As the air turns cooler, and the beauty of fall begins to bloom, many families aren’t thinking about summer camp. However, now is the perfect time to begin searching for the perfect camp experience for next summer. According to the American Camp Association® (ACA), over 35 percent of camps begin accepting registrations between September and December.
When should families start the camp selection process?
The earlier the better! The sooner a family begins searching, the more time they have to evaluate multiple camps, speak with camp directors, and take advantage of any special pricing or early bird offers provided by the camp.
What are some of the best ways for families to do their research?
Choosing a camp should be a shared process for the whole family. Families can research online to learn what opportunities are available. ACA’s family resource site, www.CampParents.org, offers Find A Camp, a searchable database of ACA’s 2,400 accredited camps. Other ways to learn about great camp possibilities is to seek recommendations from friends, consult faith communities or community centers, and attend local camp fairs. For personal assistance close to home, parents can contact one of ACA’s 24 local offices.
What are some of the camp options to consider?
Is a day camp or resident (overnight) camp more appropriate for the child involved? Will the child be more comfortable in a single-sex or co-ed camp? Families can visit ACA’s parent resource site for information on gauging a child’s readiness and selecting the right camp.
How can parents be assured of a camp’s commitment to health and safety?
ACA-Accreditation® is the best evidence for parents that a camp is committed to providing a safe and nurturing environment for their children. A camp that is ACA-accredited has undergone a thorough review, and has met up to 300 health and safety standards. Parents should always ask if a camp is currently accredited. If not, ask why.
What about camp as a gift for the holidays?
For a unique gift this year that doesn’t involve boxes or batteries, friends and family can consider giving the Gift of Camp. Camp provides extraordinary learning opportunities, lasting memories, an opportunity to unplug and connect with nature, and a chance to just be a kid.
About ACA
The American Camp Association® (ACA) works to preserve, promote, and enhance the camp experience for children and adults. ACA-Accredited® camp programs ensure that children are provided with a diversity of educational and developmentally challenging learning opportunities. There are over 2,400 ACA-accredited camps that meet up to 300 health and safety standards. For more information, visit www.ACAcamps.org.
