It’s never too early to start thinking about summer camp. With so many options to consider, it’s hard to know where to begin. Here are some things to consider as you search for the right fit.
START EARLY
December or January is a good time to begin your search for next summer or, if you’re thinking about sleepaway camp, 2026. “Begin your process by thinking about what you’re trying to achieve,” says Renee Flax, director of Camper Placement for the American Camp Association, NY & NJ. If it’s a day camp, will you need transportation provided by the camp? Does the camp offer early or late hours? If the kids are at sleepaway, how far is close enough and what is the length of the program? Think about activities your kids will like, traditional vs. elective programs, and of course, cost.
DETERMINE IF THEY’RE READY
It can be hard to know when your kid is ready for an overnight camp experience, but make sure you aren’t sending your child away just because other parents are, Flax says.
“Look at your child objectively and assess whether or not they are emotionally ready to go to camp and if they can take care of their own personal needs—shower by themselves, make their bed, pick out their clothes for the day, follow directions and know when to ask for help if they need it. If you’re unsure of their ability to do these things successfully, then you may want to wait one more year before sending them to [overnight] camp,” she says.
DO YOUR RESEARCH
Talk to friends, look at camp websites, go to camp fairs, schedule tours—and call camp directors to ask about the camp’s culture and what a typical day is like.
“Ask [the director] questions, describe your child to them and then ask them whether or not they think your family is a good fit. Camp directors are very honest with parents. Like you, they want their campers to be happy!” Flax says.
She also recommends calling the American Camp Association, NY & NJ to help with your search. Make sure you’re honest with yourself about your child’s needs and wants to make sure everyone feels safe, comfortable and happy. “Don’t paint a picture of your child that is not realistic or accurate. The camp you select must know who your child truly is,” Flax says. “And remember—you’re not picking the camp for you. Your child is the one going to camp—so make sure you pick a camp that best fits their needs.”