Choosing from a Variety of Summer Camps

Summer Camp Types

Back in high school I remember working as a camp instructor for a specialty camp; the facility was created for the mentally and physically handicapped. As a counselor, we knew the terrain well and trained extensively to prepare for the arrival of our campers. It was a great experience, although challenging at times. Working at the camp taught me how much fun summer camps can be regardless of your child’s abilities or interests.

Sifting thru the packets and brochures; every youth summer camp seems like a child’s idea of heaven—pictures of children laughing, swimming and cheerfully eating in the mess halls. Hey, they all look good to me. Camp information packets can be helpful but may not adequately represent camp life; maybe you notice the photographs were taken in 1983! Don’t become overwhelmed with the job of finding the perfect camp, take one step at a time and create an outline to finding a perfect haven for your child. First figure out what types of camps are out there—be prepared; know exactly what to put on the table when discussing options with your child. Begin with the types of summer camps below and learn more about how to talk to your child about choosing a specific camp at www.camptalk.com.

Focused Summer Camps for Kids:

Surf camp, comedy camp (yes, this really exists) and computer programming camp—these are all examples of focused camps. Amazingly, there is a camp for almost every child’s particular interests and talents. The programs are specific and several hours a day are spent on one or more activities revolving around that topic of interest. When researching details of a particular camp discuss a “day in the life” of a camper with the camp director; these people expect you to request more information. Discover what it really entails to go off to surf camp.

Summer Education: Kids in the Great Outdoors:

These programs are usually offered to groups such as schools, preschools and day campers. Maybe it’s driving you nuts watching your child eat Oreos, sip from juice boxes and play Street Fighter III on the Playstation all summer. Outdoor camps offer a fun alternative—children can explore nature and participate in physical activity while allowing their parents a little free time during the summer months.

Overnight Summer Camps: Home Away from Home:

A great way to teach children how to cope away from the home front. Overnight camps offer independence and structured adventures. Ask camp directors questions about daily schedules, facilities, meals, age range of campers and the experience level of the counselors. Often, if chosen correctly, the events and people met at overnight camps are never forgotten; your child may return year after year to the same camp. Relationships with fellow campers are important—it’s best to discuss concerns with your child so you may choose a camp where he or she is comfortable with the people and the environment surrounding them.

Special Needs Summer Youth Camps:

Your camper can stay the night or adventure off for a day trip; prepared for campers with mental, physical or developmental needs. Specialty camps offer both facilities and experienced staff to handle any needs your child may require. As with most overnight camps, if possible, it’s best to visit the camp beforehand.

Teen Summer Camps: Adventure Around the Corner:

At some point, creating clay handprints or canoeing across the same lake every summer is outgrown by the camp connoisseur—teens. Find that perfect summer adventure by researching the numerous adventure and tour camps popping up all over. Some offer adventures abroad; send your teen off on a rock climbing exploration for a day nearby or for a few weeks to Costa Rica for a kayaking expedition. Tailored for the curious teenager, these camps offer insight and knowledge into most any activity they’re interested in. Career camps are also available for your little Donald Trump.

Summer Camp Fun: Family Style:

The SUV is packed, grandpa’s dozing off in the back and the kids are balancing M&M’s on his forehead. Yes, it’s that time of year again and the Griswold’s are off for another family vacation. However, you won’t be driving to Wally World; take off for a dude ranch in Montana or research other camps appropriate for the family. A lot of packages provide programs and activities suitable for all ages—accommodations and food are often provided with the fee.