How to Choose the Best New England Summer Camp for Your Child

Spending time at an overnight summer camp is a great opportunity for your child to make new friends, learn new things and gain independence and confidence, but as a parent, choosing the right camp can feel like an overwhelming task. Instead of going into information overload, compile a checklist to help you decide on the best camp for your child.

 

Decide on a Geographical Location

 

Keep practicality in mind when deciding where to send your child. You want him or her to be far enough away to feel independent, but not so far away that you can't get to the camp if there's an unfortunate emergency. There are many popular summer camps in New England, including Kabeyun, a summer camp exclusively for boys.

 

Determine Your Budget

 

Most camps have options to fit a variety of financial situations. If you need to stick to a budget, many have week-long programs for about $300. Some even have tuition assistance programs. If money isn't a determining factor, some camps have programs that last for the entire summer.

 

Consider Your Family's Values

 

Not every camp is for every family. For example, you might prefer your son or daughter not attend a co-ed summer camp. If you are religious, consider what church services, if any, the camp offers. If your family isn't the type to attend church, a camp that doesn't have a specific religious focus might be more suited for your child.

 

Talk to Parents of Your Child's Friends

 

If your child is particularly shy or quiet, he or she might have trouble making friends in a new situation. If any of your child's friends also attend summer camp, sending him or her to the same one will ensure he or she has fun despite any shyness.

 

Think About Your Child's Interests

 

If your child has a wide range of interests, a traditional summer camp will be able to accommodate many of them. Common activities include swimming and other sports, arts and crafts and entertainment such as movie nights and talent shows. If your child has more specified interests, you might consider a more focused camp, such as a science camp, soccer camp or one that focuses solely on the arts.

 

Read the Camp's Reviews

 

Once you've narrowed your choices, begin doing thorough research. Read the camp's online reviews, see if they are in good standing with the proper local and federal agencies, and if you can, talk to parents who send or have sent their children to the camps you're considering.

 

Schedule a Tour of the Camp

 

Once you have the final list of camps you're interested in, schedule a tour. During your visit, be sure to ask about the camp's safety procedures, where they find their counselors and what kind of background checks they conduct for staff members. If possible, talk to some of the counselors or sit in on an activity or two.

 

Once you've researched the summer camps in New England and determined which one is the best match for your child, all there is left to do is enroll. Your child will be on his or her way to a new adventure and forever memories in no time!