- fostering independence
- developing new and lasting friendships
- developing new skills
- discovering new interests and hobbies
- providing the opportunity for creative expression
- a break from being plugged-in
- daily exercise
- improving self-esteem
- teaching kids to work with others
- feeling part of a community
- reducing summer learning loss
Before you begin looking into summer camps, first create a list of the criteria you’re looking for. Here are some things to consider:
- What is your budget for summer camp?
- What is the purpose of sending your child to summer camp?
- Do you want an overnight or a day camp?
- Are you looking for a short-term or summer-long program?
- Do you want a camp that’s very structured or one that provides your child freedom and choices?
- What are your child’s interests, such as a sport, hobby or other interest?
Once you’ve selected a few summer camps that meet your primary criteria, share the choices with your child. Let your child know up front that you still need to thoroughly investigate each camp before making a final decision. But do keep your child’s choices in mind to ensure your child gets the most out of summer camp.
When the list has been reduced to a manageable selection, you’ll want to investigate the camps further. There are several things you must consider.
First, what are the staff’s qualifications? Many summer camps use teens to staff the camps. Teenagers make excellent mentors and can bring liveliness to summer camp programs. However, the programs themselves should be developed by professionals and have professional oversight to ensure campers are getting the most from the camp programs.
Second, how does the camp ensure your child’s safety? Find out what kind of safety training the camp provides its staffers. Also, is there always staff that knows CPR on hand? What are the camp’s procedures if your child becomes ill or has an accident? What about other emergencies?
Third, what is the daily schedule for campers? Ask for a daily itinerary, so you and your child both know what to expect.
Last, what are the rules? Each camp has its own set of rules. Find out whether your child can call you. If it’s a summer-long residential camp, can parents come and visit? Can your child bring along a cell phone or electronics? Also, how much money should your child bring, and how is your child’s money managed?
Posted in: Out & About, Summer Activities
Comment Policy: All viewpoints are welcome, but comments should remain relevant. Personal attacks, profanity, and aggressive behavior are not allowed. No spam, advertising, or promoting of products/services. Please, only use your real name and limit the amount of links submitted in your comment.
You Might Also Like...
Test Your Sun-Safety IQ
Family camping trips can make for happy memories for parents and kids. But a camping trip, whether in spring, summer, fall or winter, can turn into a painful experience for […]
Ten Fantastic Winter Playdates
We’ve reached the time of year where outside play requires approximately eighteen layers of clothing followed by the dreaded, “Mommy, I need to go potty.” Summer gives us beaches, pools, […]
Paradise Dancefest – Circus de Paradise
This December 11th, Positive-I studio hosts their third Paradise Dancefest at the Paradise Performing Arts Center, featuring the exciting theme, “Circus de Paradise.” Geared for all ages, the show’s eclectic […]
Play Parks in the North State— Family Fun All Summer
This summer pack a picnic and the perfect play clothes for you and the kids, then gather some family or friends and spend time at one of the many beautiful […]
Looking for a summer camp that is safe and fun for your kids can be difficult to find. This article breaks down how to choose a summer camp your kids will love, and you will approve. Thanks for sharing!