Oh shoot, here we go again. School just started and there are already soooo many days off, half days, teacher prep days and holidays to plan for. What’s a working parent to do? Arts organizations, parks departments and sports leagues are increasingly taking note of the need. Here are a few solutions that will keep kids safe, having fun, exercising and learning. Check out these mini, one-day break camps.
Arlington County Parks and Rec
Full days off from school? Early release days? The county has you covered for Arlington Public Schools teacher workdays and/or parent-teacher conference days. Coming up on Oct. 3 is a Teen Trip combining the Museum of Illusions in D.C. and Go Karting. Or, sign the youngsters up for traditional sports camps such as basketball and soccer. Kids can try their hand at various musical instruments in Learn Now Music, or spend the day making bath bombs. // Locations, times and fees vary.
Baroody Break Camps
From sports and STEAM activities to cooking and drones, Baroody Camps offers enrichment opportunities during teacher work days and parent-teacher conference days. Programs are designed to foster a child’s development and curiosity.  // Various Locations
Code Ninjas
Kids can become a ninja of computer coding, master Minecraft, build Roblox worlds or even learn to make their own games as they advance through the belt levels to achieve black belt coding status! // 4694 King St., Alexandria
EmPOWER Kids School’s Out Camps
Children can burn off energy jumping on a trampoline, learning to do a cartwheel and acquiring new ninja skills, then cool it all down with a little mindfulness to end the day. Out of School Day Camps sell out fast here, so be sure to register in advance. Camps are $90 per day for kids 5 and older. // 4700 King St., Alexandria
Encore Stage Holiday Mini Camps
When schools are closed, aspiring thespians can spend their day off discovering the world of theater. Students in grades K-2 will enjoy a day of theater games, activities and storytelling, while those in grades 3-5 will produce a play in just one day. Camp plays and themes are based on popular children’s movies and stories such as The Lego Movie, Pinocchio and Frozen. Camps are $90 per day from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., with the option of paying extra for additional morning or evening hours. // Cherrydale United Methodist Church, 3701 Lorcom Lane, Arlington
Fairfax County Parks & Rec
Schools out? The Fairfax County Park Authority has your back. Choose from a full roster of camps, from arts and sports to STEM and nature. Sign up at the Park Authority Camps website. // Prices and locations vary.
Magnus Chess Academy
When school is closed, kids can spend the day putting their minds to the test at chess camp. Campers are broken up into groups by skill level, and lessons range from the basics to master games and tactics. Students get breaks for fresh air throughout the day. // Dates and locations vary. Check the schedule for details.
Mulford Riding School
This is where young equestrians can get outside, enjoy fresh air and exercise up close with horses. Camps are offered rain or shine during winter break, spring break and many Fairfax County school days off. To get in the saddle, attendees must wear riding attire: long pants, boots or sturdy closed toe shoes. // 15105 Lee Highway, Centreville