Princeton NJ Summer Camps Articles

Top Ten Questions to Ask When Speaking with a Camp Director or Visiting a Camp

When picking a summer camp or program, every family needs to consider its own personal needs and requirements.  Just like every child, every camp has its own personality.  The directors and the staff determine that personality.  The child’s interest, medical needs, allergies, dietary restrictions, family monetary concerns, co-ed or single sex, length of stay and distance from home are all some of the factors to be considered in determining the proper placement.  In addition to traditional camps, there are camps that specialize in individual sports, theater/art/music, education, science, computers, weight loss, outdoor adventure, language, community service and many more.  In order to help you make the right choice, here are some key questions you should ask when speaking to a camp director or visiting a camp in session:

1. How long have you owned the camp? If it is a short period of time, ask about prior experience in owning a camp or experience with children.
2. How do you handle homesickness? What is your phone call policy?
3. Is there a Doctor and/or nurse on site at all times? how close is the nearest hospital?
4. Where do most of the campers come from?
5. What are the age and experience requirements for the counselors?
6. How much selection is there is each camper’s schedule? My child loves a particular sport or activity, how often can he play it?
7. What is the level of competition? Can every child play on a team?
8. Are showers and bathrooms available in the bunks?
9. Are there religious services and, if yes, are they mandatory?
10. What additional charges are there?

There are many other questions that you may have.  Don’t be afraid to ask them.  Camp directors understand your concerns and will do their best to answer every question.