Happy Camping

Your littles are finally interested in exploring the idea of summer camp this year. You have no clue where to start. Don’t worry, Kansas City mamas and dads—we’ve got you covered. We rounded up a list of a few resources in the area as well as tips for starting this journey.

First, decide what fits your family’s checklist. Does your kiddo have special needs or sensory restrictions? Do they enjoy being outdoors, or are they more comfortable with crafts and technology? Are you opting for a virtual, day or overnight camp? Do your kids like animals? What age range? Are they athletes in the making? Do they struggle with communication and voicing their needs? Are they independent go-getters? How much are you looking to invest in their camp experience?

Tip: Use the KC Parent Camp Guide to find the best camp for your child.

Things to keep in mind:

• Budget. Eliminate camp options with higher rates that exceed your targeted amount. No need to disrupt the budget with the most expensive destination. Find a happy medium.
• Logistics and flexibility. How will your choice factor into your daily routine and how will you and your partner coordinate pickup and drop-off? Will camp clash with dance class or soccer practice?
• Research. Scope out the camp’s website and/or call to chat with a staff member for any extra details you may need. Learn as much as you can before you ask questions and then ask as many questions as you need.
• Expectations. What are you hoping your children take away from their summer camp experience? Maybe you want to help connect them with other kids who share similar hobbies. Or maybe you just want to keep them intellectually stimulated because they seem to get bored after the first two weeks of summer vacation. Maybe they want to pursue a particular sport or become a Scout leader.
• Quality instructors. You want people supervising your kids who are knowledgeable and fun—and people your kids feel comfortable with that you can trust. Ask for references and read student and parent reviews ahead of time. Make sure camp staff are familiar with your kids’ specific needs (if your child is autistic, for example).
• Safety. You’ll want to know the staff-to-camper ratio, any safety protocols in place, and discuss boundaries, supervision and other topics of concern. Be sure to ask about first-aid training.
• Accreditation. The American Camp Association handles safety standards.

Once you’ve run through that checklist, decide what camp options to research. There are dozens of categories of camps beyond your traditional outdoor summer camp away from home. Chat with your kids about their interests. Here are just a few possibilities to start with.

Types of summer camp:

Traditional outdoor summer camps

These camps typically offer plenty of new experiences and adventures for incoming campers. If your kiddo is outgoing and adventurous, you may want to look into this category.

Special needs summer camps

Whether your child has autism, asthma, diabetes, a physical disability or is hearing impaired, you are sure to find a specific camp to fit their needs that will accommodate them in the best way possible.

Arts and performance

If you have a tiny artist or musician in the making, camps like these could be the perfect outlet to nurture their gifts. Check to see whether any camps like this are offered in your area.

Scout camps

Though Scouts camps may be quite similar to traditional outdoor summer camps, these emphasize a strong focus on leadership, earning achievement badges and encouraging teamwork.

Sports summer camps

Help athletes-in-the-making take their competitive edge in their chosen sport to the next level. Or maybe your kids love sports but aren’t sure which one to pursue. A sports camp might help them figure out which one is their true calling.

Tip: Use the KC Parent Camp Guide to find the best camp for your child.

Emily Morrison is a freelance writer, former copy editor, full-time mommy and Disney fanatic who lives in Independence with her husband, son, daughter and dog.