The costs associated with camp may seem daunting to many families, especially in today's economic downturn. However, especially for working parents, camp is not a luxury but an essential part of the summer.
Although the costs are real, camp is an important part of a family's peace of mind as well as an important part of any child's education. So, don't dismay, there is a way to find a camp that fits your budget.
Are you ready for camp?
Help is readily available to families picking a sleep-away camp that matches their child's requirements and is within their budget. A handful of companies exist that provide free consulting and advisory services to any family that knows to call them. The service is without charge, and families incur no obligation of any kind when they request guidance or information. Camp advisors are often an unknown parental resource spread by word-of-mouth among families already "in the know.”
Camp advisory services like Tips on Trips and Camps have years of experience addressing families' questions and concerns. Advisors ask families the questions necessary to make sure that the "fit" is right between the program and the child and provide families with lists of questions to ask directors.
Considering a day camp?
Tips on Trips and Camps offers the following suggestions to make summer sleep-away camps and teen programs affordable.
If you have a tight budget but know you want to send your child away to camp:
- Be aware of early enrollment discounts. Plan ahead.
- Ask the camp about a discount for multiple children from one family.
- Inquire about shorter sessions to accommodate a tight budget.
- Make summer a part of your educational plan. Choose a shorter specialty program that will enhance the student's profile for college or help develop a new interest or skill.
If you have a very small budget and need to spend less than $600 per week:
- Contact camps run by your local county government or agencies like the Jewish Federation, the JCC, the Salvation Army, Campfire Boys and Girls or the Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts. These camps offer a summer experience at a reduced cost because the sponsoring agency subsidizes the camp.
- Look into financial aid, which is available at most camps. If you apply early, it is possible to get a 20-50 percent discount based on need.
Camp is a wonderfully enriching gift you can give your child. No matter what your budget, there is a camp to meet your family's financial and educational needs. Happy camping!
For more tips on finding a local camp you can afford, whether it’s day camp or sleep-away camp, check out this article.
Tips on Trips and Camps is one of the oldest and largest camp advisory services. For more information, visit www.tipsontripsandcamps.com.