WF BLOG
Questions to Consider
When Selecting a Summer Camp
for Your Child
BY MICHAEL VYSKOCIL
• What’s the condition and safety of
equipment? How does the camp ensure
campers’ safety? Find out what types
of safety and security protocols are
in effect.

• How is medical care handled?
• What’s the camp’s mission?
• What are the types of activities planned?
• What does a typical day at camp look like?
• What is the age range of campers?
• What are the camp’s hours?
• What type of transportation is available?
What to ask overnight
camp staff
In addition to the questions above, parents
considering overnight camps for their
children should also ask the following:
I • Is the camp director available outside
• What’s
the ratio
of staff
to camp
attendees? regular business hours?
t may be cold outdoors, but summer
The American Camp Association’s recom-
camps in our region are thinking ahead to
mended ratios range from one staff member • What type of overnight supervision does
warmer weather and summer camp season.

for every six campers ages 7 and 8, to one
Explore the following questions to ask when
the camp offer?
staff member for every 10 campers ages 9 to
considering camp options for your child.

14, to one for every 12 campers ages 15 to 17. • How do staff handle kids and homesickness?
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What to ask day camp staff
• What’s the background and experience of • What’s the expertise level of staff at specialty
camps such as music, art and drama?
the camp director?
• What criteria do you consider for hiring
staff? Does the camp check for ages,
experience levels and criminal history
backgrounds of its staff?
• What are the sleeping arrangements like?
Does the camp provide electricity in the
cabins? Where are the bathrooms?
• What’s the cost? Find out about camp fees
and any other expenses. Inquire about To view camp offerings available in our region
the possibility for financial aid. Ask about and beyond, browse the summer camp directory
refund policies.

on our website. T
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