Choosing a camp that is best for your budget and approval, as well as meets your child's interests, abilities and special needs, is a task that requires a bit of research to ensure your child’s enjoyment and safety. Use this article as a “Choose a Camp Checklist” with each camp you research. And remember, with a concerned approach, a sense of fun, and the willingness to ask lots and lots of questions, the search for a summer camp can be a painless experience that will reward you and your child with a summer of wonderful experiences and memories to last a lifetime.

COST

A primary concern of many parents considering camp is cost. Camp fees, depending on whether you’re looking at day or overnight camp, can vary quite a bit -- from to per day. Fees generally cover trained staff, living quarters (for overnight camp), equipment and food. You can usually get a breakdown of expenses and a list of what may not be covered by the camp fee. If you like a particular camp, but feel you are unable to afford the cost, find out if the camp offers scholarships or financial aid.

STAFF

Parents should be aware that one of the most important factors in a positive camp experience is an adequately trained, experienced staff. You want to be assured that they are capable of meeting the challenge of giving care to your child. Find out about the educational background and career of the camp director and staff. Have they been with your camp for a long time? If not, where did they work before? What hiring criteria must they meet? What is the ratio of counselors to campers? According to the American Camping Association, a camp typically staffs one counselor for every seven to eight campers, although depending on the age and ability of the campers the counselor-to-camper ratio may change.

PHILOSOPHY

Most camps will provide a philosophy or mission statement that discloses their approach to the camp experience. Make sure that the camp you choose promotes a philosophy that works well with your own parenting style, and that it fosters those qualities that you wish your child to have.

MEDICAL FACILITIES

You may want to ask about medication dispensing, emergency medical training and the accessibility of a hospital facility. Although serious accidents or illnesses rarely happen at camp, it is important that staff, which often includes on-duty medical personnel, be trained to handle emergency situations and are able to transport your child quickly to a hospital if necessary.

SPECIAL NEEDS

You may also want to explore how the camp deals with children with special needs, including disabilities and dietary requirements or restrictions. Ask what kind of a plan the camp has for dealing with homesickness and other adjustment issues.

TRANSPORTATION

Some camps provide home pick-up and return, while some require parents to get their kids to and from camp meeting sites. If you do choose a camp that provides transportation, make sure drivers are qualified and that vehicles are in adequate condition. If you must provide your own transportation you may want to investigate carpool possibilities with other nearby camp parents.

ACCREDITATION

An excellent way to make sure that a particular camp is a quality operation is to verify accreditation. The American Camping Association holds camps to high national standards for safety, health, staff training and program quality. Their stamp of approval on a summer camp program indicates high merit. It is important to note that many non-ACA accredited camps maintain high standards as well.

CHECK IT OUT IN PERSON

Without a doubt, the best way to assess the suitability of a camp for yourself and your child is to go and check out the staff and other campers in person. Attend camp fairs if they are available in your area and ask for contact names and phone numbers of other parents who have had an experience with the camp. Involve your child in this process so that he will know that his input is valuable and will have the chance to acquaint himself with other campers.