choosing a camp

• Are you satisfied with the camp philosophy and mission statement?
• Are you satisfied with the camps religious, agency or private status?
• Are you satisfied with the religious focus and affiliation?
• How long has the camp been in operation?
• Where is the camp located and what are the transportation needs?
• What do the pictures tell you about the site, programs and safety?
• Does the camp have a slide show or video presentation that you can attend?

healthcare

• What are the healthcare and first aid services provided? Do they meet your child's needs?
• Have you discussed/notified the camp of any special needs of you child (i.e. health, diet, emotional state, physical abilities, bedwetting, fears, etc.) to ensure that the camp have meet these needs for a mutually successful camping experience.
• How does the camp handle special needs campers?
• What are the camps emergency policies and procedures for first aid, fire, animal intrusion and health care?
• Does the camp have reliable emergency contact with ambulances, medical clinics and hospitals?

camper leadership

• Do you know the camper to cabin leader staff ratio?
• What training have the cabin leaders received?
• What is the age your cabin leader(s)?
• What is the overall total camper to total staff ratio?
• Have all staff been screened with criminal record checks, interviews, references and have a written job description?
• What are the desired skills, qualities and education guidelines that are used by the camp when hiring its staff?
• What percentage of camp staff returned from last year?
• How are behavior and disciplinary problems handled?

administration

• Does the camp have staff policy manuals that include safety, programs, etc?
• What is the Camp Director's background and qualifications?
• Is the camp seasonal or year round in operations and/or staffing?
• Are you comfortable with the insurance coverage of the camp?
• Does the camp have a registration form, medical form, and 'how to prepare for camp' checklist?

accreditation

• Is the camp an accredited member of the BC Camping Association? If not, why?
• Please review the BCCA Accreditation Standards & Accreditation Standards?

program

• Do the programs offered meet your child's interests & abilities?
• How much of the day is structured vs. unstructured?
• If the camp has a specialty program that is attractive to your child, find out how much time your child will participate in that program.
• Do campers have a choice in daily program selection?
• Does the camp program offer a 'challenge by choice' philosophy?

food service

• Has the menu been based on the Canada Food Guide or a registered dietician?
• Do children have an alternate choice of food at each meal?
• Can the camp meet any special dietary needs or restrictions?
• Is a vegetarian meal option provided?
• Have you clearly identified and communicated your child's dietary needs to the camp and have a confirmation that they can meet those needs?
• Are healthy snacks available for healthy appetites?

waterfront

• Does the camp have a waterfront (i.e. ocean, lake, pool, and pond) that is clearly identified and guarded whenever your child is swimming?
• Does the waterfront have first aid equipment, including oxygen and spine board, available to certified NLS lifeguards?

facilities

• Camp facilities range from tents to cabins, indoor & outdoor dining, electrical power & no power, drop toilets to full plumbing based on the program and experience being offered. Please select the type of camp that meets your needs?
• Does the camp have indoor space for rainy day programs?
• Can you visit the site before registering?

word of mouth

• Have neighbors, classmates or friends have a positive experience at a camp? What made it special?
• Did you get references from the camp to check their reputation and service record?
• Does your school use a camp? Will they recommend it?

cost

• Although very important in the selection of a camp, this should be the last question asked by a parent

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