Summer camp provides children with weeks of entertainment, camaraderie, and opportunities to learn and grow. It also offers a welcome respite for parents and other caregivers from having to provide recreation for kids during summer vacation, especially if those kids will be attending a sleepaway camp.
Many children are emotionally ready to attend camp between ages 8 and 10, but many day camps provide services for as young as 4. Some children need a little more time to mature. Parents may think they have plenty of time to investigate camps. Chances are, if the weather has already warmed and summer vacation is on the horizon, it’s already too late to get kids into most summer camps.
According to HealthyChildren.org, a division of the American Academy of Pediatrics, it is important to start researching summer camps as soon as possible. Many start booking as early as January of the current term year.
Furthermore, popular programs fill up quite fast. Even though summer weather may be furthest from one’s mind in the middle of winter, this is the time when summer camp decisions must be made.
Start by asking for recommendations from others. This approach is difficult because many people are very protective of their camp choices, especially if the programs are particularly popular. They may not be inclined to give up the secrets to their favorites, especially if that means kids will have to compete for limited spots. Parents also should conduct an internet search of camps in the area and look at online reviews and ratings.
Find out if the American Camp Association accredits the camp. This will not guarantee a risk-free environment, but ACA accreditation is a better bet for providing a safe and nurturing camp.
Price also may be a factor in the camp decision. Camps are not all priced the same, so some math may be required to determine the best value. Location also can be a consideration. Having to drive a long distance away for camp can be a deterrent to some people.
Rest assured that families who are a little late to the game may be able to find summer camp accommodations. But they may have to make some concessions.
Slots are filling up fast
Although the calendar may show February, summer camp availability is already narrowing. Case in point: there is already a waitlist for summer day camps at Rutland Recreation and Parks.
“Our summer day camps are a very popular offering, and we consistently reach capacity each year, taking up to 150 kids. Given the high demand, this has become a predictable trend,” said Rutland Rec’s Brittany Malmgren.
Malmgren mentioned the Rutland area does have additional summer offerings for families, including programs through the Boys & Girls Club, Tapestry, and other surrounding recreation departments. And there are still openings with the Rutland Rec’s Camp Maverick (ages 12-14.)
At the neighboring Killington Parks and Recreation, summer camp plans are beginning to take shape. Registration opens on Wednesday, March 5, for Killington residents, second homeowners, and Killington Pico Area Association (KPAA) business members.
Registration for non-Killington residents will open on Monday, March 10. Once registration fills up, parents may register their child(ren) for the waitlist, and the Killington Parks and Recreation Center will reach out if a spot becomes available.
Killington plans for two summer camp options for campers ages 4-13. Camp Loads of Fun will be for campers ages 4-10, featuring swim lessons, free swim, arts and crafts, field games, field trips, and participation in the Sherburne Memorial Library’s summer reading program.
The Green Mountain Explorers will be for campers ages 10-13 and include excursions outside the Johnson Recreation Center and activities at the center.
While summer camp can be an engaging and fun experience for children, it’s also essential to research options and register soon while spaces are still available.
For additional information on Killington Parks and Recreation summer camps, visit: killingtonrec.com.
