Travel Tips

What To Watch For In A Summer Camp Video

As parents we need to look for opportunities that will help our children grow and mature. The right summer camp can provide just such an opportunity. But do not just settle for the camp where your child’s friends go. First, with a goal in mind, make a list highlighting the items that you feel are most important for your new camper. Then, hop on the internet with your list in hand to help keep you focused as you narrow down your search and select your candidates for Summer Youth Camps.

Next, take your top six or seven camp choices and e-mail each camp director to get the information about that camp. Most camps not only have a paper brochure but will offer a promotional DVD as well. A video will certainly give you a chance to see what a children’s summer camp is about, but it is still a promotional tool ~ think of the DVD as a more sophisticated brochure for that camp.

Now it is time get to get your child involved. Sit down as a family and watch the videos. Let your child take the lead talking about what he or she saw, and tell you more about what he or she is looking for. You may need to do a little encouraging to get your new camper talking. Doing this persisitently will help you see what is important in a camp to your child. Prior to going to camp, please explain to your child that the videos are advertisements and that the reality may not always match what you see on the screen. It is good to stop for brief reality check now and then!

While viewing the DVD watch the little details for clues that will give you an inside look at the camp’s philosophy and strengths. While you’re watching, look for the following information:

-Does the video answer your questions about the camp? While there should be additional questions that you will want to ask the director, the video should give you a comprehensive overview.

-Do the kids in the video look like they’re having fun? What activities are they doing, and would your child enjoy them?

-How old is the video? If there is no date, then estimate the age based on the campers’ clothing and the background music. No matter how recent the video appears to be, you should ask the camp director what has changed or been added to the video program since its filming.

-What philosophies does the video suggest? Does the video seem to complement the philosophies expressed in the camp’s printed materials?

-What level of sports are shown, in terms of skill and sophistication? If you’re looking for a specialty sports camp, does the level of play look too advanced or too basic?

-What philosophical qualities does the video stress? Does the video seem to be consistent with and complement the philosophies expressed in the camp’s printed materials?

-What was your and your child’s general impression after watching? Sometimes a gut instinct may tell you what you need to know.

DVDs are a great way to get a feel about each individual children’s summer camp, but it should not be the only factor in the important decision about a camp. Be sure to talk to the camp directors and talk to campers’ parents.

For first time looking for a summer camp please go to Summer Camp Advice a FREE online reference that helps parents figure out what Best Summer Camp is all about

About the author: Lonnie lorenz has been the owner of Swift Nature Camp since 1996. She has created a is a Minnesota Outdoors Summer Camp for boys and girls ages 6-15. Our focus is to blend traditional summer camp activities with that of a Animal Camp and Science Summer Camp

© 2010 Travel Oversea.