Olympiad Tips for Choosing a Summer Camp

There are so many options to choose from for your child's summer activities.  If you are interested in choosing a summer camp for your child this summer, here are a few tips in choosing:

2016 Summer Opportunities Fair is
Saturday January 30 10:00a-3:00p at
John Burroughs School

1. Do Your Research, look for a camp early!  There are several options for you to get information on summer camps in the St. Louis area.  You have various Summer Camp Expos that are hosted early in the year, St. Louis Magazine offers a camp guide, you can also check out the Summer Opportunities Fair where you can visit different vendors and learn more about their summer opportunities, this fair is usually hosted in late January. Many camps will offer "early bird" specials, so getting the jump on camps early in the year may save you money too.

Things to consider:

• History & Philosophy
• Safety
• Certified Staff
• Schedule 
• Ratios
• Accommodations of special needs

2. Location, Location, Location...

Unless you choose to send your child to a sleep-away camp, you’ll need to find a camp that is close to your home or work. This is helpful in case of an emergency you will be close. Another thing to think about getting the right location is choosing the right location increases your chances of seeing some familiar faces such as, friends from school or neighborhood or activities your child is involved in.  

3. Look for camps that are ALL-WEATHER 
Summer can be loads of fun, but keep in mind St. Louis summers can also bring thunderstorms, hot days and bugs.  You will want to look for a camp that provides air conditioning and/or alternate indoor activities when the weather is not cooperating, to keep kids safe from sun exposure, heat exhaustion and severe weather. 

4. Safety is Key!

If possible, it is important to visit the camp facility prior to choosing.  You can look at several things while visiting:

• Is the facility clean and void of safety issues or hazards
• What are the emergency procedures and policies
• Have the staff been appropriately trained, certified in safety, First Aid and/or CPR
• Is there plenty of supervision in and around the facility
• If the campers go off location, what are the procedures and policies

5. Look for the camp that is a perfect fit for your FAMILY!

There are so many options here is St. Louis to make choosing the best camp for your family easy.  To help you make your decision, try making a list of your family's need and wants.  

Jot down what your child needs and what they want, make sure all (or most) of your needs are met.  Needs may be location, safety, price, schedule or special need accommodations and wants may include fun activities, friends, learning, camp themes. 

Whatever you choose, have a great Summer and have LOADS of FUN!

by: Shelly Peterson