Choosing The Right Summer Camp
It is still October, so you would think that thinking about your summer plans is a little early. However, there is nothing wrong with getting an early start. Planning your – and your children’s – summer vacation so early has its benefits. You get better rates, you have the time to do your research, and you also have plenty of time to change your plans until summer arrives.
So we thought we could help you a bit with the planning part. Well, more for your children than for yourself. One of the ideas that might float by you is summer camp for your kids, and if so, you have some homework to do.
But not to worry, we’re here to give you all the information you need and help you in choosing the right summer camp for your kids.
Why Does Choosing The Right Summer Camp Matter?
Summer camp is an experience that will have a big hand in shaping your child’s future and personality.
There are hundreds of camps all over the US, and all are great, but are all of them what your son or daughter needs?
Think of it this way: you did a lot of research before choosing the right school for your kids, so why shouldn’t you do the same diligence when choosing another educational experience (AKA summer camp)?
The decision to send your kids to summer camp is a great one.
It will be an experience that they will always remember, and will probably have memories and friends with them throughout their lives. Your choice of camp is the one thing that can make or break that experience, so choose well.
Are There Many Types Of Summer Camps?
The camp industry is worth more than $3 billion yearly. There are hundreds of camps in almost every state, and there are many types of camps to choose from. Your child’s hobbies and interests are what governs the choice of camp. Here are some types to consider:
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Traditional summer camp:
You got your wooden cabins, your lake, canoeing, swimming, and rope courses. Traditional summer camps are one of the most common types of camps. Some camps are all about just being outdoors and away from screens, making friends, and shaping memories.
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Specialized camps:
These camps are designed with a single activity – or at least a genre of activities – in mind. Granted they may offer the same activities as traditional camps (you can’t really go wrong with swimming and rope courses – but specialized camps offer a bit more in a particular area. Examples of these camps are sports camps, art camps, and tech camps.
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Religious or faith-based camps:
These are often organized and managed by a religious body. Faith-based camps again have the same activities as traditional camps, but always have one or two extra classes or activities related to a particular religion. Religious families always prefer this type of camp and believe they give their children an extra chance to connect with their faith and religion.
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Special needs camps:
Everyone enjoys the outdoors, the greenery, and the lakes. Sadly, some of us are not equipped to fully enjoy these activities. Some people have taken that into consideration and thus emerged special needs camps. Again you can find the same activities here, but these camps are better equipped to answer your child’s special needs.
The first step in choosing the right summer camp is deciding which type of camp is best for your child. It all comes down to their interests, but you can never go wrong with a traditional, outdoor camp.
What Makes A Good Summer Camp?
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Location:
Where the camp is located should be one of the key elements of your choice. This is especially true for first-time parents and children. You can’t just shake the feeling of worry and longing, but if your kid is nearby, then you can rest a little bit easier knowing that he\she is just a phone call away.
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What the camp offers:
We’re not just talking about the activities, but the environment of the place. What type of kids will be there, how the camp directors handle and manage problems, the comfort, and level of accommodation, among others all are aspects to consider. The setting of the camp can give you a better idea of how well your kid will adapt there.
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Camp counselors and instructors:
A teaching environment is only as good as its teachers, right? You don’t really know these people that you will hand off your son or daughter to, but you can know a bit about them by interviewing them and hearing the thoughts and comments of other seasoned parents.
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Other kids experiences:
Kids think very differently than adults. What you may consider inappropriate or dangerous can just be interpreted as fun with them. In the end, it is important to remember that this camp is about them rather than you. So when choosing the right summer camp for your children, you should consider more what other children had to say about their experience in that camp.
What To Look For When Choosing The Right Summer Camp
You probably have a general idea of what to look for by now, but let us give you the gist. When looking for a summer camp for your kids, always consider:
- What your child likes\dislikes.
- If your child is interested in a particular hobby, look for a camp that can nurture that hobby.
- If you are a first-timer, choose a camp close to home.
- Religious families can never go wrong with faith-based camps.
- The camp counselors and instructors make all the difference. Make sure you hear from them and see what other parents think about them before entrusting them with your kid.
In the end, the most important thing is to remind yourself that you made the right choice. After doing your research and homework, just let go and let your kid – and yourself – enjoy the vacation. If you want to learn more about us and what camp kinder ring can offer, please don’t hesitate to contact us on 845.221.2771. We’re happy to take your calls and answer your concerns and help you make a correct decision.
If you want to learn more about Camp Kinder Ring and choosing the right summer camp, contact Marc at marc@campkr.com or 845-221-2771.
