade Only
Save $50 with code FIRST51019 (First-time families only please)
PlanetBravo Technology Camp
PlanetBravo's Techno-tainment Camp celebrates its 17th summer of innovative summer programming! The Berkeley camp location is filled with some of the most popular and exciting tech courses offered. Best rates, hours, balanced indoor/outdoor time, and much more!
Camp Hours: 8:30 am – 4:30 pm
Earliest Drop off: 08:15 am
Latest Pick-up: 05:00 pm
CIT program: CIT Program is offered for past campers entering 10th grade.
Save $50 with code: 510bk50 Expires: Aug 1, 2019
Girls on the Go Field Trip Camp
Campers, ages 9-13, travel by foot, bus, BART, & ferries to get to exciting destinations. Spontaneous and planned adventure, chances to try out new and familiar activities, and new friends. Empowering girls to be bold and compassionate is a goal of this award-winning program, part of Monkey Business Camp.
Camp Hours: 8:30 am to 3:30 pm
Earliest Drop off: 08:30 am
Latest Pick-up: 06:00 pm
CIT program: Youth Leadership, for ages 14-17
Boys on the Go!
Boys, ages 9-13, travel by foot, bus, BART, & ferries to get to exciting destinations. Trips have included bowling, art, kayaking, bowling, ice-skating with hockey coaching, movies. Mentoring boys to be more curious, competent and compassionate, part of Monkey Business Camp.
Camp Hours: 8:30 am to 3:30 pm
Earliest Drop off: 08:30 am
Latest Pick-up: 06:00 pm
CIT program: Jr. Counselors, age 14 to 17
Berkeley Playhouse Summer Camp
Come sing, dance, and play at Berkeley Playhouse’s award-winning summer program. Choose from camp themes inspired by popular titles, plus skill-building classes. Before and after care available.
Camp Hours: 9 am - 3 pm
Earliest Drop off: 08:00 am
Latest Pick-up: 06:00 pm
CIT program: For ages 13+ must be able to attend mandatory training on May 31 | Priority given to those who can dedicate 4 weeks.
COOK! Programs
COOK! is for young food enthusiasts to explore the culinary arts and sciences through hands-on classes. Taught by professional chefs in a commercial kitchen, every class creates a full and satisfying meal. COOK! teaches safety, techniques, recipes, and formulas for success.
Camp Hours: 9 am - 2 pm
Earliest Drop off: 08:45 am
Latest Pick-up: 02:10 pm
CIT program: Chef In Training and COOK! Advanced Placement available for experienced young cooks, age 13 to 18
KIDS for the BAY
KIDS for the BAY offers a fun-filled summer camp with science, friendship and nature exploration. Campers explore shorelines, hike through forests, kayak on the Bay, create nature art, investigate creek life, swim at Lake Anza, enjoy a twilight campfire, and more.
Camp Hours: 9 am to 3:30 pm
Earliest Drop off: 08:30 am
Latest Pick-up: 04:00 pm
CIT program: Leaders in Training age 11-13 years
Curious Jane
Curious Jane Camp is powered by girls and open to all who like to make things. Weekly project-packed themes like Spy Science, Design Studio, Build the City, Stop Motion, Printmaker's Studio and more. At Black Pine Circle School in Berkeley.
Camp Hours: 9 am to 3:30 pm
Earliest Drop off: 08:00 am
Latest Pick-up: 05:30 pm
CIT program: CIT for 7th – 9th grade girls; 10th grade girls may volunteer; 11th - 12th grade girls can apply to be Junior Counselors
Save $50 per week with code 510FAMS
Roughing It Day Camp
Discover the Outdoors! Campers, ages 4 -16, enjoy the wonders of this lakefront location (Lafayette Reservoir): canoeing, fishing, hiking, nature and more. Swimming and horseback riding lessons included. Free transportation/home pick-up: Oakland, Berkeley, Piedmont, East Bay Neighborhoods. Free extended care.
