So you’ve decided you want your child to go to Jewish summer camp. What are your next steps? The Foundation for Jewish Camp website can help you locate possible camps, and offers some tips:
• Check out the websites of camps that interest you or your camper. Compare a number of camps’ features, including programs, facilities, and daily schedules. Look for a broad base of activities that both enhance skills that your child wants to improve and emphasize fun. Keep in mind, however, that while websites can provide plenty of useful information, the best way to get a sense of the camp environment is to visit the camp during the summer while it’s in session.
• Narrow your options to about five or six camps. Take into account camp size, activity offerings, atmosphere, security, cost, and location. Look for a camp that best accommodates both your and your child’s interests. It may be helpful to involve your child in the search to ensure that his or her needs and expectations are met.
• Talk to veteran families or your child’s friends who have attended the camp before. Ask them about the details of day-to-day life at camp that cannot be gleaned from the website or a camp visit. Keep in mind, however, that just because a camp works for your child’s friend does not mean it is the right camp for your child.
• If you are planning ahead, try to visit prospective camps the summer before you hope to send your child there. Look for drive-up appeal — not whether it is rustic or modern but how well it is maintained, its cleanliness, how the staff greets visitors, and if they know the campers by name when walking through the grounds. If you have missed the summer tours, try to gauge camp culture through the website or conversations with the camp director or other campers and their parents.
This article was reprinted from the Foundation for Jewish Camp. Information: www.jewishcamp.org.