Early on in your search for a summer camp, you will need to determine what length of stay is right for your child.  By the age of 9 or 10, many kids are ready for an experience that will challenge them and provide growth opportunities by being away from home for an extended amount of time (anywhere from 2 to 7 weeks). Believe it or not, it’s often harder for parents to part ways for this long, whereas kids are so busy at camp having fun, being active, and making new friends that the time flies by. The personal growth that is achieved at longer overnight camps is unparalleled – by living and playing day in and day out within a close-knit community, your child will grow in their independence and self-confidence through their achievements at camp and the relationships they will build.

We highly recommend international campers attend camp for a minimum of 2 weeks. By staying for at least 2 weeks, a camper can truly get in the mindset of adjusting to camp life. It is very normal for campers, whether American or international, to experience a modest amount of homesickness when they initially arrive at camp. Yet if the camper is staying for at least 2 weeks, they have a much higher chance of working through this homesick and enjoying their time at camp. Additionally, your child will get past any tiredness from jet lag and still have a significant amount of time left to enjoy cmap. One aspect of the 2-week experience to consider is that there are more changing dynamics within the cabin groups, as the campers are coming and going more frequently throughout the summer. Depending on the session and the cabin group, the camper may be with other campers who arrived at camp at the same time as them, and in other situations they may be joining a cabin group where some campers have already been at camp together. This is a question to discuss with the camp director of the camp you are considering.

Looking at a longer option, a 3 or 4 week session length is truly ideal for international kids attending summer camp. By attending a longer camp session, your son or daughter will be with other campers who arrived at the same time as them, and have a longer time to settle in, adjust, and grow at camp. Not only will they get past their homesickness within the first few days of camp, but they will also have a several weeks left to truly settle into the routine of camp. The growth in friendships and confidence your child will experience are achieved through being away from home for that extended time. They will be go through the ups and downs of day to day living with their close friends, and learn how to navigate those challenging moments and strong friendships. Additionally, they will have ample time to experience all the activities that camp has to offer, and to achieve some improvement in skills in those activity areas. Finally, instead of feeling like they are simply spending a few fun weeks away from home, they will grow to feel that camp IS their new home!

Finally, there are some camps that offer a 7-week session. For the international camper who has had experience being away from home in the past and is excited about attending camp, this is definitely a great option to consider. All of the benefits of a 3 or 4 week camp apply to the experience a camper has during a 7 week session, but to an even greater extent! When your child is at camp for 7 weeks, they will return home with even more significant skill development in the activities they participate in throughout the summer. On top of that, the social growth they experience is truly unique – the friendships formed are even more substantive, their conflict resolution skills truly are put to the test and are stronger, and their confidence and sense of accomplishment gained from being at camp for 7 weeks is unparalleled.

With all these options to consider for session length, it is important for parent and kids to talk through what the best option is. Be open to hearing about different lengths of sessions, but also be realistic about what is the best fit for your family. And as always, we are here to answer questions and help you navigate through this decision-making process!

Empowering Young Leaders

Summer camp is more than just fun and games; it’s a breeding ground for future leaders. Through various leadership opportunities, campers learn to take charge, make decisions, and lead by example. These experiences empower children to step outside their comfort zones and embrace leadership roles with confidence.

 Cultivating Communication Skills

Effective communication is a vital skill for any leader. At summer camp, children engage in team-building exercises and group activities that demand clear communication to achieve common goals. As campers learn to articulate their ideas and actively listen to others, they become better communicators, setting a solid foundation for leadership success.

Problem-Solving and Decision-Making

Leadership often involves making tough decisions and solving complex problems. Through challenges and initiatives at camp, kids learn to think critically and strategically. They develop the ability to analyze situations, weigh pros and cons, and make informed choices, which are invaluable skills both in and out of the camp environment.

