Summer vacation is still several weeks away so you have plenty of time to sign your kids up for camp, right?  Wrong!  Thousands of kids fill the slots of more than 8,500 camps across the U.S. every year.  Some camps begin registration as early as February and the more popular ones fill up quickly.  But with so many choices, where do you begin? 

By reviewing a few basic guidelines, your kids will have a blast this summer and you’ll have the peace-of-mind knowing that your little one is well taken care of while developing new friendships, gaining self-esteem and maybe even discovering some hidden talents and skills.  Before you rush out to complete that registration form, here a few things you may want to consider:

Duration of camp

Day camp – Typically, these camps run from morning to late afternoon.  Some camps may be part-time (either ½ days or selected days) while others may offer before/after camp hours care. 

Overnight camp – These can vary from weekend programs at local camps to several weeks’ stays out-of-town/state (even out-of-country).  Some camps provide transportation; others will require you to get your little camper to their destination.  Usually, “seasoned” campers go for the long haul, first-timers or younger kids can have some difficulty staying away from home for too long and may want to try a short stay at a local facility.  However, older kids adapt quickly and when given the chance to hang out with friends (without parental advice) often do quite well.  It may be the parents who are having trouble adjusting!

Specialty camps – Kids with disabilities can find camp a very rewarding experience.  Contacting your local Untied Way, YMCA or Easter Seal Society can provide you with information on specialty camps.

Choosing a Camp

To begin with, you will want to include your kids on the selection process.  You may think that sports camp is perfect for your kids but they may opt for taking a break from soccer.  They’re ready to give their legs a break and let their imagination take off at art camp.  Sit down with your kids and make a list of things they enjoy and would like to do this summer. 

Do some research on what camps are being offered in your area (assuming you’re not planning on sending your little cowpoke off to horseback riding camp in Wyoming).  The Tampa Bay are has a great variety of camps to offer such as sports, sewing, arts and crafts, theater, dance, gymnastics, cooking, writing, karate, computer, sailing and many more. Letting your kids know what’s available can help narrow down the list of camp requests. A good way to gain some insight for a specific camp is to ask someone whose kids have attended it or visit it yourself.

GREAT!  You’ve made your selections and are ready to sign up your kids for a summer of fun.  Not so fast . . . you will want to ask the following questions:

How much will it cost?

-          No, camps are not free and some can actually be quite expensive.  Occasionally, camps give discounts for early registration, multi-week registrations, sibling registrations or pre-payment of weeks.  Some non-profit agencies, schools, churches and local recreation centers provide exciting programs for nominal fees.  It’s a good idea check into registration dates soon.

-          Understand what’s included.  Does your payment cover meals, supplies, accommodations, field trips?

-          What is their refund policy?

Is the camp accredited by the American Camping Association?

ACA accreditation is not required but helps assure you that there is quality control in areas of camping that are most important to the welfare of your child.  Camps that volunteer to participate in the accreditation process allow their facility to be visit by a team of professionals every three years.  During these visits, compliance to almost 300 standards relating to health, safety, programs and personnel is required to earn accreditation.

What about the camp’s reputation and policies?

-     What are the camping director’s credentials?  Does he/she have any special accreditations, training or degrees?

-          What about their counselors (how old are they and have they been properly trained)? 

-          What is their discipline policy?  

-          What is the counselor to camper ratio (larger groups are o.k. for older kids, but younger kids will need more supervision and guidance)

-          Can you visit/call your child?  Can my child contact me if there’s a problem? 

-          Is the pick-up/drop-off time flexible? Some camps impose strict late fees if kids are not picked up on time (read the fine print).

How are the camp’s facilities?

-          Are the living units, kitchens and bathrooms clean?

-          Are there enough ball courts/fields, boats, equipment, supplies, swimming areas, etc. to accommodate the number of campers?

-          Is there somewhere for campers to go for some down time, ready time or letter writing time?

Doing your homework before signing up and sending your child off to camp can help create a happy camper (and relaxed parents!).  Ask your friends and neighbors, check local publications and visit Tampa Bay Kids Net’s SUMMER CAMP GUIDE to find information on a variety of camp choices.  Whether it’s sports, arts and crafts, performing arts or cooking camp, there’s one that’s right for you and your kids.  Have a great summer!

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