Choosing the Right Camp for Your Child

WRITTEN BY TAMMY CHRISTOFFERSON

Summer is approaching and, as a parent of a school-age child, you may suddenly realize you are running out of time to find a camp for them. How do you know what is right for your kiddo? Here are some tips and questions for you to think about as you search for the perfect camp.

1. What are your child’s interests? Finding a camp that meets your kid’s interests is a sure way to engage them in the process and get them excited for summer. Does your child enjoy the arts? Consider a camp that focuses on music, theater or art, allowing them to explore their creative side. If they love science and math, look for a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) camp that engages them with fun experiments and building activities. If your kiddo is active and likes being outdoors, a sports or nature camp might be the perfect fit. Some programs offer a variety of activities that will allow your child to explore their passions and learn new skills. Introducing your child to camps that concentrate on their interests can help to expand their talents, enrich their learning and keep them occupied during the summer months.

2. How does the program ensure your child’s safety? To feel confident that a camp is a safe and secure environment, you can inquire about their safety measures by asking these questions:

• What can they share about the individuals in charge of your child’s care? Does the camp perform background checks? What are the qualifications of counselors and instructors? How much training do the counselors receive before the camp begins?

• What is the supervision for the camp like? How many children will each counselor be responsible for? If staff are high school students, do they have a supervisor who oversees them?

• Many camps include excursions and travel throughout the day. If your child goes on field trips, what safeguards are in place and how will they be transported? Does the camp offer a schedule so you can know your child’s location in the event of an emergency? Are there policies that designate what individuals can pick your kiddo up?

3. Does the camp have a behavior policy? Asking the program how they manage behaviors such as bullying, violence and inappropriate language is a key step to ensure your child has a positive experience. Ask for information about how they handle discipline and guidance for children who misbehave. This can help you prepare your child to understand the expectations and consequences if they misbehave and ensure that they are protected from being bullied.

4. Does the camp provide meals and snacks? If your child attends all day, will meals and snacks be provided? Will they accommodate if your kid has food restrictions or allergies? Knowing this allows for planning ahead, and factoring food into the cost of the camp.

5. Do the camp hours fit the family’s schedule? Summer camps vary in hours and days of operation. Try to find a schedule that works with yours without having to make too many revisions. Knowing the camp schedule ahead of time can help you prepare so you can fit pick-up and drop-off into your day. Communication with your employer or prior obligations can reduce the stress of a crazy summer schedule.

6. Does the camp have a place to go during inclement weather? Many sports/nature camps are held outdoors, which means providing your child with sunscreen and appropriate clothing for the weather. If stormy conditions are in the forecast, it is important that there is a safe place for your child to go to get away from the elements.

7. What is the cost of the camp? Is it affordable for your family? Are there extra costs for activities or is the tuition all inclusive? “Shelling out” extra money for activities adds up and may not be convenient for you. In addition, some camps may be wonderful, but the cost may be prohibitive for your family. You might ask the program if they offer scholarship options for families in need of financial assistance. If this is not the case, you will need to decide if the camp is the right fit for you.

Overall, camps are amazing opportunities for children during the summer months. For many parents, this time of the year approaches without warning and the choices become more limited as summer draws near. Research your options and use these questions as a guide to choose the one that is best for your family. Above everything, choose a camp that is safe and offers your child fun learning experiences. Have a great summer!

Tammy Christofferson is a Provider Support Lead for Child Care Connections. Child Care Connections CCC is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that serves as the Child Care Resource and Referral Agency in Gallatin, Lewis and Clark, Park, Meagher, Jefferson, and Broadwater Counties.