10 Questions for Camp Directors

By Marla Coleman

When you receive a camp's brochure, you will invariably have questions for the camp director. Get to know the camp director through telephone conversations, e-mail correspondence, and a personal visit. Here are some questions to help you feel confident your camper will be in good hands:

1. What is the camp's philosophy and program emphasis?
Each camp has its own methods and philosophy. Have the director describe the camp's philosophy and how the staff implements it. Does it complement your own parenting philosophy?

2. What is the camp director's background?
American Camp Association (ACA) minimum standards recommend directors possess a bachelor's degree, have completed in-service training within the past three years, and have at least 16 weeks of camp administrative experience before assuming the responsibilities of director.

3. What training do counselors receive?
At a minimum, camp staff should be trained in safety regulations, emergency procedures and communication, behavior management techniques, child abuse prevention, appropriate staff and camper behavior, and specific procedures for supervision.

4. What is the counselor-to-camper ratio?
ACA standards require different ratios for varying ages and special needs.

5. What are the ages of the counselors?
ACA standards recommend that 80 percent or more of the counseling/program staff be at least eighteen years old. Staff must be at least sixteen years old and be at least two years older than the campers with whom they work.

6. What percentage of the counselors returned from last year?
Most camps have from 40-60 percent returning staff. If the rate is lower, find out why.

7. How are behavioral and disciplinary problems handled?
This is where the director's philosophy comes through loud and clear. Positive reinforcement, assertive role modeling and a sense of fair play are generally regarded as key components of camp counseling and leadership.

8. How does the camp handle special needs?
If your child has special requirements, ask the camp director about needed provisions and facilities.

9. How does the camp handle homesickness and other adjustment issues?
Again, the camp's philosophy on helping children adjust is important. Be sure you are comfortable with the camp's guidelines on parent/child contact.

10. What about references?
This is generally one of the best ways to check a camp's reputation and service record. Directors should be happy to provide references.

© 2006 American Camping Association, Inc.
Adapted from CAMP Magazine, reprinted by permission of the American Camp Association