Camp Hours: 9 am to 3 pm
Earliest Drop off: 07:00 am
Latest Pick-up: 05:00 pm
CIT program: Camper in Leadership Training 9th & 10th Graders | Junior Counselors 11th & 12th Graders
St. Paul's Summer Camp
St. Paul's Summer Camp boasts a fantastic staff with lots of enthusiasm, energy, and creativity. Campers enjoy new 5,000 square-foot gymnasium, epic playground, new art room, lovely library, and outdoor activities at Lake Merritt. Weekly and bi-weekly camps available.
Camp Hours: 8:30 am to 3 pm
Earliest Drop off: 07:30 am
Latest Pick-up: 06:00 pm
CIT program: C.I.T.s (rising seventh through ninth graders) will develop and practice skills in leadership, critical thinking, communication, conflict resolution, and organization by working directly with camp teachers. Weekly sessions from June 10 - August 16, 2019
Save 20% with code 510families2019
Oakland ZooCamp
Oakland Zoo takes great pride in creating age-appropriate programs for campers in Pre-K through High School. Expect an exciting week of outdoor nature discovery, animal adventurers, zoo tours, special behind the scenes and animal close ups!
Camp Hours: 9 am to 4 pm
Earliest Drop off: 08:00 am
Latest Pick-up: 05:30 pm
CIT program: 9th - 12th Grade: High School Teen Assistants
Bliss Belly Kitchen Farm-to-table Cooking Camp with yoga
Bliss Belly Kitchen campers begin each day with a yoga and meditation lesson before cooking a three-course, farm-to-table, organic, family-style meal guided by a chef. Lessons include knife skills and basic meal prep. Ages 5-13.
Camp Hours: 9 am to 3 pm
Earliest Drop off: 08:00 am
Latest Pick-up: 05:30 pm
CIT program: CIT ages 14-16
Save $25 with code 510FAM; expires March 1, 2019
Adventure Day Camp
Adventure Day Camp is a traditional day camp for children ages 3-15 years old. Children gain confidence in arts, sports, swimming, kayaking, sailing, tennis, horseback riding, archery, and more! Three locations: Walnut Creek, San Ramon, Alamo with many East Bay bus pickup/drop-off locations.
Camp Hours: 8 am to 6 pm
Earliest Drop off: 08:00 am
Latest Pick-up: 06:00 pm
CIT program: CIT for 9th through 12th grade, applications required by 3/15/19
CAMP 510
CAMP 510 is a values-driven summer day-camp with the mission to cultivate confident and creative young makers. CAMPers learn cooking, welding, sewing, art, music, and more in the spirit D-I-T (do it together); guided through unique projects by professional artists and makers. Ages 6-14.
Camp Hours: 9 am - 3 pm
Earliest Drop off: 08:00 am
Latest Pick-up: 06:00 pm
CIT program: Junior Counselors (JC) typically are 13-15 years old, applications due 4/8/19
Save $25 with code 510SUMMER for every week of camp before March 31st.
Head Over Heels Athletic Arts
Highly skilled and compassionate coaching staff will teach campers the fundamentals of gymnastics through fun & dynamic curriculum. Children spend the day learning gymnastics apparatus and have ample free time to bounce around the gym. Join the flippin' fun today!
Camp Hours: 8 am - 5:30 pm
Earliest Drop off: 08:00 am
Latest Pick-up: 05:30 pm
CIT program: Coach In Training program for ages 13-14, application & in-person interview required
Camp Doodles
Doodle campers, age 3-11, grow their creative intelligence (CIQ) through making and art. New Spark program weekly themes inspired by magnets, Leonardo da Vinci, and PVCs. There is something to inspire every child through building, woodworking, 3D art, sculpting, cooking, and sports & games.
Camp Hours: 9 am to 4 pm
Earliest Drop off: 08:00 am
Latest Pick-up: 06:00 pm
CIT program: Leaders in Training for 6th through 10th graders
Save $25 per family. Reply to your confirmation email and mention 510 Families. Doodle will promptly issue a $25 refund.
Armada Swim and Adventure Camp
Camp is open to 7-12 year old swimmers looking to foster an active lifestyle filled with the love for swimming and the outdoors. Campers should have basic level proficiency for free and back strokes. Additional activities include rock climbing and boating.
