Finding the right summer camp for your child can be challenging when there are so many options and factors to consider. Here, we’ll address some of the most frequently asked questions we hear from parents at Camp Starfish and why every parent looking for a summer camp for their child should consider them. Whether your child has specific needs or you’re simply looking for a safe and enriching environment, this guide will provide valuable insights for parents everywhere.
1. What Are the Staff Qualifications?
Because most of your child’s summer camp experience depends on the quality of the staff working at the camp, staff qualifications are something you’ll want to ask about. How does the camp you’re looking at ensure they’re hiring people who are highly skilled and compassionate?
At Starfish, many team members have professional training and career interests in areas like special education, psychology, and social work; and we make sure to share this information with families! Every staff member undergoes comprehensive training at camp, which includes:
- De-escalation and behavior management techniques
- Sensory sensitivities and needs
- Trauma-informed and inclusive practices
- Health and safety information necessary for working at camp
This robust training ensures staff can handle a variety of situations and support campers effectively. For parents evaluating camps, it’s important to ask about staff training and experience to ensure your child will be cared for by knowledgeable professionals.
2. What Is the Camper-to-Counselor Ratio?
Supervision and individualized attention are essential for creating a safe and enriching camp environment. Every child is unique; some campers will thrive at a camp where the ratio is large (many town recreation programs have campers who thrive within a 1:10 ratio or greater!). Others may require more intensive support to be successful. Camp Starfish sets itself apart with exceptionally low camper-to-counselor ratios. In fact, its 1:1 ratio in many programs ensures that every camper receives personalized support. Other programs at Camp Starfish maintain ratios no higher than 1:4.
You know your child best, but if you aren’t quite sure what level of support is appropriate, you should inquire with the camps you are considering before registering.
3. What Activities and Programs Are Offered?
As a parent, you’re wondering about staffing, health, and safety measures at the camp – but your camper is really wondering about what they’ll get to do while they’re there! Choosing a program that aligns with your camper’s interests is essential; your kid that hates sports may refuse to participate all week at soccer camp but not want to come home after theatre camp.
Have a child who LOVES dance, song, and performance? Check out Camp Med-O-Lark in Washington, ME. Have a child interested in LARP? Check out The Story School Camp in Charlton, MA. Many camps tailor to other specific interests your camper has!
Other camps, like Starfish, offer a variety of programs aimed at having something available for everyone! Activities vary by program and can include:
- Arts & Crafts: Encouraging creativity and self-expression
- Sports & Athletics: Building teamwork and physical skills
- Dance & Movement: Promoting coordination and confidence
- Outdoor Adventures: Teaching campers about nature and survival skills
All of these programs are offered within a highly-structured, predictable schedule that still allows for camper choice.
For parents, it’s helpful to review the camp’s sample schedules and program descriptions to find activities that match your child’s interests and developmental needs.
4. Are There Accommodations for Children with Special Needs?
If your child has special needs, you may be wondering how (or if) the camp you’re considering can accommodate them. Camp Starfish is deeply committed to creating a safe and welcoming environment for children with diverse needs. The staff’s specialized training allows them to support campers with a range of diagnoses, including but not limited to:
- Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
- Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
- Anxiety
- Depression and other Mood Disorders
Behavioral and positive reinforcement strategies are used to help campers navigate challenges and celebrate successes. Parents are encouraged to communicate openly with camp staff about their child’s needs to ensure proper support.
For parents choosing a camp, ask about:
- The camp’s experience with specific diagnoses or challenges
- How staff are trained to handle sensory sensitivities, behavioral concerns, or medical needs such as medication administration
- Accessibility of facilities for physical disabilities
5. What Are the Benefits of Attending?
Summer camp is fun, and it is also one of the biggest opportunities for growth and independence in a child’s life. Consider which aspects of the summer camp you’re looking at help support your child’s goals – do they want to make more friends? Do they want to try a new activity they’ve never done before?
Camp Starfish offers a well-developed goals program for campers designed for target, intentional growth at the individual level. Before camp, campers and their parents work to select goals that they want to work on and discuss with a counselor during their session. Some topics include:
- Building self-esteem and confidence through achievable challenges
- Developing social skills in a supportive community
- Learning new hobbies and interests
- Gaining independence in a safe setting
For parents, understanding how a camp aligns with their goals for their child’s growth and development is a pivotal piece of information during the camp selection process.
Final Thoughts
Selecting the right summer camp is a big decision, but with the right information, you can find a program that will provide your child with a memorable and enriching experience. Camp Starfish stands out for its commitment to individualized care, inclusive practices, and a nurturing environment that supports children of all abilities. As you evaluate your options, prioritize what matters most to your family and don’t hesitate to ask questions to ensure the camp is the perfect fit for your child.
