Teen Summer Camp

Make lifelong memories at teen summer camps

Busy parents always worry when summer approaches and their children are going to be left largely unsupervised. Parents aren't the only ones who worry, though; many teenagers also want fun, safe and productive ways to enjoy the break from school. Summer camp for teens is a longtime favorite solution, which offers benefits for the entire family.

To select the right teen camp, start by sitting down with your boy or girl; discuss the activities and facilities you would ideally like to see in a summer camp, and ask your teen for input as well. Your child may have particular interests that can best be met by sending him or her to a specialized teen summer camp, such as an acting camp or a horseback riding camp.

Camp structures differ from place to place. Some have a strict schedule of regulated and required activities, while others are more laid-back and offer teenagers time to socialize or pursue leisurely interests. Camp choices range from those sponsored by organizations (such as the YMCA and the YWCA) and institutional camps for special needs children to family-operated private camps and camps for troubled teens.

Things to Look For in a Teen Summer Camp

Camp options are wide-ranging; while this creates a lot of choice, it can also create a lot of confusion. It helps to try to pinpoint features that are important both to you and your child before you start narrowing down your list of possibilities. Here is a list of questions to consider:

• What safety measures are in place?
• What kind of training do the counselors have?
• Does the camp provide free tours for parents?
• What is the counselor-to-camper ratio? (Lower is better.)
• What daily activities does the camp offer?
• Is there adequate emergency medical care available?
• What kind of supervision is provided?

Theme-Centered Summer Camps for Teens

Another way to narrow down your choices is to explore theme-focused camps. Summer camps for teens offer a variety of activities designed to keep your child occupied and safe, while others offer a narrower selection of focused activities. Here are some examples of themed summer camps your child might enjoy:

• Fitness camps
• Athletic camps
• Art camps
• Creative writing camps
• Computer camps
• Science camps

With a little planning and forethought, you can truly find a summer camp that meets the needs of both you and your child. If your child is lucky, he or she may just wind up enjoying the best summer of his or her life.

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