Tuesday, January 12, 2010

The summer camping experience can benefit greatly the Homeschooler. Regardless, of no age, grade level or religious background. Homeschool Summer Camps provide a place where children can be self-sufficient, and that's a major part of growing up. Camp Councilors model perseverance, listening, teamwork and appreciation of differences. Whereby, helping children set new and standards for their own behavior, in turn brings their new found independence more in line with your at-home teachings.

There are many choices when choosing a summer camp, so how do you know you are picking the right camp for your homeschooler? Here are simple steps to assist parents sending their children to camp. Doing your work in advance will help ensure that your child has an enjoyable summer packed with wonderful memories and new experiences.

Summer Camp Benefits For Children Residential (overnight) camp offers home schooled children a wonderful opportunity to socialize with other children in a new and exciting environment. Often long-lasting friendships are forged at summer camps each year. Campers often return year after year making camp their summer home. Some continue on till they are past camper age and participate in a Counselor in Training program for teens or even become counselors passing on the traditions of summer camp.

Jeff Lorenz Owner of Swift Nature Camp a Children's Summer Campsays "Summer Camp gives children leadership roles. Without parents or siblings around campers often have to step up and assume responsibility allowing their true colors show. This provides increased confidence".

The many activities available at summer camp gives children the opportunities to try new things and discover new skills. From canoeing and Arts & Crafts to Swimming, Hiking and Horseback riding the list of activities available at different camps are of the utmost benefit to the children who attend.

When choosing the right summer camp Look for a program that fits your child's comfort level. If the child has never been away from home and is seven and under a day camp program may be more suitable. If your child is used to overnight sa sleepaway camp may be a better fit. Usually overnight camps start at around age 8. But do not be afraid to challenge your child by giving him or her new opportunities. As parents of a homeschooler we know our kids are a bit more attached to us than other kids. Yet we know sour goal is to get them ready to head out on their own. Summer camp is a great place to practice.

There is comfort in the familiar so pick a camp that has some activities your child feels comfortable with. Maybe a Non competitive camp would be best for your child? Traditional summer camps provides opportunities in many areas giving a child comfort in some things a child has tried before as well as activities that ask him to leave their comfort zone.

If possible find a summer camp that has a First timer camp. This is usually only for kids that have not been at camp before so it sets a level playing field for all campers. These programs tend to be shorter as well perfect for the younger children helping to lessening a child's fears and make sure a camp is the right one.

Testimonials from old campers and or youth counselors are also vital tools in deciding if a camp is a good fit. Don't be afraid to ask them about their feelings and experiences. Older campers are usually happy, if not eager, to share about the role summer camp has played in their lives.

Camp accreditation is a vital step in choosing a camp. Most States have a camping regulations, which hold camps accountable. But the American Camp Association is the best source to ensure camp quality. So be sure the camps you are looking at are (ACA) approved.

Probably the most important part in selecting a summer camp is to chat with the Camp Directors. Discuss your concerns and your feelings with the camp owners. They should be able to help you feel comfortable in your decisions, if not , it's the wrong camp for YOU and your child!

For more information on How to Pick a Summer Camp see SummerCampAdvice, A free website giving parents information on finding that perfect summer camp for their child.

Swift Nature Camp is aOvernight Summer Camp for boys and girls ages 6-15. The focus is to blend traditional summer camp activities with that of a Science Summer Camp. A first time camper program is available as well.

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