Summer Camp: Finding the Perfect Fit for Any Age
TEXT GAYLA GRACE
Summer camp offers all kinds of fun and character-building experiences for kids
Age 0 - 5
of any age. Whether you’re looking for a few hours of entertainment or weeks of
D intentional skill-building for your child, you can find it at camp.

ay camps offer the perfect
opportunity for young kids to
experience time away from home
and explore new activities. Camp
for preschool children focuses on free play,
sharing with others, group games (inside
and outside) and simple arts and crafts. If
you’re sending your child to camp for the first
time, make sure the schedule matches her
personality and routine to prevent a stressful
experience. Does there need to be naptime?
Should your child be potty trained to attend?
Would your child adjust more easily by
starting with a half-day camp instead of full-
day? Are there appropriate breaks for snacks
and changes in activity?
Summer camps
32 March 2016 washingtonFAMILY.com
It’s important to find out what the counselor to camper
ratio is for children this age. You want to ensure your
child will be adequately cared for with a friendly, well-
staffed team. You also want to determine if the counselors
are trained to help with issues common to preschoolers,
including separation anxiety, potty training and temper
tantrums. The best place to find camps for young children is
through day cares, churches, nursery schools and local
elementary schools. Specialty camps also abound through
gymnastic centers, music schools and sporting centers.

Consider your child’s interests and find a camp that gives
your preschool child a chance to make new friends and
explore new experiences.