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Summer Camp Guide 411

Choosing a Summer Camp Program

By Katrina Mancini July 26, 2016

Check out our link for Local summer camp suggestions in Merrimack Valley!
Local Summer Camps

Tips On How To Choose A Summer Camp


When school gets out and you want to keep the kids busy, consider a summer camp program! Summer Camps can bring new experiences to your child, opportunities to meet new friends, try new things and overall lots of fun!


Summer camp registrations are already open! You may want to look into camp programs now to get an idea of when your camp of interest is starting to enroll. If you are unsure about what camp to choose, Macaroni Kid has some suggestions for you located right here in Merrimack Valley! More camps will be added to the guide as camps continue to open their registration through the next couple months.  


Here are some tips on choosing summer camps!


What are your child's interests?

Check in with your child and get a list of things that he/she is into. Perhaps they have an interest in something they have never tried before and this is the perfect opportunity to try something new! Maybe they have been working on perfecting a new skill, or you have noticed that your child has a gift in art, drama, or athletics and you want to help support them in exploring these talents more. Your child most likely will have a handful of hobbies that they would like to have more fun with. Think about what your child would enjoy and what would fit their personalities best.


Does it fit the Bill?

Assess what you plan to spend on a camp before you present the camp options to your child. You don't want them to get their hopes up if the camp they may have wanted most, ends up being too pricey. That being said, there are many affordable camps out there. You may even try 2 camps at a cheaper rate to give your child a more rounded experiences and to make up for one camp which was too pricey. Some camps also offer extended care hours at additional fees, which you will have to take into account as well.


Questions to Consider:

What is the structure?

What is pick up drop off policy & procedure?

Is the staff CPR/First aid certified?

What are emergency and evacuation procedures?

Do they have extended day hours?

Will meals or snacks be served?

Policy regarding electronics?

What items should we bring each day?

What is the background/experience of staff?

How does staff handle separation anxiety? Or the introverted child?

Are children separated into age groups?

What does supervision look like day to day?