How to Choose a Day Camp

Here are a few suggestions to make your day camp choices easier.

Involve Your Child in the Selection Process

Camp should be about fun. Day camp is a chance for children to make friends, try new things, and have a good time. Before choosing a camp, ask your child what they are interested in doing this summer. They may already have a specific type of camp in mind. Talking with your child first will make the decision process easier for everyone. 

Ask Around

After talking with your child, it’s time to do your homework. Ask other parents and other children where they went to camp in the past and where they plan to go this year. Camp brochures and Web sites are packed with information, but for the most complete picture of what a camp will be like, you should ask a former camper or parent about their experience. When talking with other parents or campers, be sure to ask about staff quality and the age-appropriateness of activities. Finally, be sure to get a few opinions. You don’t want an isolated bad (or good) experience to unfairly influence you.

Go to the YMCA and Take a Tour

Check out the camp for yourself. Take your child with you if you can. When you visit, ask the guide to tell you about the philosophy of the camp. Ask how long the camp has been in business, how it’s organized, how much it costs, what their camper return rate is, and what type of activities they offer. Pay close attention to how your child is reacting to the surroundings.  If your child seems excited and interested, the camp is likely a good fit. Ask your child what they like or dislike about the camp before you leave the tour and ask questions accordingly.

Ask About the Staff

Whether or not you go on a tour, there are a couple of key pieces of information that you need to obtain. First, be sure to ask about the staff. Ask about staff training, counselor-to-camper ratio, and counselor return rates. Ratios for younger children should generally be five to eight children for every counselor. For kids over nine, ratios should generally be eight to 10 kids for every counselor. You should also ask about the ages of the counselors.  A camp with mostly high-school age counselors will offer a different experience than one with college-age counselors. If you want to get really informed, ask about the criteria for selecting counselors.

Consider Location

Try to find a camp that is conveniently located near your home or work. No matter how wonderful a camp might be, the bus ride there and back might leave your child feeling drained. Or you may be left feeling stressed if your drive to take your child to camp every day is long or packed with traffic. Be sure to consider distance and travel time when selecting a camp.

Specialty Camps

Today’s camps are as varied as the children who attend them. No matter what your child is passionate about, you can find a camp that suits their needs and exceeds their expectations. Look for camps focused on science, high-adventure, sailing, equestrian programs, theater arts and so much more. Traditional camps featuring activities ranging from swimming to arts and crafts are also still available. Consider your child’s interests and talents when searching for the right specialty camp. You may also want to consider camps that will enhance your child’s knowledge and ability in subject areas they find challenging. Many campers attend a week of specialty camp in addition to traditional camp.

Safety First

Ask about the medical training of camp staff members and the proximity of a hospital in case of an emergency. Heat is a major safety concern for day campers. Make sure the camp you select has adequate shade in outdoor areas. You should also ask how often campers take water breaks to stay hydrated. If you tour the campus, look for accident equipment. 

Make a Decision - and Have Fun

Good luck in your efforts to make the right day camp choice for your child. There are so many camps available, and we hope this information helps you make an informed decision.  Remember, summer camp should be all about fun – fun friends, fun activities and fun memories for your child.

Click here to find out more about YMCA camps throughout the Washington Metropolitan region.