Camp Hours: 9 am to 3 pm
Earliest Drop off: 08:00 am
Latest Pick-up: 04:00 pm
CIT program: CIT program for ages 13-15
Jumpin' Gymsters Sports Camps
Jumpin' Gymsters Sports and Recreation Sports Camps combine a love for sports with all time kid faves like LEGO, science, arts, outdoor adventures, and ninja warrior training.
Camp Hours: 9 am -3 pm
Earliest Drop off: 08:00 am
Latest Pick-up: 05:00 pm
CIT program: Jr Coach in training for ages 10 to 16
Save $20 off full order by March 1, 2019
Cal Youth Camps
Cal Youth Camps offers a variety of camps and sport/outdoor activities including swimming, soccer, skateboarding, rock climbing, gymnastics, basketball, martial arts, STEM, sailing & more for kids ages 4-17. Drop-ins, 1 & 2 week options available on the UC Berkeley campus. Payment plan & scholarships available.
Camp Hours: 9 am to 4 pm (Morning care included at no charge: 7:30-9 am)
Earliest Drop off: 07:30 am
Latest Pick-up: 06:00 pm
CIT program: Campers in Leadership Training (CILT) are experienced campers age 14-16 during specific single week sessions; More mature teens, 10th to 12th grade can be CIT/JC
Sees the Day Summer Program
Sees the Day is committed to instilling in children a respect and appreciation for every person and the natural world. Activities include: Guest educators and performers, storytelling, beading, fairy houses, gratitude circles, cooperative games, imaginative play, and classic summertime fun!
Camp Hours: 8:45 am -3:45 pm
Earliest Drop off: 08:45 am
Latest Pick-up: 05:15 pm
CIT program: CIT program for 7th, 8th and 9th graders
Camp Brushstrokes
Camp Brushstrokes offers art camps for kids and CIT programs for teens. Studio is light-filled and inspiring with a lovely garden where campers enjoy lots of outdoor time while they create art in clay, mosaics, glass and paint.
Camp Hours: 9 am - 3 pm
Earliest Drop off: 08:30 am
Latest Pick-up: 06:00 pm
CIT program: Jr. CIT Program (ages 11 & 12), CIT Program (ages 13+)
UC Berkeley Young Writers Camp
Sponsored by the Bay Area Writing Project of UC Berkeley, this camp is for children who love to write! Campers will develop creative abilities and writing talents in a relaxed atmosphere as they learn more about the craft of writing.
Camp Hours: 9 am to noon
Earliest Drop off: 08:45 am
Latest Pick-up: 12:15 pm
CIT program: We offer volunteer programs
Kids' Club Summer Camp at Claremont Club & Spa
The Kids' Club at Claremont Club & Spa offers your little one days filled with fun and adventure. With everything from arts & crafts, to hiking and movies by the swimming pool-there is something exciting for everyone.
Camp Hours: 9 am to 3 pm
Earliest Drop off: 08:00 am
Latest Pick-up: 05:00 pm
CIT program: Counselor in training (Ages 10+)
Photo Camp by Tara Layman Photography
Students dive into the world of photography while exploring the Bay Area through photography exhibits and stunning hikes. Campers will learn how to create beautiful photographs while incorporating new camera techniques. All levels of experience with photography are welcome.
Camp Hours: 9 am to 4 pm
Earliest Drop off: 08:30 am
Latest Pick-up: 04:30 am
CIT program: Photography Internship
Save 10% before 3/31/2019
Daruma no Gakko
Daruma no Gakko is a four-week, co-op summer school designed for children K-6 to learn about Japanese American culture. The program develops positive self-image and identity through the study of history, literature, language, music, art, food and field trips. All ethnicities welcome!
Camp Hours: 9 am to noon
Earliest Drop off: 08:45 am
Latest Pick-up: 03:30 pm
CIT program: 8th graders alumni may serve as Aides
Park’n It Day Camp
Park’n It Day Camp is a traditional summer day camp program in the East Bay Regional Parks. Campers learn about park ecology, play games, make art projects, go fishing, hiking, and swimming, and enjoy field trips to other parks.
