CHOOSING THE RIGHT SLEEPAWAY CAMP
Questions for Parents
Questions for Camp Directors
According to the American Camp Association (ACA),
below are some questions to ask yourself when
searching for a sleepaway camp for your child:
Here are some important questions to ask camp
directors before deciding on a camp:
1. What locale do I want to consider? (Mountains,
oceanfront, distance from home, etc.)
2. Do I want a traditional camp that gives my child a
wide-variety of experiences, or do I want to select
a specialty camp that focuses on a particular
activity or set of skills?
1. Does the camp provide flexible programming and a
nurturing environment?
2. Is team building a component of cabin life?
3. How are the counselors trained to handle conflict?
4. How are physical, intellectual and moral
development incorporated into the camp program?
3. What size enrollment will make my child feel
comfortable? 5. How does the camp optimize opportunities for
independence and emotional growth?
4. How structured do I want the program to be? Does
my child like to have lots of choice in the activity
schedule? 6. What programs are in place to facilitate
leadership skills?
5. What session length will appeal to my child and to
our family plans for the summer?
7. How is the camp environment optimized for
developing healthy self-esteem?
Glenn Smith is the owner and director of Camp Tall Timbers, an
award-winning camp program, located in the beautiful foothills of the
Blue Ridge mountains in High View, WV. For over 48 years, Camp
Tall Timbers has been promoting independence, decision-making,
socialization, skill building, confidence, creativity and self-discovery
in a safe and nurturing environment.