There is an abundance of summer programs in New York City available for every age group. First, consider the age of your child. If your child is under the age of 5, a camp at your child’s preschool or activity center is a smart decision. This allows your child to stay in a facility they are comfortable with and most likely will have a classmate or friend in camp. For children who will be starting preschool in the fall, going to camp over the summer is a great way for your child to experience a classroom setting with other children. Ideally this camp will be at the school where your child will be attending. For older children, there are day camps within the city and outside the city that offer programs with specific interests such as sports, art, music or dance. This allows the parent to tailor their child’s camp experience.

When choosing any camp, consider the following:

  1. First and foremost is the camp licensed? Licensed camps have very strict standards in safety and hygiene that they must maintain.
  2. What is the child to teacher ratio? This is especially important for the younger campers who need a smaller class size and require more attention from their teachers.
  3. What is the education and experience of the counselors? Many preschool programs have their own teaching staff during camp which ensures a very high level of classroom management.
  4. What type of activities are offered ? You want to ensure that your child is getting a well rounded program that offers physical activity along with age appropriate classroom activities such as art, music, free play and story time.
  5. Is the camp director on-site and available? You want to be able to speak to them about any concerns or hesitations your child may have about attending camp. An on-site director is actively involved with their staff and ensures smooth transitions throughout the day.

Every parent wants their child’s camp experience to be a good one. Talk to your child about camp and all the fun things they will be doing during the day. Let your child know where you will be dropping them off and picking them up each day. Encourage your child to share their day with you. Look at your child’s daily schedule so you can ask about activities that they did that day. Above all your child should be having fun each day and be excited about returning the next. A happy camper makes a happy parent!

Nancy Baldaro
Co-Director of Summer Breeze Day Camp and Admissions Director of York Avenue Preschool

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