Camp Hours: 9 am to 4 pm
Earliest Drop off: 09:00 am
Latest Pick-up: 04:00 pm
CIT program: Leaders-in-Training Program for ages 13 to 17
Girls in Engineering (UC Berkeley)
Hands-on engineering activities for girls. With Cal staff and students as the teachers, campers will learn firsthand about the world of engineering. Applications due March 1.
Camp Hours: 8:30 am – 4:30 pm
Earliest Drop off: 08:30 am
Latest Pick-up: 04:30 pm
CIT program: Volunteer program for students entering at least 10th grade
Julia Morgan Girls Summer Camp (JMSG)
Girls participate in activities tied to a the weekly theme. Most activities include a creative component, group work, and opportunity for self-reflection including dance, playing music, exploring science, making art, practicing yoga, and playing sports/games.
Camp Hours: 8:30 am to 3:30 pm
Earliest Drop off: 07:45 am
Latest Pick-up: 05:30 pm
CIT program: JMSG graduates can volunteer to be teaching assistants in the summer program.
Kensington Community Summer Day Camp (KCC)
At KCC Summer Day Camp kids explore numerous activities such as arts & crafts, team sports, field trips, themed weeks, and much more.
Camp Hours: 9 am to 5 pm
Earliest Drop off: 08:00 am
Latest Pick-up: 06:00 pm
CIT program: Entering 9th to 11th grade and able to work two-week camp shifts
City of El Cerrito Recreation Department Camps
El Cerrito offers traditional "Summer Fun" camps as well as an specialty camps including sports, arts, tech, and more! Teen camps like Jr. Lifeguarding and LIT are also available.
Camp Hours: 7 am to 6 pm
Earliest Drop off: 07:00 am
Latest Pick-up: 06:00 pm
CIT program: Leaders in Training (LIT) two weeks only for grades 8th to 11th | Jr. Lifeguarding for grades 6th to 9th
Bald Eagle Sports Camp
Multi-Sports Camp offers unique games mixed with traditional favorites like traditional sports like soccer, basketball, whiffle-ball, and hockey meshed in an atmosphere of inclusion and teamwork. Healthy lunch/snack is included.
Camp Hours: 9 am to 3 pm, Fridays 9 am to noon
Earliest Drop off: 07:30 am
Latest Pick-up: 06:00 pm
CIT program: Both Leadership Sports Camp (6th-8th) & Coach In Training Leadership (9th&10th)
Save 5% with code 2019.510FAMILIES
Words in the Wild Summer Camp
In Words in the Wild, rising 1st and 2nd graders grow their love of reading and find joy in writing while getting their hands dirty in the gardens of Fairyland and Lake Merritt Botanical Gardens. With a 7:1 this camp is designed for students who could use an academic boost.
Camp Hours: 9 am to 3 pm
Earliest Drop off: 07:30 am
Latest Pick-up: 06:00 pm
CIT program: CIT Program for high school age students
Berkeley Day Camp
Children ages 5-13 explore our local parks with supervision including Tilden Park, Berkeley Marina, and one area beach.
Camp Hours: 9 am to 3 pm
Earliest Drop off: 07:30 am
Latest Pick-up: 06:00 pm
CIT program: CIT ages 14-15
Wildlife Camp at Sulphur Creek
Campers get close to animals like owls, opossums, and snakes in a serene park; weeks are based on a different theme. Half day 9am-12pm for ages 3 1/2 to 5 or 9:30-2:30 pm for ages 5-13. Extended care available select weeks.
Camp Hours: 9 am to noon (prek), 9:30 to 2:30 pm (school age) *
Earliest Drop off: 09:00 am
Latest Pick-up: 02:30 pm
CIT program: Wildlife Camp Counselors grades 9 to 12; applications due 5/1/19.
Camp Urban Adamah
Campers play, plant, sing, work, and get to know life on an urban farm including eating fresh, delicious organic produce. Through group-building challenges and project-based learning, children learn about the natural world and explore the interconnectedness of all things.
