Day camp or overnight camp—decide what’s right for your child? Some camps offer both day camp and residential programs; others one or the other. If you are interested in having your child attend a day camp, consider the camp’s hours and location and whether it provides pickup service for campers. Shop around. The camp that is a little farther away may be a better selection than the one that is nearby.
What does a typical schedule look like? Most camps can provide you with a real or mock schedule or at least talk you through a day at camp. This assures you that the camp program is organized and efficient in striving toward its goals. Details are important. If children are not bringing a bagged lunch, ask what type of food is served. What form of transportation is used for pickups or field trips? If the program is residential, inquire about sleeping arrangements.
What is the camp’s mission statement or focus?
Each camp has a unique vision of what a child’s summer camp experience should be. Some focus on competition, physical activity, or sports, while others may focus on nature, education, or religion. [Query: It’s not clear how a philosophy can be based on nature or education. It’s parallel structure to discuss the focus of some and the focus of others.]It is important to select a camp that suits your family’s beliefs and your child’s interests and temperament.
Is this a traditional or a specialized camp?
A traditional camp typically features a wide variety of activities and exposes children to many new things. The balance of recreation and education suits those who are easily distracted or bored and the variety gives campers the chance to discover new interests. A specialized camp, such as a soccer or dance camp, focuses on specific skills and is aimed at improving performance. This type of camp is appropriate for a child who is especially motivated in a particular talent.
Is the camp accredited? Can it provide references?
The American Camping Association has accredited many established camps—certifying that they comply with nationally recognized health, safety, and program-quality standards. Many smaller or newer camps may not be able to afford the high cost of accreditation but may also comply with those standards. In this case, the camp may be able to provide you with references. The praises of other concerned parents will often set your mind at ease.
What is the director’s experience?
How does the camp recruit and train staff? Speak to the director and inquire about his or her background. Find out what type of screening process the camp uses for hiring. Ask how old the counselors are and what kind of training they have. Have they completed first aid training or CPR certification? Consider the ratio of counselors to campers to be sure there is a large enough staff to properly supervise the children.
What is the camp’s approach to discipline?
What are the consequences for misbehaving and rule breaking, what happens when there are conflicts between campers, and what are the grounds for being expelled from the camp program? Be sure that the camp has a specific answer to each of these questions and then establish whether you find the methods of discipline fair and in accordance with your own practices.
Are there medical facilities on the premises or nearby?
Is a trained medical staff available? Be sure that the camp you are choosing is able to accommodate any medical needs your child may have. While an onsite nurse or physician is recommended, camps are not required to have one. If there is no medical staff on the premises, find out how close the nearest medical facility is and ask the director what steps are taken in an emergency.
