As parents we need to look for opportunities that will help our children grow and mature. The right summer camp can provide just such an opportunity. But do not just settle for the camp where your child's friends go. First, with a goal in mind, make a list highlighting the items that you feel are most important for your new camper. Then, hop on the internet with your list in hand to help keep you focused as you narrow down your search and select your candidates for Youth Summer Camps.
Narrow your search to four or five possibilities, and then call or e-mail each camp to ask for information. Perhaps more important than printed materials, camps will send you a promotional video. Remember, these DVDs are tools to help you find the right summer camp. But they are also tools for camps to SELL a place in their camp to you and your child. So keep that in mind when you view them.
Now it is time get to get your child involved. Sit down as a family and watch the videos. Let your child take the lead talking about what he or she saw, and tell you more about what he or she is looking for. You may need to do a little encouraging to get your new camper talking. Doing this persisitently will help you see what is important in a camp to your child. Prior to going to camp, please explain to your child that the videos are advertisements and that the reality may not always match what you see on the screen. It is good to stop for brief reality check now and then!
While viewing the DVD watch the little details for clues that will give you an inside look at the camp's philosophy and strengths. While you're watching, look for the following information:
-How recent is the video? Guess the time the video was filmed, based on the campers' clothing and the background music. No matter how recent the video appears to be, ask the director what has changed and been added to the program since its production.
-Do the kids in the video look like they're having fun? What activities are they doing, and would your child enjoy them?
-Does the video answer your questions about the camp? While there should be additional questions that you want to ask the director, the video should give you a comprehensive overview.
-What does the video emphasize? Pay attention to what activities and facilities get the most time in the video.
-What level of sports are shown, in terms of skill and sophistication? If you're looking for a specialty sports camp, does the level of play look too advanced or too basic?
-What philosophical qualities does the video stress? Does the video seem to be consistent with and complement the philosophies expressed in the camp's printed materials?
-What is your and your child's general impression after watching? Sometimes a gut instinct may tell you the most.
Remember, videos are a great way to get a basic understanding about children's camps but don't be fooled by slick, high-powered DVD's. They are only a tool to help you make an informed decision, but you will still need to talk to the camp directors personally and ask for and check references to make the best choice for your child.
If this is your first time looking for a summer camp please go to Summer Camp Advice a FREE online reference that helps parents figure out what Best Summer Camps is about
Narrow your search to four or five possibilities, and then call or e-mail each camp to ask for information. Perhaps more important than printed materials, camps will send you a promotional video. Remember, these DVDs are tools to help you find the right summer camp. But they are also tools for camps to SELL a place in their camp to you and your child. So keep that in mind when you view them.
Now it is time get to get your child involved. Sit down as a family and watch the videos. Let your child take the lead talking about what he or she saw, and tell you more about what he or she is looking for. You may need to do a little encouraging to get your new camper talking. Doing this persisitently will help you see what is important in a camp to your child. Prior to going to camp, please explain to your child that the videos are advertisements and that the reality may not always match what you see on the screen. It is good to stop for brief reality check now and then!
While viewing the DVD watch the little details for clues that will give you an inside look at the camp's philosophy and strengths. While you're watching, look for the following information:
-How recent is the video? Guess the time the video was filmed, based on the campers' clothing and the background music. No matter how recent the video appears to be, ask the director what has changed and been added to the program since its production.
-Do the kids in the video look like they're having fun? What activities are they doing, and would your child enjoy them?
-Does the video answer your questions about the camp? While there should be additional questions that you want to ask the director, the video should give you a comprehensive overview.
-What does the video emphasize? Pay attention to what activities and facilities get the most time in the video.
-What level of sports are shown, in terms of skill and sophistication? If you're looking for a specialty sports camp, does the level of play look too advanced or too basic?
-What philosophical qualities does the video stress? Does the video seem to be consistent with and complement the philosophies expressed in the camp's printed materials?
-What is your and your child's general impression after watching? Sometimes a gut instinct may tell you the most.
Remember, videos are a great way to get a basic understanding about children's camps but don't be fooled by slick, high-powered DVD's. They are only a tool to help you make an informed decision, but you will still need to talk to the camp directors personally and ask for and check references to make the best choice for your child.
If this is your first time looking for a summer camp please go to Summer Camp Advice a FREE online reference that helps parents figure out what Best Summer Camps is about
About the Author:
Swift Nature Camp is a Overnight Summer Camp for boys and girls ages 6-15. Our focus is to blend traditional Kids Summer Camp activities with that of a Animal Camp and Science Summer Camp
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