
I had the pleasure of chatting with Laura on Global news morning about how to choose the right camp for your child. Watch the segment here:
https://globalnews.ca/video/11015381/how-to-choose-the-right-summer-camp-for-your-child
Summer camps can provide children with wonderful memories, new friendships, and valuable skills. However, selecting the right camp requires some thoughtful consideration. There are so many to choose from and that makes it harder to decide sometimes. Here are some key factors to help you make the best decision for your child:
1. Identify Your Child’s Interests
The first step is to understand what activities your child enjoys. Whether it’s sports, arts and crafts, technology, or nature, there are camps that cater to every interest.
- Sports Camps: Ideal for athletic children who love sports like soccer, basketball, or swimming.
- Arts Camps: Perfect for creative kids who enjoy painting, music, or theater.
- STEM Camps: Great for children interested in science, technology, engineering, and math.
- Adventure Camps: Best for kids who love the outdoors and activities like hiking and camping.
- Day Camps: Where they have outings, play games, fun local activities
2. Budget Considerations
Camps can vary widely in cost, so it’s important to find one that fits your budget. There are tons of variation in price depending on what each camp offers. Keep that in mind when shopping around. Some camps include the costs of outings in the weekly fee which is a huge savings in the long run. Some have extra fees. Be sure to inquire about the cost of the camp you are interested in registering.
3. Day Camp vs. Overnight Camp
Decide whether your child is ready for an overnight camp or if a day camp is more appropriate.
- Day Camps: These are ideal for younger children or those not ready to spend the night away from home. They allow kids to return home each evening.
- Overnight Camps: These camps provide a more immersive experience and are suitable for older children who are comfortable being away from home for an extended period.Many offer a few weeks to the full summer away.
4. Camp Location and Duration
Consider the camp’s location and how it fits into your summer plans. Is it close to home, or is it a destination camp that requires travel? Also, think about the duration of the camp—whether it’s a week, two weeks, or an entire summer. Many camps offer “daycare” before camp starts and after it finishes. Many start at 9am and finish at 4pm. So this is an important factor as well. Many offer the option as a week by week or payment in full. Lots of great questions to ask.
5. Review the Camp’s Staff and Facilities
Inquire about the camp’s staff-to-camper ratio, the qualifications of the counselors, and the facilities available. A good camp will have well-trained staff and clean, safe facilities. Are they First aid trained? Does your child have special needs and need a shadow or assistance? All great questions to ask when choosing the right camp.
6. Get Feedback from Other Parents
Talk to other parents who have sent their children to the camps you’re considering. Their experiences can provide valuable insights and help you make an informed decision. There are tons of mommy groups on Facebook where you can ask for feedback. It’s a great tool in helping you decide. Also talk with parents at your child’s school and common friends. Kids love being paired up with people they know.
7. Visit the Camp- not always an option
If possible, visit the camp before making a final decision. This gives you and your child a chance to see the facilities, meet the staff, and get a feel for the camp environment. This is not always an option, as most camps hire their staff in the coming months or weeks before camp starts. Best to contact the camp of choice and see if this is an option.
Choosing the right summer camp for your child can seem overwhelming, but with careful consideration of your child’s interests, the camp’s philosophy, and practical factors like safety and cost, you can find a camp that will provide a memorable and enriching experience for your child. Many factors are in play and will help you decide. Some parents put their kids in multiple camps over the summer. From sports to arts, there is a lot to offer!
Be sure to come out and meet local summer camps on Sunday March 16th at the Doubletree Hotel in Pointe Claire! You will have a wide range of camps to meet and learn about! Hope to see you there!

CLICK HERE FOR THE FACEBOOK EVENT! HOPE TO SEE YOU THERE!