Get prepared for summer-camp season
COURIER L M BR B G IFE, FEB. 22–28, 2019 37
CAMP GUIDE
Summer-camp season is just around
the corner. Each summer, millions
of children depart for campsites
around the country to swim, hike, craft,
and enjoy the companionship of friends.
Summer camps in North America
were fi rst established in the 1880s and
were attended by children without their
parents for overnight stays. By the 20th
century, summer camps had become an
international phenomenon, and various
organizations hosted traditional summer
camps or camps geared toward religion,
sports, music, and other subjects
and activities. According to the American
Camp Association, each year more
than 14 million children and adults in
the United States attend camp. America
is home to more than 14,000 day and resident
camps (8,400 are overnight camps
and 5,600 are day camps). Nonprofi t
groups are the largest sponsors of summer
camps.
Many people put off summer-camp
planning until it is too late. Parents
should keep in mind that camps begin
registration early in the year and have
specifi c cut-off dates for enrollment.
Parents who want to beat the crowds
this year can use this guide to help plan
a summer camp agenda:
Attend an orientation seminar.
Take the time to visit prospective camps
for a tour, and use this open house as an
opportunity to learn more about the programs
offered. If available, fi nd a camp
employee to discuss your child’s eligibility
for enrollment. Some camps may offer
webinars for convenience.
Fill out the enrollment package
completely. Each camp has its own requirements
for registration. Expect
to submit some personal information,
including a medical background and
proof of insurance, names and numbers
of emergency contacts, and any other
pertinent information as it applies to the
camper. This may include children’s allergies,
fears, physical or mental disabilities,
or preferences in courses.
Establish payment schedules.
Summer camps vary in price. The Association
says camp costs range from $100
to more than $1,500 per week. However,
many accredited camps offer some sort
of fi nancial assistance for children from
families with limited fi nancial means.
If cost is a factor, be sure to broach the
subject.
Prepare children for the physical
challenges a camp may present.
Summer-camp activities may be rigorous,
and campers may need to be cleared
by a physician before starting. Be sure
to schedule your child a physical and
bring along any pertinent forms. Children
also can increase their levels of
physical activity compared to the often
sedentary nature of winter. Such preparation
can prevent injuries when engaging
in outdoor and physical activities.
Shop for supplies. Camps are likely
to provide a list of requirements with
regard to clothing and other equipment
campers will need. Make sure kids have
enough shorts, T-shirts, socks, athletic
shoes, swimsuits, toiletries, and other
camp necessities before they leave.
Keep children in the loop. Engage
children in the planning process to help
alleviate their fears and get them excited
about summer camp.
Summer camp can foster lifelong
memories. Parents can help kids prepare
in advance for the fun that’s soon
to arrive.
Campers may need to be cleared by a physician before starting. Be sure to schedule your
child for a physical and bring along any pertinent forms.