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From Safety to Fun: Finding the Right Fit for your Preschool and Elementary Camper

5/28/2024

When it comes to selecting a preschool for kiddos we reach out to family, friends, mom groups, & anyone who will listen. It is no different when choosing the right camp for your preschooler. This experience is another first for them, which enriches their early childhood development. Whether it is for a new childcare environment, introducing independence, creating lifelong friendships, introducing a longer day for school readiness, or a combination of all, it is important to remember the choice is personal.
If you are still questioning if they are ready for camp or why they should go, don’t miss the first part of this blog series: Benefits of Summer Camp for Preschool and Early Elementary Families. Because sometimes parents need a push too to let the little ones grow!
Here are some key factors to consider when selecting a camp:
1. Type of Camp

Day Camps: Ideal for younger children who are not yet ready for overnight stays. These camps typically run from morning to late afternoon.
Specialty Camps: Focus on specific interests like art, music, sports, or nature. Ensure the camp aligns with your child's interests and personality.
Preschool Camps: Specifically designed for younger children with age-appropriate activities and shorter hours.

2. Safety and Accreditation

Accreditation: Look for camps accredited by organizations such as the American Camp Association (ACA), which sets high standards for safety, staff qualifications, and program quality. This can also include preschools that are accredited and highly reviewed.
Health and Safety Policies: Ensure the camp has clear protocols for emergencies, health screenings, and hygiene.
Staff-to-Child Ratio: A lower ratio ensures more individualized attention and better supervision.

3. Camp Staff

Qualifications: Staff should have experience in early childhood education and appropriate training in first aid and CPR.
Background Checks: Confirm that thorough background checks are conducted for all staff members.
Training: Ongoing professional development for staff is a plus.

4. Program and Activities

Age-Appropriate Activities: Look for a variety of engaging, developmentally appropriate activities that promote learning and fun.
Balance: Ensure there is a balance between structured activities and free play.
Special Needs: If your child has special needs, inquire about accommodations and support available.

5. Location and Logistics

Proximity: Choose a camp that is conveniently located to minimize travel time and stress.
Schedule: Check the camp’s schedule to see if it aligns with your family's routine and needs. Many camps have separate/individual weeks that can be chosen to work around your family’s schedule.

6. Cost and Value

Budget: Determine your budget for camp expenses. Consider additional costs such as meals, transportation, and special activities.
Financial Aid: Inquire if the camp offers scholarships or sliding scale fees based on income.

7. References and Reviews

Word of Mouth: Ask friends, family, and other parents about their experiences with local camps.
Online Reviews: Check online reviews and ratings on websites and social media.

8. Trial Visits and Communication

Open Houses: Attend open houses or tour the camp to get a feel for the environment and meet the staff. It also is important to bring the camper with you for these visits. You will see where your child feels the most comfortable and how the staff interacts with them.
Communication: Ensure the camp has a clear communication plan for updates, emergencies, and daily reports about your child’s activities and well-being.

9. Inclusivity and Philosophy

Philosophy: Understand the camp’s philosophy and ensure it aligns with your values and your child’s needs.
Inclusivity: Choose a camp that promotes inclusivity and respect for all children.

10. Gut Feeling

Comfort Level: Trust your instincts about the camp's environment and staff. If you feel comfortable and confident, your child is likely to have a positive experience.

By thoroughly researching and considering these factors, you can find a camp that provides a safe, enjoyable, and enriching experience for your preschooler or early elementary camper.
The bonus: they come home exhausted!

May 21st, 2024

5/21/2024

Summer Sanity: Benefits for Summer Camp for
Preschool and Early Elementary Families

This year I heard a new term: Maycember. The craziness of the end of the school year rivals the craziness of the holidays! And it seems to start earlier and earlier every year. We very much welcome the relaxed schedule of the summer. Then the realization that the kiddos thrive when stimulated and on a schedule and we slowly lose it when there isn’t one. The answer: Summer Camps!!
Whether you choose a week or two between family vacations or the whole summer, there are more benefits than just sanity. In our family, my oldest needed more independence and fostering social skills. My rising kindergartener spent her summer making new friends that she might be going to school with while learning responsibility of her belongings in a more structured environment.
Here is a list of how Summer camps can offer a multitude of benefits for your preschoolers and
elementary campers:

Socialization: Preschoolers have the chance to interact with peers outside of their usual environments. This helps them develop social skills like sharing, taking turns, and cooperating.
Independence: Summer camps often encourage preschoolers and early elementary campers to try new activities on their own, fostering a sense of independence and confidence.
Physical activity: Many summer camps incorporate outdoor activities that promote physical fitness and coordination, which are crucial for healthy development.
Exploration: Camps often offer various activities like nature walks, arts and crafts, and sensory play, allowing preschoolers to explore and discover new interests.
Creativity: Through art projects, music, and imaginative play, preschoolers and early elementary kiddos can unleash their creativity in ways that might not be possible in a more structured setting.
Problem-solving skills: Activities at summer camps often involve challenges that require campers to think critically and solve problems, promoting cognitive development.
Nature connection: Camps held in natural settings offer opportunities for preschoolers to connect with nature, fostering a sense of appreciation and environmental awareness.
Teamwork: Many camp activities involve teamwork and cooperation, teaching preschoolers the importance of working together towards a common goal.
Emotional development: Summer camps provide a supportive environment for preschoolers to express themselves, develop empathy, and learn to manage emotions.
Memorable experiences: Attending summer camp creates lasting memories that can help build a sense of nostalgia and belonging, contributing to overall happiness and well-being.

There is really nothing like camp friends. Spending time doing your favorite things with your favorite people in the sun! The way I saw my two older campers thrive after just a half summer last year, I am so excited for them to go back for all sessions this season to continue growing in such a happy environment. And a bonus to see my youngest join them. I also can’t shout loud enough about the way I still have my camp friends from decades (I will NOT say how many) ago.

From Safety to Fun: Finding the Right Fit for your Preschool and Elementary Camper

May 21st, 2024

Summer Sanity: Benefits for Summer Camp for
Preschool and Early Elementary Families

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From Safety to Fun: Finding the Right Fit for your Preschool and Elementary Camper

May 21st, 2024

Summer Sanity: Benefits for Summer Camp for ​Preschool and Early Elementary Families

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Archives

Categories

Summer Sanity: Benefits for Summer Camp for
Preschool and Early Elementary Families