Thinking of Summer Camp?

Summer is almost here; time to think about what your kids are going to be doing!

Summer camp is one option that many parents choose. There are so many types of camps including: sleep-away camps, day camps, religion based camps, camps specifically for special needs, focused camps (like art or music) and many more!

How do you choose?

As the parent, you know your child best. Here are some questions to ask yourself:

1.) Will my child benefit from being away from home for period of time?
2.) Will my child thrive in a camp specifically for special needs or would a more mainstream camp be preferred?

Here are some other things to think about:

If you are considering a camp specifically for special needs, spend some time getting to know the camp, its owners and what type of activities will fill your child’s day. Determine if your child will be able to participate in the majority of activities and if any help, like a one-on-one aide will be needed and how that is handled. Does the camp employ adult counselors and what type of experience with special needs do they have?

If you are considering a community camp or one that is not specifically geared toward special needs, you will need dig a little deeper! One great thing about a local community camp is that it can be a way for him/her to become part of the community in general. But, you will need to make sure that your child need’s will be taken care of and that the camp experience will be fulfilling. What accommodations will made for your child? What level of supervision can you expect? Do they think that your child will do well at their camp?

When determining a camp, one of the top considerations is why am I sending my child to camp? What do I want him/her to get out of the experience? Once you have the answers to these questions in mind it will be much easier to determine if the camp you are checking out fits the bill!

When considering a camp that is geared toward special needs, there is a certain level of expectation that you would naturally have that the activities will meet your child’s skills. The same cannot be said about a mainstream camp – that is not to say that they will not be accommodating – they very well might. However, your level of expectation has to be adjusted.

Whichever type of camp you choose, it would be helpful to talk to other parents who have sent their kids there before. Ask for references – don’t be shy!

Summer camp can be a great educational and social experience for all kids. Finding the right one is the key to making it a summer of fun! A little preparation and thought can make for a wonderful summer camp experience for your child!

What have your kids done in previous Summer's? What are your plans for this Summer?

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