Camp Hours: 9 am to 3 pm
Earliest Drop off: 08:30 am
Latest Pick-up: 05:30 pm
CIT program: Teen Leadership Institute for 8th to 10th graders; involves weekend retreat & 3 week commitment during summer
Footfire soccer camps
Footfire is a unique summer experience organized around great soccer training with expert coaches. Play soccer, love soccer, live soccer at Footfire. Ages 5 to 12.
Camp Hours: 9 am to 3 pm
Earliest Drop off: 08:00 am
Latest Pick-up: 05:00 pm
CIT program: Guest CIT program open to 13-14 yr olds who were previous footfire campers
Albany Berkeley Soccer Club Camp (ABSC)
ABSC welcomes boys and girls of all ages, skill levels, who want to spend their summer developing their soccer skills while having a lot of fun.
Camp Hours: 8:30 am to 4 pm
Earliest Drop off: 08:30 am
Latest Pick-up: 04:00 pm
CIT program: Soccer players 14+ can be CITs
Life Tech for Kids
Biotech camps for kids. Campers ages 6-15, CITs (Counselor in training) ages 13-15.
Camp Hours: 9 am to 3 pm
Earliest Drop off: 07:00 am
Latest Pick-up: 06:00 pm
CIT program: Yes
Camp Kee Tov
Camp Kee Tov focuses on the Jewish values of community and features overnights, swimming, singing, sports, arts and crafts. Campers will have theme days and skits to look forward to throughout the week. Camp is offered in four-week sessions.
Camp Hours: 9:30 am to 3:30 pm
Earliest Drop off: 07:30 am
Latest Pick-up: 06:00 pm
CIT program: CIT program has closed applications for summer 2019
Other programs for teens in the East Bay
Community Reading Buddies (Oakland)
For teens who want to do service work over the summer, Aspire Education project has created Community Reading Buddies through which Middle and High School students will work with Pre-K-3rd grade reading buddies in school settings around Oakland. The goal is literacy intervention and the teens will be trained on a reading curriculum.
Learn more >
Volunteer Match (throughout Alameda County)
This website lists volunteer opportunities such as assembling lunches for homeless people, walking dogs at the SPCA, and office work.
Visit Volunteer Match >
Berkeley YouthWorks (Berkeley)
For residents of the city of Berkeley, jobs are available in 6-7 week commitments for the summer. Must be 14 years old. Positions will be assigned in City of Berkeley organizations, ranging from childcare centers to the animal shelter or library or city offices.
Learn more >
Thanks again to Sarah's Science for sponsoring 510Families.com.
Mary Torres-Cooper says
March 13, 2019 at 11:05 amIS YOUR TEEN BURSTING WITH IDEAS AND HAS A PASSION FOR TECHNOLOGY AND BUSINESS?
Camp BizSmart and BizSmart Global is an Entrepreneurial Academy for students ages 11-15. Camps are two weeks in length where they give their design pitch to local venture capitalists and entrepreneurs at Microsoft! Classes are held at Santa Clara University so if your young entrepreneur wants to experience college life we offer residential options!
Aya Jeffers-Fabro says
March 26, 2019 at 1:42 pmBe a LEADER this summer at Camp ANV…the BEST place to BE!!!
Leaders In Training (LIT) Program:
We at Camp ANV believe every child is capable of leadership, because being a leader means you must first lead yourself and learn to successfully take on opportunities and challenges in life. The emerging generations simply need to be shown how.
Camp ANV’s Leaders in Training (LIT) Program provides youth ages 12-14 a leadership experience that focuses on cooperative learning and advanced development of camp activities including but not limited to cooking, farming, dance and wellness, outdoor activities, and overnight camping trips. Although the LIT program is a leadership training opportunity designed to assist the summer camp programs, the LITs will have their own unique program experiences aside from the younger campers.
Camp ANV’s LIT program is an educational program, with a curricula designed to develop the people and technical skills necessary to be an effective camp leader. Since this is a training program, Camp ANV’s LITs are not paid a salary, nor is a job for the next summer at the completion of the program assured. However, after participating in a full 4-week camp session, LITs will be eligible to apply for a Junior Counselor position (paid) for the following camp sessions.
Heather Flett says
May 20, 2019 at 2:56 pmThis YouthWorks program looks very interesting: https://www.cityofberkeley.info/youthworks/