Here are some things to consider when visiting a camp, watching a video or flipping through the brochure. iPlease note many of these areas may affect your child’s stay at summer camp. Be sure to ask the camp director if you can not find information that you feel is a top priority for your child.Summer Camps
Facilities Take careful note of the condition of the facilities. Are the buildings well maintained, or do they show clear signs of a lack of maintenance. Though well worn and rustic buildings are perfectly ok, make sure that they are not being neglected. Specific things you’ll want to look for and ask about include:
Bunks: * Are they in cabins, tents, or dorms? * How many beds are in each bunk? * Are the beds individual cots or bunk beds? * Do the campers choose which beds they want? What if they don’t want a top bunk? * Where do the campers store their belongings? * Are the bunks crowded? Is there enough storage space? Does it look like the camp has overbooked and crowded extra campers in? * How clean are the bunks? Beds should be made by the campers and belongings should be in cubbies. * Where do the counselors sleep? How many counselors sleep in each bunk?
Bathrooms: * How near the cabins are the toilets? Does each bunk have it’s own toilets or is there a common bathhouse? * If there is a common bathhouse? Do children walk alone at night? Is the path lighted? * Are there showers in each bunk or a common area? * If the camp is coed, how separate are the shower facilities? Where? * How often and who cleans the facilities?
Waterfront or Swimming Pool: * Can the pool accommodate all swimmers? * Are the waterfront areas for swimming, boating, water skiing and diving separate and clearly marked? * What kind of waterfront toys are provided? * What is the supervision and ratio of lifeguards to swimmers? * Are life jackets always worn whebn boating? * Are swimming tested on skills? * How do the camp keep track ofr swimmers? Buddy board?
The Grounds: * Are playing fields freshly reseeded and mowed? * Are the trails clearly marked? * Is the equipment in good condition?
Dinning Hall:This is one of the most important areas in camp. Your child will spend 2-3 hours a day in the Dinning Hall. So make sure the Camp Directors understand this and work to make it a clean, exciting and nutritious experience Their are an increasing amount of dietary option and allergy that camps are dealing with. If you have special dietary needs don’t be forget to make sure they can accommodate you Kids Summer Camp * Is there enough space for the whole camp to be served in one seating? * Do cabins eat together? After all, this is your child’s best friends. * Are meals buffet style or are campers served? If they are served, who serves the food? * What if the camper doesn’t like the main selection? Are there alternatives? Is there a salad bar? * Are snacks served? Is there a canteen/camp store? * What is a typical menu for breakfast, lunch, and dinner? * Who is the kitchen director and what are his or her credentials? * What are the safety and cleanliness standards? Is the kitchen inspected by local authorities?
Remember this article has to do with the comforts of camp and not with safety at camp. The American Camp Association has a certification program that looks at over 300 different aspects of camp. It is always best to select a camp that has been ACA Accredited. ACA CAMPS
You can learn more about selecting a wonderful Teen Summer Camp by visiting Summer Camp Advice Finding a Summer Camp
