Though it is winter and summer camp is months away, experts say now is the time to get moving if you want the best camp experience for your child. Choices include day and overnight or "sleepaway" camps, as well as camps for special needs children.
But why consider summer camp at all? Levine says camp is a place where kids can learn and grow and experience additional responsibility and decision making away from their parents. They typically gain new skills and interests, make new friends and build their self-esteem.
"For a child who hasn't had experience with certain activities, they never imagined the things they can accomplish—such as rock climbing," Levine says.
According to the American Camp Association, a physical, medical, or mental disability is not a roadblock for a camp experience. Each year more than a million special needs children benefit from summer camp. Some camps specialize in serving certain groups while other camps integrate special-needs campers into the total camp population.
Camps accredited by the American Camp Association with a good reputation have a high return rate and also tend to give preference to siblings, says Levine.
Some programs, such as those that involve a service project, typically accept fewer than 20 campers, and sleepaway camps are most popular for those ages 10 to 12 and fill quickly, Levine says.
Where to start
While the Internet is a great resource, Judy Levine, founder and director of Summer Camp and Trip Resources says after awhile, camps all start looking and sounding the same, and it may be difficult to figure out where to send your child and spend your money.
A camp consultant can help families narrow their choices to five or six that might be a good fit. Consultants, like Levine, are not paid by parents, but instead are paid a commission from the camp programs after a child completes the camp. Friends, neighbors and relatives can offer suggestions, but what is a good fit for one child isn't always a good fit for another, Levine says.
Tom Holland, Chief Foundation and Funds Development Officer of the American Camp Association, says the best first step is to talk to your child about their interests. This will help focus the search and help make a successful match so your child will enjoy their time at camp.
"Parents know their child best, and are best able to determine which camp experience is perfect for their child. Each child is an individual. It is important to consider their child's age and experience, and to prepare for camp together," says Holland. "The most positive camp experience is when the child is actively involved in choosing the camp."
Parents may want to send their children to the camp they enjoyed as a child, but every child is different and it is not always a good fit, Levine says.
Camp comparisons
Once input from the child is received, compare what the camp offers, location, length of the camp program and budget.
When the options have been narrowed, it is important to see if the program is accredited by the ACA. Holland suggests asking the following:
• What is the camp's philosophy and program emphasis?
• What is the counselor-to-camper ratio?
• How does the camp handle homesickness?
• What are the emergency policies, including transportation and the available first aid as well as who is trained in procedures?
Levine says to also ask about communication with parents and others. "Most camps do not let campers use cell phones and limit interaction with parents," she adds.
Parents should note that camp today is different from the camp they remember as children. There are more opportunities and options today than most parents had. There are camps and enrichment opportunities at universities, as well as camps for many interests, such as arts or sports camps.
According to the ACA, camp remains an affordable option for most everyone. A range of price options is available, depending upon the choice of camp, the facilities offered and the camper's needs. Many camps and other organizations offer financial assistance based on need.