The weather is finally getting warmer and thoughts of sunny summer days are upon us. School will be ending soon and summer camp may be in the picture. Finding the right summer camp for your child’s particular needs may not be as simple as you may think. Start early to ensure that you get exactly what you are looking for. Here are some tips to get you started whether your looking for a day camp or a sleepaway camp.

Staff –A good staff can make all the difference! Are the staff members skilled in engaging a shy student that may have a difficult time coming out of there shell? How long have the staff members been working with the camp? Are they trained in emergency procedures and CPR? Are background checks done on every employee? What is the counselor to camper ratio? In the case of a sleepaway camp, how do they handle homesickness? A good facility will be eager to answer your questions.

What is a camp day like? If early enough, can visitation be arranged? A good, well-rounded camp day should have varied activities to meet the needs of all campers unless you opt for a specialized camp such as for sports, music or dance. Is food provided or supplied by the family?

Ask to see schedules and inquiry how closely they are adhered to. If it is a specialized camp, make sure the kids have the opportunity for downtime and to take part in activities that are not geared toward their specialty. In the case of a sleepaway camp, what are the daily menus like, what kind of activities do they offer in the evening and what is the counselor to camper ratio at this time? Are there family visiting days?

Goals-A good camp should be dedicated to making sure they provide campers with good, safe fun! Parents should look for a camp that is looking to foster relationships. Since summer camp is a seasonal activity, it should be a goal of the camp to provide the best possible experience to the campers so that they want to return the following year. Friendships among campers and comradery with staffers would be a sure way of making that happen. Making memories will ensure for a positive camp experience and the likelihood of a camper begging to return and make choosing a camp easier in the coming years.

Now that we discussed some of the criteria for choosing a summer camp, the rest is up to you and the camper. Make a list of camps to be considered, what you expect of the program and get out and find the one that is best suited for you and your child.

Don’t forget to check with your insurance agent if you decide on a sleep-away camp.  Make sure you have off-premises theft coverage to cover your child’s belongings while they are away.

Have a wonderful summer and may your days be filled with Happy Campers!

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Written by: Denise Visco