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Camp Guide: ACA Camps

By Andrew Yankowitz

     Each year more than ten million children and adults will benefit from a camp experience. When choosing a camp it is important to select one that has met the highest standards in the industry. Since 1948 the American Camp Association (ACA) has been accrediting camps throughout the nation. Today, they accredit over 2,400 camps both day and residential. ACA accredited camps demonstrate a commitment to excellence that makes your job of choosing the right camp much easier.

Fun And Safety — ACA Camps Set the Standard

     ACA Accreditation means that the camp you are considering for your child cares enough to undergo a thorough (over 300 standards) review of its operation — from staff qualifications and training to emergency management. American Camp Association collaborates with experts from The American Academy of Pediatrics, the American Red Cross, and other youth service agencies to assure that current practices at the camp reflect the most up-to-date, research-based standards in camp operation. Camps and ACA form a partnership that promotes summers of growth and fun in an environment committed to safety.

ACA helps accredited camps provide:

• Healthy, developmentally-appropriate activities and learning experiences,
• Discovery through experiential education,
• Caring, competent role models,
• Service to the community and the environment, and
• Opportunities for leadership and personal growth.

What's the difference between state licensing of camps and accreditation by ACA?

     Accreditation is voluntary and ACA accreditation assures families that camps have made the commitment to a safe, nurturing environment for their children. Licensing is mandatory and requirements vary from state to state. Courts of law and government regulators recognize ACA standards as the standards of the camp community.

How do ACA standards exceed state licensing requirements?

     ACA goes beyond basic requirements for health, cleanliness, and food service into specific areas of programming, including camp staff from director through counselors, emergency management plans, health care, and management. ACA applies separate standards for activities such as waterfront, horseback riding, and adventure and travel.

What are some of the ACA standards that camps rely on?

• Staff to camper ratios are appropriate for different age groups,
• Goals for camp activities are developmentally based,
• Emergency transportation available at all times, and
• First-aid facilities and trained staff available when campers are present.

How can I verify that my child's camp is ACA accredited?

     When camps display the ACA logo, they are showing that they have earned a true mark of distinction within the camp community. Parents can (and should) verify the accreditation status of any camp at any time by visiting ACA’s Web site at www.ACAcamps.org or by calling 1-800-428-CAMP.

     Andrew Yankowitz is the Owner/Director of Tall Pines Day Camp in Williamstown, NJ.