7 Questions to ask when choosing a Summer Camp for kids
Kids are always looking forward for summer camps which are usually known for good times. But, as a parent choosing the right summer camp can be a taunting experience sometimes. Whether you are new to choosing a camp or want to know more on choosing the right camp for your kids, this is must-read.
Is your Child ready?
Before sending your child to the camp, check if he/she is ready to do it as it is a progressive step for him as well as you. As a parent, you must go with your gut and see if you child can handle it as they will be away for a few weeks.
What type of camp?
Should I send my child to an academic camp, a skill-based one, or a nature camp, is the common confusion among parents. This might differ from child to child. When you send them to academic camps it helps them to boost their confidence in class and perform better while sending them to a nature based camp will help them connect with nature more closely. They also can interact with similar minded kids and have a healthy relationship.
Medical Back-up
Most of the camps have very strict regulations when it comes to child’s safety. As a parent, check if they have registered nurses in the camp along with a health center equipped with medications and essentials. Check, how long does it take to the nearby clinic from the camp site.
Can parents meet or phone child during camp?
Ask camp organizers about the policy for communicating with your child over the phone or meet in person. What are the camp day or camp’s hours and in case of emergencies or child becomes ill, will they contact you to pick-up the child or will they provide transport facility. What is the staff-camper ratios. Usually overnight camps must have 1:6 ratio for ages between 7 and 8, 1:8 for 9- 14, and 1:10 for 15-18. Check if they have enough staff to take care of your child. The ratio might differ for the day camp.
Is the environment safe & welcome?
When you child goes to a new environment he/she might feel a little bit uncomfortable or homesick. It can be a challenge for them but ensure that the camp co-operates and understand the child to develop social and problem-solving skills. Beyond this, it truly depends on the staff of the camp and how they take this relationship. Communicate openly with the campers and check if they have bonding sessions even before the camp starts.
Staff Return Rates
About 40 to 60 percent counselors and staffs of the camp usually come back year after year unless a valid reason. If their number is below this, you must find out why? If they are more, you can be sure that their staffs are well trained and trustworthy.
Personal Recommendation
Although the campers, newspapers, and websites have testimonials, it is always better when you go for personal recommendation from your family or friends who have sent their child to a particular camp. You can clear all the doubts you have in mind and also be 100% sure while leaving your little one.
Camping can enrich the child’s knowledge as well their character and stays in their memory for long.
Read More:
