Summer camps are a great way to balance out those unstructured months during a school break. According to the American Camp Association or ACA, there are over 15,000 overnight and day camps across the United States.
With today’s overabundance of summer camps, there is a camp for every child out there. But at the same time, finding which option suits you and your child the best can be a daunting task. To make the selection process easier for you, here are some questions to ask when looking for a safe summer camp this year for your children.
How Safe is the Environment?
Review the camp’s health protocol and check what preparations they have in place for an emergency. This is an important step when picking out a camp for your kids, especially with the threat of Covid still lingering around. Check the camp’s websites and social media pages and see how the camp prioritizes children’s safety. You may also contact their staff to learn more about the programs and facilities they offer.
What Type of Programs Do They Have?
A summer camp’s quality is reflected in the type of programs they offer. What kind of activities are going to be included? Is it a general program or a specialized one? Try to compare with other programs and see which offers the most value. When looking for potential summer camps, you should also consider what your children’s needs and expectations are. Talk to your child and see what interests them and incorporate the feedback in your decision when picking out a camp for them.
Where is the Camp Located?
Location is another important variable when it comes to picking out summer camps. How long is the drive from your home to the camp? Is the camp located in a safe area? Knowing the camp’s position will make it easier to travel and plan ahead. Not to mention, but you will also be better prepared to reach your child in case of any emergency.
Some camps are in the countryside, some are by the lake, and some are near big cities. The camp and its location should be harmonious with what your child’s interests and learning needs.
Are They ACA-Accredited®?
This is one of the most important questions to ask when choosing a summer camp. The American Camp Association (ACA) is a community of camp professionals that helps to maintain a standard of quality amongst camps across the country. ACA’s main goal is to ensure summer camps are a safe place for your children to learn, explore, and experiment.
The ACA has accredited more than 2,500 camps nationwide. ACA-Accredited® camps also provide emergency transportation as well as first-aid facilities with trained staff onsite. Make sure to check if the camp is ACA-Accredited® before proceeding to the enrollment.
How Much Does the Camp Cost?
The cost is mostly based on what type of programs the camp is offering and the location. Check out all of the options available and pick the one that meets your family’s needs and fits the budget. While some camps offer discounts and scholarships, others do not. Feel free to discuss with the camp’s advisors about the costs, programs, and facilities they will be offering. Affordable camps do not always translate to lower quality, so check for reviews from other campers and visit the camping ground before you sign up.
If you are looking for an ACA-Accredited® camp with fun activities and a safe environment for your children, then Camp Live Oak is the place for you. We offer both environmental and marine science programs that can help your child build a natural curiosity towards learning new things and socializing. To learn more about our summer camps, get in touch with our amazing staff today.