According to studies by the American Camp Association (ACA), camp experiences support children’s education, in-person relationships and teamwork while developing self-esteem and fostering an appreciation for being present. Yet, picking the right day camp may feel all-consuming. Stress not, dear parents! Below are tips to help ensure the perfect fit, plus a list of questions to ask before registering for camp.
Tips to find the right day camp:
1. Start with budget.
Considering the abundance of potential benefits, camp is more than daycare; it is an investment in your child’s well-being. Still, the last thing you want is for your kiddo to choose a camp you can’t afford, so start by setting a price range; it could be the difference between one week and an entire summer at camp.
Many camps offer sibling or group discounts and scholarships, which may impact affordability. If needed, consider having kids “work” for additional funding, such as doing extra chores, having a lemonade stand or launching a fundraiser with doting grandparents.
2. Define camp goals.
Parents’ goals for camp tend to be long term (like building independence), while kids’ goals might be short term (like making slime or playing kickball). It’s important to consider everyone’s input.
Which sounds more appealing: Traditional camps or specialty camps—or maybe a week of each? Traditional camps tend to be more affordable and feature a variety of crafts, activities and swimming, while specialty camps focus on specific skills or activities, like sports, art, academics or music.
3. Collect information.
San Diego Family Magazine’s Summer Camp Guide is a great place to start your search. Find a variety of camps in this issue, and more at www.sandiegofamily.com/resources/summer-camps-and-programs/time-for-camp.
4. Involve your children.
ACA recommends including kids in the decision-making process because it helps build a sense of ownership and anticipation. They’re more likely to be excited (and less likely to be overly anxious) about a camp that they help chose. Look over videos, photos and reviews together and make note of their favorites.
5. Assess credentials.
The importance of experienced staff goes beyond the fun factor (although fun is essential!); camp counselors can have a beneficial, tangible impact on kids. Finding well-trained, caring camp staff with a good reputation is key.
Look at camp (and counselor) certifications and accreditation. ACA accreditation ensures a camp has “met or exceeds the highest nationally recognized standards for health, safety, staff training and program quality,” but there are great camps that don’t have that specific seal of approval. Ask about staff and counselor training: Do they have current CPR/first aid, is there a nurse on staff, how many counselors are lifeguard certified (if applicable)? Read camp testimonies for additional insight.
6. Evaluate logistics.
Make sure camp hours accommodate your family’s schedule. Many camps offer extended hours, but this usually increases cost. Location and commute are also considerations, especially in the event of an emergency. Is there another family you can carpool with?
“My advice is always to choose a camp that works with your life, not one that forces you to predict it,” says Michael Saperstein, vice president of Steve & Kate’s Camp.
7. Consider something new.
“Experiencing something new is the most important factor for me when choosing a day camp,” says Shannon Foley, South Park mom. “My daughter is only 5, and I want her to have the chance to explore lots of different interests.” Summer is the perfect time to dabble in a variety of activities and see what sticks.
Not only do novel experiences help identify unknown interests, they also build confidence, resilience, creativity and trigger the brain into creating new neural pathways.
8. Gather feedback.
“One of the best resources is talking to other parents whose kids have attended the camp you’re considering,” says Saperstein. “Hearing firsthand experiences can be incredibly helpful.”
Speak with veteran campers, too. While one child’s camp experience doesn’t guarantee the same for another, it’s a great way to get unbiased information. The camp may provide references upon request.
9. Schedule a visit.
Visit potential camp programs, if possible. “Seeing the property firsthand, whether it’s during a camp session or off-season, makes a memorable impression,” says Drs. Christopher Thurber and Jon Malinowski, authors of The Summer Camp Handbook. “You’ll learn enough to finalize your decision.”
10. Plan early.
Some camps fill up within minutes of registration opening. Pay attention to enrollment dates and be prepared to register early to secure top camp choices.
Questions to Ask Before Choosing a Day Camp:
- How long has the camp been in operation?
- What’s the camp director’s background and philosophy?
- What percentage of staff is returning from last year?
- What’s the camper-to-counselor ratio?
- What type of background checks, training or certifications do counselors have?
- What’s the camp’s licensing and accreditation status?
- Is there an Emergency Action Plan?
- Is there an open house or orientation?
- Are there extra fees aside from registration?
- How does camp communicate with parents, if needed? How can parents communicate concerns with camp?
- What should campers bring each day?
- What type of transportation (if any) is offered?
- Are extended hours available and how does that affect price?
- What does a typical camp day look like? Do kids have any program options?
- Does the camp provide lunch or snacks?
- What’s the policy regarding electronic devices?
- Are accommodations available for kids who have special needs?
- How often are facilities and equipment cleaned?
- How does staff detect and respond to bullying or conflict?
- What’s the policy re missed camp days or cancellation?
Jennifer Garcia—a wife, mother, and creative communications specialist in Lakeside—traces some of her earliest memories among the meaningful summers she spent at camp.
Ready to choose fabulous camp programs with your kids? Check out this year's Summer Camp Guide!
