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28 alaska parent spring 2024 AlaskaParent.comCHOOSINGA CAMPIt may only be spring, but summer’s just around the corner, and camps — especially day camps – can fill up fast. So, the sooner parents sign their kids up, the better. Even before registration opens, you can get a jump on the summer by doing your research. Check out our Summer Camps & Programs Directory (on pages 30-37) and start researching to find the one that is right for your child.The choice between day camp or residential (overnight) camp is one piece of the decision for families. Here are questions recommended by the American Camping Association to help you make that decision.WHEN SELECTING A DAY CAMP:• What training does the staff receive on safety, supervision, counseling, problem solving and other issues unique to working with young children?• Is the price all-inclusive or are there extra charges (for activities, field trips, transportation, food service, etc.)?• If transportation is offered, where is the closest pickup location?• Does the camp have a bus/shuttle/van which transports children quickly?• If before- and after-camp extended care is offered, who is with the children and what activities take place?• Is lunch served or do campers bring their own sack lunch? Are snacks and drinks provided?• If the camp offers swimming, are there swimming lessons or is it simply recreational swimming?• Are campers in a group with a counselor all day? Or, are campers free to go from one activity to another with appropriate supervision? In this case, who would I talk to if I have a question or concern about my child?• Is an open house offered before camp starts where I can meet the child's counselor and van/bus driver?• Are parents allowed to drop by for visits or is there a special parent visitation day?WHEN SELECTING AN OVERNIGHT CAMP:• What locale do I want to consider? (such as mountains, distance from home, etc.)• Do I want a traditional camp that gives my child a wide variety of experiences or do I want to select a specialty camp that focuses on a particular activity or set of skills?• What size enrollment will make my child feel comfortable?• How rustic do I want the camp to be?• How structured do I want the program to be? Does my child like to have plenty of choice in the activity schedule?• Is my child ready to sleep away from home for an extended stay? (This will help you to select either a resident or day camp setting.)• What session length will appeal to my child and to our family plans for the summer? (One week? Eight weeks?)• How can I stay in touch with my child during camp? Does the camp allow mail, phone calls, or email? Does the camp have parent visitation days?• How will the camp meet my child’s special dietary or physical needs?• What is my budget for camp tuition? Remember, many camps offer financial aid.DAY CAMP OR OVERNIGHT CAMP?