Choosing the Right Camp — The Best Questions To Ask

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Believe it or not, the time to register for camp is already here! To help you, we’ve put together a list of the most important questions to ask when choosing the right camp for your child.

What is the programming like? Do the mission and programming reflect my values and ideas?

It’s good to know what the day’s activities will be like at camp. Is there a focus on nature, high adventure, horses, water sports, or a little bit of everything? Does camp have theme days that you will need to pack costumes and props for? Once you know about the focus of the activities, make sure they are age appropriate for your child. Some camps give the camper a choice for their activities, while some have a more structured schedule. Make sure the level of structure is a good match for you and your child.

While there are many camps that are only focused on recreational and social activities, some camps are faith or values driven and incorporate that into their programming and activities. Make sure to research each camp’s mission and programming to find one that aligns with your family’s values and priorities.

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How are counselors trained?

Of course, counselors should be trained to facilitate camp activities. But it’s also important to know that your child’s counselor will have ideas for helping develop social skills and independence. Always make sure staff is CPR and First Aid Certified. You can also ask specific questions about what is included in the counselor training. Some activities require more specialized training (such as horseback riding, various sports, or lifeguarding). Asking the director if staff is trained in child development, emergency procedures, and how to lead activities should give you a good indication of the camp’s values and training protocol.

How are counselors selected and screened?

Top quality camps have a screening process for counselors and other staff that includes an application, interviews, background checks, checking the national sex offender database, and reference checks. Other questions to consider: Does the camp require that counselors have previous experience working with youth and children? Are all staff certifications (such as CPR/First Aid/Lifeguarding) current?

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How well does this camp communicate with parents? How easily can I reach my child during camp?

While it is important to encourage independence while at camp, it is useful to know how readily you can reach your child or the camp director during camp if needed. Will parents have the contact information of the camp director? Does the director regularly check voicemail and email? How can campers and parents communicate throughout the week if the camp has a “no phone” policy? Can staff scan letters from campers to be emailed to parents? Does camp provide stamps, postcards, or stationary for letter writing? While many camps don’t allow campers to use cell phones, you should know how you can reach your child in an emergency. If there are changes while at camp, such as a new checkout or bus arrival time, or if there is an illness or emergency, how will the camp director reach you?

How does this camp address homesickness?

Counselors are trained to help campers deal with homesickness. You can ask how they are trained to help, what they recommend families do to keep homesickness at a minimum, and what kind of things campers are allowed to bring from home to make them more comfortable at camp.

What accommodations does this camp have for my child’s special needs, dietary restrictions, disability, or other special need?

If your child has a disability, there are camps that make accommodations for inclusive participation—including accessible lodgings, restrooms, and activity areas. Make sure to consider what accommodations your child needs and whether you and your child would prefer an inclusive camp or a camp specifically for campers with disabilities. If your child has a service animal, make sure it would be allowed on camp property. Similarly, if your child has allergies and/or dietary restrictions, make sure to communicate them to camp staff and verify that they can meet those needs safely before registering your child.

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Is the camp accredited?

There are more than 2,400 camps across the country that are accredited by the American Camp Association (ACA). In order to be accredited (and to maintain their accreditation status), camps must meet over 300 health, safety, and program guidelines. If the camp is not accredited, ask why (or if they are planning on seeking accreditation). If they are accredited, ask what measures they take to uphold accreditation standards. To view a current list of accredited camps, visit acacamps.org or call the ACA at 765.342.8456.


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Photo credit: Sarah Linnea

Laura Johnson is Founder and CEO of Leadership Academy LLC. Laura is passionate about helping others find time to be outside and grow appreciation for nature and outdoor play. With this passion, Laura has spent her career as a professional Camp Director, operating summer camps and recreation facilities for over 16 years with Girl Scouts, YMCAs, and other non-profits. Her career focus is making a positive impact in the lives of children and young adults. Laura is a lover of the outdoors and is an avid hiker, sailor, paddler, and adventure-seeker in Nashville, Tennessee.

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