We are constantly barraged with information about camps – from emails, to headline news, to parents talking on the sidelines at little league. Sometimes, it’s hard to separate fact from fiction. You will want to know what’s true and what’s not true as you answer the all-important question: What will I do with my kids this summer? To help guide you, here is a compiled list of myths versus facts about camps.
Myth: Overnight camp is only for the rich.
Fact: The truth is that there is a camp out there to fit every budget. And, if you plan ahead, you can take advantage of early enrollment discounts and financial aid. By applying early, it is possible to get a discount off of camp tuition, based on need. Inquire about shorter sessions and discounts for multiple children from one family.
Myth: Only I know what is best for my child.
Fact: It is tempting for us (especially if we are former campers) to recreate our own camp experience for our child. While the saying “you know what’s best for your child” is true in most circumstances, some input from your child is the best approach when choosing a camp. Involving your child in camp research may produce unexpected results. You may think your child wants to be at a camp that specializes in art and drama because that is what they enjoy, but maybe they want to improve their tennis game this summer. Ask your child, “Do you want to build on your existing strengths and interests this summer, or try something new?” Be open to the unexpected.
Myth: If I send my child to camp with a friend, it will make my child more comfortable.
Fact: What outwardly seems to provide a safety net has its pitfalls. A friend can sometimes act as a barrier to your child’s making new friends. All too often, one of the campers has a difficult time. The other child then feels responsible for the friend, which can be extremely burdensome. In addition, your child may choose their activities based upon their friends’ interests, rather than their own. It is important to weigh the comfort of going with a friend with the possible drawbacks. If going with a friend is the only way your child will try camp, it might be worth it. Just prepare your child with possible scenarios and provide them with the appropriate problem-solving strategies.
Myth: A specialty camp – rather than a traditional camp – is the best place for my child.
Fact: Specialty camps focus on teaching technical skills, not necessarily life skills. A child goes to this type of program to work on the skills for one activity, rather than to be part of a community found in a traditional camp. Parents should not make the mistake of thinking a specialty camp will necessarily provide counselors to take care of a homesick child. The coaches and instructors are there to teach skills, not to help your child make a friend. Therefore, it is recommended that younger kids attend these programs with a friend.
Myth: My child plays sports all year long, so I want to give them a break from the routine.
Fact: While it is a nice break for some kids to fish and hike at camp, others just want to play ball. Look for a camp that can provide the sports that your child likes, plus some new challenges that the parents might want for their child. Summer sports are far different than sports during the school year. There is less of an emphasis on winning. A child who can’t make the baseball or soccer team at home may shine in a camp environment.
One camp director told me that at the beginning of each session, the campers focus much more heavily on the sports because this is how they are comfortable socializing. Yet, by the middle to the end of the session, the kids are much more comfortable to take risks – both athletically and socially. Whether it is going up to bat or getting on a boat, these camps hire counselors who serve as role models to teach qualities like good sportsmanship, teamwork, and learning to lose gracefully.
When the time comes for choosing a camp, there are a thousand questions to ask. But it is important to ask the right questions and get the facts, so that you can get the right fit for your child. Once you have done this, the investment will provide you and your child with a lifetime of rewards.
Happy camping!
Tips on Trips and Camps is one of the oldest and largest camp advisory services. For more information, visit tipsontripsandcamps.com.
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