Choosing Summer Day Camps
Summer Camp Questions Application Process
• How do parents apply?
• What is the deadline for submitting applications?
• What are the camp’s opening and closing dates?
• What are the hours of operation?
• Does the camp offer flexible schedules? Tuition and Fees
• What is the tuition and registration fee?
• What is included in the tuition: transportation, meals, insurance, special trips, entrance fees, health services, use of equipment? Ask the camp director to itemize any services for which an additional fee is required.
• Is there a membership fee? Must the parent join the sponsoring organization in order for his or her child to participate?
• How and when is tuition paid? By week, month, session?
• Are scholarships available? Children
• Are there systems or methods for keeping track of each child and making sure every camper receives attention and care?
• How are children grouped? Tell me about my child’s grouping.
• What activities does the camp offer for campers in my child’s age group?
• What is the daily routine?
• Are there enough activities to keep children involved, but also opportunities for quiet, down times?
• Do children get to choose activities?
• What happens outdoors?
• Are there field trips, enrichment activities, or sports opportunities? Parent Involvement
• Are parents welcome at the camp anytime? Are there opportunities for parents to participate?
• How does the camp solicit parents’ opinions, ideas, suggestions, and concerns?
• Are there some parents I can call for references? Staff
• How are camp counselors and other staff members hired?
• What are their qualifications and experiences?
• What background checks do they undergo?
• What are the counselors’ duties?
• Are counselors hired for short periods or for the entire summer?
• What is the ratio between staff and campers?
• Is the staff knowledgeable, professional, enthusiastic, and caring? Communication
• How do parents receive information about what their child is doing?
• What are the specific rules campers must follow, and what are the consequences for not following those rules? How are parents informed when children break the rules? Environment
• Is the facility and outdoor environment safe and clean?
• Is the environment inviting, exciting, and fun, but also warm and nurturing?
• Are there adequate supplies and equipment? Meals
• Are lunches provided by the day camp? Ask for a sample menu in advance.
• Are snacks provided during the day? What kind?
• Are special meals available? References
• Ask for references. For more information and advice on choosing residential camps, visit:
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