Are academic summer programs too intense for middle schoolers?

Not at all—when done right, they’re more “curiosity camp” than “cram school.” The best academic programs for middle schoolers blend learning with fun and hands-on projects. Your child might be solving math mysteries one day and building a catapult the next. The key is balance: programs should challenge students without overwhelming them. If it feels more like an adventure than a test, your child’s more likely to stay engaged and come out stronger—not stressed. Just be sure to check the program’s approach and ask how they support different learning styles.