Questions for Choosing a Summer Camp
The Providers
____ What is the ratio of counselors to campers?
____ How old are the counselors?
____ How diverse is the camper and staff population?
____ How are staff trained and certified?
____ What is your approach to conflicts between campers?
The Campers
____ Do you accommodate campers with special needs?
____ Can you accommodate special dietary needs?
____ Are campers of all ages mixed in programs and activities?
____ Will my child be in large groups for the activities?
____ What do others say about your camp?
____ What are return rates for campers from year to year?
The Program
____ What is the camp’s philosophy?
____ How long has the camp been in operation?
____ Is the camp accredited?
____ What does a typical daily schedule look like?
____ Is an open house offered before camp starts where you can meet your child’s counselor and van/bus driver?
____ What procedures are in place to keep my child safe?
____ If the camp offers swimming, are there swimming lessons or is it simply recreational swimming?
____ If before- and after-camp extended care is offered, who is with the children and what activities take place?
____ Will the camp be transporting the children?
____ How much down time do the campers have?
____ What if my child gets homesick?
____ Is lunch served or do campers bring their own lunch? Are snacks and drinks provided?
The Price
____ What is the cost?
____ Is the price all-inclusive or are there extra charges for transportation, swimming lessons, food, horseback riding, extended care, field trips, etc?
