Choosing a Summer Camp...Already?
Kaleidoscope: A New View on Kids, from the Overlook Childcare Center

Even in March it’s possible to see flurries falling from the sky, and locating matching mittens is likely still part of the morning madness. But before you know it, it will be time to trade snowsuits for swimsuits and snowballs for beach balls. Parents of older children (and certainly the kids themselves!) know it’s never too early to begin thinking about summer camp, but if you’re new to the camp scene it’s important to realize that most camps have already begun filling up. To make sure your child’s summer experience is positive, educational, safe, and—most of all—fun, it’s up to you to do your homework and ask the right questions.

The Application Process
Before you can fill out a single form or write a check, get the answers to these questions.

• How do parents apply?


• What is the deadline for submitting applications?


• What are the camp’s opening and closing dates and hours of operation?


• Does the camp offer flexible schedules?
  

Tuition and Fees
All that summer fun comes at a price. Ward against sticker shock with these queries.

• What are the tuition and registration fees?


• What is included in the tuition: transportation, meals,insurance, special trips, entrance fees, health services, use of equipment? Ask the camp director to itemize any services for which an additional fee is required.


• Is there a membership fee? Must the parent join the sponsoring organization in order for his or her child to participate?


• How and when is tuition paid: by week, by month, by session? Are scholarships available?
  
  

Staff
Don’t be shy about wanting to know who is caring for your child.

• What are staffers’ qualifications and experiences?


• Is the staff knowledgeable, professional, enthusiastic, and caring?


• How are counselors and other staff members hired? What kinds of background checks do they undergo?


• What are the counselors’ duties? Are they hired for short periods or for the entire summer?


• What is the ratio between staff and campers?

Daily Routines
You’ll feel better about your child’s experience if you understand the camp’s structure. Pose these questions about policies and procedures.

• Are there systems or methods for keeping track of each child and making sure every camper receives attention and care?


• How are children grouped? Ask specifically about your child’s grouping


• What activities are offered for campers in my child’s age group? Do children get to choose activities?


• What is the daily routine? Are there enough activities to keep children involved, but also opportunities for quiet times?


• Are there field trips, enrichment activities, or sports opportunities?

The Environment
Find out more about where your child is spending his or her days so you’ll feel more comfortable.

• Is the facility and outdoor environment safe and clean?


• Is the environment inviting, exciting, and fun, but also warm and nurturing?


• Are there adequate supplies and equipment?

Meals
Active kids are hungry kids. Ask questions about how yours will be nourished.

• Are lunches provided by the camp? Is a sample menu available?


• Are snacks provided during the day? What kind?


• Are special meals available?

Parent Involvement
Figure out beforehand how you’ll factor into the camp experience.

• Are parents welcome at the camp anytime? Are there opportunities for parents to participate?


• How does the camp solicit parents’ opinions, ideas, suggestions, and concerns?


• Are there some parents I can call for references?

Communication
You welcome communication with your child’s school; expect no less from a camp. Questions (like these) should be welcome.

• What are the specific rules campers must follow, and what are the consequences for not following those rules?


• How are parents informed when children break the rules?


• How do parents receive information about their child’s progress?

This installment of “Kaleidoscope,” from Overlook’s Childcare Center, is excerpted from Bright Horizons Family Solutions for e-family news.

Overlook’s Childcare Center offers its own preschool camp for children ages 3 to 5 and a school-age camp for kids ages 6 to 12. The camp is open to children or grandchildren of Overlook Hospital and Atlantic Health System employees. For more information, call (888) 412-1712.