A summer camp that is best suited to your child should take into account your child’s interests, how comfortable they are with spending time away from home, their support needs, and your family’s budget. Start by considering your child’s situation, then ask the camp specific questions about staff, safety measures, health care, daily activities, and communication. If you get clear answers, you can choose with confidence.

Start with your child

What sort of activities does your child enjoy and what kinds would they like to take part in? They could be interested in art, sports, horses, nature, or a combination of these. Find out which ones sound exciting and which ones seem uncertain. A camping program that accepts people who are just starting out might be more suitable than one that requires a particular talent. You should also think about its culture and values.

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) says that you should take a child’s personality and interests into account. Have your child look at the photos, schedules, and sleeping arrangements with you. [1]

Choose the right type and length of Camp

At day camp, children can go home each evening, while overnight camp involves shared living, making new friends, and practicing independence. The level at which children achieve this varies. Watch how your child copes with sleepovers, asks adults for help, sticks to routines, and talks about being away.

A shorter session might be a good idea if this is your child’s first overnight stay. Ask the counselors how they help children get used to the situation. It is normal to feel nervous; consider whether your child is curious and has the support needed to cope. [1]

Check accreditation and ask what it means

Ask, “Does the American Camp Association accredit this camp?” ACA accreditation is a voluntary review of camp practices. Its current standards cover facilities, health and wellness, staff, program design, and aquatics. Accreditation differs from state licensing, and no credential eliminates every risk. It gives families a useful starting point for questions about how a camp operates. [1–3]

If a camp is not accredited, ask which standards it follows and how it reviews its practices. The ACA’s Find a Camp directory can help you compare options. [4]

Meet the people who will care for your child

Ask who supervises campers during activities, meals, transitions, and overnight. How are staff screened and trained? What is the camper-to-counselor ratio for your child’s age group? What are the rules for interactions between staff and individual campers? Who helps when a camper feels left out, has trouble sleeping, or faces a conflict with a cabinmate?

Look for specific answers and a clear way to reach a director. If your child needs an accommodation, discuss it before enrolling. The AAP recommends asking about staff experience, supervision, and support for your child’s needs. [1]

Picture an ordinary day

Ask for a sample schedule. Where will your child sleep, shower, eat, and keep belongings? How much choice do campers have? What happens during bad weather? If swimming is offered, ask how skills are assessed, who supervises the water, and what options exist for new swimmers. The AAP advises families to discuss water activities and staff qualifications before camp. [5]

A visit or virtual tour can help your child picture the setting. Notice whether staff answer everyday questions patiently.

Make a plan for health and homesickness

Tell the camp about medications, allergies, disabilities, and other support needs. Ask who provides care, how medications are handled, when parents are contacted, and what happens if a child needs outside medical attention. Review policies for phone calls, letters, and urgent contact. [1]

Homesickness can happen even to experienced campers. Ask how counselors respond. Practice small separations, agree on a realistic communication plan, and remind your child which adult to approach for help. [1]

Compare the full cost

Check tuition, deposit, due dates, cancellation rules, transportation, required gear, and optional charges. Ask about scholarships, sibling discounts, and payment plans. Compare what each fee includes, not just the advertised price. A well-matched, shorter session may offer a better first experience than a longer one your child is not ready to enjoy.

Make the decision together

Narrow your list to two or three camps. Ask each the same questions, speak with another parent if possible, and watch how your child responds. Choose the camp whose program and people give you confidence and whose schedule fits your family. Then prepare together: label belongings, review routines, and talk about the fun and small challenges of trying something new.

What if my child does not know anyone?

Ask how counselors introduce new campers, build friendships, and help children join activities. Their approach matters more than a familiar face on day one.

Is a shorter session better for a first-time camper?

It can be, especially if your child wants to try overnight camp but feels unsure about a full week. Match the length to their readiness and ask what support is built in.

At Camp Ondessonk, families can compare a three-day Mini Camp, six-day Mini Camp Explorers, and Traditional Camp, then review current dates and rates. Ask the Camp team which experience may fit your child. [6–7]

References

1. American Academy of Pediatrics. (2024, April 15). Choosing a Summer Camp and Preparing Your Child: AAP Safety Tips.

2. American Camp Association. (n.d.). Program Overview of Accreditation.

3. American Camp Association. (2025). Official Public Reference: ACA Accreditation Standards Structure (November 2025 Edition).

4. American Camp Association. (n.d.). Find a Camp.

5. Agran, P. (2024, May 8). How Can I Help Ensure My Child Will Be Safe in and Around the Water at Summer Camp?. American Academy of Pediatrics.

6. Camp Ondessonk. (2026). Is Your Child Ready for Overnight Camp?.

7. Camp Ondessonk. (n.d.). Summer Camp Dates and Rates.