Whether it's seasonal childcare or a cure for "no-more-school" boredom you seek, Santa Clarita is full of excitement so hot, it makes an SCV summer in July look downright chilly.

Summer Camps
Acres of Activities
This camp has it all. From swim lessons to games to how to be a hero (really!) week, your children won't just have fun, they'll become better people. In business for nearly 40 years, Valley Trails focuses on fun for your K through 9 campers. Full ACA accreditation and over 200 acres with air-conditioned facilities make this a traditional camping experience that builds friendships and character. There's even a leadership training program that's sure to boost the camper's future for decades to come.
Valley Trails 661-257-0266 www.vtranch.com

High-energy Excitement
Looking for a camp instructor with impeccable qualifications? How about an actual Olympic athlete and coach? You can't get much more official than that. Chris Waller has those credentials and puts them to good use in this academy he runs with his wife, Cindy. Together in their recently renovated 14,000-square-foot gym, they'll treat your kids to world-class training standards. Choose between local day camp or their resident camp at the UCSB campus for kids from 7 to 18 years.
Wallers GymJam Academy 251-3390 www.gymjamcamp.com

Giddy Up!
With nearly 50 years of equestrian expertise under their belts, owners Liz and Eric Ekeberg offer the ultimate in horsey recreation. Whether interested in English or Western style riding, Don-e-brook can expand anyone's skills from beginner to expert. Why not take part in some of the SCV's storied equestrian culture for a camping experience like no other? With rides on miles of beautiful trails, games and formal lessons Don-e-brook will make this your child's best summer yet. Close by in rural Saugus, but far, far away in atmosphere.
Don-e-brook Farms 297-7669 www.donebrookfarms.com

Building Character and Friendships
Here's a traditional summer camp that molds strong citizens. Focused on a safe learning environment that reinforces traditional family values and self-respect, your camper will build character while having a blast! Theme days, field trips and even some under-the-stars camping will keep your child busy and engaged. Staffed with many college-educated counselors at a low staff-to-camper ratio, your child's well-being is their first priority. Geared toward kids from K-9, rest assured that this camp is dedicated to ensure the utmost in high-quality fun.
Sunshine Day Camp 259-0644 www.sunshinedaycamp.com

Camp for Youngsters
It's never too early to build great memories. Creative Years focuses on kids from 2 to 6 years with a special kindergarten prep "kinder camp" that will give your youngster a leg up in that first session. Flexible scheduling means you can sign up for 2 to 5 days per week, each day filled with fun, interactive challenges. Developing inter-personal skills at this age practically guarantees you'll have a successful child ready to take care of you in your old age.
Creative Years 254-0718 www.creativeyears.com

Academic Enrichment
1+1 = Fun
Everyone hates math, right? That's because they don't understand it! Help your child succeed with a solid foundation in math. Fully accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges, MSS offers classes from pre-algebra to calculus and throws in chemistry, too. The program even provides transferrable credit. The low instructor to child ratio ensures plenty of one-on-one attention. Geared toward high-schoolers (but with programs for fifth and sixth graders), MSS takes kids to the next level, whether they need remedial or advanced instruction. Math Support Services 255-1730 www.mathsupportservices.com

Off to College
What could be better than spending the summer in a university environment? The Junior High Institute at COC offers cutting-edge programs in just about every subject you can imagine (and a few you can't). From animation to welding, there's something for everyone, with the programs geared toward students entering 6th through 8th grade. Start now and give your youngster a leg up on developing goals for the future. The school can provide extended care if your work schedule requires it. College of the Canyons
362-3300 www.canyons.edu/juniorhigh

"Anytime" Excitement
More Fun than Drivers Ed
This is the ticket for a summer of high-octane fun. Remember how you couldn't wait to get your license? If MB2 was around when you grew up, you wouldn't have wanted a real car. Their high-performance go-karts deliver far more excitement without risking traffic tickets and driver license points. With racing competitions and driver training, you'll bring up your own NASCAR fan in no time. Minimum age is 8 and drivers need to be 48 inches tall so they can floor the gas pedal. MB2 Raceway 866-986-RACE www.mb2raceway.com

A Real Treat
What could be more fun than a virtual mountain of activities? Mountasia is the choice if you don't want commitment or aren't sure about your plans. No need to sign up in advance - just drop by when you're ready to play. Catering to kids from 3 to 99 years, Mountasia offers miniature golf, go karts, batting cages, lazer tag and more. After a long day of physical activity, cool off with a giant sundae in the old-fashioned Farrell's Ice Cream Parlour and Restaurant! Mountasia Family Fun Center 253-4386 www.MountasiaFunCenter.com

Don't Miss these Kid-friendly May Events
Saturday, May 9
Pet Expo USA Hosts Annual Pet Expo at COC's Valencia Campus
Starting at 10 a.m., this family-friendly event will feature Cesar Millan, "The Dog Whisperer," and performances by Tillman the Skateboarding Bulldog. The event boasts an exotic baby animal petting zoo, dog show, grooming demos, pony rides, face painting, live music by the legendary "Dudes of Surf" - The Bone Sharks, food and all kinds of pet products, jewelry and services. Bring your unwanted blankets, towels or sheets to donate to "Operation Blankets of Love" to provide shelter animals a soft, warm place to lay down. Animals will be available for adoption. Log onto the website for $2 off admission coupon; www.petexpousa.net

Sunday, May 17
Temple Beth Ami Presents Jewish Food Festival at Bridgeport Marketplace
Starting at 11 a.m., enjoy Jewish favorites like high-stacked pastrami and corned beef sandwiches, hot dogs, knishes, bagels with cream cheese and lox and more. There will be kid favorites such as popcorn, ice cream, snow cones and cotton candy, plus face painting, airbrushed tattoos, musical entertainment and tons of fun activities. Portion of the proceeds will be donated to the Santa Clarita Valley Food Pantry; 296-0552

Saturday, May 30
Saugus Speedway Hosts the Iron Circus: Freestyle Motocross, Comedy and Music
LETMESAIL (Lifestyle Enrichment Through Meaningful Exercise, Social Activity and Independent Living) has announced an exciting new fundraising event that's sure to be a hit with everyone in your family. Presented by Metal Mulisha Events, the Iron Circus features six top-tier professional freestyle motocross athletes performing an electrifying array of mid-air tricks 35 feet in the air across a 75-foot gap.The Iron Circus is a thrilling blend of high-flying freestyle motocross, motorcycle stunts, comedy and music that will provide a memorable night of entertainment for the entire family. You'll be left in awe by the sights and sounds of the Iron Circus! Gates open at the Speedway at 7 p.m. and the show starts at 8 p.m. Tickets are $20, with kids under 12 priced at $10. Cash only; no credit cards will be accepted.