“The best way to predict the future is to create it.” – Peter Drucker

Nurturing Empathy and Compassion

Great leaders possess empathy and compassion for those around them. Summer camp fosters an environment of inclusivity and support, encouraging campers to understand and empathize with others. As they work together, children learn to celebrate differences and embrace the strengths of their peers.

Giving Back to the Community

Campers at summer camp often participate in community service projects, giving them a chance to make a positive impact beyond camp boundaries. Engaging in acts of kindness and service fosters a sense of responsibility and citizenship, nurturing compassionate leaders who are mindful of the needs of others.

“Leadership is not about being in charge. It is about taking care of those in your charge.” – Simon Sinek

Building Lifelong Leadership Skills

The leadership skills developed at summer camp extend far beyond the campfire circle. Children carry these skills with them into their academic endeavors, extracurricular activities, and future careers, becoming confident leaders who can inspire and influence those around them.

Some six million children in the United States are preparing psychologically to go away to sleepaway camp. Whether these departing children are camp veterans or nervous rookies, they are mentally rehearsing being away from mom and dad, their comfortable beds, their pets, favorite meals and, of course, their beloved iPhones, Facebook and video games.

Kids learn to make decisions at camp. Camp experiences grow confidence and develop good decision making skills — especially when times are tough. He also learns who to accept guidance from, in a world that’s filled with some pretty bad advice on TV, in movies and among some friends.

Parents spend a lot of time trying to motivate kids. We use chore charts, checklists, reminders and rewards to get them to feed the dog, clean their rooms and complete schoolwork. But these techniques don’t change behavior long-term. Real motivation must come from within.

This summer, 10 million children are enjoying time at camp — half at one of the more than 2,400 accredited by the American Camp Association.

In our technology heavy culture, face-to-face interactions are become the exception.  This article (NY Times) articulates how just a couple days away from screens at camp help children connect to each other.

Summer camp is a special time for children to make new friends, try new activities, and develop important life skills. However, with the rise of digital devices and screens, it can be challenging for children to disconnect and fully immerse themselves in the camp experience. That’s why many summer camps have adopted policies that restrict or eliminate screen time during camp sessions. In this article, we’ll explore how disconnecting from screens and devices during summer camp can help kids develop friendships.

Encourages face-to-face interaction

When children are allowed to use screens and devices during camp, they may be more likely to spend time with their eyes glued to a screen rather than interacting with their peers. By disconnecting from screens, children are encouraged to engage in face-to-face interaction with their fellow campers. This not only helps children develop social skills, but it also allows them to form deeper connections with their peers.

Fosters a sense of community

Summer camp is all about building a sense of community, and disconnecting from screens is one way to achieve this. When children are not distracted by screens, they are more likely to engage in camp activities and interact with their peers. This creates a positive atmosphere of collaboration and teamwork, where everyone is working together towards a common goal.

Provides opportunities for shared experiences

When children disconnect from screens, they are able to fully immerse themselves in the camp experience. This includes participating in camp activities, exploring the outdoors, and forming bonds with their peers. By sharing these experiences, children are able to develop a sense of camaraderie and friendship that may not be possible if they were distracted by screens.

Encourages creativity and imagination

Screens and devices can be a source of entertainment, but they can also limit a child’s creativity and imagination. When children disconnect from screens, they are forced to find other ways to entertain themselves and engage with their surroundings. This may include exploring nature, playing games, or participating in arts and crafts activities. By encouraging creativity and imagination, children are able to develop a unique perspective on the world and form meaningful connections with their peers.

Reduces distractions

Finally, disconnecting from screens can reduce distractions and allow children to focus on the present moment. This not only helps children develop important life skills like mindfulness and self-awareness, but it also allows them to fully engage with their peers and form meaningful friendships.

In conclusion, disconnecting from screens and devices during summer camp can have a positive impact on children’s social development. By encouraging face-to-face interaction, fostering a sense of community, providing opportunities for shared experiences, encouraging creativity and imagination, and reducing distractions, children are able to fully immerse themselves in the camp experience and form meaningful friendships that may last a lifetime.

