Questions to ask when choosing a Summer Camp  

We all want our children to have happy, enjoyable summer experiences that are appropriate for their needs and interests. A good camp experience can offer your child the opportunity to try new activities, to learn new skills, to make friends and to gain a sense of independence.

Your child's age, past experience and personality will be factors in determining his or her readiness for a particular type of program. When you, and your child, have selected the type of camp you want, it is important to consider the following questions to ensure the camp you finally select is a professionally run camp providing a safe environment for your child.

1. What is the ratio of staff/supervisors to children

2. How old are the staff/camp supervisors

3. Are the instructors qualified – this is particularly important for sporting activities.

4. Are any of the instructors/ supervisors trained in first aid.

5. What age groups are put together.

6. Are the children supervised at all times, including breaks/lunch.

7. Multi-activity camps – what does a typical daily schedule look like.

8. What is the Camp Directors experience/background

9. Outdoor Camp – what happens when the weather is bad?

10. What kind of insurance cover is there

11. Are the children supervised until they are picked up – even if a parent is late.

12. Are the children being transported anywhere – who will be driving/will coach have seatbelts.

To source summer camps around the country, logon to Schooldays.ie – Ireland's Online Resource for Parents & Teachers.

You will find lots of family friendly travel tips and advice in our research and advice section to help you book the right family holiday. Check out also the experiences of other parents and travellers in our parents forum and add your own experiences as we are a great believer in real parent's experiences as the best measure of whether somewhere will suit you for your family holiday. 

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