TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (WTXL) - The countdown is on 'til summer, and if you are like most kids, that means family vacations, a part-time job or a summer camp. But how do you decide which camp is best for you? According to Tom Holland, CEO of the American Camp Association, start with knowing your interests.
"Talk about their interests, what they're excited about," recommends Holland. "Are they interested in a charity, a sport, maybe something in arts, or are they interested in learning about a lot of different activities?"
Also, do your homework. Things to consider include the philosophy, location and agenda of the camp. Plus, are you interested in day camps, overnight camps or week long away from home camps?
"There's no set formula for each and every child, although around the age of 9 is when children start having, on average, a residential camp experience," explains Holland. "Also, a day camp is a wonderful experience, often times can be that perfect first step for a five year old, six year old."
Finally, research the cost of the camps. These days, kids can get a camp of their choosing on a budget that makes sense for your family.
"There's a camp for every budget and they should look for a program that might speak to them when it comes to the, what the camper wants to get out of it," says Holland, "but they shouldn't be deterred by the price because most camps in the country have a financial aid program or provide payment options for families."
Tom says the summer camp experience, which has been around for over 150 years, is evolving, and is a great learning, educational opportunity for fun in the summer months.
Go online, too. On the American Camp Association's site, campparents.org, you can look up accredited member camps by zip code and areas of focus.
Also, Mysummercamps.com includes reviews by campers and their parents.
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