(CNN) – While my kids mainline Instagram and feverishly text, update and Snapchat with friends, I count down the days until they go off the grid and the tech detox begins. This withdrawal from the sticky web of social media can’t happen without intervention, and what I mean by intervention is sleepaway camp.

Summer camp: For so many kids, it signifies carefree days of swimming, playing sports, singing songs, and reveling in freedom from the demands of the school year. Camp means no homework, no studying, and no teachers.

But significant learning is still taking place at summer camp — even if the campers don’t necessarily realize it.

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Missing home and family is completely natural for children. In fact, it can be considered a *good* thing, as it means your kids have a great family back at home! The good thing is, it’s possible to miss home AND have fun at camp in the same time. Plus there are plenty of things to do to help reduce the amount of time your child feels homesick.

Summer camp staff are trained in working with children and helping them to deal with missing their family. It is common that the first letters you receive may indicate some homesickness or sadness. Ninety-five percent of campers experience a short adjustment period during the first few days of camp. Soon, campers get caught up in the excitement of new friends, activities, and camping adventures. Your support of this normal process is critical to your son or daughter’s success.

The good news is, when children arrive at camp with a repertoire of coping strategies and some practice time away from home under their belts, they are ready for those normal feelings of homesickness. Sure, they’ll miss home, but they’ll know exactly what to think and do when it bothers them. Best of all, their counselors and directors will be there to help. Nothing boosts children’s self-esteem quite like overcoming a bout of homesickness and learning how good they are at controlling the amount of fun they have. Camp truly is a classroom for life lessons.

What can YOU do to help with your child’s adjustment to camp?

How can you help your child adjust to being away from home?

•  Start while your child is still at home and help them be proud of being independent and ready for camp. Review information the camp provides prior to the summer – online videos, camp tours, photos, information packets – and reinforce his excitement/interest about camp.
•  Please do not tell your child that they can come home or that you will pick them up if they are homesick—it sets them up for failure instead of success.
•  Practice overnights with family or friends to help first time campers get used to being away.
•  Letters are important!!! Send upbeat, cheerful letters that focus on the fun your child is having. Two to three letters each week is plenty, since too many letters can actually make a well-adjusted camper homesick.

What should you write about? In your emails to camp, it is best not to dwell too much on what your child is missing at home or how much you miss them, as this can promote homesickness. Sharing news of what everyone is doing is fine, but it is also suggested that you encourage your child to do their best at camp, try new activities, enjoy his trips, etc.

If your child complains of some situation that is upsetting to them, by all means acknowledge that when you write back; then focus on some positive aspect of their personality and tell them that you’re confident they’ll work things out.

Most of all, it is important to communicate with your child prior to the summer so that they know it is completely normal to have feelings of homesickness. The key is for them to remember that they can miss their family and still have a great time at camp!

Sleepaway camp is a raucous, active place throughout the summer. Water skiers rush across the lake on any given day at camp, volleys bounce off the tennis courts, and guitar-strumming counselors lead campers in rounds of songs. It’s a big shift from everyone’s more sedentary habits at home, but the advantages of overnight camp’s full schedule of activities go beyond exercise and sing-alongs. Every summer, there is also a tremendous transition among campers, many of whom get a significant psychological boost.

Summer camp is one area that can help eliminate the roots of a child’s anxiety and despair that might be prevalent at home when children’s mental health issues continue to rise. A psychologist offers the following ways summer camp might help your child’s mental health.

Human Connection

Camp is the most highly social setting available, especially when contrasted to the numerous virtual experiences our children get at home. Being able to be out of the house all the time, living with other people, and feeling so much more connected to not just individuals your age, but also to the counselors and the camp family — the parents and dads of camp — having that in person, intensive social environment is significant.

It’s also an opportunity for genuine encounters, rather than ones that take place through text, when youngsters might be more cruel or distant, whether on purpose or not. Youngsters don’t always know how to communicate to one other face to face. During camp, social indicators like body language and eye contact help children understand what it’s like to be truly connected and foster more compassionate dialogue.

