FIVE QUESTIONS TO ASK WHEN CHOOSING A CAMP

What type of camp?

First consider what type of camp your child would enjoy and that you would like for them to experience. Maybe your budding artist would be thrilled to continue learning art techniques at an art camp. Perhaps your child is interested in learning more about becoming a chef, making a cooking camp helpful. Sports camps hone kids’ athletic skills, and faith-based camps are another option.

What is camp’s duration?

The length of the camp is also a critical detail to consider. If your child is enthusiastic about a particular camp, she may want to spend a week or two enjoying what the camp has to offer. On the other hand, maybe she wants to have the experience but also enjoy a more laid-back summer as well. Check to see whether there are morning- or afternoon-only camps compared to full-day camps to cater to your needs. The age of your child can be a big deciding factor for how long she will be able to enjoy a day at camp as well.

Are we overnight ready?

One of the main questions that pops into my mind when I hear “summer camp” is will it be overnight? My kids are still in their younger years, but we are definitely entering this era. As a parent, you need to determine whether you think your child is ready and able to go to an overnight camp or not. You also need to decide whether you are ready for that leap as a parent. Discuss details and expectations with your child, as well as what to do if he needs you or changes his mind while he’s there.

Will any of my child’s friends be attending?

One of the best parts of camp, and summer in general, is spending time with your friends. Now we know that children can make friends once they acclimate to camp, but having friends go to the same camp with you is fun too. Check with the parents of your children’s pals to see what they’re looking into for summer camps. If your child knows he will have a familiar face to look for once at camp, he may feel at home there sooner.

What is the mission of the camp and how is safety handled?

As with any facility caring for your children, make sure to do some background checks on what this camp’s mission statement is, as well as what their staff-tocamper ratio is. Also learn how the camp staff is screened and trained, and whether a nurse is on staff. Make sure you know how to be reached in case of an emergency and how you will be able to communicate with your child while she is away.

Stephanie Loux is the mother of Layla, Mason, and Slade and has sent her kids to three different VBS programs during the summer to enjoy a bit of summer peace.

Johnson County. Dedicated to providing activities that promote emotional, intellectual, and physical health, our summer fun choices include nature and science, preschool enrichment, art, sports, computers, leadership development, music, theater, and dance. The options include both indoor and outdoor programs, and fulland partial-day schedules are available. For details, call 913.831.3359 or visit www.JCPRD.com/Camps. See display ad on pg. 38.

KC Watersports

Camps are held Monday-Friday from 9:00-3:00. Our passion is teaching people how to enjoy watersports at every level. Whether you’re new to the sport and have never ridden any kind of board before to the advanced rider wanting to learn a new flip or twist our camp will fit every level of rider. Included with camp is instruction from our top-level coaches, gear, and a light lunch. Kids bring a positive attitude, swim wear, sunscreen and a towel. See display ad on pg. 37. KCWaterSports.com

Kanakuk

Kanakuk is a premier Christian summer sports camp experience for kids ages 6–18 with locations in Branson and Lampe, Missouri. Five overnight camps provide Kampers with fun, safe experiences that develop them spiritually, physically, emotionally, and socially. Kampers make memories while participating in more than 70 sports and activities. Sessions run all summer with 1, 2, and 4-Week options. Learn more about customizing your child’s summer camp experience at www.Kanakuk.com or call 417.266.3000. See display ad on pg. 33.

Kansas City Missouri Parks & Recreation

Get ready for 10 weeks of fun at Kansas City, Missouri Parks & Recreation’s Summer Day Camps! This year, camps include educational enrichment opportunities, field trips, games, art projects, recreational sports and more – all provided in a safe and healthy environment. New in 2023 is a Sport Specialty Camp and Outdoor Adventure Camp. Visit www.KCParks. org for details. Registration opens on March 13. See display ad on pg. 43.

Kansas City Young Audiences

Sing, Dance, Act, Make, and Play!

Kansas City Young Audiences offers children performing and visual arts classes, camps, and private instruction at their creative space on Main Street. Summer Camps & Classes: June 5 –August 5. Scholarships are available. Early enrollment discounts too!

816.531.4022. See display ad on pg. 37. www.KCYA.org

Kansas City Zoo

Make your summer a little wilder with Summer Break Camp. Camp runs June 5 through August 17. Our day camp curriculums are age appropriate and are properly chaperoned at all times. Activities may include but are not

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