The need for children to keep active and stay engaged doesn’t take a break, even while on summertime vacation! But don’t wait until school ends, because you can already look around for summer camps to enroll in right now. Here is the ultimate guide to finding the best one for your child, whether they are little preschoolers or restless teens.
Is your child ready for summer camp?
Day camp is a great starting point for children who are able to team up with peers, make friends and follow adult instructions. Overnight camp is suited for children who have already experienced spending nights away from home without any incidents, and those who can easily adapt with routine changes.
What are the different summer camp types?
Camp is so versatile nowadays it isn’t hard to find one for every interest. Your children can sign up for traditional camps or sports-oriented ones, horseback riding, dance, math or science, Lego camps and religion-based camps, rock climbing, acrobatics or even barista camps for aspiring teens.
What are the costs for summer camp?
The costs vary widely based on the length of camp and the activities offered.
Considerations by Age – Day Camp to Overnight Camp
Ages 3 to 5
Ease your children into summer camp by enrolling them in half-day programs. Children in this age group need a balanced mix of low and high-energy activities interspersed with plenty of time for rest periods. Tactile activities such as craft projects, playing in a small pool or beach, or petting animals are excellent and highly enjoyable for them. Full day camps are available as soon as your children hit the age of 5.
Ages 6 to 10
Children at this range begin to understand the value of teamwork and friendship. They are also at the age where they discover entirely new experiences and start to discern what they like and who they are. These children focus their efforts in exploring their world outside of their comfort zone, trying out new food or going to a new place. Most kids at age 8 or 9 are ready for overnight camp.
You can expect an outdoor nature-themed experience and camp activities such as arts and crafts, outdoor and climbing training, games and sports, hiking and horseback riding, swimming and boating as the main theme for overnight summer camps at this age range.
Ages 11 to 14
A sense of individuality and the development of the unique self is what mostly drives the children at this age range. It would be best to include them and provide opportunities for them to make their own choice or take part in a group decision with his or her own peers. You may also consider specialized program camps according to their current interests. The teens may wish to join longer sessions (10-14 days or more), and others can opt in for single-gender camps as it lessens peer pressure and distractions. Recommended overnight summer camps include outdoor adventure trips such as sailing, biking, rafting and backpacking), horse camp and music, arts or science-focused programs. There are also leadership camps offered when your child reaches the age of 13 or 14.
Ages 14 to 18
This is the age where they start thinking about staff positions and leadership. There are some overnight summer camps who initiate a leadership development program for Counselor-in-Training and hire staff at age 16. Leadership programs are good choices for this age range as it teaches them confidence, how to work in teams and other organizational skills that are highly valued in the workplace. This also lets them peer into the future at what it is like to be an adult and experience job market simulations. Advanced programs are available for teens who have been participating in overnight summer camps for a long time.
The final decision
It is always good to engage your children and have them by your side as you explore camp options. You can browse through brochures and camp websites or visit an open camp house or a fair together. Ask them what would interest them and encourage them to ask questions.
The most important factors considered by parents surveyed include camp activities, staff enthusiasm, the cost and camp reputation. Studies show that 75 percent of the campers tried new activities and endeavors, while around 63% of parents claim that their children brought home the activities learned at camp, a truly beneficial factor in all developmental stages.
The abundance of options might seem overwhelming, but remain calm and seek the help of a Camp Experts advisor, who will pinpoint the best overnight camps based on your preferred location, desired skills and interests.
Want your child or teen to have this experience, please click here to get free, professional overnight camp assistance.
