When you start looking for a Summer Camp for your child, all of the different options available to you can seem intimidating. You may be wondering how you will be able to choose the right one for your child – the perfect place where they will be able to thrive and have a good time. Well, don’t worry, it’s not as difficult as it may initially seem. And we’ve got a few general guidelines to help you decide on the best option for your family!
- Overnight or day?
This might be the best place to start narrowing down your options. Do you want to send your child to an overnight camp where they will stay for up to several weeks? Or would you prefer something local where you pick your child up at the end of the day? Both have their merits, and it’s all up to preference. Overnight camps help children gain valuable independence skills in a safe environment. But if you or your child is not ready for that step quite yet, a day camp may be the best way for them to learn how to handle separation, while still knowing they will be coming home at the end of the day.
- Consider special needs
While physical or mental disabilities need not be a hindrance when choosing a summer camp, you may be interested in camps that are especially suited to your child’s particular needs. Many camps cater specifically to certain groups of children. Others will work to integrate these children into the broader camp population.
- Size of camp
Consider both your and your child’s comfort level and look into what size camp will best work for your child. Larger camps will enable your child to meet and mingle with a wide diversity of other children, while smaller camps may allow them more personalized attention.
- Location
You can find most day camps locally, which makes it convenient for parents to drop off and pick up their kids each day. In this case, you’ll most likely want to choose a facility close to you. With overnight camps, you have a wider range of locations to choose from. Do you want your child to stay in state or is there another part of the country you’d like your child to explore?
- Traditional or specialty?
Traditional camps usually offer a large range of activities for your child to partake in. They’ll be able to experience all sorts of outdoor activities that they may have never considered having an interest in before. On the other hand, if your child has a special talent or a specific interest you’d like them to pursue, there are many camps that are specialized in cultivating certain skills.
Now that you’re able to narrow down your options, you’ll likely find the selection process a pleasant and even exciting experience.
– Shreya Wadkar
