How to Find the Best Winter Break Camp for Your School-Aged Children
Winter break can be a stressful time for working parents. Even though school is closed, most parents need to continue working which leaves a gap in child care arrangements. It’s important to plan ahead for winter break so you can choose a program that’s right for your children before slots are filled. This article will help you determine how to find the best winter break camp and give you a few ideas on where to start looking.
1 - Align Camp Dates With The School Calendar
The dates of winter break can vary by school or district, so be sure to find a camp whose beginning and end dates match your child’s days off. Camps that start too late or end too early may not give you enough coverage. Check the school calendar to find the exact dates of winter break and coordinate camps that match.
PRO TIP: Camps that are within your child’s school district or close to your child’s school are more likely to operate on the same calendar and offer winter break exactly when you need it.
2 - Determine The Hours You Need
As a working parent, you are likely held to a certain schedule. Or perhaps you want to maintain consistency in your routine. Determine the hours you need child care and find a camp that provides coverage to suit your needs. This may include camps with extended care - also called before and after care, early care, or late care.
Some programs, like specialty Art or Sports camps, typically only operate for a few hours. Camps at daycares, for example, offer full day programs. Knowing your schedule in advance can help ensure your working hours are fully covered.
3 - Consider Your Child’s Interests
When choosing a winter break camp, start by thinking about what your child will enjoy. Are they interested in sports, art, coding, or something else? This will ensure they have a fun and engaging experience while school is out. This will also help you decide where to begin your search. Many camps offer themes or specialized programs, so look for options that align with your child’s hobbies.
4 - Choose Your Desired Flexibility
Decide whether you want one day, several days, or an entire week of camp. Some camps are flexible and will allow you to choose which days your child attends. Others require enrollment for the entire winter break. Choose a camp that offers the flexibility you’re looking for to ensure you only pay for the days you need.
5 - Consider Your Child’s Age
Many camps are designed for specific age groups. Check the minimum and maximum age requirements prior to enrolling. This is especially important for preschool children, since many camps begin enrollment at Kindergarten. Many camps also group children into age-specific activities, so your child’s age will determine exactly what they will participate in.
6 - Pay Attention to Enrollment Deadlines
School’s out camps can fill up quickly. It’s important to plan ahead and make note of when enrollment begins and ends so you can secure a spot before it’s too late. Early registration will give you peace of mind and, at times, an early bird discount.
7 - Ask About Staff Qualifications
The type of staff at winter break camp can vary. Some camps are run by counselors in training, like high school or college students who are also on break. If there is swimming involved, a lifeguard will need to be on site. All staff should be CPR/First Aid certified. Be sure to ask about staff criteria before enrolling so you know your child is well cared for. This is especially important if your child has any allergies or special needs that require attention.
8 - Get Help Planning Ahead
School breaks creep up on you, especially when the responsibilities of working and parenting keep you busy. Ask for help planning ahead so you don’t find yourself scrambling last minute without care solutions in place. At The Parent Concierge, we can help you plan for winter break before you even ask. We’ll work in the background to find camp options that fit your child and family so you can secure winter break child care quickly and easily. Contact us today.
Final Thoughts: Finding a Winter Break Camp
Finding the right winter break camp takes a bit of planning, but it will help you secure care when you need it so work and home continue to run smoothly. Consider your child’s interests, choose the appropriate schedule and dates, and enroll ahead of time to save a spot in a fun and engaging winter break camp.
To start planning for school breaks now, contact The Parent Concierge. We’ll line up camps that your child will love and save you hours of research. Submit an inquiry today to get assistance with school breaks and so much more.
Popular Winter Break Camp Options
Martial Arts facilities
YMCA
Daycare Centers
After School Providers
Art Studios
Parks and Recreation Departments
Sports Arenas
Local Farms
Museums and Zoos
School Districts
