For many adults summer camp brings back memories of swimming, campfire singalongs, and roasting s’mores, but camp is so much more. As you prepare to send your own kids to camp, not only are you looking for a safe and memorable experience for them, but a camp they’ll enjoy, where they can make lifelong memories, learn new skills, and develop self-confidence and independence. The team at Camp Live Oak offers these tips on how to find the best camp for your kids and get them enrolled today for an abundance of summer fun!

The Importance of Summer Camp

Summer camp allows kids to explore and play with a level of freedom many don’t have anymore, even in their own neighborhoods. It allows them to escape from electronics – smartphones, TVs, computers – and enjoy loads of fun having real conversations, playing games, and meeting new friends. Summer camp is also a parent-free zone where kids can learn independence, resilience, and gain independence in a safe, nurturing setting with fun, caring, and well-trained staff members.

Is Your Kid Ready for Sleep-Away Camp?

Not all kids are ready for sleep-away camp on their first summer camp adventure, making day camp a great starting point for most children. At day camp, kids can practice coping with short periods of separation and meet a new community of friends, making it a good transition into sleep-away camp in the future. Most kids are ready for sleep-away camp between the ages of 10 and 12, though some are ready earlier.

Day Camp

When choosing a day camp, you’ll have somewhat limited options as the camp will obviously be close to home. Even so, there will still be options and to narrow those options, taking with the camp director can help. A quality camp will have someone who can talk to you about the camp beforehand, whether at an open house, by returning your phone call, or scheduling a meeting. The camp should have references for you as well activities your child will enjoy. When talking to the camp director, you’ll want to find out the camp’s history, values, mission, and philosophy, as well as about the camp’s staff (how staff is chosen, if background checks are performed, what is the camper-to-staff ratio, etc.). Ask how they create community among the campers, if kids are allowed to pick and choose activities, and how they communicate with parents should a problem arise. Finally, ask about the camp’s accreditation; you’ll want to choose one with a high accreditation standards.

Sleep-Away Camp

After your child has had a great day camp experience, he or she may be ready for sleep-away camp next time around. As mentioned, some kids are ready for sleep-away camp at younger ages, but a good rule of thumb is to let your child, especially if he or she is younger, make the decision. Many parents and children find the best camps have been around for years and boast high return rates, which means a great time for your kids. If you are worried about safety, health, or homesickness, do your due diligence and then hide your nervousness so you don’t negatively affect the experience. Remember, kids develop skills at summer camp which enables them to live a better humans when they become adults, so be positive. Your children need to know you see them as independent and capable, so they can have an enjoyable, exciting, growth experience at camp.

Camp Live Oak Awaits!

Without question, Camp Live Oak offers lots of summer camp options and promises a number of benefits for children and teenagers in a fun, safe, and nurturing environment. Camp Live Oak invites you and your children to explore the opportunities and adventures available this summer!