Only 8-10% of Canadian families send their children to a summer camp program. This came up earlier in our annual board meeting with camp directors, educators, professors and association leaders.
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Why is that? Are families just not aware of the benefits of camp? The camp experience provides social, developmental and educational experiences that kids will remember for their entire lives. Are hesitations and parental concerns holding families back? Are children not interested? Safety? Homesickness? Not worth the money?
All of these topics were discussed in depth with a group of professionals and we have an exciting line-up for next year’s edition of Our Kids Go To Camp magazine, but we want to hear from you. Would you consider camp for your child? Do you send your kids to camp? If not, why? What are your concerns?
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Both my two boys went to camp when they were between 5-10 and they’ve enjoyed it. That was when “sending your kids to camp” was more affordable. They are now in High School and University.
My major back off to sending my younger kids to camp these days is the price. It’s just not affordable anymore for the majority of people – even in two income earner family.
Thanks for your reply Imie. I understand your concern with the cost of sending kids to camp, however there are programs at many different price points from $35 a week to more than $1000.
In my opinion, the educational and social developmental benefits for the child are worth the investment to make small changes at home to provide that experience for at least one week over the summer.
Some ideas include:
- have a garage or yard sale to raise money
- ask grandparents/relatives to give money for camp instead of presents at birthdays and christmas
- Do you buy coffee every day? Make your own and put 1 dollar away each day
- Ask the camp if they have discounts or financial aid. Most do!!
In addition, there are many grants and scholarships that are available. Summer Dreams and AMICI Camping Charity are volunteer-run foundations that help send kids to OCA-accredited camps. For applications, visit http://www.summerdreams.ca or visit http://www.amicicharity.org.