Parents & Families | Camp Parents | American Camp Association

The Camp Resource for Families

Our comprehensive summer camp resource for families—offering expert advice from camp professionals on camp selection, readiness, child and youth development, and issues of importance to families. ACA helps you find the right camp for every child.

At camp, when children make new friends, explore the world around them, and learn that "I can" is much more powerful than "I can't", magic happens. In an environment created just for them, children learn real life skills, develop self-esteem, and gain a sense of independence and community. Whether children are playing, exploring nature, conquering new heights, or becoming part of a camp family, they are creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Sign up today to receive timely information on the camp experience and our new e-Newsletter, CAMP: A Resource for Families.

Un recurso completo para las familias que ofrece consejo profesional de expertos en campamentos sobre la selección de campamento, el momento preciso, el desarrollo infantil y juvenil, y asuntos importantes para las familias.

Find a Camp

Looking for a summer camp? Search over 2,400 ACA-Accredited camps.










 
 
Parents & Families | Camp Parents | American Camp Association

The Camp Resource for Families

Our comprehensive summer camp resource for families—offering expert advice from camp professionals on camp selection, readiness, child and youth development, and issues of importance to families. ACA helps you find the right camp for every child.

At camp, when children make new friends, explore the world around them, and learn that "I can" is much more powerful than "I can't", magic happens. In an environment created just for them, children learn real life skills, develop self-esteem, and gain a sense of independence and community. Whether children are playing, exploring nature, conquering new heights, or becoming part of a camp family, they are creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Sign up today to receive timely information on the camp experience and our new e-Newsletter, CAMP: A Resource for Families.

Un recurso completo para las familias que ofrece consejo profesional de expertos en campamentos sobre la selección de campamento, el momento preciso, el desarrollo infantil y juvenil, y asuntos importantes para las familias.

Find a Camp

Looking for a summer camp? Search over 2,400 ACA-Accredited camps.










Parent Home » Camp Planner » The Perfect Fit

A Camp for Every Child — The Perfect Fit

The Right Time — Gauging Your Child's Readiness for Camp

Answering these questions will help you determine when your child is ready for camp.

  • What is your child's age? Children under age 7 may not adjust easily to being away from home. Consider the day camp experience to prepare them for future overnight camp.
     
  • How did your child become interested in camp? Does your child talk about camp and camp activities on a sustained basis? How much persuasion is necessary from you?
     
  • Has your child had positive overnight experiences away from home? Visiting relatives or friends? Were these separations easy or difficult?
     
  • What does your child expect to do at camp? Learning about the camp experience ahead of time allows you to create positive expectations.
     
  • Are you able to share consistent and positive messages about camp? Your confidence in a positive experience will be contagious.
   
The Right Camp
   
 
 
 
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