Choose the right kids’ camp

Top 10 criteria for summer camp selection

Choosing the right kids’ camp is an extremely important decision. When making your camp visits this summer, we urge you to consider the following “Top 10” criteria:

1. Camp Management/Safety: Does the management of the children’s camp seem safety-conscious and attentive to campers? The management style affects every aspect of how a kid’s camp is run. Safety should be your number one concern! Is there adequate supervision? Are kids wearing appropriate safety equipment for sports and waterfront activities? Also check into the medical staff. Is there always a physician on the premises or on-call, and what type of nursing staff is available?
2. Programs: Are there programs at the kids’ camp that will satisfy your child’s interests? Are activities taught by professionals with adequate training? Are there elective periods, if that is something your child would like?
3. Facilities: Are the facilities of the kids’ camp safe, clean and well maintained? Are sports fields and walkways in good condition? Does the dining area look clean? Is the infirmary sanitary and well stocked? What about the condition of the bunks (inside and out), and the restrooms? Are facilities at the kids’ camp improved upon each year? Are you happy with the camp’s overall layout?
4. Location: Are you and your child comfortable with the proximity of the children’s camp? If your child has a chronic medical condition, such as asthma, is there a major medical facility in the area?
5. Value: The amount you spend on camp is a personal choice but – regardless of the cost – make sure the children’s camp provides good value for the tuition paid.
6. Staff: Who are the people who will be caring for the most precious person in your life? Where do they come from? What are their backgrounds? How are they recruited? What is their motivation for working at a kids’ camp? What is the staff-to-camper ratio?
7. Food: Is there a healthy selection provided for each meal? How are picky eaters accommodated? How does the children’s camp manage dangerous food allergies? Are specialty diets accommodated?
8. Camper population/makeup: Do campers look happy? Ask a few kids how they like camp! Do you think your child will be comfortable around the other campers? Are there are a lot of kids attending in your child’s age group? Do most kids stay for the whole summer or for partial sessions? Does the children’s camp environment seem competitive or relaxed?
9. Ability to satisfy camper/family needs: Is the kids’ camp sensitive to any special needs your child may have? The children’s camp you choose should be able to accommodate all your child’s needs, both physical and emotional. You should feel confident and excited about sending your child to this summer camp.
10. Overall evaluation/personal assessment: Keep your eyes and ears open when visiting a kids’ camp! Look at everything – little things can mean a lot. Talk to the campers; talk to the counselors; and don’t be afraid to ask probing questions. Make sure that this is a place that you and your child are comfortable with.

Start your search for the perfect children’s camp and contact Camp Specialists today. Call us at 1-800-443-6428 or fill out our summer camp inquiry form. There is no obligation and all summer camp referrals are FREE!