Summer is just around the corner, which means it's time to start thinking about camp. According to the American Camp Association, there are more than 12,000 day and overnight camps in the U.S.
With all the options available, it can be difficult to decide where to send your child (and your money). Ben Shifrin, Head of Jemicy School offers tips for parents as they look for the best camp to ensure their child is a happy camper.
- First, consider the cost, size, location, and length of the camp session.
- Determine what type of camp you and your child are looking for. Is a camp with a sports emphasis more suitable than one with an academic emphasis?
- Is he/she ready for a sleepover camp or is day camp enough?
Once you've eliminated some of the options, consider the following:
- Do you want your child to learn new skills, develop more self-confidence, improve proficiency in certain areas, or become more independent?
- What are your other expectations of the camp experience?
- What are the special interests that your child wants to explore?
- Are there any physical, intellectual, or social limitations that should be considered?
- What camp characteristics will your child profit from the most? For example: Is a lot of structure desirable, is social interaction with members of the opposite sex important, or does your child need a place where he or she is encouraged to develop at their own pace?
Many schools in the Baltimore area, as well as colleges, the Zoo, Science Center and Aquarium and local Parks Departments offer exciting and enriching summer camps. For a comprehensive list of area camps, check out parenting magazines such as Baltimore's Child.
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