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Camps again look like a good child care and entertainment option over the long, hot summer. Many camps are available for caregivers looking to have their youngsters stay active and engaged during the summer.
The American Camping Association (ACA) accredits camps based on accountability, credibility, and commitment. The YMCA of the USA (Y-USA) offers camps through local YMCAs across the U.S. In Canada, check with the Canadian Camping Association - they encourage campers and camp professionals to look to their local Provincial Camping Association and Provincial Health Authority for the most up-to-date information.
BBB offers these tips to parents searching for the right summer camp:
- Check for accreditation. Regardless of pandemic-related issues, sending them to a trustworthy camp is the safest way to ensure your child’s safety. ACA-accredited camps must meet the 32 national summer camp standards, and BBB Accreditation requires the organization to meet eight BBB Standards for Trust. Search for camps in the ACA and find camps near you in the BBB Directory to check for BBB Accreditation.
- Know required safety standards. Individual states will provide health and safety guidelines for summer camps, following CDC recommendations. These protocols may include monitoring staff and campers' health, limiting visitor access to campgrounds, adapting meal distribution, and providing sanitation products to staff and campers.
- Use references. Ask if they have a list of references or past campers you can contact. You may also want to consider asking trusted friends or family for their recommendations for summer camps. Reviews and complaint histories can also be found on the camp’s business profile at BBB.org.
- Assess medical resources. Camps should have resources for treating sick and injured campers. Some children need daily medication; ask about the camp’s medical facilities and how those resources can accommodate your child's needs.
- Review contracts and fees. As always, you should review contracts before you sign them. Find out the total cost and if a deposit is required. See which activities or services require additional fees. You should also check for details regarding refunds. Ask a camp employee if that information is not outlined in the contract.
Find a summer camp near you at BBB.org.
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BBB Serving the Heart of Texas contributed to this article.