5 Tips: How to choose a summer camp for your child
You’re eyeing camp programs for your CityKid this Summer, but sometimes navigating the nuances of camps can be as overwhelming as planning a Disney trip... Will they be in for a summer of excitement or boredom? What if it’s too expensive? How do you know if it’s the right fit for them?
We turned to experts at three Summer Camp programs in Indianapolis for tips on how to choose a summer camp for your child - and some of them may surprise you.
Here are 5 tips for how to choose the right summer camp for your child:
1. Start with your kiddo’s interests.
If your camper has shown interest in areas like art, music, or sports, summer camps are the perfect time to hone those skills. Fishers Parks & Recreation has partnered with handcraft artist and fashion designer (and CityMom alum!), Sewful Cheryl. She will guide campers through everything from creating their own cosplay and fiber arts to photo design and using natural dyes.
2. Know that smaller, half-day, or hour-long camp options are out there.
If you’re looking to ease kids into a camp experience, consider starting with an abbreviated vs. full-day. Local schools like Bishop Chatard and Park Tudor offer half-day camps in sports, theater, and robotics. The Indianapolis Art Center hosts casual, 2-hour “Make it, Take it” classes!
3. Searching for more? Some camps also have pool time, field trips, and other excursions.
Many Indy Parks Summer Camps offer these options - Holliday Park “Animal Adventures” campers frequently hike to the streams surrounding the park, Southeastway Park campers road-trip to Eagle Creek Park for Go Ape zipline fun, and more. At The JCC, campers can take advantage of free swim time and lessons. You may be surprised when you read camp descriptions to find many offer mini experiences like these as well.
CHECK OUT Indy Park’s 2023 Summer Camps in Indianapolis Guide!
More tips on how to choose the right summer camp for your child:
4. Don’t stress about finances - aide might be available.
We were thrilled when Shawn at Windsor Village Park noted Indy Parks’ camp scholarships. At the out-of-pocket cost of $5/week per child, families may register for additional scholarships covering up to 100% of costs. The Indianapolis Art Center also offers tuition assistance - applications are now open on their website. If assistance isn’t noted on a particular camp website, simply inquire.
5. Have older kids? Consider encouraging them to work vs. going to camp
We know options for teens can be limited, so instead of attending a summer camp, why not encourage them to work at one? Indy Parks is looking for counselors, lifeguards, and other key staffers. Carmel Clay Parks and Recreation is also ISO counselors.
