10 Important Questions to Ask a Camp Director

Many parents select a camp based on a friend or relative’s rave reviews, but choosing your child’s summer experience based on hearsay or personal anecdotes is often problematic, according to the American Camp Association, New York and New Jersey. Instead, it’s important to thoroughly research a camp in order to determine if it’s a good fit for your kid. The ACA suggests making an appointment with the camp’s director and asking the following 10 questions. Figuring out if your family’s values mesh with those of the camp, and whether the camp can accommodate your child, can go a long way in solidifying your child’s summer choice.

What is this camp’s mission or philosophy?

Each camp has its own. Make sure this particular camp’s mission matches your own family’s values. 

What is the director's background and experience?

Ask the camp director about his experience, years at the camp, and previous jobs. You want to make sure you find a commonality here. When you send your child to camp, you are forming a partnership with the director to ensure your child has a successful camp experience.

What type of child is successful at this camp?

Does it sound like she is describing your child? If not, this isn’t the camp for your child.

What kinds of programs does this camp offer?

Find out if the program is structured (has a set schedule) or elective (children choose their activities). Also inquire about how the program changes for older kids. For example: Do the elective choices increase with age?

What are the camp’s safety procedures?

It’s important to know about emergency action plans, water safety, medical staff, and camper-to-staff ratios.

How does this camp train staff?

Ask about the ages and backgrounds of staff members. Find out how they were hired and what kind of training and background checks they went through.

Is this camp able to accommodate my child’s special needs?

If your child has any special considerations, such as having food allergies or ADHD, or is wheelchair-bound, be completely upfront about her needs and make sure the camp is able to accommodate them. 

What makes this camp unique?

After pouring over websites and marketing materials, parents often start to feel like all camps look alike. Find out what makes this camp stand out from the others.