Selecting a summer camp for a young child or a teenager can be a challenging task. Some camps have a lot of programs to choose from while others specialize in just one activity. The reputation of a camp and its cost also need to be factored into the decision. Consider three qualities to look for when choosing a summer camp for your child.

Knowledgeable Counselors

This is one of the most important qualities to look for. Counselors should be trained to care for groups of children and keep them occupied with activities. If the camp specializes in a particular activity such as a swimming summer camp, then the counselors should be qualified to teach swimming and have their CPR certification. Oftentimes, the qualifications of a camp’s counselors will be noted on the reading material distributed by a camp. Many camps have a website that provides additional information on its programs as well as its costs.

Flexible Schedules

Some parents want their children to be in an all-day camp while others want a camp that lasts just a few hours. When it comes to program schedules, a great summer camp has flexibility. You should be able to pick and choose which programs you want your child to participate in without having to pay for a complete summer program.

A Variety of Skill Levels

If you’re taking your child to a camp to learn a skill, there should be classes for different skill levels. For instance, if you’re taking your child to a horseback riding camp, there should be a class for beginners as well as one for campers who have some experience riding but need more instruction. A variety of courses allows campers to get into the program that can benefit them the most.

Finally, it’s a good idea to take a personal tour of a camp before signing up your child for the program. It’s the ideal way to get a feel for the atmosphere of the camp and the friendliness of its counselors.