Ages 7-10: Choosing a Safe Summer Camp

By Michele Blandino

I know, I know, it's only January. And, unless you're lucky enough to live in one of those places that doesn't know it's winter, it's probably very difficult to think about summer camp when you are up to your knees in snow and slush. Even so, this is the time of year to begin thinking about making summer camp plans for your kids.

There are so many things to consider when choosing a summer camp: the camp's location, the number and type of activities offered, the camper to counselor ratio, and the price of the camp are just a few things that parents typically will look at. These are relatively easy questions to answer; in fact, the brochures for most camps will provide this information.

What the brochures usually don't discuss, however, is the camp's safety environment. And, while safety is a primary concern for most parents, many don't know the questions to ask to help them adequately assess a camp's safety environment. Luckily, parents do not need to go it alone when choosing a camp for their youngsters - there are a number of organizations that can help. Here is a look at two of them:

• The American Camping Association (ACA) is one of most recognized names in the summer camp industry. Founded nearly 100 years ago, the staff of the American Camping Association is charged with overseeing the quality and safety of its over 2300 member camps. In order to become ACA certified, camps must meet up to 300 health, safety and program quality criteria.
• Another group dedicated to summer camp safety is the National Camp Association, Inc. (NCA). Founded in 1983, the NCA provides parents with guidance in the selection process. All camps endorsed by the NCA have met the applicable (local, county and/or state) regulations for health and safety.

Of course, nothing beats old fashioned word-of-mouth. Check with friends, neighbors and parents of your child's classmates to see if there is a particular camp they recommend. Ask what they liked (and disliked) most about their experience.

Finally, make a list of questions you would like answered when you visit the camp. Both websites listed above have helpful guides that can assist you in planning your visit.