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Choosing A Summer Camp

How to decide what camp is the right fit for your family!

By Debby Perry- Macaroni Kid of Pittsburgh LLC March 5, 2015

What to consider when choosing a summer camp?  So many things!

 

How far are you willing to drive each day for a day camp?

 Many camps are in varying areas of the city but this doesn't mean that you can't utilize them.  Enlist the help of friends and carpools to take advantage of the offerings directly outside of your local area.  There are some amazing opportunities you won't want to miss.   Will travel for a great camp-- might be a great motto to adopt this summer!  Scope out local parks and museums nearby that perhaps you and the rest of the family can check out while your camper enjoys their day! 

 

 

How much do you have budgeted for camp?

Let's face it.  Times are tough but there are camps out there that are affordable!  Some camps do not even require a full summer time commitment and offer camps on a week to week basis.  You can pick and choose what works for your family.  Many offer discounts as well for families or sibling enrollment and some have even offered discounts to you via this publication just for mentioning Macaroni Kid.  Perhaps there's even a referral credit just for getting your neighbor interested!  There are also scholarships and tuition assistance available for some camps as well.  Do your research and don't be afraid to ask for assistance! Budgets don't have to mean BUST! 

 

What safety measures does the camp take? Safety should be your number one concern as always.  Don't be afraid to ask the questions of the camps seeking your business.  Do they have clearances to work with children?  What is the staff to child ratio?  Is the staff CPR / First Aid trained? In the event of an emergency, what is the camp plan in place?

 

While you're asking THOSE questions talk to the director about these things as well:

 

 What type of supervision is provided?  How is discipline handled?  Is the camp accredited?  It's your duty to find these things out and any facility that doesn't offer this information forthrightly or without confidence, isn't one you should rush into.  

 

Does your child have special needs that need to be considered?  

Just as you should choose a camp that enhances or intrigues your child's spirit you should also choose a camp that meets your child's basic needs.  All children have some sort of varying need and as a parent you want to be assured that anyone working with your child is aware and able to provide as you see necessary.  Whether it's an allergy, an adaptive need or simply the fact that Jessie HATES BALLOONS and literally freaks out at the sight of them.  You need to convey this information so that a plan is in place. 

 

 

 What will your child need during the camp session?

 

Don't wait for the  pre-camp letter to come home that says campers need a full dance outfit, pom poms or a canoe!  I'm just being facetious here but ASK previous to committing if there are additional costs or needs that you should be made aware.  Will your child need a snack or lunch?  Is it provided?  Is a show uniform extra?  

 

ASK AROUND. Use social media to ask about the camp and general experiences with it. Your neighbors, their family members or a friend might have the info you need and you will never know unless you ask!

 

Consider your kiddo!

Make sure you children are involved in the selection process. It will make then entire process more meaningful and in general probably just better all around! What are your child's interests?

 

Specialty camps are often the PERFECT fit for your budding artist, musician, theater kid or engineer. A religious camp or a specific family camp might also be options!

 

What kind of personality does your kid have?

Are they a homebody? Then perhaps a sleep away camp isn't for them. Check into day camps.

Your 7 year old is as independent as they come? Perhaps they ARE ready for a sleep away camp!

 

Does your child do better with a friend or family member?

Maybe neighbor Ned happens to ALSO be going to the same camp! This might help tremendously and it's something to consider!

 

Take a look at your kid first and then consider options that best fit with their needs! 

 

 

No matter which type of camp you choose take the time to research, ask questions and get to know those running it.  Don't rush into anything unit you are  100% completely satisfied!

 

 This will help you to easily confirm that your camp choice for 2015-- is an awesome one!

Happy camping!