Choosing the right camp from among the number and variety of camps available can be overwhelming. Parents need to begin by talking with their child and together creating a list of requirements and expectations.
Consider the following when deciding on a camp:
The child's interests and the activities he hopes to experience at camp.
The desired characteristics of the camp site.
The distance from home that is acceptable to the child and his family.
The length of stay.
The child's physical, medical, dietary and emotional needs.
Whether the child is willing to go alone or prefers to go with a friend. Whether a single sex or co-ed camp is preferred.
Whether a secular or religiously-based camp is preferred.
The limitations of the family's budget. Provincial camping associations provide information on available financial assistance. Parents often ask at what age a child should begin overnight camp. Considering a child's readiness is more significant than age: Can the child make his own bed and look after his own belongings? Has the child spent a night away from home at a friend's or grandparents' house? Is the child asking to go to camp? Has the child attended day camp? Day camp is an introduction to some aspects of the overnight camp experience - meeting new friends, being cared for by a counsellor and participating in camp activities with other children.
