How To Choose a Summer Camp for Your Kid

Choosing the best summer camp ensures a positive and fun experience for your child. The hard part is selecting the right one that aligns with your child’s goals and needs. Make sure that the program you choose also fits your child’s age group. Summer camps can give your child a unique opportunity during their summer break to learn more about themselves and what the world has to offer. 

Your Kid’s Interests

Start by asking your child what their interests are when it comes to summer camp. Depending on their hobbies and interests, you can find a summer camp that they’ll enjoy. Whether they like horseback riding or arts and crafts, there’s a camp for everyone. 

There are sports camps, STEM camps, adventure camps, etc. Narrowing down your options can help you better determine which one is best for your child. 

At the same time, don’t be afraid of considering camps that will introduce them to something new or even challenge them to get out of their comfort zone. Sometimes children discover a hidden interest when they try activities outside of their usual hobbies.

Goals 

Now you need to know what your child’s goals are if they go to summer camp. Ask them questions like: ‘What do you want to get out of summer camp?' or ‘Is there anything you want to learn more about?’ 

Their answers can help you better choose a camp that matches not only their interests but also their personal growth. Setting goals ahead of time also helps your child feel more excited and invested in camp.

Camp Features

One of the best things a summer camp can offer is the activities and environment. Check to see if the camp has fun activities such as arts and crafts, ropes or obstacle courses, activities involving nature, hikes, and team building games. The camp’s features can make or break the experience your kid gets from summer camp.

Cost

Once you know the type of camp you want to send your kid to, set a budget for how much you’re willing to spend on summer camp. Day camps are usually less expensive than overnight camps as well as specialty programs.

Be sure you check for extra fees such as equipment, T-shirts, meals, rentals, or lodging. You can balance affordability with the quality of experience for your kid.

Ultimately, aim for a camp that fits your budget while still providing a safe, engaging, and memorable experience for your child.

Location & Time

Depending on your budget, you can choose a camp that is further away from your home, or opt for one nearby if you want the convenience of easy drop-off and pick-up. For day camps, location is especially important since you’ll be driving back and forth every day for the duration of the camp.

However, overnight camps can be farther away and still work well since travel is only required at the beginning and end of camp. Whatever camp you choose, make sure you know exactly how long the camp session is. It could be for a few days, a week, or a month-long program. Again, choose the best camp that aligns with your family schedule.

Staff Qualifications & Reviews

Another thing to consider is the camp’s staff qualifications and reviews online or by word-of-mouth. If the summer camp doesn’t have good reviews and the staff is qualified or trained to take care of your child, then it’s probably not the best camp for your kid.

You can check reviews on places like Yelp, Reddit, or Google Reviews to determine which summer camp is the best for your kid.

Final Thoughts 

OFY understands the challenge of finding the best summer camp for your kid. That’s why we focus on safety, skilled staff, and meaningful experiences for physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. 

Ready to give your kid a summer filled with growth, fun, and new friendships? Explore OFY’s programs today and give your child the best summer camp experience!