Questions to Ask in Your Summer Camp Search

Choosing the right summer camp for your child takes planning and care. You’ll want to weigh factors like camp activities, cost, and staff training. Whether your child attends for just a few hours a day or for several weeks, it’s important to feel confident that they’re safe, building new skills, and growing more independent.

To support you in finding the best fit for your family, the Metropolitan YMCA of the Oranges has created a list of key questions to ask camp directors as you compare different programs.

What are the program’s qualifications?

Make sure the summer camp program is properly licensed by the appropriate government agencies. Ask whether the program is currently accredited or actively pursuing accreditation. Camps accredited by the American Camp Association follow standards that go beyond basic state licensing requirements. 

What are the staff qualifications?

What are the ages and qualifications of your staff, and what experience do they have working with children? How many staff members return from previous years? According to American Camp Association standards, at least 80 percent of counselor and program staff should be 18 or older. Staff must be at least 16 years old and at least two years older than the campers they supervise. The ACA also notes that most camps have 40–60 percent returning staff.

When are the operating hours?

Be sure to ask when you can drop off your child and how late pick-up is available. You’ll also want to know whether camp is open on holidays and what the procedures are for inclement weather.

What are the costs?

Be sure to ask about the tuition and how often you’ll be billed. Find out whether there are additional charges for early drop-off, late pick-up, or meals. Ask if the program offers financial assistance or scholarships for eligible children and families. If you’re enrolling more than one child, see whether the camp provides a sibling discount.

How will my child be supervised?

How many staff members are supervising a group of kids? While the recommendations vary based on age and needs, the ACA has its own standards for ratios of staff to campers.

How will you keep my child safe?

When you visit a camp, pay attention to how people enter and exit and whether the grounds and buildings are secure.

What are the procedures for drop-off and pick-up, and how do staff keep an accurate record of which children are on-site?

Ask whether staff are trained in CPR and first aid.

You should also ask about the staff screening process: Do they receive background checks, and are they trained to recognize and report signs of child abuse?

What opportunities does my child have to learn and grow?

Can the program share a sample daily schedule so you can see what a typical day looks like for campers?

What kinds of opportunities are available for outdoor play?

Does the program have a policy on technology use?

What are the accommodations like?

Especially if you’re considering a sleepaway camp, you’ll want to know the sleeping arrangements, such as who your child will be sharing a cabin with and what amenities are provided. Questions to ask might also include:

• What’s the camp’s policy on sick campers and staff as well as vaccinations?

• How are the facilities kept clean?

How are my child’s individual needs met?

Children have varying developmental needs, and those who are new to a program require extra attention and comfort. As a family, it’s important to identify what your child’s unique needs are and discuss them with the camp director before making a decision. Also, how does the program handle allergies or other dietary restrictions?

How are cultures and customs honored?

Camp offers a meaningful chance for children to explore and appreciate a variety of cultures and traditions. How does the program actively honor and reflect different cultural backgrounds and customs? In addition, what is the primary language spoken by staff, and are they able to communicate with campers and families in other languages?

How do I know how my child is doing?

You’ll want to know how your child is adjusting to camp and be able to discuss any concerns. How does the director communicate with parents? Also, how do they contact family members in emergencies? Some programs also offer opportunities for parents to visit their children and join them in activities.

What is the discipline procedure?

What happens if a child misbehaves? Ask the director to explain how positive behavior is encouraged and how challenging behavior is addressed in a fair and age-appropriate way.

How does my child get to camp?

Some camps offer bus transportation so that children who live further away can still attend camp. Does the camp provide transportation to and from the camp site, and where are the drop-off and pick-up locations?

How is homesickness handled?

Being away from the comforts of home can be challenging for both new and returning campers. How does the camp staff support a child who feels homesick or is having difficulty adjusting? For sleepaway programs, are campers able to stay in touch with their families? 

Do you have references?

Some camp programs will keep a list of testimonials or contact information for people who can provide feedback. It’s always helpful to hear from other families who’ve had children in the program.

Find out more information about summer camp programs offered through the Metropolitan YMCA of the Oranges.