What to Look for in Your Child's Day Camp

Finding the right kids day camp for your child is an often undervalued duty.

After all, you'll be leaving your kid with people who have the power to shape the pliable mind of the young, staff members and educators who impart knowledge and values that affect the future development of your kid.

Take your time and consider the consequences of your choice.

Begin by including the desires of your young one, assessing your selection with his or her personality and interests at the forefront of your thoughts.

Your ideal approach is to find a summer day camp that combines features both you and your child expect within an environment that nurtures the child's character and temperament.

Internet searches and word of mouth are a good place to begin your search, but this approach doesn't always account for your child's needs.

A top kids day camp, one with glowing online reviews, may be perfect for one kid but totally unfit for your own.

Find a Summer Day Camp that Matches Your Child’s Interests

The first tip therefore is to find a camp that offers a program that matches your child's interests with fun activities, experiences sure to widen your young one's mind.

These exciting adventures include social interactions where new friendships are formed, instilling strong values that benefit future personal growth throughout college and early working opportunities.

A place that shares the same beliefs and philosophies as yourself will foster the growth of character that sees your kid's young mind master new skills and physical activities while away from the family home.

You'll feel a growing sense of pride as the youngster gains a new sense of independence.

Does the Day Camp Schedule Work With Yours?

Moving on to more practical considerations for getting your kid into summer day camp, we need to take a look at enrollment and schedules.

It's no use having the right program of activities if the schedule won't work out, especially if the camp is miles away.

Turn to the internet again or pick up a phone to make inquiries. You'll hopefully eliminate some of your initial selection leaving a shortlist for closer investigation.

When on the phone or on the front page of the camps website, check to see what time the gate opens, cost of enrollment, and when the program you're interested in begins.

DON’T be afraid to ask questions.

Staff members should always have a schedule of activity programs at hand.

Stop only when you've found a program that stimulates your kid's interests and a workable schedule that you approve of.

Essential Points to Keep in Mind

You've found a kids day camp with a good program, one that has a flexible schedule, and you're closing in on your final choice.

It's time to get down to details and ensure the camp provides you and your child peace of mind.

Here's a short list of some essential points to keep in mind.

Camp amenities and hygiene.

• This is especially important if the camp is near water.

Whether the camp is licensed.

Safety policies.

Provision of a camp nurse or medical aid.

The summer day camp experience should always be funbut reinforce the fun with an underlying education program

and a healthy environment that enriches development.

Day camp will always be a summer staple.

Organized strategy incorporating fun and education makes a great summer day camp program, and is all the camp your child needs this year and every summer.

At Maplewood Country Day Camp parents will find programs for all ages. Whether 3 or 14, each camper will feel supported and included.

www.maplewoodyearround.com

Maplewood Day Camp and Enrichment Center

150 Foundry St. (Route 106)PO Box 88 (Mailing)

South Easton, MA 02375

Email: info@maplewoodyearround.comTelephone: (508) 238-2387

FAX: (508) 238-1154