Activity camps are a great option for your children to continue growing by managing their relationships with other people, improving their autonomy, learning new activities, getting in touch with other environments, and having fun at the same time.
However, it is not about leaving them in the first place you find advertising camping activities; it is important that this place offers a rewarding, educational, and personal growth experience.
The problem is that when choosing a Singapore kids camp — especially for the first time — it is easy for you to find many doubts, alternatives, and modalities.
Here is a guide with the factors you should consider when choosing a good kids camp in Singapore, so that this first experience becomes a success that your children wish to repeat.
Is my child ready for camp?
Before making the decision to take your children to a vacation camp, it is important that you answer these questions:
- How old are they?
- What do they like?
- How is their personality?
It is also important to ask their opinion on this matter, but it is essential that they have a minimum of autonomy, such as dressing themselves, going to the bathroom, eating without help, etc.
10 tips on how to choose the right kids camp in Singapore
1. Find the ideal camp
Talk to your children about the ideal type of camp for them. There are many formats to choose from, but the choice should be based on the preferences of the child. There are children who are athletes, intellectuals, more from the mountains, more from the beach…
On the other hand, there are camps that carry out all kinds of activities, while others focus on a specific theme, such as music, science, languages, etc.
2. Look for promotions
Stay tuned for possible discounted promotions. Ask and read between the lines what each camp offers to be able to compare better and always look for the best promotion at the best price.
Note that an activity such as horseback riding, for example, can be done in different ways, and it is not the same to go around a stable twice than a one-hour walk in the woods.
3. Cost
Take a good look at the value for money rather than the overall cost. If it’s worth it, you could go a little extra effort if necessary. Still, don’t be careless, there could be additional hidden costs that you should try to find out.
4. The camp’s reputation
It is essential to investigate the organizing entity of the camp as much as possible. Consider first those entities that have been working for the longest time. Look for references and information in all possible ways, including their website, Internet forums and even “word of mouth.” Equally important is that they comply with current regulations for these activities.
5.- Facilities
If possible, personally check the state of the physical facilities. These should be in good condition, safe, hygienic, comfortable, designed for children, and with enough capacity to accommodate the required number of youths.
6. Review the meal plan
What kind of food do they offer? Is it healthy food?
If your child requires special food, it is very important to find out what policy the camp has in this regard. A “homemade” meal is not the same as a catering service. Also, the personnel must be high-qualified for this.
7. Activities program
Take a good look at what your children will learn in the camp and what kind of activities they will do. Does it fit what you are looking for?
If the camp is for a prolonged stay, it is necessary to consider the time at which the children will get up and go to bed and the type of activities that they will carry out at night, if there will be activities outside the facilities and if they have good transport logistics.
8. How are groups of children organized?
Consider how the groups of children are organized: by age, by gender, mixed, etc. Keep in mind that these factors can help your child develop different social skills, such as collaboration, teamwork, and empathy.
9. Available staff
Find out how many duly certified camp coordinators will be available according to the number of children. Having at least 1 for every 7 children will allow greater flexibility when working with groups. It is also a good idea to ask what previous experience they have.
10. Safety and medical care
Ask how the camp handles minor illnesses and injuries. Does the camp have an agreement with the local medical services? Take into account that many camps do not have their own doctors.