Summer will be here before most of us know it, which means it’s time to start planning summer activities for kids. If you are thinking about choosing a summer camp for your kids, then you are in the right place!
Summer day camps are a good option for a lot of families, but how do you choose the right summer camp for your kids?
There’s a lot you have to think about. For example, you want a licensed summer camp that focuses on safety first and foremost. There are more than 200,000 playground injuries per year, so you need a camp with a well-trained staff that can reduce these risks.
You also want a camp that’s engaging for your child and meets their interests and developmental needs.
The following are some specific things to keep in mind as far as choosing a summer camp for your kids.
Think About Your Child’s Preferences
Rather than thinking about what summer camp your child would like in your perfect world, think about what they’ll like in their world. You want to consult with your child before choosing a camp because it’s meant to be something that’s enjoyable.
Some kids like being in smaller groups or focusing on things like science and math, whereas others like sports and adventure activities.
If you have a general idea of your child’s interests and preferences in a camp, it can help you shorten the list of options.
There are different genres and categories of summer camps to be aware of.
A traditional-style camp is one that might come to mind from your own childhood. For example, these can include sleepaway camps with activities like archery and campfires. A day camp can also be traditional if the focus is on the outdoors.
An academic summer camp can provide hands-on learning and education. These camps usually focus on topics schools don’t typically teach.
Art camps might include a focus on performing or visual arts, while adventure camps are high-energy options with specialized exploratory components.
Athletic camps focus on sports—usually the center on building skills in one particular sport.
Safety and Accreditation
As mentioned, safety and accreditation are top priorities when you choose a summer camp for your kids.
There are different accrediting bodies that apply to camps, and they can vary depending on whether the program is a day camp or an overnight camp.
The American Camp Association is the only nationwide accrediting organization for all types of camps. The ACA standards are focused on health and safety, as well as the implementation of risk management practices.
While the camp you choose doesn’t have to be accredited by the ACA, it can be a helpful guide when you’re making a decision.
There are also different state camp licensing requirements, so you should look into that as well.
General Features of a Good Camp
When you’re comparing camps, if there’s anything you can’t find the answer to online or in their brochure, don’t be afraid to call them directly.
Every camp is going to have its own philosophy, so you want one that’s in line with your parenting philosophy and what you want for your children. For example, some parents like the idea of a very competitive camp, while others want the focus to be on fun.
Learn more about the camp director’s background. If the camp is ACA-accredited, the director is required to have a minimum of a bachelor’s degree as well as in-service training. ACA-accredited camp directors also need to have at least 16 weeks of administrative experience in a camp before they become a director.
Talk to the staff about the training each counselor receives. All staff should, at a minimum, have safety training. Staff should also be trained on emergency procedures and communication, basic First Aid, and CPR.
The camp you choose should have a documented process for handling behavioral or disciplinary problems, and you should check references. When you contact the camp’s director, they should be happy to provide you with a list of references from families who’ve attended in the past.
You can also go to meet the director or some of the staff in person if you prefer. They can give you a tour of the facility, and you can ask any further questions you have.
Don’t be afraid to do significant research before deciding on a camp. Camp programs are expensive, and your child may be spending a lot of their time there in the summer. If you find a great camp you love, it could be somewhere your family returns year after year.
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