Choosing the Right Summer Camp
As the temperature continues to rise, so does the excitement of kids everywhere while they anxiously wait for summer break. For many kids, that final school bell indicates the beginning of something much more exciting—summer camp. Provided below are some tips to help find the perfect summer camp to suit each individual interest, level of experience, and budget.
Day Camp
Day camp is the preferred option for the first-time camper. These camps are perfect for beginners because they are usually close to home and provide kids with quick access to their parents if the need arises. Campers will still get to participate in fun activities during the day, but will experience the comfort of getting picked up by mom or dad and snuggling in their own bed at night.
Sleepaway Camp
Sleepaway camps can teach kids to be resilient and independent, and are often many kids’ first long-term experience away from their families. Many of these camps will accept campers as young as second grade for introductory programs that run a week or so. But while some children are ready, others aren’t. It’s important to let the child decide whether or not they are ready to attend a sleepaway camp.
Themed Camps
Today’s options for camp are incredibly varied and meant to fit a multitude of interests. There are camps that focus on music and theater, arts and science, language, sports, circus themes, computers and more. If a child is especially talented or enthused about a certain sport, activity or subject, consider a themed camp to boost their knowledge and hone their skills regarding their particular interest.
Camp Costs
How much does it cost for a kid to have a summer of fun? Camp costs vary dramatically around the country, so there are plenty of options for each budget. Virtually all sleep-away camps have scholarship programs for families who need it, and if a child’s parent formerly attended a camp, their alum status may qualify them for special consideration for financial aid. Camps also can refer parents to outside foundations, such as the Cheley Foundation in Colorado, which exist solely to provide camp scholarships to kids around the country.
ACI Specialty Benefits knows that for parents, providing their kids with the right tools and experiences is first priority. For more help finding the perfect camp or program to suit your child’s specific needs, please contact the professionals at (800) 932-0034 or eapinfo@acispecialtybenefits.com.