A Break From Social Media

Being at camp entails a vacation from social media and the associated fear of missing out (FOMO). A youngster can be much more aware of being left out of things on platforms like Life360, which can be quite distressing. And apps like Instagram place disproportionate emphasis on beauty and appearance.

While camp photographers do chronicle their stay at camp, such photographs are exclusively available to parents at home. There’s no peer pressure from within a social media platforms, so they get a big break from it all.

Break The Ties to Phones

Not only do students receive a vacation from social media, but they also get a respite from the continual pressures of reacting to peers on their phones. “There’s a lot of strain, especially on teens. I see that a lot in senior and upper camp; there might be a lot of pressure at home to always be on their phones, to not miss Snap[chat], to not ignore liking someone’s Instagram photo, to not ignore text messages.” According to a camp psychologist.

Immersing in Nature

Sleepaway camp also provides much-needed time in nature. Time spent in nature has been linked to reduced stress and improved happiness.

Physical Activity

Even children who are resistive to exercise and avoid sports are extremely active at camp — and, as studies often remind us, exercise helps battle sadness, anxiety, and other mental health disorders.

(Temporary) Separation From Parents

This may come as a surprise, but your children benefit from being apart from you as well.

We have a tendency to micromanage our children’s relationships, friendships, and hobbies, as well as their academic performance, and we know it. Our children deserve and, more importantly, benefit from a respite from the pressures of helicopter parenting.

For kids to not feel like we’re watching them and protecting them, we’re empowering them and teaching them how to manage all of these things. This, in turn, encourages independence and more mature thinking — and teaches children that there are other role models in the world besides their parents.

Choosing a summer sleepaway camp for your children to attend for the first time can feel like a daunting challenge. Here are five topics to ask questions about and have the Camp Director elaborate on in order to get the conversation started and help you get a quick sense of the quality of the summer camp in question.

1. Safety and Security: Can you explain your camp’s safety and security measures? How do you ensure the safety of the campers during activities, and what are your procedures in case of an emergency?
2. Staff: Can you tell me about the staff members working at the camp? What are their qualifications, and how are they trained to work with children? How do you ensure that the staff members are reliable and responsible?
3. Activities: What activities are available at the camp, and how are they structured? Do the campers have a choice in which activities they participate in, and how are they grouped according to age and skill level?
4. Accommodations and facilities: Can you describe the accommodations and facilities at the camp? What is the camper to staff ratio? How are the accommodations and facilities maintained?
5. Communication: How do you keep parents informed about their child’s progress and activities while they are at camp? What is the protocol for communication in case a parent needs to get in touch with their child, and vice versa?

As summer approaches, it’s essential to keep your children safe while they enjoy the sun and water. As a summer camp director who specializes in child safety and adolescent development, I’ve seen the importance of sun and water safety practices firsthand. Here are five tips to help keep your children safe this summer:

1. Sunscreen is Your Best Friend

Sunscreen is a must for children when they are out in the sun. Look for a sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher, and apply it 15 minutes before your child goes outside. Reapply every two hours, or more frequently if your child has been swimming or sweating. Don’t forget to apply sunscreen to your child’s ears, nose, and the tops of their feet, as well as any other exposed skin.

2. Stay Hydrated

Drinking plenty of water is essential, especially when it’s hot outside. Make sure your child has access to water throughout the day and encourage them to drink frequently. If your child is playing sports or running around, they will need to drink more water than usual. Consider packing a refillable water bottle for them to take with them.

3. Dress for the Weather

Make sure your child is dressed appropriately for the weather. On hot, sunny days, choose lightweight, light-colored clothing that covers their skin as much as possible. Don’t forget to pack a hat and sunglasses to protect their eyes and face from the sun.

