Camp Articles for Parents
How to choose a summer camp
Written by Matt Barr of Camps Canada
Consider your child’s interests …
What does your child like to do? Children know what they like and don’t like. Ask them for their input. If your child is active and loves to play sports, a sports camp is probably right for him or her. If your child is creative, then choose a camp that offers arts and crafts. Camp choices are as varied as children themselves. Choose a camp with the specific focus geared toward your child.
Day Camp versus Overnight Camp
Depending on the age, maturity and independence of your child, he or she may or may not be ready for an overnight camp. Some overnight camps
Questions to ask before you register
Written by Matt Barr of Camps Canada
Here’s a list of questions you could ask any camp director before you register.
- Who do you hire as counselors? Are they experienced? How old are they? Are they certified in CPR and First Aid? Have they undergone a criminal record check?
- What are your hours of operation? for pre and post camp care? Is there an additional cost for extended hours?
- What is the ratio of campers to counselors? Ratios of 8:1 are common. A maximum of 10:1 is probably the maximum ratio you would want.
Why every child should go to camp
Written by Matt Barr of Camps Canada
Every child should go to camp to:
- make new friends (the number one outcome cited by children who attend camp)
- learn new physical skills (arts and crafts, sports, swimming, waterskiing, archery)
- learn new social skills (communication, leadership, teamwork)
- gain an appreciation of people’s different abilities (we are all gifted in some way or another)
- experience the feelings of love, safety, and security
5 things that make camp different
Written by Matt Barr of Camps Canada
Number 1 – Camp leads the way in using the best methods to help children learn and grow
Camp is a lot more than “something fun for the kids to do when they are out of school.” Actually, camps are outstanding places for children to learn and grow. Why? For over 125 years, camps have been the leader in using the number one key secret to teaching: children learn most from doing. They learn most from hands-on discovery and practice, especially in small groups. The fancy name for this is “experiential” learning. When children are
5 more reasons for every child to attend summer camp
Written by Matt Barr of Camps Canada
Number 1 – Positive memories are made that last a lifetime.
If adults that have attended summer camps as children are asked what their fondest childhood memories are, it is often found that they recollect and share their camp memories. Camp memories are created every year because of the great experiences shared by campers while at camp but more importantly because of the other campers and staff who share those experiences together with them.