BrownRichards & Associates Presented by Connie White BrownRichards & Associates Selecting a Summer Camp Program

BrownRichards & Associates Objectives Learn the steps involved in choosing a quality summer camp Review the types of summer camps and where they are found Find out what to consider when selecting summer camps

BrownRichards & Associates Key Steps in Choosing Quality Summer Care Start early Educate yourself about the available options If possible, visit and ask questions Involve your child in the process Ask for references Select a camp

BrownRichards & Associates Types of Camps Camps in child development centers Day camps Specialty camps – area of interest Agency camps Parks and recreation programs

BrownRichards & Associates Types of Camps Camps in churches (Bible school and others) Private school camps Residential camps CIT (Counselor in Training) programs Family camps

BrownRichards & Associates Things to Consider When Selecting a Camp Consider your child and your child’s abilities and interests

BrownRichards & Associates Things to Consider When Selecting Is the camp licensed or accredited? What are the days, hours, and location? What are all the fees? What type of activities are offered?

BrownRichards & Associates Things to Consider When Selecting a Camp Learn about the camp’s policies and procedures Find out about emergency plans especially for transportation, swimming, and accidents

BrownRichards & Associates Experience of staff Is the director a mature adult who has been with the camp or are the staff members all new? Things to Consider When Selecting a Camp

BrownRichards & Associates Things to Consider When Selecting How is the staff trained and when? What type of activities are planned? Weekly themes? Is there a balance of small- and large-group activities? What is the group size and ratio of staff?

BrownRichards & Associates Is the camp primarily an outdoor one? Does the camp have indoor space for rainy or extremely hot days? Any field trips? Are staff trained in water safety, first aid, and CPR? Are health and safety procedures well established? Things to Consider

BrownRichards & Associates Residential Camps Residential camp can be an opportunity to introduce new interests to your children and enhance their self- confidence and self- esteem.

BrownRichards & Associates Residential Camps Consider these camps if your child is ready for the “away from home experience” Has your child been away from you before? Make sure the camp can meet his or her needs Collect videos. You and your child should attend open houses

BrownRichards & Associates CIT Programs It’s hard to find programs for 13- to 15-year olds Look for Leadership or Counselor in Training programs at the resident and Y Camps These camps can lead to further opportunities for your child and develop leadership skills

BrownRichards & Associates Resources BrownRichards & Associates (404) Emory WorkLife Resource Center Dependent Care Audrey Adelson (404)