4. Know the Signs of Heat Stroke

Heat stroke is a serious condition that can happen when a person’s body temperature rises too high. Symptoms include a high body temperature, rapid heartbeat, headache, dizziness, and confusion. If your child is experiencing any of these symptoms, move them to a cooler area and give them water to drink. If their symptoms don’t improve or get worse, seek medical attention immediately.

5. Never Leave Children Unattended in or Near Water

Drowning is a leading cause of accidental death among children, so it’s essential to supervise them whenever they are in or near water. Whether it’s a pool, lake, or ocean, children should never be left alone. Make sure your child wears a life jacket if they are not a strong swimmer, and teach them basic water safety skills like how to float and tread water.

By following these sun and water safety practices, you can help ensure your child has a fun and safe summer. Remember, prevention is key, so make sure your child is prepared for any outdoor activity they may participate in.

Embarking on your first summer camp adventure is an exciting opportunity to make new friends, explore the great outdoors, and create lasting memories. To ensure you have the best experience possible, it’s essential to approach your time at camp with enthusiasm, preparation, and an open mind. In this article, we will provide you with valuable tips and insights on how to make the most of your first-time summer camp experience.

1. Choose the Right Camp

Selecting a camp that aligns with your interests, goals, and age group is crucial. Research different camp options and read reviews from previous campers. Consider the camp’s activities, location, duration, and values. Finding a camp that resonates with you will significantly contribute to your overall enjoyment and satisfaction.

2. Prepare Physically and Mentally

Prepare yourself physically by engaging in regular physical activities and maintaining a healthy lifestyle leading up to camp. Ensure you have any required medical check-ups and vaccinations completed. Mentally, get ready for new experiences, challenges, and meeting new people. Embrace the opportunity for personal growth and adventure.

3. Pack Wisely

Create a comprehensive packing checklist in advance to ensure you have all the essentials. Consider the camp’s guidelines and weather conditions when choosing clothing items. Pack toiletries, comfortable shoes, bedding, and any specific equipment required for camp activities. Label your belongings to prevent mix-ups, and don’t forget to bring personal items that provide comfort and remind you of home.

4. Communicate with Camp Staff

Reach out to the camp staff before your arrival to gather information, ask questions, and address any concerns. They can provide valuable insights, help you understand the camp’s schedule and rules, and ease any anxieties you might have. Building a rapport with the staff beforehand will make your arrival and transition into camp much smoother.

5. Embrace New Friendships

One of the most rewarding aspects of summer camp is the opportunity to forge new friendships. Approach the experience with an open and friendly attitude. Introduce yourself to fellow campers, participate in group activities, and engage in conversations. Be inclusive, respectful, and supportive of others. Remember, everyone is seeking connections and memorable experiences.

6. Dive into New Experiences

Summer camp is a perfect chance to try new things and step out of your comfort zone. Embrace the diverse range of activities offered and participate wholeheartedly. Whether it’s rock climbing, canoeing, arts and crafts, or performing arts, immerse yourself in these opportunities for personal growth. Be willing to learn, take risks, and have fun along the way.

7. Follow Camp Rules and Guidelines

Each camp has its own set of rules and guidelines designed to ensure the safety and well-being of all participants. Familiarize yourself with these rules and respect them. Observe quiet hours, be mindful of personal and shared spaces, and adhere to behavioral expectations. Demonstrating respect for the camp’s rules contributes to a harmonious camp environment.

8. Engage in Camp Activities and Traditions

To fully embrace the camp experience, participate in camp activities, traditions, and events. Whether it’s campfire sing-alongs, talent shows, or team-building activities, these shared experiences create lasting memories and foster a sense of belonging. Take advantage of every opportunity to engage with fellow campers and staff members, cultivating a sense of camaraderie and community.

9. Stay Positive and Adapt to Change

Summer camp can sometimes present unexpected challenges or adjustments. Maintain a positive attitude and be adaptable in the face of change. Embrace new routines, accept differences, and view challenges as opportunities for personal growth. A positive mindset will help you navigate any hurdles and make the most out of your summer camp experience.

