To Go to Summer Camp Or Not :: How I Make The Decision for My Children
Do I send my kids to summer camp? Or do I not send my kids to summer camp?
Summer camp is such a commitment. The kids only get so much free time in a year, and it’s hard to decide whether summer camp is a do or don’t. So I make lists for both, along with the pros and the cons of each to help me make a decision. I also have questions that I have to answer first and after answering those questions and going through the lists, it usually leads me in the right direction.
If I am NOT going to send my kids to summer camp:
- Am I going to be available this summer?
- How much time do I have to be focused on their summer experiences?
- Do I have adventures planned?
- Am I willing to make a lesson plan?
- What would it focus on?
- What do the boys need from me?
The Pros:
- They are in a comfortable environment.
- They move at their own pace.
- They get all of the cuddles and attention they need.
- They have their own toys.
- They get the food they eat.
- They get more time with their amazing grandparents.
The Cons:
Neighborhood play dates are a hit or miss.
If I am going to send my kids to summer camp:
- Are they excited?
- Can I find a camp that meets or exceeds my expectations?
- Will the hours work around everyone’s schedule? (One of my boys is practically nocturnal. The doctor said it was temporary when he was born. I guess it’s only been a couple of years.)
- How structured is it?
- What does playtime look like to the camp directors?
- What will they learn?
- Will the camp utilize screen time?
- What camps have the right time/location for our family?
- What kind of themed camp would the boys be interested in?
The Pros:
They get to socialize with other kids on a regular basis (hopefully).
The Cons:
- Sometimes there is a lot of energy that needs to be burned off after camp.
- Dropoffs are tough on my heart.
