Hello Mother, Hello Father...

For many parents, Summer Break is looming.  For others, it's already begun.  While the kiddies are counting the hours with gleeful anticipation, many parents are wondering, "What on earth am I going to do with them for six whole weeks?"  It's great to see your kids having fun and relaxing, especially in a time when even 3rd and 4th graders are complaining of a heavy workload, but sometimes a week or two spent kid-free can be a real blessing during the summer months.  And that's where summer camp comes in.  Summer camp can be a great way to give your child a structured but still fun environment, but how do you know which camp to choose?  Every kid is different, but there is help out there.  Summercamp.org has a list of frequently asked questions, and some answers too!

When thinking about summer camp, there are some factors to consider.  First off, what type of camp will suit your child the best?  Is your child ready for sleep-away camp, or would a day camp be a good first step?  Are you comfortable with a coed camp, or would you prefer your child be with kids only of the same gender?  Don't forget about special-interest camps, either. There are camps geared toward anything from Academics to Special Needs that might be more rewarding experiences for your child than a traditional camp. 

Another factor to consider is cost.  There are lower-cost camps such as the "Y" Camp, and more expensive private sleep-away camps.  Look into these options carefully before spending any money!  It may be that a less expensive camp will have all the amenities your child requires, or it may be that you decide a private camp is worth the extra expense. Camp prices tend to vary, but there are some general ranges.  One week sessions range from $400 to $2000.  Two week sessions will range in cost from $800 to $4000.  Four weeks will cost from $1500 to $6000.  Full season camps, lasting seven to nine weeks, will range from $3000 to $9000.

The next factor is a big one: programs and activities.  Be sure you know what you're letting your child in for!  An equestrian camp, for example, might not be a good choice for a child who's nervous around horses, while a basketball camp may not be great for a kid who would rather curl up with a book.  Be sure to ask your child for input before making any decisions - after all, he's going to be the one doing the camping!

Of course, all parents should consider their child's special needs when choosing a camp.  Jewish families might want to ensure that the camp offers Kosher selections, while others may require a vegetarian diet. Of course, if you have a special-needs child, you will want to choose a camp that is sensitive to your child's specific needs.   There are many of these camps out there, such as camps geared toward weight loss for kids who have a little weight to lose, camps which cater to physically disabled children, and even camps for kids with learning disabilities who could use a little help before school starts up again. 

Summer camp can be a source of fond memories for your child, and a nice break for you.  All it takes is a little research, and you can help your kids have the best summer ever!  Enjoy your summer!

-contributed by Lynn