As the summer months stretch out before us like a favourite book we’ve just cracked open for the millionth time, our anticipation is high as well as planning. Like most parents, your child’s summer was probably planned sometime before spring, now it’s time for implementation. Their entertainment is important, but what about safety? Especially if you’re sending your child to summer camp where you can’t monitor them day to day, safety becomes a big question on everyone’s mind.
(WATCH: How summer camps approach camper safety.)
Worrying about your child’s safety doesn’t have to be a stress point this summer. Simply asking the right questions can bring you peace of mind. Here are four helpful safety questions to ask before sending your child off to camp for the summer.
As a parent, there are several safety questions you can ask to give you peace of mind.
- How old are the counsellors?
The minimum age requirement for camp counsellors in Canada is 16, but many camps will have a higher median age. - What is the counsellor to child ratio?
Counsellors are there not only to look after camper’s safety but also their mental health as well. The higher the ratio, the more attention your child is getting. - How does the camp handle emergencies?
Don’t be afraid to ask how summer camps have dealt with past emergencies, this will give you a good understanding of what preventative programs they have in place. - What safety training does the staff receive?
There are many important areas counsellors should be trained in as well as basic safety. Especially if your child is attending a specialty camp. Have the counsellors been trained in group dynamics, conflict resolution and bullying/abuse awareness and prevention?
“As a counsellor you always have to be really attentive and always really in touch with your campers,” says a camp counsellor from Olympia Sports Camp. By asking the right questions parents can make certain the summer camp they send their child is a pleasant and memorable experience.
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What questions do you ask when sending your child to camp? Share your tips and stories with us in the Comments section below.
Related:
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About Wendi Percival
