A camp for every child – The keys to finding the right camp

Narrow the camp choices by finding which program is the right fit

Camp can last from just a few days or stretch to all summer long. It’s well worth the trouble to investigate camp programs before your camper packs a backpack. These questions help you explore the options.

Near or far?

Where do you want your child to go to camp? Locally or far away? Near means minimal travel costs, easier to evaluate or visit, and correspondence to and from campers is quicker. Far means different geographical – cultural even – experiences, and greater promotion of independence.

Short or long session?

How long do you want your child to remain at camp? Short sessions (1-3 weeks) mean first-time campers can learn new skills and warm-up to the idea of being at camp, less expense, and minimal homesickness. Longer sessions (4-12 weeks) mean gaining a strong sense of belonging and community, development of specialized skills, and lifelong friendships.

Girls only, boys only or co-ed?

Now may be the opportunity to explore this choice with your camper. Single-sex camps mean breaking gender stereotypes and more opportunities to “Be Yourself”, co-ed camps mean allowing families with a boy and girl to send them to the same camp, and offers diverse points of view.

Traditional, specialty, and special needs?

Understanding the strengths in a camp’s focus may help you make your choice. A ‘traditional’ camp offers a wide variety of activities that campers are exposed to. A ‘specialty’ camp may have campers select one or two specialized activities (often combined with traditional offerings) and focuses on proficiency in particular skills. ‘Special needs’ camps will offer activities