With the summer just around the corner, it’s smart to start thinking about how you’re going to fill your child’s days. Summer is a great time to kick back and relax, but at the same time it is important continue to have some organization in your child’s schedule. Half- or full-day camps are a great option when it comes to finding that balance of just enough structure with plenty of fun, but with so many options, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. To help you, we’ve come up with our top three tips when choosing a Summer Camp for your child.

1. The Interests of the Child: Every child has unique interests that are important to keep in mind when choosing a camp. For your sports buff, check out our football, baseball, lacrosse, or soccer camps for all ages and skill levels. For young scientists, check out robotics, mad scientists, oceanography, or computers from the inside out where campers build their own. Whether your child loves Fancy Nancy, plans to create a masterpiece, or wants to hone their “survival skills,” the array of offerings will surely delight even the choosiest of campers.

2. The Needs of the Parent: Maybe you work full time, or just need the mornings or afternoons to yourself to get some errands done. Whatever your needs are, there is a camp to accommodate you and your child. At ESD, we offer full-day and half-day camp options, as well as extended day care in both the mornings and afternoons. So no matter what camp you pick, your child will be well cared for until you can pick them up.

3. The Hidden Costs of Camps: It is important to look at exactly what the camp cost covers and what might be an additional expense. A less expensive camp could look like a “deal,” but after looking into the details you might have to add in additional expenses to meet your needs. Even if a camps cost a few dollars more, but when you explore further, you might discover it could have a more experienced instructor, a lower camper: camp counselor ratio, span a longer length of time, and or include all activity fees and supplies.

There is something for everyone this summer at ESD! ESD offers a wide range of summer opportunities to meet the needs of every child from age 3 through adult, ranging from adventure to sports camps, art camps, and academic opportunities. Please check out our Summer Camp website at www.esdallas.org/summercamp.

Still have questions? Feel free to contact Camp Director Mike Schneider at schneiderm@esdallas.org. With more than 20 years of experience leading summer camps – he’s sure to be a great ally in planning your child’s super summer adventure.