To Go to Summer Camp Or Not :: How I Make The Decision for My Children

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.

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