Making the Right Decisions for Summer Camp: What You Need to Know

The summer camp experience can be a valuable supplement to your kid's education, or simply a fun activity to add to those long weeks of summer break. Choosing the right summer camp for your kids does involve some careful planning and decision-making; any bad experiences or the wrong fit can lead to problems later down the road, and you'll want to find the right balance between your child's personality, their interests, and their confidence in being away from home.

Many kids jump at the chance to leave home for the summer, while others will be more reluctant to settling in unfamiliar territory. It's important to determine what exactly you and your child want; do they need to develop specific skills, or are they looking to explore new interests? What type of structure are they most adaptable to? Outdoor camps aren't for everyone so an indoor setting might be more appropriate. Overnight camps are the preferred choice for most parents, and you'll find plenty of summer residential programs that include accommodations and meals. The first area of consideration then is the type of summer camp your child will most enjoy. This can be academic or education-focused, a travel experience, or even a special needs development-style camp.

The next decision will likely be based on cost; if you have financial restrictions, there are still many options available from local community organizations and sponsoring organizations. Find out what the local YMCA has to offer, or pick a camp through your volunteer organization. Many of these can be just as enriching and rewarding as 'pay' camps. Costs can range from $400-$1500 per week, and full-season camps from $5000+.

The third decision is location. When the camp is far from home, you'll need to consider the cost of visits if it's a long-term camp, or whether you need to pay more for security and medical coverage during the period. Staying close to home isn't always necessary; many children adjust well to long distances away from home, so you'll need to factor in your child's personality, as well as their confidence in moving away for a while.

Your fourth decision for selecting summer camp involves reviewing the programs and general culture of the sponsoring organization. What is the organization's purpose and overall goal? Do you trust the advisors, camp counselors, and staff members? The best way to find out if you've found the right match is to do some homework; review websites, brochures, and other materials thoroughly to learn more. Speak to parents and camp counselors on their overall experiences, and make an informed decision. You'll have a much better understanding from parents or even former camp attendees.

A few other items to make the right decision:

-What type of staff training is provided or made available? A well-trained team can have a strong influence on your child's experience

-What type of insurance coverage is available? A comprehensive insurance plan will make sure your child is safe throughout their stay.

-What's the camp policy for mail and packages? You'll want to know if and when you can send that care package!

-What's the camper-counselor ratio? A low ratio will ensure that your child gets the attention and care they need.

Making the right decision for summer camp can lead to the growth and positive experiences your child deserves. Reviewing your options and asking the right questions can help you find the right match!