Questions to Ask When Choosing a Camp

When parents and kids narrow down their list of camps to choose from, the next step is to get more information. Be sure to read each camp’s website (look for FAQs) before contacting them; camp directors and leaders appreciate parents who have “done their homework” before reaching out. If you still have questions after reading the information available on their sites, then by all means, send an email or make a phone call. Here is a list of questions to consider when choosing camp programs.

Staff

• What training and experience do counselors and staff have?

• How does staff handle kids who are homesick?

• Is camp staffed by teens, adults or both?

• Is staff trained to look for kids who are having a hard time making friends?

• Does staff teach (and use) the buddy system? Program

• What is the counselor-tocamper ratio?

• Are kids divided by age or ability?

• Is your program licensed by the state or accredited by the

American Camp Association?

• Does the camp schedule include field trips? If so, how are kids transported?

• If camp includes swimming, how are swim skills tested and monitored?

• Are lunches and/or snacks provided?

• How often are the facilities cleaned?

• Do you have references from families who have attended camp before?

Health

• Is there a camp nurse and CPR/first-aid certified staff on premises at all times?

• How are allergies handled at camp?

• What are your COVID guidelines (are vaccinations required for staff and campers and what is your mask policy)? •

What’s the procedure when someone gets sick? Rules

• What is your policy regarding phones at camp?

• What is the discipline policy?

• What are drop-off and pickup policies?

Payment

• Do you offer scholarships or financial aid?

• Are there extra fees during camp we are required to pay? • Is the deposit refundable?

Find more helpful information in our article “10 Tips to Find the Right Day Camp” at www.sandiegofamily.com/ resources/summer-camps-andprograms/10-tips-to-find-theright-day-camp.

14 • SanDiegofamily.com • April 2022