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 When
you receive a camp's brochure, you will invariably have questions
for the camp director. From that first phone call or letter, you
begin developing an impression of what a particular camp is like
and how it's run. A camp may be described in nothing less than glowing
terms in its brochures. The setting may be absolutely breathtaking.
Activities may run the gamut from racquetball to modern dance. In
the end, however, it's the human equation of how those activities
are operated and conducted that determines the quality of the camp
program. Get to know the camp director as a person through telephone
conversations, correspondence, and a personal visit. Have the director
describe the camp's philosophy and how it is carried out by the
staff.
What is the camp's philosophy and program
emphasis?
Each camp has its own method of constructing programs based on its
philosophy. Does it complement your own parenting philosophy? Many
camps actively promote competition and healthy rivalry among camp
teams, as reflected in team sports. For many campers this is pure
fun. Some parents feel that learning to be competitive at an early
age teaches essential survival skills. However, other parents and
educators are in favor of cooperative learning. Research has shown
that noncompetitive methods encourage young people to learn more,
retain it longer, and develop greater self-esteem and appreciation
for others. Knowing your child's personality and style of learning
is valuable in selecting the right camp.
What is the camp director's background?
ACA minimum standards recommend directors possess a bachelor's degree,
have completed in-service training within the past three years,
and have at least 16 weeks of camp administrative experience before
assuming the responsibilities of director.
What training do counselors receive?
At a minimum, camp staff should be trained in safety regulations,
emergency procedures and communication, behavior management techniques,
child abuse prevention, appropriate staff and camper behavior, and
specific procedures for supervision.
What is the counselor-to-camper ratio?
ACA standards require different ratios for varying ages and special
needs. Generally, the ratios at resident camps range from one
staff for every six campers ages 7 and 8; one staff for every
eight campers ages 9 to 14; and one staff for every 10 campers
ages 15 to 18. At day camps the ratios range from one staff for
every eight campers ages 6 to 8; one staff for every 10 campers
ages 9 to 14; and one staff for every 12 campers ages 15 to 18.
What are the ages of the counselors?
ACA standards recommend that 80 percent or more of the counselor/program
staff be at least 18 years old. Staff must be at least 16 years
old and be at least two years older than the campers with whom
they work.
What are desired qualities in camp staff?
The same qualities of trustworthiness and dependability sought by
any employer are valued commodities in camp employees. Also, the
ability to adapt to a variety of situations, empathy for and ability
to work with camp clientele, a strong self-image, and an outgoing
personality are important characteristics for camp staff.
What percentage of the counselors returned
from last year?
Most camps have from 40-60 percent returning staff. If the rate
is lower, find out why.
How are behavioral and disciplinary problems
handled?
This is where the director's philosophy comes through loud and clear.
Positive reinforcement, assertive role-modeling and a sense of fair
play are generally regarded as key components of camp counseling
and leadership. Rules are necessary in any organization, and the
disciplinary approach taken should be reasonable and well communicated.
If penalties are involved for violations, they should be applied
quickly, fairly, calmly, and without undue criticism to campers.
How does the camp handle special needs?
If your child has special requirements, ask the camp director about
needed provisions and facilities. Is there a nurse on staff? A designated
place to store insulin or allergy medicine? Are special foods available
for campers with restricted diets? Every question is important.
How does the camp handle homesickness and
other adjustment issues?
Again, the camp's philosophy on helping children adjust is important.
Be sure you are comfortable with the camp's guidelines on parent/child
contact.
What about references?
This is generally one of the best ways to check a camp's reputation
and service record. Directors should be happy to provide references.
Is the camp accredited by the American Camp
Association? Why? Why not?
It is only logical that members of your family attend an ACA-accredited
camp. Accreditation visitors ask the questions — up to 300 of them
— regarding essential health, safety, and program quality
issues important to a camp's overall operation. This does not guarantee
a risk-free environment, but it's some of the best evidence parents
have of a camp's commitment to a safe and nurturing environment
for their children.
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