Reviewing Winston Salem summer camps in the middle of winter - and selecting one - always seems a little surreal. But the best camping options are very popular and can fill up fast – often by springtime. With that in mind, taking a couple of months to review brochures and other materials, contact Winston Salem summer camp directors as well as arrange a tour helps make the whole process more enjoyable and much less stressful.

Because of so many different kinds of Winston Salem summer camps out there, the biggest challenge is choosing the best one for your child. Ann Sheets, president of the American Camping Association, urges parents and youngsters to make decisions together about where your child will attend camp.

There are numerous important questions you should ask, and both parent and child need to be very comfortable with your decision that’s made. If children possess a part in it, they’re certainly going to possess a better experience.

With that in mind, here is a guide to the available programs, and also the questions to ask when trying to choose one for the child.

Types of Winston Salem Summer Camps

Think about your child’s particular needs and get what she or he wants from the Winston Salem summer camp experience. See whether your child is prepared for any sleep-away program or better suited to day camp (some residential camps in Winston Salem allow children as young as 7).

Be sure to talk about the following Winston Salem summer camp options together:

- Church Camps
- Art Camps
- Sports Camps
- Residential Camps
- Specialty Camps

Visit Camps, Talk with Other Families

After you have figured out what type of camping experience you want it's time to do some research to learn what's available. You might want to talk to a local parents' group, church group or PTO, but neighbors and friends will almost always be one of your most valuable resources. Send for literature and brochures, attend open houses, arrange to talk with the director and have a tour from the camp you are considering.

The American Camp Association recommends that both parent and child visit each place you're considering while it's in session - even though that may require planning for a year ahead of time. You will get a great idea about the way the program operates, and also the interaction between the staff and kids. If you're unable to visit, speaking with families whose children have attended there in the past might also be very helpful. Some places may even give you the names of parents to contact about their programs and their child's experience while attending there.

Finish reading Picking a Winston Salem Summer Camp