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How to choose the right

SUMMER CAMP

 

Those sunny summer days might feel light-years away but, believe it or not, now is the time to start making plans for summer camp! That’s right: It’s summer camp registration season and, for parents here in Alaska, there's no shortage of options to choose from. Local kids can explore sports, science, arts and crafts, cooking and community projects - or do a little of everything at cool camp programs in the area. To help you cut through the clutter and choose the right summer opportunity for your child, consider these essential tips:

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  • Find the camp that matches your child’s interests. What kinds of activities does he or she like? And is the focus of the camp something they’ll enjoy for a week, a month or longer? If your child doesn’t have a particular interest, look for a camp that offers a variety of activities. Chances are something will click.

  • Stretch boundaries. A camp that offers activities that pique your child’s interest should be considered when researching options, but avoid choosing a camp that does not give your child a chance to try new things and learn. A well-balanced camp allows kids the freedom to do what they enjoy as well as branch outside of their comfort zone.

  • Check out the camp’s philosophy or mission. Does it align with your family’s values? Is it more cooperative or competitive? Is it faith-based?

  • Day camp or residential (overnight camp)? Is your child ready to sleep away from home for an extended stay? While many regard 7 years and older to be the “magic age” for that first week away from home, readiness varies by child. A good rule of thumb? If your 6-year-old is actively asking to go to camp, it might be time to consider letting her. Likewise, if your shy 9-year-old is hesitant, talk about it: Share your fond memories of camp, discuss the amazing experiences that overnight camps have to offer, then encourage him to consider going – but if he’s adamant, think about giving him a pass this year, then bring it up again next year.

  • Consider the location, and its impact on you. Is getting to and from the camp convenient? Is the camp too far away for you to drive your child there every day/week? Some day camps, however, offer transportation, so you don’t have to worry about driving distance or managing drop-offs and pick-ups around your work schedule. Check with the camp to see what’s available.

  • Can you afford it? Ask about the base cost of camp as well as any extra costs, such as lunch, field trips or equipment that you’d have to purchase for your child to participate. Some will offer incentives, such as scholarships, so don’t be shy about asking if money is any issue.

  • Ask about cancellations and refund policies. Many camps are implementing policies that allow for more flexibility.

  • Check out the camp staff.  What is counselor-to-camper ratio? (The American Camp Association’s recommended ratios range from one staff member for every six campers ages 7 and 8 to one staff member for every 10 campers ages 9 to 14 to one for every 12 campers ages 15 to 17.) Are staff members safety-trained and capable of handling emergencies? Have they undergone background checks? How are behavioral and disciplinary problems handled?

  • Check references. Quality summer camps will have dozens of parents and children willing to sing its praises. Ask camp directors if there are parents in your area you can speak with to learn more about what they thought of the camp and their children’s experience.

  • Will my child disconnect from technology? It is a well-known fact that children spend too much time staring at screens today. Many summer camps do not allow children to bring cell phones or have access to computers and video games while at camp. While at first children can feel isolated, by the end of camp they will have had free time to enjoy nature, discover themselves and make new friends without the influence of technology.

  • Does the program have sufficient health and safety practices in place?  Limiting the number of students in each camp, social distancing, increased handwashing and surface sanitizing, and daily health screenings are just some of the strategies camps will be using.

  • Start with a test drive. Not sure if you or your children are fully prepared for camp? Attending an open house before camp starts can help.  It will offer you a chance to meet the instructors and camp staff, get a feel for the facilities, help shy kids get warmed up to the environment, and get your questions answered in person. Another option: Sign up for a short session to start and if your child enjoys the experience, plan for a longer, more immersing experience next summer.

  • Don’t delay! Sign up early. Many camps fill up quickly. 

 

Find a camp your child will enjoy by checking out our Camps & Activities Guide here.

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Sources: American Camp Association; The Camping and Education Foundation

 

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