What Do I Even Need to Consider?
The quality of the program is among the most important reasons a parent chooses to send their child anywhere. However, beyond that, it can be difficult to decide between which summer camp would be the best fit for your child.
Here are some important things to consider when making a decision about where to send your child:
1. Values
Consider your values and essentials. You want to feel confident when your child is away from you for any extended amount of time and you want to be sure they have staff who are fostering values that will help them build character.
You may also want to consider a camp that shares the same faith values as you do.
2. Child’s Readiness
It’s important to evaluate your child’s readiness. Sure there is nervousness to be expected with anything new and unfamiliar. However, it’s up to you to decide if your child would prefer a week long session or an eight-week long summer camp.
If they are not ready for an overnight camp, you may want them to experience a day camp first. Search for a day camp in your local area so your child can experience new adventures and meet friends and have the option to come back home at the end of the day. This is a great way to get their feet wet and help them build confidence so that they would be more willing to attend an overnight camp the following summer.
3. Matches Your Child’s Interests
There are literally camps for everything; math, band, STEM, theater, girls only, etc. Talk with your child and see what their interests are.
If your child enjoys a variety of activities or simply enjoys being outside then a multi-activity camp could be a great fit for them!
4. Money
Consider your budget. Most everyone has some kind of budget, and the cost of an eight-week summer camp may not fit into yours. That may mean committing to a shorter-term camp.
Although, if you really want your child to experience a long summer camp, ask around at different camps if they have scholarships. There are almost always funds available for situations where money is a concern.
Many camps will allow you to make monthly payments. Register early so you can spread out the payments over the course of the year.
5. Use What You Have
Consider what gear you and your child already have at home. Whether it is horse riding appropriate clothing, hiking gear, backpacks, or even 1,000 different colors of colored pencils and markers with a sketchbook. You can find a program that will utilize what you already have available.
6. Staff
Nothing is more of a red flag than a lack of communication from staff when you’re preparing to send your child to their camp. You want to find a camp that has staff willing to take the time to speak with you and answer any questions you may have in order for you to feel comfortable to send your child to their camp for long periods of time.
It’s also a good sign when directors of a camp talk highly of their staff and believe in them. It should encourage you that if they are willing to employ them and place the survival of their organization with that staff, you can trust them with your children too.
This is by no means an exhaustive list, but it is a good start and can help you get started on what to consider in a summer camp.
Summer with Created for Adventure
Created for Adventure is a Christian Organization that provides an incredible summer camp experience for your child.
We practice risk management under the watchful eye of our brilliant, trained staff to ensure fun for your child and an eased conscience for you.
If you or someone you know is interested in choosing Created for Adventure for your child's summer adventure, you can check out our website to learn more. Give us a call at 828-435-0627, or email us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
We’ll be glad to chat and answer any questions you may have. We look forward to hearing from you!