When Should I Start Planning My Child's Summer?

“Sorry to call you so soon!” “Am I too early?” “It’s crazy to be planning for next summer at this time of year!”  This is what many of my clients have been saying.  But as I assure them, beginning your search in November to get a head start on your summer camp/program decision is NOT a crazy idea! Here are a few reasons why:

·      You can take your time to learn what options are available

·      Once you narrow down the choices you can be thorough about calling and speaking with directors and references

·      You can request a home visit with a director

·      You can change your mind and take a new direction without getting shut out of camps and programs

·      You may be able to save hundreds of dollars by taking advantage of early bird discounts

With the holidays around the corner, a time when focusing on summer programs is often put on hold, there is no better time than now to begin researching summer options.

When thinking about how to begin, ask yourself the following:

·      How long do I want my child to be away?

·      What are my geographic parameters?

·      Do I want a single sex or co-ed program?

·      What philosophy/values am I looking for in a program?

·      What kind of facility do I want?

·      What is the range of activities I want my child to have?

These are a start. Ask yourself “what are my non negotiables, things we insist upon?”

And relax! Finding a summer program should be fun and exciting, not stressful.