The Why's and How's of Visiting a Maine Camp

  Summer in Maine is already underway and with camp in session just seven weeks of the year, now is the time to research sleepaway camps for next season. Here are the “why” and “how” for visiting and selecting the right camp now.

WHY VISIT?

• You cannot replicate what you observe and experience at summer camp versus watching a video, reading a brochure, receiving information by phone or meeting with a director in your home.

• If you take time to visit, you have a longer planning cycle to get your child (and you) ready for camp.

• Families can wisely explore the area that they and their children may be spending the next several years – especially if there are siblings – and assess vacation destination possibilities…not to mention memories they will create!

WHY NOW?

• Visiting Maine camps is a time sensitive process. Families can only see camp in operation seven weeks (and often opening and final weeks are closed to visits) - now is the time to book by phone or email and go!

• Families should decide in the prior summer which Maine camp they will choose so they are ready to book once enrollment periods open. Many age groups fill by middle-to-end of September.

• Some camps may offer added value benefits for touring and booking early.

HOW?

• Ideally take a private – not group – tour so you can see as much of the camp as possible in action and get to clearly assess the camp and director(s).

• Observe and chat with campers one-on-one who are close in age to your child now as well as those who are five+ years older since that’s whom your child may emulate and grow to resemble later.

• Look at where your child will live. You should overlook some bunk messiness but not poorly maintained facilities.

• Learn about the quality and type of activities, instruction and programming. Ascertain if programming is scheduled by the camp, chosen by the camper, or a mixture of the two.

Each summer approximately 20,000 kids and their families enjoy what Maine camps offer – the perfect combination of natural beauty, strong traditions and values, incredible activities and instruction -  including lakefront and sports experiences - and innovative culinary and arts programs. Make your plans to visit our summer camps firsthand to understand why Summers and Camp Belong in Maine, and So do YOU!â„   And don’t forget our Travel Credit program to earn $250 toward 2013 tuition.