It's Off to Camp They Go!

Thinking of packing the kids off to camp this summer but not
quite sure where to start? With all the options out there—day camps, overnight camps, theme camps, camps for diabetic kids, and more—it can be a bit mind blogging. But, if you ask the right questions and do you research, you can choose a camp your child will love and you can fee good about sending them to.

Here are 10 things to consider when making decisions:

• How long has the camp been in operations? Look for a well-established camp with a successful history—in most cases, they’ve had time to work out any issues and figure out what works best and what the kids like the most.
  
  • How is the staff trained? How high is the turnover rate? Find
  out if the camp formally trains their staff, or if they receive minimal preparation prior to camp. It’s important to
  be aware of the quality and level of training camp counselors and staff receives—they’ll be responsible for
  your precious child! Also ask about the camp’s discipline and communication polices and philosophies and
  make sure they’re in line with yours at home.
  
  • Does the camp background checks on their entire employee? If they do not, don’t send your child there!
  
  • What is the camper-to-counselor ration? Will you child receive the attention they need for their age group
  and personality! The correct ration for overnight camps should be at least one counselor for every six kids
  age 7-8, one counselor to eight kids age 9-14, and one counselor for every ten campers age 15-17. The
  ratios are slightly higher for day camps.
  
  • What kinds of food will be served! As how the camp deals with food allergies and sensitivities (or just plain picky eaters!) It’s also a good idea to make sure the snacks and meals are healthy and that the kids eat often enough to maintain the high level of activity at camp.
  
  • How much physical activity is involved? If your kid isn’t the athletic type, don’t sign him up for the camp
  where he’ll feel overwhelmed and exhausted. A well-rounded camp experience should include a healthy
  mix of physical activity, mental/artistic stimulation, and social time.
  
  •Ask your child what kind of camp they’d lie to go to! You might think rock climbing camp sounds awesome
  while your kid’s dying to learn to surf or sculpt with clay. Let your child have a  big part in the decision where
  to go based on activities or theme. If the camp they choose meets all you safety and philosophical requirements, say yes! They’ll feel a huge sense of ownership and have a better chance at a successful camp experience.
  
  

  Choose wisely and summer camps can be fun and rewarding time for your child—and a much needed break
  for Mom and Dad.
  
  Author: Heidi Drake is a the Managing Editor/Feature writer for Playoutdoors.com a national online retailer
  for kids age 0-14, offering a one-of-a-kind community where parents can find high quality and affordable outdoor apparel and gear for the campground, the beach, the park, in the snow, and everywhere in between.