Summer Camp the Movie

So you've decided you want your child to go to summer camp? We are the owners of Swift Nature camp a Overnight Summer Camp in Wisconsin. 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 summer camp.

Narrow your search to four or five possibilities, and then call or e-mail each camp to ask for information. Perhaps more important than printed materials, camps will send you a promotional video. Remember, these DVD�s are tools to help you find the right summer camp. But they are also tools for camps to SELL a place in their camp to you and your child. So keep that in mind when you view them.

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 persisitently 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!

Here is where my advertisement comes in please check out Swift Nature CAmp if yur childis at all interested in animals. We are a wonderful Science Summer Camp

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:

How recent is the video? Guess the time the video was filmed, based on the campers' clothing and the background music. No matter how recent the video appears to be, ask the director what has changed and been added to the program since its production.

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

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.

Do the kids look like they're having fun? What activities are they involved in? Are they activities you can anticipate your child will enjoy?

What philosophical qualities does the video stress? Does the video seem to be consistent with and complement the philosophies expressed in the camp's printed materials?

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

Remember, videos are a great way to get a basic understanding about children's camps but dont be fooled by slick, high-powered DVDs. They are only a tool to help you make an informed decision, but you will still need to talk to the camp directors personally and ask for and check references to make the best choice for your child.

One last thing to consider for your child is does the camp offer first time at Summer Camp Program

A great starting point is Summer Camp Advice.com a free website that haf loads of info for the Summer Camp

About the authors: Jeff and Lonnie Lorenz are the Directors of Swift Nature Camp a non-competitive, traditional coed Wisconsin Summer Camp. Boys and Girls Ages 6-15 enjoy nature, animals and science along with traditional adventure camp activities. Swift specializes in Overnight Summer Camp programs for the first time camper as well as adventures for teens.