How to Choose a Summer Camp

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The heat of July and August may seem a long ways away in the middle of March, but it’s really not too early to begin planning your child’s summer vacation.

For many kids, summer means going to camp. Whether your child attends a day camp or an overnight camp, the experience can be valuable and memorable. With many options to choose from, picking a summer camp can be tough. The tips below will help you narrow your search and determine a camp your kids will rave about until next summer.

Start now

Camps can fill up fast, so it’s best to begin your search well before the summer is on the horizon.

Determine your child’s needs.

Do your kids love sports? Art? Computers? Is this camp activity something they enjoy? Or something you want them to develop further? Are they ready for overnight camp or just a local day camp? Do your children require any special medical, behavioural or educational attention? Create a list of camp “must haves” and “nice to haves” to help narrow your choices.

Set a budget.

Camps can be very expensive. Examine your bank account, decide on your financial limit and stick to it. Investigate camps run by non-profit organizations if you’re worried that more costly private options will break the bank.

Ask around.

Talk to relatives, neighbours and friends about camps their children attended. Though your kids’ interests may be different, referrals from other parents can give you a good idea of a camp’s atmosphere and help you weed out unsuitable options.

Look for a fit.

Does the philosophy and style of the camp match your own? Do you believe it offers what your children need? Are the activities offered ones your kids are attracted to? Talk in detail with the camp director to get an understanding of how the camp works.

Create a shortlist.

After you’ve done the investigative work, pare down your options to three or four. Arrange for you and your child to meet the camp director. If this isn’t an option, set up a time for an in-depth telephone interview.

Be prepared.

Create a list of questions that will help you and your child understand the camp, its atmosphere and whether it meets your child’s unique needs and interests. Clear winners should start to emerge and hopefully, you’ll choose a summer camp your kids will enjoy!

Ask about our Summer Brain Camps.

Many Oxford Learning location offer Summer Brain Camps that let kids explore, discover, create and learn. Who knew kids could have so much fun improving their math, reading, writing, study and homework skills or just learning how to learn?

For better grades this fall, make sure you keep their minds active at Oxford Learning’s Summer Brain Camp. Contact us today for complete details!