When I meet with clients, I often discuss strategic summer activity choices to maximize school admission. But of course, everyone should balance preparation with fun and letting your kid be a kid. Children only have a limited number of summers before they grow up.
Happily, this excellent article Overnight Summer Camps are Better than SAT Prep Classes argues that sleepaway camps build creativity and independence, two crucial characteristics in successful adults. So you can let yourself feel good about whatever you and your child decide.