4 Tips for Picking the Perfect Summer Camp for Kids

Photo: Kids enjoy summer camp. The organized parent could enjoy an early-bird special by booking soon. Credit: Bloomfield Patch Archive

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Written by Bea Karnes (Patch Staff)

Most of us had some type of camp experience in our childhoods. Anything from Boy Scout or Girl Scout camps that focused on hiking, singing and working on merit badges—to amazing summer camps in picturesque settings where we made new friends, learned new sports and, perhaps, stole our first kiss.

Now, as parents, we want to provide our children with opportunities to expand their skills while having fun.

If you’re embarking on the process of selecting a summer camp for your child, here are some important things to consider:

Special Interests—there are some amazing camps that cater to just about any hobby or intellectual interest that your child possesses. These include camps to develop sports skills, band, arts, STEM and more. The American Camp Association has thousands of camps in its database and can help you find the perfect fit. Also ask other parents for recommendations.

Location—is your child staying home and going to a day camp in your own community? Check with city, county and state parks & rec departments. Some programs are enriching, while fall short so look over the program carefully. Check with the library, zoo and wildlife centers, and community colleges—all offer programs.

Price—we’d all like to spend lavishly on our kids, but most families are on a budget. Keep the cost down by registering early to snag an early bird discount. Ask for financial assistance even if none is mentioned because it may be available. If you’re pinching pennies, check with church camps, scouts and the Boys & Girls Clubs.

Legacy—if some of your fondest childhood memories involve a special camp, consider sending your child there. It will link the generations, creating more shared history.

And finally—make sure the staff if properly trained and has undergone background checks.

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