Recess Has Your Back-to-School Gap Days Covered!
If you’re a parent in Austin, you already know: the first few weeks of August are peak logistical chaos. Those odd-gap days: like Monday 8/11, Tuesday 8/12, and Monday 8/18, somehow fall between the end of summer camps and the first day of school, leaving parents scrambling for coverage.
We heard the collective SOS loud and clear, and we’re on it. Recess has teamed up with local favorites like Camp Twin Lakes YMCA, Sportball, and Idea Lab Kids, to unlock extra spots and create special programs to help you cover those tricky days.
Whether your kid wants one last camp adventure, hands-on science fun, or a high-energy day of sports, we’ve got options that keep them engaged and give you peace of mind. It’s structured care you can count on, right when you need it most. Check out the full lineup below and snag your spot before they fill up!
Sportball | August 18th
If your kid thrives on movement, Sportball brings a joyful mix of multi‑sport play that builds skills, teamwork, and confidence in a low‑pressure setting for kids ages 3-10. Coaches keep things upbeat and inclusive so beginners feel welcome and seasoned athletes stay challenged. It is a great outlet for that pre‑school‑year energy and a smart way to reset routines before the first bell.
This single-day Sportball camp will be on August 18th at West Austin Youth Association. Confirm details, schedule, and what to bring on the program page. A snack, water, and comfy athletic wear are usually a win. (The camp for kids under 5 runs from 9:00AM-1:00PM and the camp for ages 5-10 will run until 5:00PM, make sure you sign up for the right camp for you!)
*Held at WAYA @ 1314 Exposition Blvd, Austin, TX 78703*
Idea Lab Kids | August 18th
Curious minds will light up at Idea Lab Kids on August 18th, where hands‑on STEM turns questions into experiments and ideas into builds. From creative problem solving to simple engineering challenges, campers ages 5-11 dive into projects that feel like play while stretching those brain muscles before school starts. Your kiddos can expect a day packed with discovery, teamwork, and a few wow moments to share at dinner.
Campers will be able to partake in a science experiment, an engineering project, and a tech project, plus they will score some gym time and, of course, lunch! While their normal hours are 9-3, IDEA Lab Kids also offers options for before and after care, starting at 7:30AM and ending at 6:00PM for parents who need just a little extra coverage so they can power through the work day (and traffic!).
*Held at their Central Austin location @ 8620 Burnet Rd (Suite 500), Austin, TX 78757*
Register for the program that best fits your schedule using the links below!
Camp Twin Lakes YMCA | August 11th & 12th
Think classic camp spirit in a single day. At Camp Twin Lakes YMCA in Cedar Park, kids soak up fresh air, make new friends, and jump into counselor led games, crafts, and outdoor fun that feels like a summer victory lap. These single-day sessions (Monday 8/11 and Tuesday 8/12) are designed for kids age 5-14, with age appropriate activities that help ease the transition back to school.
Check the registration page for pricing, drop off and pick up windows, packing details, and any waivers. Pack a labeled water bottle and sunscreen, and send closed toe shoes so they can play hard.
*Held at Twin Lakes Family YMCA @ 204 E Little Elm Trail, Cedar Park, TX 78613*
Looking for something else? You can find more recommendations on the Recess events page!
Here is to one last splash of summer, a smoother Monday for you, and a confident start to the school year. Don’t forget to snap some photos and tag us, we love seeing what our Recess family is getting up to!
