As the weather warms up and your child’s school break approaches, it’s time to research fun summer camps for kids. Camps are a great way to break up the monotony of your child being stuck at home all summer. With a full- or half-day summer camp, your child will reap the priceless benefits of attending. Sign them up for the right one, and they’ll gain confidence, build self-esteem, explore new ventures, grow their social skills, and create lasting memories. But how do you choose the best summer camp for your kid?
Our dedicated Crème de la Crème team is here to help. We believe in supporting our local communities by fostering children’s creativity and growth through whole-child-focused programs. Are you curious to see it for yourself? Schedule a tour at one of our Crème de la Crème locations. From art studios and science classes to engaging summer camps, our highly trained teachers have the appropriate skills to support your child. Consider asking the following questions when evaluating a summer camp for your kid.
What Does a Typical Day at Camp Look Like?
Children Holding a Parachute Tent by RDNE Stock project is licensed with Pexels License
Every summer camp is different, from the overarching theme to the individual activities. Naturally, a sports camp involves more physical activity than an academic camp focused on science and math. Set your child up for a successful experience at summer camp by selecting one that aligns with their interests.
After doing so, ask the camp coordinators what a typical day at camp looks like. Does it involve continuous activities, or will there be breaks for snacks and lunch? Will your child have a variety of activities to choose from, or is there only one, and participation is mandatory? If your child strives in a structured program, select a summer camp with a dedicated schedule so they can find comfort in the consistency.
Where Is the Summer Camp’s Location?
The summer camp’s location is essential to its success in creating a welcoming yet nurturing environment. Will the setting be solely outdoors, strictly indoors, or a combination of both? Consider your child’s comfort levels and willingness to try new things.
Are they inclined to venture outside, or would they prefer a more formal school-like setting in a classroom indoors? Your child may enjoy both and would love a summer camp that combines indoor and outdoor play with structured activities, such as organized sports, nature walks, or interactive games. Knowing where the camp location is also helps you prepare your child for the weather by packing extra sun protection or a raincoat in case it rains.
How Big Is the Camp?
You understand your child best; are they shy in big groups, or do they love a busy environment? Ask about the summer camp’s size and what the expected attendance or enrollment will be. The answer can help you gauge whether or not your child will respond well to these new surroundings. Smaller camps have more opportunities for your child to get one-on-one attention from their counselors. Larger camps offer more chances for your child to meet new people at each activity.
What Is the Camper-To-Staff Ratio?
Like the camp size question, asking about the camper-to-staff ratio allows you to gauge how much attention your child will receive at camp. If there’s a large group and only one counselor, it may be difficult for them to receive the care they deserve. Plus, large ratios put a strain on staff, leaving them overwhelmed and less inclined to keep the whole group engaged, which can result in a less-than-favorable summer camp experience for your kid.
A smaller ratio should be your preferred choice because it also increases your child’s chances of getting immediate attention in an emergency. A good ratio is eight to ten campers per staff member.
How Many Campers Return?
You can gauge a summer camp’s success and value by asking how many campers return each year. If the number is high, it’s a good indication that participants find it enjoyable. Making new friends at summer camp is one of the many perks of attending. A high number of return campers can also indicate the likelihood of your child’s friends coming back next year.
Who Can I Contact at Camp To Check in on My Child?
While a big part of attending summer camp is instilling independence in your child, you still need a way to reach them in an emergency. Find out the summer camp’s emergency contact number so you can get a hold of the director or manager as needed. If possible, you can ask who’ll be directly in charge of caring for your child, such as a camp counselor, teacher, or aide. Understanding the camp’s policies regarding contacting camp staff while your child is away can help ease your worries or concerns.
What Are the Summer Camp’s Safety Protocols?
Your child’s safety should be a top priority at their summer camp. Ask the camp’s coordinator about their safety protocols. What will they do in case of an emergency? Are the counselors CPR certified? If your child has allergies or takes medication, you’ll want to ensure the summer camp’s staff is capable and prepared to help them in your absence.
Benefits of Summer Camp for Kids
Picking a good summer camp for your child may seem daunting, but the process is easier when you remember the benefits they’ll get from attending. Summer camps help children practice and master:
- Leadership.
- Communication.
- Cooperation.
- Self-respect.
- Responsibility.
- Participation.
- Resourcefulness.
- Social skills.
Learn More About Crème de la Crème’s Summer Camp
Summer camps are an excellent way for your child to spend the summer making friends and learning something new. If you still have questions about choosing the right summer camp, our qualified staff can help answer them and assist you in signing your child up for our summer camp program. Our summer camp program is ideal for children ages 5 to 12, so book your child’s spot today. And if one summer isn’t enough, we also provide children with a full scope of education and developmental programs, beginning with preschool. We look forward to hearing from you soon.