Your first summer camp experience is a time of discovery, growth, and endless possibilities. By choosing the right camp, preparing yourself physically and mentally, engaging with fellow campers, embracing new experiences, and staying positive, you can ensure an unforgettable adventure. Open your heart and mind to the wonders of camp life, create cherished memories, and make friendships that will last a lifetime. Get ready to embark on a journey filled with fun, personal development, and a summer you will never forget.

Choosing a summer sleepaway camp for your children to attend for the first time can feel like a daunting challenge. Here are five summer camp tips to ask questions about and have the Camp Director elaborate on in order to get the conversation started and help you get a quick sense of the quality of the summer camp in question.

Questions for Camp Directors

1. Safety and Security: Can you explain your camp’s safety and security measures? How do you ensure the safety of the campers during activities, and what are your procedures in case of an emergency?
2. Staff: Can you tell me about the staff members working at the camp? What are their qualifications, and how are they trained to work with children? How do you ensure that the staff members are reliable and responsible?
3. Activities: What activities are available at the camp, and how are they structured? Do the campers have a choice in which activities they participate in, and how are they grouped according to age and skill level?
4. Accommodations and facilities: Can you describe the accommodations and facilities at the camp? What is the camper to staff ratio? How are the accommodations and facilities maintained?
5. Communication: How do you keep parents informed about their child’s progress and activities while they are at camp? What is the protocol for communication in case a parent needs to get in touch with their child, and vice versa?

Ready to begin your summer camp search? Let us help!

Summer Camp Safety and Security

When discussing safety and security with camp directors, parents should expect a thorough and detailed explanation. Firstly, inquire about the camp’s overall safety protocols, including how they monitor and supervise campers. It’s essential that camps have a low staff-to-camper ratio to ensure adequate supervision. Ask about the qualifications and training of the staff, particularly in first aid, CPR, and emergency response. It’s also important to know how the camp handles daily activities and whether they conduct regular safety drills for various scenarios, such as fires, severe weather, or intrusions. Additionally, ask about the camp’s policy on background checks for all employees to ensure that only qualified and safe individuals are in direct contact with the children.

Parents should also delve into the specific procedures for emergencies. This includes understanding how the camp communicates with parents during an emergency, the location and accessibility of the nearest medical facilities, and the protocols for handling minor and major injuries. It’s reassuring to know if there is a dedicated health professional on site, such as a nurse or an EMT, and whether the camp has access to emergency medical services. Furthermore, inquire about the camp’s security measures to prevent unauthorized access to the grounds. This could involve gated entrances, security personnel, and the use of technology like surveillance cameras. Knowing these details helps ensure that the camp is prepared to handle any situation, providing peace of mind that your child will be safe and secure throughout their camp experience.

Sleepaway Camp Staff

When evaluating summer camps, understanding the qualifications and training of the staff is crucial. Parents should start by asking about the hiring process for counselors and other camp personnel. Inquire about the minimum qualifications required for staff members, such as educational background, previous experience working with children, and any specialized skills relevant to camp activities. It’s beneficial to know if staff members hold certifications in areas like lifeguarding, wilderness first aid, or specific sports coaching, which can enhance the safety and quality of the camp experience.

Additionally, ask the camp directors about the training programs that staff members undergo before the camp season begins. Comprehensive training should cover not only activity-specific skills but also broader topics such as child development, conflict resolution, and behavior management. This ensures that staff are equipped to handle a variety of situations sensitively and effectively. It’s also important to understand how the camp provides ongoing support and professional development for their staff throughout the summer, ensuring that they remain motivated and well-prepared.

Parents should also be assured of the camp’s measures to ensure the reliability and responsibility of their staff. This includes asking about the screening processes in place, such as background checks, reference checks, and interviews. A rigorous vetting process helps ensure that only the most trustworthy and competent individuals are hired. Furthermore, it’s helpful to know about the camp’s policies for monitoring staff performance and behavior, such as regular evaluations and feedback mechanisms. Understanding these aspects can provide parents with confidence that the camp prioritizes not only the fun and engagement of their children but also their well-being and safety.

