With the summer season approaching, it’s time to choose a summer camp for your child. How can you ensure that you choose a qualified and safe environment? Here are some essential factors to to help you make an informed decision.
Define the Type of Camp
Faced with a plethora of options, the first criteria is to choose the type of camp. Are you looking for a day camp or a residential camp where your child will stay for at least a week? Are there camps specialized in activities that interest your child, such as performing arts, sciences, language learning, etc.? Listen to your child’s preferences!
Check the A.C.Q. Certification (Association des Camps du Québec)
The website of the Association des Camps du Québec is a good starting point. Confirm that the camp you’ve chosen is certified by the A.C.Q. Member camps commit to meeting over 60 standards regarding the site, administration, safety, hygiene, health, staff, and programming. To find out if a camp is a member, visit the Association’s website.
Visit the Camp Site
While A.C.Q. certification is reassuring, if possible, a site visit is recommended. Take your child with you and once on site, observe their reaction.
Assess the Environment
During your visit, take the time to assess the environment. Are the facilities clean and well-maintained? Are the amenities in good condition, and is the noise level reasonable? You can also inquire with the camp director about safety rules and procedures.
Interact with the Staff on Site
During your visit, also consider the demeanor of the counselors. Do they seem warm, patient, and dynamic? Observe if they can communicate effectively with you and with the children. Verify they have received adequate training to supervise activities and ensure the safety of the campers.
Inquire about Camp Activities
Do the activities seem varied and suitable for your child’s age? Find out about the frequency of outdoor excursions and the quality of meals served. Additionally, make sure you understand how the staff handles children in case of crying, behavioural issues, or health problems. Don’t hesitate to ask about the procedures to follow in case of illness or emergency to ensure your child’s safety and well-being during their camp stay.
Learn about Safety Regulations
What is the camper-to-counselor ratio? Does the camp management conduct background checks for all employees? Does the camp have regulations addressing employee conduct with children? Are all counselors trained in first aid? Who is authorized to pick up the child?
If You Can’t Visit in Person
It’s not always possible to visit in person. In this case, call to ask questions. Sometimes, simply from the tone of voice of the speaker and based on the answers to a few questions, your instinct will tell you whether this camp inspires confidence or not.
About Sexual Abuse
It’s important to talk to your child about secrets. Teach your child how to recognize the difference between appropriate and inappropriate touching and tell them that if they’re touched inappropriately, they should tell you immediately. You can define intimate areas by explaining, for example, that no one should touch parts of the body covered by their swimsuit. Ensure your child knows they have the right to say NO! if they feel uncomfortable, even to an adult or authority figure.