Selecting a Camp: Questions Parents Can Ask

Selecting a Camp: Questions Parents Can Ask (questions from http://www.socialthinking.com)

Overall

Is the camp geared to instruction/learning or is it a traditional summer camp experience?

What is fun and unique about your camp?

What is the size of the camp/camp programs?

What is the counselor to camper ratio?

Give me 3 reasons kids enjoy being here?

Give me 3 reasons counselors enjoy being here?

Camp Counselors

What are the qualifications of camp counselors?

How are counselors chosen?

How are counselors trained?

Do counselors use Social Thinking concepts, vocabulary, and strategies? If yes, how?

Do they incorporate any other social learning methods, like RDI, SCERTS, The Incredible 5-Point Scale, The Zones of Regulation, etc.?

Camp Life

How are campers grouped?

Is there a choice among activities or do all campers follow one schedule throughout the day? Can campers choose to opt out of activities?

How much of the day is structured, how much is free time?

Are visual tools and schedules used?

Behavior & Discipline

What is the camp’s discipline policy? For campers, for staff?

How are behavior problems handled?

How do staff prevent meltdowns? Handle a meltdown once it starts?

What is the difference between punishment and discipline?

Other/Health/Medical Related

Can special diets be accommodated?

How are sensory issues handled? Is there a quiet place campers can access if needed?

Does the camp have an emergency plan?

What’s your repeat rate (campers who return another year, staff who return year over year)?