Themed mini camps for school breaks

Parents looking for enrichment activities for their kids, often for a few weeks each year rather than full-time care.

A fee per child per camp week or session, plus optional materials fees. Small groups keep costs low, and you can add sessions or repeat popular themes.

• Expertise in one topic you can teach to kids
• Patience and clear instructions
• Planning age-appropriate lessons
• Basic marketing to local parents

• Check with your state and county whether a short, themed program needs any child care or camp license; rules vary a lot
• General liability insurance, and ask whether the venue requires you to be listed on your policy
• Background checks and first aid and CPR training for you and any helpers
• Allergy and medical forms, signed waivers and a clear pick-up policy
• Parks and public spaces often need a permit for commercial use, so check with your city or county parks department
• Demand is seasonal and tied to school calendars, so plan income around peak weeks

Estimates suggest startup costs typically around $500 to $3,000, depending on the room or space you rent, your supplies and insurance. Check whether your venue requires you to be listed on your policy before you budget.

Estimates suggest monthly revenue typically around $800 to $4,000, depending on your fees, group size and how many camp weeks you run. Demand follows school calendars, so plan your income around peak weeks.

Check with your state and county whether a short, themed program needs any child care or camp license, since rules vary a lot. Also check parks permits, insurance, background checks, first aid and CPR training, and medical forms and waivers.