Key Camp
Search Questions
You Didn’t Know You Needed to Ask • Are there deal-breaking parameters for our family’s camp search? What
is non-negotiable for us? Session length, location, and activities are often non-negotiable. Can you be flexible about number of weeks? Location – a camp that must be in a certain state or within a certain zip code? Activities – horseback riding, Lacrosse, theatre or other activities that are the child’s favorite? Every parameter cannot be a deal breaker, but be honest about the aspects of the search that are not flexible for your family.
• What’s driving my camp search? Does my child want to be a camper?
Un-paralleled fun and learning? The opportunity for new experiences? To develop new skills? Family tradition? The need for child care? Answers to these questions will influence your options.
• How do I uncover a full range of camp options that might suit my child’s current needs and interests? Visit acanewengland.org and click on the Find A Camp Tool to explore options. Word of Mouth is a great way to add additional options. Ask people whose children share interests with yours. Ask community people who know your child, coaches and staff of extracurricular activities or after school programs.
• What educational philosophy will best match my child’s temperament and compliment their current school experience?
What values are important to you in terms of how the camp runs its program and trains its staff? Do you want a camp that emphasizes structure and responsibility? One that emphasizes free play and choice? How do the camps you are considering build community and encourage independence?
• What is my budget for camp?
There’s a camp out there for everyone! Some camps offer financial assistance. Financial aid procedures vary from camp to camp, so don’t be afraid to ask questions. Read camp brochures and websites carefully for information and application instructions.
• How is the programming at this camp designed to grow with my child over the years? On average, what percentage of campers return for a second year? A fifth year? Yes, you’re looking for camp for THIS coming summer, but camps design programming so children can return in future summers since some of the leadership and other skills are not instantly acquired, but gained over the course of a few summers.
Bud Copeland, Director of Membership & Engagement American Camp Association, New England
The American Camp Association, New England—supports camp experiences, educates camp professionals & staff, consults on camp best practices and advocates for camp quality. For additional camp information and resources in CT, MA, ME, NH, RI & VT, visit www.acanewengland.org or call (781) 541-6080.
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Boston Parents Paper Virtual Camp Fair | 2021
