Summer Camps Registration Guide: Everything Montreal Parents Need to Know

Don't Miss the Registration Window

Every year, thousands of Montreal parents scramble to register their kids for summer camps — and every year, many miss out on their top choices because they didn't act fast enough. Here's your comprehensive guide to navigating camp registration like a pro.

The Timeline

January-February: Early registration opens for most popular camps. Les Amis de la montagne and Espace pour la vie camps typically open registration in late January and fill within weeks. Set calendar reminders now.

March: Peak registration period. YMCA camps, Edphy camps, and most private camps open their registration. This is when the majority of families register.

April: Second-wave registrations and waitlist movement. Some camps release additional spots, and cancellations from early registrants create openings.

May-June: Last-minute options. Municipal camps and newer programs still have availability. Don't panic — there are always options, they just might not be your first choice.

How to Choose the Right Camp

Before registration day, do your homework:

Consider your child's personality:

• Does your child thrive in large groups or prefer smaller, intimate settings?
• Are they independent or still need a lot of supervision?
• Do they prefer structure or free play?
• Any separation anxiety concerns?

Practical considerations:

• Location and transportation — Can you do drop-off and pick-up within your schedule?
• Extended care availability — Most camps run 9-4, but many offer 7 AM-6 PM with extended care ($20-40/week extra)
• Bilingual programming — Important for families wanting immersion in the other language
• Lunch included or BYO? — Some camps include hot lunch, others require packed lunches

Camp Cost Breakdown

Camp Type	Weekly Cost	What's Included
Municipal	$75-150	Basic program, some supplies
YMCA	$200-275	Full program, financial aid available
Edphy	$200-300	Multi-activity, bilingual
Laurus	$250-350	Specialized programming
Specialty (science, arts)	$300-450	Expert instruction, materials

Financial Assistance

Don't let cost be a barrier:

• YMCA offers sliding-scale fees based on household income
• Municipal camps are subsidized and offer the lowest rates
• Provincial tax credits — Camp fees qualify for the Quebec childcare expense deduction
• Federal tax credits — The Children's Fitness Tax Credit applies to active camps
• Employer programs — Some employers offer camp subsidies or FSA-eligible reimbursement

The Registration Day Checklist

1. Create accounts on camp websites before registration opens
2. Have your credit card ready — many camps require a deposit at registration
3. Know your preferred weeks and have backup weeks ready
4. Have your child's health card number and emergency contact info on hand
5. Log in 15 minutes early — popular camp websites can crash on registration day

What to Pack

Most camps provide a packing list, but the essentials include: sunscreen (SPF 50+), water bottle, hat, comfortable clothes that can get dirty, indoor shoes, swimsuit and towel, and a packed lunch (nut-free at most camps).

Start browsing summer camps in Montreal on FamiliQC.