Summer Camp Activities

When exploring the activities offered at a summer camp, parents should seek a detailed overview of the types of activities available and how they are structured. Start by asking about the range of activities provided, which can include sports, arts and crafts, nature exploration, swimming, and team-building exercises. It’s essential to understand the daily schedule and how these activities are integrated into the campers’ routine. This gives insight into whether the camp offers a balanced mix of physical, creative, and educational experiences that cater to diverse interests and promote well-rounded development.

Inquiring about the choice and flexibility in activity participation is also important. Ask if campers have the autonomy to select activities based on their interests or if the camp follows a more structured approach with predetermined schedules. Camps that allow children to choose their activities can help foster independence and personal growth, ensuring that each camper is engaged and enthusiastic about their camp experience. Additionally, find out how the camp ensures that all activities are inclusive and accessible to campers with varying abilities and interests, creating an environment where every child feels valued and included.

Grouping campers according to age and skill level is another crucial aspect to consider. Parents should ask how the camp organizes groups for different activities to ensure that each child is appropriately challenged and supported. Proper grouping helps in tailoring activities to be age-appropriate and skill-appropriate, which can enhance both safety and enjoyment. For instance, younger or less experienced campers may need simpler, more guided activities, while older or more skilled campers might benefit from more advanced and independent tasks. Understanding these group dynamics can assure parents that the camp is committed to providing a safe, supportive, and engaging environment for their child’s unique needs and abilities.

Bunks, Facilities and Camp Accommodations

Understanding the accommodations and facilities at a summer camp is vital to ensure a comfortable and safe environment for your child. Start by asking for a detailed description of the living arrangements, such as cabins, tents, or dormitories. It’s important to know the camper to staff ratio within these accommodations, as a lower ratio typically means better supervision and more personalized attention for each child. This ratio is a key indicator of the level of care and oversight your child will receive. Additionally, inquire about the sleeping arrangements, bathroom facilities, and common areas to get a sense of the overall living conditions and comfort level provided by the camp.

Maintenance and cleanliness of the accommodations and facilities are crucial for ensuring the health and well-being of campers. Ask how often the living spaces, dining areas, and activity sites are cleaned and inspected. Well-maintained facilities not only contribute to a pleasant camp experience but also minimize the risk of injuries and illnesses. It’s also helpful to know if there are regular safety checks and maintenance schedules in place for all equipment and structures. Understanding these procedures can provide peace of mind that the camp prioritizes a safe and hygienic environment, allowing your child to focus on enjoying their camp experience to the fullest.

Communication with Parents

Effective communication between the camp and parents is essential for peace of mind and staying informed about a child’s progress and activities. Parents should ask how the camp regularly updates them about their child’s experience, whether through daily or weekly emails, newsletters, or social media updates. Some camps might provide a secure online portal where parents can view photos, read updates, and get a glimpse into their child’s daily life at camp. Additionally, it’s important to understand the protocols for direct communication: how parents can get in touch with their child if needed, and vice versa. This might involve scheduled phone calls, designated times for emails or letters, or a system for urgent contact. Knowing these procedures helps ensure that parents can stay connected and promptly address any concerns or emergencies that may arise during the camp session.

Selecting the right summer sleepaway camp for your child involves careful consideration and asking the right questions. By discussing safety and security measures, learning about the qualifications and training of the staff, understanding the variety and structure of activities, evaluating the accommodations and facilities, and clarifying communication protocols, you can gain a comprehensive understanding of the camp’s quality and suitability for your child. These conversations with the Camp Director will provide valuable insights, ensuring you make an informed decision and your child has a safe, enjoyable, and enriching camp experience.

At American Summer Camps, the sleepaway camps that we work with and support excel in each of these areas. They are highly reviewed with impeccable reputations, decades of experience and are guaranteed to be among the world’s best summer camps.