Delaware – Summer is just around the corner which means it is time to start thinking about how kids will spend their break. Camp experiences are an exciting part of childhood and can lead to positive growth but, they can also cause worry as parents think about how to keep their kids safe. With lots of camp and childcare options available, it might be challenging to know where to start when it comes to choosing a summer camp committed to protecting children. Here are the top 5 questions you should ask.
- Does the camp have strong policies in place and a solid reputation?According to childsafetypledge.org, it is important to look for a camp that has clear policies for prevention of any form of abuse. You should feel confident to freely ask questions about the camp’s reputation and their policies. This includes prohibiting adults from spending time alone with children. As one of the largest and most trusted child care providers in the state, the YMCA of Delaware has decades of experience providing safe, exciting experiences for young people.
- How much training is provided for the staff, and how safe is the environment? Your child will spend many hours a day at camp – maybe even more than a typical school day! You want to be sure their safety is a top priority. Always look for camps, like the Y, that are accredited by the American Camp Association. This means they have passed very strict standards to ensure a healthy physical environment, positive staff/camper interactions, and strong programming that includes skill building. In addition, all Y staff members must pass an extensive background check and receive training annually in child abuse prevention, anti-bullying, diversity & inclusion, first aid, CPR and team building & group dynamics.
- Is the camp fun and educational? Your child should come home happy and looking forward to spending the next day with friends. At the Y, arts, new adventures, friendships, and more await your child. Y campers stretch themselves physically and creatively. They swim daily, play games, read, learn, experiment with science, solve puzzles, and perform music and shows! Parents say their kids come home tired, smiling, and frequently humming a new camp cheer.
- Does the camp offer adventure? A camp should offer exciting new experiences. Y Day Campers love our trips, learning stations and fun activities like Gaga, daily swimming and more! From learning about different animals in the zoo, to science and STEM experiments at camp, we keep our campers engaged all summer. Overnight campers enjoy the beautiful Chesapeake Bay in Worton, MD, where they can see the stars at night and experience independence as they hit their first bullseye in archery, sing around a campfire, or scramble up to the top of a climbing tower.
- What does the camp promise? The Y promises to prepare kids for success in life. In our camps we build self-esteem, foster self-reliance, and teach healthy behaviors and positive values. Supported by our highly skilled counselors, campers build confidence and learn new skills while laughing and growing all summer long. Most importantly, they have fun being a kid!
At the Y, no family is ever turned away because of an inability to pay. The YMCA of Delaware awards financial aid to campers based on the family’s annual income. Visit www.ymcade.org/membership/financial-assistance to learn more about our Open Doors financial assistance program.
Register today for the best summer ever at ysummercamp.org.
About the YMCA of Delaware
The YMCA of Delaware is Delaware’s largest nonprofit organization committed to empowering youth, fostering healthy living, and promoting strong communities. With seven branches statewide, a youth resource center, and an overnight camp and conference center in Worton, Maryland, the Y has developed longstanding relationships and a physical presence in Delaware so it can deliver lasting personal and social change. We are committed to serving everyone – regardless of age, income or background –nurturing the potential of every child and teen, improving Delaware’s health and wellbeing, and creating a healthy, inclusive community where all people reach their full potential. www.ymcade.org
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