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The joys of summer
Enrich your children's lives with a camp experience

Summer is a time where kids get a break from school and have endless hours of unstructured play. But what happens when that turns into hours of television watching, or they start to complain they're board?

When I was a kid, we'd look forward to the summers with joyful anticipation, but after a couple of weeks, we'd dig out the worksheets and other papers the teachers had given us and we played school. Web Help

Summer isn't just free time. It's an opportunity for kids to explore their interests with more time and develop new hobbies. More possibilities exist than you ever thought possible!

Rest and enrichment
Summer can be a time of enrichment, when kids have the time to devote to music, dancing, and arts and crafts. It provides an opportunity to put studies aside and delve into other interest: explore the outdoors, pick up an instrument, play a sport, or visit new places. It gives kids a chance to have adventures and make new friends.

Camp type and session length
Camps vary in time and length. Day camps might require transportation to and from the location on a daily basis. Residential camps have boarding and may vary in length from 5 days to 8 weeks. Travel or trip camps might require the group to move from place to place by horseback, rafting, hiking, or other self-propelled means. The group then sets up a campsite.

Registration
Camps fill their rosters earlier and earlier each year. Sometimes priority is given to returning campers and their siblings. A discount might be offered for early registration at some camps.

Preparing for camp
Include your child in the selection and preparation for camp. It will more likely be an experience they look forward to if the choice reflects their interests and talents. Some camps offer an orientation where you can meet former campers and counselors to talk to them about their experience.

For residential camps, children might express some apprehension about being away from home. Encourage her to share her feelings and express confidence in her ability to handle homesickness (look for more information on Residential camps inside).

Have realistic expectations. Not every moment will be filled with excitement and fun. Discuss the ups and downs, but remember camp is a time to relax and have fun.

Finding the right fit
The American Camping Association (ACA) suggests asking the following questions:

* How much does camp cost?
Camp fees vary but generally range from $75 to $350 per week which covers such expenses as professional staffing, accommodations, food, supplies, insurance. Many camps-nonprofit and profit-offer scholarships and financial assistance.

* What is the camp's philosophy?
Does it complement your own parenting philosophy? Is it competitive or cooperative? Knowing your child's personality and style of learning is valuable in selecting the right camp.

* What is the background of the camp director?
The camp director should possess at least a bachelor's degree and have camp administration experience.

* What is the ratio of counselors to campers?
ACA standards require different ratios for varying ages. Depending on the age and ability of the campers, the medium range is one staff member for every seven to eight campers.

* What are the ages of counselors?
ACA standards recommend that 80 percent or more of the counseling/program staff be at least 18 years old.
In addition, at least 20 percent of the program/administrative staff must have a bachelor's degree.

* What percentage of the counselors returned from last year?
Most camps have from 40-60 percent returning staff. If the rate is lower find out why.

* How does the camp handle special needs?
If your child has special requirements, ask the camp director about needed provisions and facilities. Is there a nurse?
Is there a designated place to store insulin or allergy medicine? Are special foods available for restricted diets?

* How are behavioral and disciplinary problems handled?
Positive reinforcement, assertive role-modeling, and a sense of fair play are generally regarded as key components of camp counseling and leadership.

* Other considerations:
What about references?
Ask if you can visit the camp before enrolling the child.

Camp Expos

Check out the Summer Camps and Activities Expo at the Foothills Fashion Mall, Sunday, April 1. And the Children's Festival at Island Grove Park Saturday, Mar. 31 in Greeley.

A variety of summer fun providers will be available to answer questions. Collect brochures to discuss with your kids to ensure the best fit.

Web Help

Finding and choosing camps

www.camppage.com: alphabetical listings by state for boys camps, girls camps, coed camps, and wilderness camps.

www.summercamps.com: search listings by location, camp type, religion, price, specialty, and gender. Includes residential and day camps, academic and sports camps.

www.kidscamps.com: sports camps, academic camps, art camps, and special needs camps. Search by location, gender, and session length.

www.campchannel.com: click on "camp search" to search by type, gender, and region. Narrow your search by specialties and special needs or religious emphasis.

www.acacamps.org: find camps that are approved by the American Camping Association.