What about someone in position - also needing childcare - who would be willing to hire a college student to watch your kids? Some actually like being FT nannies over the summer.

I've also known young teachers who could commit to that.

lots of camps.

In January, ther is a summer camp expo at White Flint mall in Rockville. However, it happens after many of the best discounts expire.

It's not silly at all. In this area, some things do fill up fast. Starting in January keep your eye out for summer camp fairs. There's a huge range of offerings, so look to what your kid likes, art, sports, etc. and how much coverage you need, e.g. half day, full day, as well as your budget. Many places that offer classes during the year will offer camps during the summer.

There's a list of camps on Our-kids.com:
http://www.our-kids.com/public/t/?f=4&s=119

There is a summer camps forum on DCUM. I'd try there, especially in January when people start to think about these things. Some of the deadlines for applying to the most sought-after camps are in January or early February.

My kids go to camp all summer (with before and aftercare b/c I work). Some friends kids go a week of soccer camp, a week of this camp and a week of that camp to piece together their kids summer.

Each area is different. You should post the area where you want to find camps and also your budget and whether you need extended care hours.

I would appreciate any suggestions on how parents keep their kids occupied during the summer (e.g., camps, babysitters, etc.). My child has been in daycare until now, so this is new territory. I hear rumors about camps filling up in the winter, so I am worried and asking now (which feels ridiculously early).