Each year, over a million children attend summer camp in the United States alone. From dance camps to sleepover camps and everything in between, there is a plethora of options to choose from. So, how do you know which kids’ camp is the best camp for you child? Here are some common mistakes parents make when choosing a summer camp for their child and how to avoid making them yourself.

Not Considering Their Child’s Interests

Your child should have some input when choosing which kids’ summer camp to attend. After all, studies show that children have more fun and are more engaged in the camp experience when they are part of the decision-making process.

The key is to strike a good balance between catering to your child’s interests and finding a camp that challenges them to learn new skills.

Ask your child what activities they want to participate in a summer camp. Do they want to learn more about nature and the outdoors? Are they an avid sports player? Does your child want to get involved in music, dance, or photography? With so many summer camps for kids in the United States, you’re bound to find one that caters to their specific interests.

Overlooking Their Needs as a Parent

On that note, it’s also important to consider your needs as a parent. While you want your child to attend a kids’ summer camp that they are excited about, make sure you also consider your needs and family schedule.

Where is the camp located? What are the camp hours? If you need to leave work early to pick up your child or drive over an hour each day, you may want to reconsider whether that particular camp is the best choice for your family.

One way to avoid this problem is to enroll your child at a sleepover camp. Overnight camps run for weeks at a time and they solve the problem of having to drop off and pick up your child each day. Plus, overnight camps teach children to be independent, instead of relying on their parents, and they help build resilience and confidence. It’s a win-win.

Letting Their Child Stay within Their Comfort Zone

The best way to encourage growth is to challenge your child. It’s important to choose a summer camp for kids that introduces your child to new experiences and provides plenty of opportunities for them to step out of their comfort zone.

One of those experiences is making new friends.

A major mistake parents make when choosing a summer camp for their child is to enroll them in the same camp as their friends, even if they don’t share the same interests. When children step out of their comfort zone and are encouraged to socialize and meet new people, they can form bonds with new, like-minded peers.

Not Checking Staff Qualifications

No matter what camp you choose for your child, make sure that you do plenty of research ahead of time.

Always choose a kid’s camp that has been accredited by the American Camp Association (ACA). This ensures the camp operates in accordance with the standards, policies, and procedures set out by the ACA.

Don’t be afraid to ask if camp staff were screened before they were hired. This includes screening employees against the national sex offender registry and doing a police background check.

You can also ask about each counselor’s experience and qualifications. Have they worked in the camp environment before? Do they have the proper health and safety training?

Register for a Kids’ Summer Camp at Camp Blue Ridge

If you are looking for the right summer camp for your kids, Camp Blue Ridge is a great option. At our camp, your child can explore their various interests and cultivate their talents, while developing their social skills and improving their self-esteem.

To learn more about our sleepover camp, including our amenities, food, activities, and staff, or to register for the upcoming camp season, contact us today.