Summer Camp Videos, Not Always True

By Jeff Lorenz

So you've decided you want your child to go to summer camp? Before getting camp information you should have a goal in mind. Make a list of things you feel you want your kid to gain from a summer camp experience. Make sure it's not just about activities. What about a camp's physical attributes, like cabins or tents? Is it a small, personal camp or a large camp with loads of campers? Once you have this information, you can create a check list to help compare camps and narrow down your search for the best Kid's Summer Camps.

Next, take your top six or seven camp choices and e-mail each camp director to get the information about that camp. Most camps not only have a paper brochure but will offer a promotional DVD as well. A video will certainly give you a chance to see what a children's summer camp is about, but it is still a promotional tool ~ think of the DVD as a more sophisticated brochure for that camp.

Now it is time get to get your child involved. Sit down as a family and watch the videos. Let your child take the lead talking about what he or she saw, and tell you more about what he or she is looking for. You may need to do a little encouraging to get your new camper talking. Doing this will help you see what is important in a camp to your child. Prior to going to camp, please explain to your child that the videos are advertisements and that the reality may not always match what you see on the screen. It is good to stop for brief reality check now and then!

While viewing the DVD watch the little details for clues that will give you an inside look at the camp's philosophy and strengths. While you're watching, look for the following information:

-Does the video answer your questions about the camp? While there should be additional questions that you will want to ask the director, the video should give you a comprehensive overview.

-Do the kids in the video look like they're having fun? What activities are they doing, and would your child enjoy them?

-How old is the video? If there is no date, then estimate the age based on the campers' clothing and the background music. No matter how recent the video appears to be, you should ask the camp director what has changed or been added to the video program since its filming.

-What does the video emphasize? Pay attention to what activities and facilities get the most time in the video.

-What level of sports are shown, in terms of skill and sophistication? If you're looking for a specialty sports camp, does the level of play look too advanced or too basic?

-What level of skill and sophistication can you see in the sports shown? If you're looking for a specialty sports camp, does the level of play look too advanced or too basic?

-What is your and your child's general impression after watching? Sometimes a gut instinct may tell you the most.

DVDs are a great way to get a feel about each individual children�s summer camp, but it should not be the only factor in the important decision about a camp. Be sure to talk to the camp directors and talk to campers' parents.

For first time looking for a summer camp please go to Summer Camp Advice a FREE online reference that helps parents figure out what Summer Children's Camps is all about - 29291

About the Author:

Sign Up for our Free Newsletter

Enter email address here