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How to Choose A Summer Daycamp For Your Child

- April 24, 2008

Tips For Parents: Summer is here and parents are making plans for keeping their kids active in
daycamps. With all the choices now available, it’s important that parents take time to research which daycamp is best for their children.

Here is a list of things that parents should consider when choosing a daycamp:

  • Deal with a reputable organization – one that has been in business for many years.
  • Ensure the organization follows safe hiring procedures such as Criminal Record Checks and Reference Checks.
  • Inquire into the organization’s Child Abuse Policy and Discipline Policy.
  • Ensure that staff is trained in First Aid/CPR, and have direct experience working with children.
  • Inquire about the ration between leaders and children, and the role of volunteers in supervising the camp.
  • Make sure the program plan matches the interests of your child. This is your child’s summer so make sure it is fun for them.
  • Get a copy of the weekly and daily activity plans, which should highlight the out trips, crafts and activities during the camp.
  • Involve your child in selecting the right camp.
  • Pick a program in your neighbourhood (where possible) so that your child can make lasting friendships.
  • Check out what the facilities offer. Look for facilities with lots of variety.
  • Select a daycamp with a high profile in the community – ask your neighbours and your children’s friends for references.
  • Select a daycamp where your child’s health and comfort is taken into consideration – kids should have indoor/outdoor activity and water activities to ensure they remain cool throughout the sunny weather.
  • Find a camp that meets your needs and offers before and after care programs to ensure that you are not rushed in picking up and dropping off your child.

When sending your child to daycamp, don’t forget the sunscreen, water bottle, hat, bathing suit, extra clothes, lots of snacks and a bag lunch!

North Vancouver RecCentres offer a great variety of exciting daycamps for kids of all ages. From pre-school to school age camps, from art to sport camps, we offer the best selection, the best value and the most fun at our daily, weekly, full or part-time daycamps. For more information call 604-987-PLAY (7529) or check out http://www.northvanrec.com/