Curious Parents Summer Camp Resources

Residential, Day, and After-School Summer Camps in Pennsylvania, New Jersey and Delaware.

sponsored by

How To Choose a Summer Program

The Groundwork & Responsibilities

By Lois Deckelbaum

     For decades, parents have sent their children to summer programs for a variety of reasons. Some want their kids to get the experience and confidence to move away from home, others want their children to receive skill-building instruction, while others are looking for an opportunity for a few peaceful weeks of alone time. However, the true benefit of going away from home surpasses even the best of intentions.

     Summer programming provides a positive opportunity for growth that should not be underestimated. It is an integral part of a child’s educational and social development. It certainly is not a vacation in the strictest sense of the word. Children and teens learn to challenge themselves on levels that they have never explored. For the first time, they are forced to leave their secure neighborhoods. They must deal with campmates that may have different values or behaviors and negotiate and resolve conflict. They learn to be responsible for themselves and others and assess and differentiate between appropriate and inappropriate behavior. In essence, they learn about a stronger sense of self. Both camp and travel programs provide the background for this growth in a safe and controlled environment.

     With such a huge responsibility, the question is then asked – how do I find a program for my child that will successfully support these opportunities for growth? The number of camp programs is huge and varied. The following points may help you in this process.

     1. Talk to you children- what are they ready for? Evaluate your needs and theirs. Talk over their interests; be open to the unexpected. Do you want to build on existing strengths and interests or expose your child to something new?

     2. Talk to other children and parents. Referrals from other families with camp experience are a great way to get the real scoop. Remember it is sometimes difficult to recognize when your child may need a different program than his or her best buddy.

     3. Contact a referral service. Referral agencies are a great time saver and an incredible source of information. They can compare programs, give you references and help you find the program that suits your child. They send you brochures and videos and offer expert advice. They work on commissions from the camps when a placement has been made, thus making their services free to you.

     4. Search the Internet. The Internet is full of camp “Yellow Pages” that offer links to a camp’s web site.

     5. Attend a camp fair. Schools, Malls, Community Centers and other community areas often sponsor events. Check your local publications.

     6. Check with teachers, coaches and school guidance counselors. Those who work with your children may also be able to recommend suitable programs and pass along feedback from other kid’s experiences.

     7. Visit programs during the summer sessions. This is great way for you and your child to get comfortable with the idea. It does take time and planning a year in advance.

     8. Do your homework. Check references and referrals. Talk to the Director if you have any questions or concerns.

     After the groundwork is done and the program selected, other challenges begin. As summer approaches, displays of bravado may wane into feelings of terror. It is totally normal for both parent and child to get anxious and even question the decision. Encourage your child to talk about his concerns. Listen carefully. Do not create false expectations. Explain that there will be times when he or she may be homesick. This feeling is normal, but it will disappear as friends are made. Explain that there may be squabbles. Give them the tools to handle the situations. Carefully encourage your child to have a reasonable expectations– no program will be fabulous every day. Your child should not feel pressure to be “the best” – instead he should simply enjoy the opportunities.

     Summer programming can lead to the experience of a lifetime. I encourage you to explore the options available for your children. There are programs that meet the needs of everyone. The camp experience is not one of mere sports, but of social growth, development and opportunity that cannot be replicated elsewhere.

     Tips on Trips and Camps, Inc is a free service specializing in overnight summer experiences for children ages 8-18. They have consultants in 14 cities in the US and abroad. To speak with a consultant call (610) 649-0911 or e-mail Lois@tipsontripsandcamps.com or find us on the web at www.tipsontripsandcamps.com.