Vacations

Choosing a summer camp

Since most registrations have to be made as early as possible, it's never too soon to contact different camps and inquire about their programs and availabilities. But it can never be too late either!

Summer is just around and maybe it’s still time to choose a summer camp for your children. Keep in mind that cancellations may occur at any time, which could allow for last minute registrations. Know that many camp associations create extra groups to meet parents’ demands.

Where to start?

There are hundreds of camps for all ages, interests and tastes! There are many possibilities to choose from, from summer vacation camps to specialised day camps (for children with handicaps, disabilities or other specific problems).

You can choose a more traditional day camp where sports, the great outdoors and even more specialised themes like science, astronomy, culinary arts, music, visual arts or theatre take up most of the day. Know that a camp is considered specialised if at least two hours a day is tassigned to the specialty. During this time, children work to learn and master their craft while the instructors look after them and give them the required expertise related to their specialty.

Summer vacation camps

These stays last from 3 to 21 days, and in certain cases, can last for weeks. Summer day camps are for children aged 3 to17 years-old, and are usually offered outside of urban environments. These summer camp retreats allow children to live a completely different life than at home. Letting your children go on summer camp retreats is great to develop their creativity and independence while letting them loosen up and have fun!

Specialised camps

For children with handicaps, disabilities or specific problems, many specialised camps exist. Camp instructors have all the necessary qualifications and expertise so children can have a fulfilling camp experience while developing new abilities and passions! These camps are arranged according to their clientele's needs and offer a safe, secure and stimulating environment.

Day camps

For children aged 3 to 17 years old, day camps offer daily activities and outings to allow children to get rid of all their extra energy! Many varied activities are proposed to the children. From swimming to bike rides, treasure hunts to drawing workshops and theatre to improvisation, day camps are known for their active and dynamic aspect. They are also a great way for parents to meet and speak with the camp instructor and keep track of their child’s growth and learning. Day camps are mostly found in residential neighbourhoods.

Makin the right choice

First of all, speak to your child about his interests. By forcing your child to attend a camp for which he has absolutely no interest, you will help in make him hate the camp and you will keep your child from blossoming. If you let your child choose, he will pick a camp with enthusiasm and interest. Does your child have enough self-esteem and is he independent enough for you to consider a summer vacation camp? Does he prefer to stay close to home and attend a day camp?

Find your child’s interests by taking his passions and desires into account.

  • Create a budget that you can, and wish to use, for summer camp.
  • Consult your province or town’s guide concerning camps near you.
  • Make a first selection of camps that interest you.
  • Find out more on each of those camps.
  • Visit the camp’s location, the people in charge, the camp’s staff. (Some camps have scheduled open-doors).

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