Camp Chinqueka: 8 Important Questions to Ask a Sleepaway Camp Director BEFORE You Sign Up!
BANTAM, Conn., Dec. 20, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- As winter arrives, thoughts will quickly turn back to the warm days of summer and many families are deciding now where to send their child to sleepaway camp. Before you sign up, you might consider these 8 important questions that parents should ask the camp director to make sure you found the right camp for your child.
- How do you help new campers integrate into the camp community? Find out what the camp does to welcome new campers. It is important to know how cabins are assigned and what to expect day 1. The goal is to prepare your child for the first few days of their new experience and give yourself comfort in knowing the camp will make your child comfortable and happy.
- When is the best time to register and what other expenses are involved? Definitely find out the best time to register. Some camps can be full by October! Many camps offer a financial incentive to enroll early. Some camps offer promotions year-round and discounts may be unadvertised. Also ask about extra expenses, as certain activities may come at an additional cost.
- How would you describe the overall culture and community at your camp? Each camp is unique. You can learn a lot about the camp from the website, videos and parent ambassadors, but it's important to understand the director's philosophy and the camp culture.
- Who is on your medical team? You never want to think about anything going wrong at camp, but if it does, you should know who is caring for your child. How many nurses or doctors are there? What are their policies regarding contacting parents if the camper is ill? Most camps have very specific rules of action. A first-time parent should absolutely know what they are.
- How do you recruit, evaluate and train staff? When parents hire a babysitter or nanny they meet the candidate in advance, ask questions and call references. Parents are entrusting the director to select great role models for their child. Find out how long staff training is, the average age of the staff and how many staff return each summer.
- What are camp meals like and do you cater to allergies/picky eaters? Find out everything you can about food! Ask how meals are served (buffet, family style or both). How many options do campers have and who is overseeing that campers are making healthy eating choices? For picky eaters or allergies, don't be afraid to share insights on your campers eating limitations. The more the director knows, the better they can address your child's food concerns.
- How can I contact my child and what are your technology policies? These policies vary by camp. Find out how you can communicate with your child so you can plan in advance. Some camps are completely tech-free and only allow letters, some camps have an email system and others have scheduled phone call times. It's best to ask the director!
- Who else can I speak to about your camp? There is nothing better than speaking with a current camp parent about their family's experience with the camp. Try to get at least two parent references from the director.
Photos, videos and interviews available upon request.
Contact Kristen Ebner at [email protected]
http://www.chinqueka.com
Amanda Ward is the Director of Camp Chinqueka, recently celebrating her 20th summer. She was first a camper in the 1990s. Amanda holds a Bachelor's Degree from Trinity College with a background in Theater and Education, having taught 5th Grade and Kindergarten in NYC and Connecticut schools. Amanda is an active member of the American Camp Association.
Camp Chinqueka is a small, private sleepaway camp for girls age 6 to 15, located in beautiful Bantam, CT. Founded in 1955, campers enjoy 30+ amazing activities during 2 or 4 week sessions each summer. Chinqueka is truly a camp "where girls can be girls." Campers learn skills on how to be their best self, while experiencing group living and developing independence. Camp Chinqueka is accredited by the American Camp Association.
SOURCE Camp Chinqueka
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